Gunstock Mountain presents $365,909.35 annual contribution to Belknap County and details capital investments

Representatives for Gunstock Mountain told Belknap County commissioners the resort contributed $365,909.35 to the county this year, an amount the presenters said represents 1.75% of the mountain’s gross revenue. Presenters described the resort as a major local employer — the season employed about 842 people, including many seasonal and part‑time workers who they said are often residents’ first jobs — and recounted a season that saw both heavy rain in summer and a temporary failure of the Panorama chair during a vacation week.

Gunstock officials outlined capital reinvestment plans focused on safety and reliability: replacement of electronic controls and gearboxes on the Panorama chairlift, improved communications cabling (described as a safety-critical update), a new generator at the summit to keep operations running during local outages, snow‑making equipment suited for higher temperatures, and campground and parking-lot improvements aimed at off‑season revenue. Presenters noted the mountain self‑funds its operating and capital work rather than relying on county revenue anticipation notes.

Presenters also announced community benefits: a discounted Belknap County ticket program ($55 day ticket, valid except Saturdays) and a county‑resident campground discount; county officials thanked the presenters and noted the check exceeded last year’s deposit. Commissioners and presenters discussed snow‑making limits tied to state rules (RSAs) and ongoing contingency planning in the event of drought.