UTICA, N.Y. -- Mark Ford took over operations at Val Bialas Sports Center in Utica back in 2010.

"I'm the type of guy who believes you've gotta give back to your community, and I did so, and I paid quite a bit of money to run that place for eight years," said Ford.

With a lot of snow, things started out great. However, things have recently gone downhill.

"Years five and six, the revenue went down quite a bit because the amount of days we were open dropped by half. And then in the seventh year, which was two years ago, we didn't open up a single day. There was no snow," Ford said. "Then last year, we were only open six days."

Ford is removing himself from management there because he believes the weather just isn't going to be what it needs to be for the center to operate.

"This year we just decided that the outlook is not very good for the winter and instead of absorbing all that overhead, I've decided to give that up. So, the city to their credit, is going to absorb the overhead."

Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri released a statement Monday afternoon thanking Mark Ford for operating the ski area and hopes to open it again in the future.

Below is his statement:  

"I thank Mark Ford for operating the Val Bialas Ski Area for many years at the Parkway Recreation Center.  The city has worked closely and been in constant communication with Mark to determine the best course of action as it pertains to the operation of the ski area.

Due to several factors, such as the erratic winter weather in recent years, insurance cost and regulations from the State, it was not feasible for Mark to continue to operate the ski area. 

After meeting and coordinating with appropriate cty personnel, the city’s goal is to operate the ski area on a limited basis when the weather conditions allow the ski area to be utilized."