NEWBURY, NH ??” With New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development Commissioner Sean O’Kane carefully gathering and evaluating information on the Mount Sunapee Master Development Plan and expansion proposal and Governor-elect John Lynch about to take office, Mount Sunapee agrees it is in the best interest of the communities around the ski area and the state of New Hampshire for the commissioner’s recommendation to be issued at a later date.

“In our six years operating Mount Sunapee we have worked collaboratively with two governors and three commissioners,” said Jay Gamble, Vice President and General Manager, Mount Sunapee. “We believe that once Governor-elect Lynch and Commissioner O’Kane weigh all the merits of the Mount Sunapee Master Development Plan that the plan will be given a fair evaluation. The state of New Hampshire asked for expansion plans in 1998 when they invited lease proposals from private ski-area operators. We have followed the state’s laws, rules and guidelines every step along the way.”

“In addition, we have made significant environmental and economic improvements as well as community contributions since assuming the lease. Our goal has always been and continues to be to make Mount Sunapee a first class New Hampshire ski area and the proposed Master Development Plan helps ensure that we can accomplish that goal.”

Mount Sunapee is required by the state of New Hampshire to submit a Master Development Plan every five years. The current Master Development Plan is a five to ten year plan and Mount Sunapee recognizes that sufficient time is necessary for a fair evaluation and an informed decision.

“Commissioner O’Kane should be commended for his commitment to gather all of the facts surrounding this issue in an effort to make the most informed decision. We look forward to sharing information with Governor-elect Lynch and answering any questions he may have.”