Cahill Supports Improved Proposal to Shift Belleayre to Olympic Regional Development Authority

Assemblymember Cahill fought for and won funding assurances, local representation and employee protections

March 27, 2012

Albany, NY – Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D – Ulster/Dutchess) released the following statement on the agreement to shift the management of the Belleayre Mountain Ski Center to the Olympic Regional Development Authority:

“The final agreement on Belleayre is much better than the original proposal. I was able to work with the Governor and the Senate to win changes that will guarantee local representation on the Authority’s Board and Advisory Council, resources comparable to the ski centers in the Adirondacks and job security for the current employees. Associating Belleayre with the Olympic brand has the potential to bring great benefits the Ski Center and the Catskill Region.

“This is a start, but much more needs to be done to overcome the budgetary challenges Belleayre has had to deal with in recent years. I am going to closely monitor the implementation of the transfer and make sure the Authority is held accountable for providing the resources and attention needed to assure the Center’s success as a vibrant year-round attraction.”

Joe Kelly, Chair of the Committee to Save Belleayre, said:

“The collaborative efforts of Assemblyman Cahill, Senator Bonacic and the Governor have afforded us an opportunity for a new beginning and brighter future. This new partnership is something we can all get behind and build upon to make better.

“Given the budget cuts and staff reductions over the past few years we obviously could not continue on the path we were on. Teaming up with the Olympic Regional Development Authority will provide a much needed shot in the arm, not only for the ski center, but for the region which has been hammered by the economy and devastating flooding. With this deal in place I am happy and optimistic about the future.”

What's New