2026 Budget Workshops
The Tahoe Donner Board of Directors, staff and committees work on the 2026 budget from July through October. Members are encouraged to get involved and provide their valuable input.
Factors that impact the 2026 budget include:
- Reopening of the Downhill Ski Lodge and the return of many revenue generating services that directly offset the annual assessment
- The goal of including 4 member ID cards with full private amenity access and benefits (No additional Rec Fee cost)
- A continued anticipated large increase in the cost of General Liability and Worker’s Comp Insurance
- Ongoing cost pressure to attract and retain staff with competitive wages and support housing challenges
- Continued prioritization of savings for long-term capital investment
- Continued focus on cost savings, operational efficiencies/optimization, and member experience
WHAT IS COVERED BY THE ANNUAL ASSESSMENT?
There are three primary funds that determine your Annual Assessment:
- OPERATING FUND: Covers Tahoe Donner’s day-to-day operating common expenses (e.g. staff, utilities,
cleaning, insurance)
- RESERVE STUDY FUND: This umbrella capital reserve saves for the maintenance, repair and replacement of the Association’s existing major components. It’s split into two sub-funds:
- REPAIR + REPLACEMENT FUND: Saves for corrective maintenance and repair, and the replacement of items that wear out within 30 years (e.g. paint, flooring, vehicles)
- LONG LIFE FUND: Saves for the repair and replacement of items that last longer than 30 years (e.g. roofs, foundation, and full facility replacement)
- DEVELOPMENT FUND: This umbrella fund is for new capital improvements. It includes two sub-funds:
- NEW CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND: Savings for real estate purchases and major facility additions and enhancements (e.g. new trailheads and additional snowmaking)
- NEW EQUIPMENT FUND: Savings for new furniture, technology, and other new equipment purchases.
In simple terms:
- The Operating Fund keeps things running today.
- The Reserve Study Fund keeps Tahoe Donner well-maintained for tomorrow.
- The Development Fund invests in Tahoe Donner’s future.
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED IN THE 2026 BUDGET?
Members are encouraged to participate in a variety of ways:
- Attend a board workshop on August 29, September 26, October 14 and/or October 17, if necessary
- Fill out a feedback form
WORKSHOPS
WORKSHOP #1: FRIDAY, AUGUST 29 | 9AM
Review of the 2026 Operating Fund Budget Draft
WORKSHOP #2: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 | 9AM
Review of 2026 Capital Funds Budgets Draft + Consolidated Draft
WORKSHOP #3: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14 | 5:30PM
Board’s first opportunity to approve the 2026 Annual Budget and Assessment
WORKSHOP #4 (IF NECESSARY): FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 | 9AM
Special meeting for final budget/assessment decision
