From Everest to the Stars (4: The Local Council Decides)

Chapter 4: The Local Council Decides

The town hall had ended and everyone went in their separate directions. Now, as the sun was beginning to set, Mayor Futi sat at the front of a long table in a much smaller and more humble.

She could feel the weight of this decision. She had to represent her people, but also understood that she represented a global symbol and that the world’s attention was on her.

Also at the table was Lakpa, Rohan, and five other council members made up of community elders and lodge owners. A young secretary placed cups of butter tea in front of each seat.

“The arguments have been made. Everyone spoke very passionately,” Futi began, her gaze sweeping the room. “This is not a decision to be taken lightly, but we must decide.”

Dorje spoke up first. He owned one of the largest lodges in Gorakshep.

“Sir Rothschild has brought a lot of complaints, and he is very influential. Many of my guests watch his videos. If they follow through on their vow to boycott Nepal… I would hate to let all my staff go, so this is a big risk.”

Another council member nodded to what he was saying. “Zennifer has a large social media presence among the same people who come here for tourism. There have been a drop in bookings for fewer reasons. We’ve seen a lot of negative comments already. I mean, we have to acknowledge their tourism dollars fund our schools and clinics as long as we preserve their vision of Everest.”