Based on the lines and smiles of those hitting the slopes, you could assume the Buckskin Hills Ski and Snow Tubing Hill is a welcome addition to the community and it certainly is for many. There are others, however, that have taken a different stance on the facility and its use of Cares Act funds, some frustrated that their business did not receive funds. In response, Uintah County Commissioner Bart Haslem says the purpose of the facility to get people outside and having fun is being accomplished and he stands by the decision. “The snow hill was created to bring normalcy to our county, not divide it,” shares Haslem. “I wish that all of the businesses in our community would have met the loose criteria it took to qualify for the grant funding…The sad truth is we can sell the snow hill equipment, put the Cares Act money back and these businesses will still not qualify for the money. There will be no jobs created, and nothing for our community to do,” continues Haslem. “The money will then go back to the state and they can buy fireworks and do more 125th celebrations and events on the Wasatch Front.” While opinions on the facility vary, perhaps the most important question is if the use of funds was properly done. When asked, interim Uintah County Attorney Jonathan Stearmer said, “The way the money was used is legal. The Cares Act allows for expanded outdoor recreational opportunities to comply with public health concerns.” As a result and in case you didn’t know, Uintah County now has a wintertime recreational opportunity at Buckskin Hills.
