Photo Credit (+Cover Photo): Sierra Watch Facebook Page
Photo Credit (+Cover Photo): Sierra Watch Facebook Page

It didn’t matter that a sea of purple #KeepSquawTrue t-shirts filled the room, the Placer County Board Of Supervisors ultimately sided with KSL capital and Squaw Valley Ski Holdings, approving a massive development plan for Olympic Valley reports the Sacramento Bee.

Related: Scott Gaffney On The Largest Ski Resort Development In Tahoe’s History.

The plan, which includes a water-park, 10-story high condos, and a massive influx of traffic, was opposed vehemently by Squaw locals and conservationists alike while its proponents consisted mainly of Squaw representatives, employees, and wait for it– Jonny Moseley (say it ain’t so golden boy).

“The bad news is that Placer County sided with the narrow interests of an out-of-state developer and against the shared values of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada.” – Tom Mooers, Sierra Watch

After the decision, Squaw Valley CEO Andy Wirth released a video that seems to have taken a page out of Donald Trump’s victory speech. “We want to convey our appreciation to the community, for their input and support.” The Squaw Valley CEO went on to rub salt in the wound by telling Squaw locals, “the plan that was approved by the Board Of Supervisors is very much of, by, and for this great community.” KSL Capital, the owners of the Squaw Valley’s base area, are based in Denver, Colorado.

Environmental attorney Shannon Eckmeyer said the environmental impact report concerning the development was “the worst environmental review I’ve ever read.” Local contractor and craftsman, Craig Beck added to that condemnation by telling the board,  “I have learned that, if you want to see God, climb a mountain,” to which he added, “I’ve never heard anyone say: if you want to see God, go to a waterpark.”

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The board voted 4-1 in favor of the development with the only dissenting vote coming from Supervisor Jennifer Montgomery. Montgomery defended her “nay” vote saying, “I heard very loud and clear, that the vast majority of my constituents don’t want this.” The other board members insisted that this project is a necessary step towards making Squaw Valley an economically sustainable, destination resort.

Tom Mooers of Sierra Watch says their group is committing to taking this battle to court.

Find the entire Sacramento Bee article here: Placer supervisors OK controversial Squaw Valley expansion

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