The Executive Council voted Wednesday to approve an amendment to the lease of the Mount Sunapee ski area that allows for potential private expansion.
The state already approved Vail Resorts to take over of the lease of state park land where the current ski area lies.
But the controversial amendment the council approved involves whether or not the private company would have the option to proceed with the so-called West Bowl expansion. Some worry that could lead to more development and environmental impact.
"As a New Hampshire citizen, this is unbelievable,” said Councilor Russell Prescott, who voted against the amendment. “We're giving carte-blanche in this document without any idea of how this business is going to occur?"
Executive Councilor and Congressman-elect Chris Pappas voted in favor of the the amendment but shared some concerns with his constituents.
“We’re talking about an important state asset, we’re talking about a state park,” Pappas said. “And I for one don’t want to see widespread privatization of state lands.”
Vail has not yet announced any plans for expansion at Sunapee.
