To the Members of the Lower Towamensing Township Board:

I have long enjoyed skiing for exercise, and I am concerned that the township’s proposed amusement tax would unfairly burden recreational users.

Taxing activities at Blue Mountain Resort while leaving similar public recreation — such as cycling on the D&L Trail, paddling or floating the Lehigh River or using state-funded courts, pools, and fields — untaxed creates an inconsistent and inequitable policy.

Blue Mountain Resort’s general manager has offered to fund Lower Towamensing’s community projects directly, a cooperative approach that would avoid construction contract legal reviews, expensive engineering fees, and the higher costs of required prevailing-wage contractors hired from outside our area.

This partnership would benefit residents more efficiently than imposing a new tax.

Beyond its economic impact, Blue Mountain has contributed significantly to our community over the years. The resort regularly provides seasonal jobs that help local teens gain work experience and earn money for school.

It has supported youth programs by hosting school ski club nights, offering discounted tubing tickets for local families in need, and partnering with community groups, such as the Girl Scouts for those delicious cookie fundraising events.

The mountain has also assisted with public safety efforts by coordinating with local fire and rescue teams for training activities on its terrain.

These are meaningful benefits that strengthen your township and directly support local families.

Before adding another financial burden on the resort, I urge the township to consider both the economic and community contributions Blue Mountain already provides.

Sincerely,

Joseph J. Bennett

Lehighton