This letter is to encourage the citizens of Steamboat Springs to vote yes on referendum 2A supporting the 0.20 percent sales tax to fund increased air service to the Yampa Valley Regional Airport in Hayden.  The 0.20 percent benefits each and every local as it drives tax dollars for the city of Steamboat Springs and eases access to your resort guests.

Martin Hart and I, in cooperation with county officials, started commercial air service at Hayden — HDN — in 1986. Our kids were born in Steamboat. We still have great friends in the community.

I went on to develop the Vail — EGE — air service program and remain involved with numerous business communities, Alpine and sun leisure destination airports. The Yampa Valley Regional Airport is a tremendous asset and is the connection between Steamboat to the world.

Steamboat’s air program, with the support of the community, county and ski resort management team is a great example of a public/private partnership working well. The lodging and business community are integral to this wide-spread success.

Generally, I’m not in favor of tax increases. With some 80 percent of the cost the Steamboat program tax being paid by the ski company and visitor, who benefit from increased air access and service, this particular tax increase creates a win/win for the visitor and locals alike.

Steamboat is a little out of the way. Being out of the way is a great asset. We, your visitors and second homeowners, seek out Steamboat for that reason. Getting here and getting away should be made easy, and 2A makes it so. I encourage you to vote ‘yes’ on 2A.

Kent Myers

Edwards