Wow that's a hell of a nice split. I hope Plattekill and other such areas take advantage.
Yes I am not sure I want my tax dollars being spent this way. But when I consider it might keep areas in business that might fail, lessens the strain on electric infrastructure, and offers outdoor winter recreation to New Yorkers (and me) then I think the $5mm is reasonable.
What I truly do not like is the state running ski areas and having those areas subsidized by tax dollars. While that is OK by me if its the only available ski area, in reality this is at the detriment of nearby ski areas which I do not believe is fair.