The Jackson Town Council is facing significant community pushback regarding a proposed conditional use permit for a large hotel development at 50 South Millward. During a recent meeting, multiple residents voiced their concerns, emphasizing that the project is unnecessary and detrimental to the community.

One speaker highlighted alarming hotel occupancy statistics, revealing that Jackson's summer occupancy rate was around 75% last year but plummeted to just 27.6% in winter. With 25% of hotel rooms currently empty and projections indicating little change for the upcoming summer, many argue there is no public demand for another large hotel. Critics assert that granting the permit would impose unnecessary burdens on the community without providing meaningful benefits.

Concerns were raised about the project's compliance with local land development regulations (LDRs). Several speakers pointed out that the proposal fails to meet key requirements, including minimizing adverse visual and environmental impacts, as well as potential nuisances related to construction noise and increased traffic. The scale of the project was described as overwhelming and incompatible with the surrounding area, threatening the aesthetic balance the LDRs aim to preserve.

Rebecca Singer, representing the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance, argued that the proposal reflects an opportunistic approach by developers, prioritizing profit over community needs. She warned that allowing multiple levels of exempt basements could set a dangerous precedent, undermining decades of careful urban planning.

The council members were urged to consider the long-term implications of their decision, with many residents expressing a desire to uphold the community's character and values. As discussions continue, the future of the proposed hotel remains uncertain, with community members advocating for a more thoughtful approach to development that aligns with the town's vision.