By Tim Gillingham
posted
Oct 31, 2012
Dear Editor,
I have watched with interest the many positive changes that have
been taken place at Killington over the past few months. While
it was bittersweet to see Bill's Country Store sell for $355,000,
it will be exciting to see how five successful local businessmen
transform it into a multipurpose information center. Coupled
with that event, Selectman Haff has raised interest in a "Big Idea"
to invest money in the infrastructure of the Killington area.
As I see it, the town is looking for a personality now and just
being big, "The Beast of the East", is no longer accurate as the
new owners of the ski area pursue a strategy of less discounting,
fewer skiers/snowboarders, with a higher yield per ticket. For
example, other rivals have features that they are known for: the
Stowe Rd.with its quaintness and historic features (Trapp Family,
etc.) reputation, and Smugglers Notch is known as The Family
Resort.
So where does Killington start? My suggestion is for
Killington to embark on a carbon neutral course with the goal of
being the area known for its environmental/ecological cutting edge
technology. I know some people, foundations, and universities who
would be very interested in teaming up to take on such a
project.
However, although Pres Smith was known as a conservationist,
over the years Killington has a history (whether deserved or not)
of being at odds with the state and other interested parties over
the Act 260 permitting process. Why not try teaming up with
the environmentalist, or at least some of them. It could even have
additional benefits with the village plan!
Also, I can't understand is why you think it is so important to
have a Republican representative to bring your 30% forgiveness
request to the Statehouse. There is an old saying about doing
the same thing over and over and expecting a different result.
Why not vote for Anne Gallivan, a well known educator and
Barstow Mentor Director, who has an open mind, no hidden agenda,
and will have the ability to work with the House majority?
Her opponent, the incumbent and member of the 2012 House Health
Care Committee, missed 9 out of 10 votes on health care reform
saying the votes fell during vacation week which is sacred time
with his family according to his answer recently at a Bridgewater
Town Hall meeting. In fact his 2012 roll call record showed a
29.7% percent absentee rate.
Anne's three sons are fully grown and she is prepared to work
FULL-TIME for her constituents. For those of you in the ski
business, would you rehire an employee who can't work weekends and
holiday weeks?
Food for thought.
Tim Gillingham, a former 25 yr Killington Resort Manager and VP,
N. Chittenden
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Letter to the Editor
