CHERRY CREEK, N.Y. -- Chautauqua County development leaders say Cockaigne Ski Resort in Cherry Creek and The Grainery restaurant across the street have been sold. The resort has sat vacant ever since a major fire destroyed its main lodge in 2011.

"They've been keeping the equipment running. The chair lifts have been run every year since the fire. The snow-making equipment has been running," said Kevin Sanvidge, County of Chautauqua Industrial Development Agency CEO.

Sanvidge says the new owners developed a five-year business plan, and applied for tax breaks as well.

"This is rounding out Chautauqua County into a 12-month destination. Just one more venue for folks to come here and enjoy Chautauqua County," said Sanvidge.

"The new owners, we want to welcome them," said William Young, (R) Cherry Creek Town Supervisor.

Town leaders say the property has been re-zoned as a four season resort, which they hope will create jobs, reignite the tax base and jump-start the economy. The deal comes on the heels of another devastating recent fire that destroyed The Trillium Lodge in the village.

"It is not only detrimental to the economy, but also to the livelihoods and people that live here," said Young.

"Try to stay positive, lots of prayers. I'm still trying to wrap my head around the whole thing still. It's kind of surreal," said Deborah Bernard, The Trillium Lodge owner.

Longtime Trillium owner Deborah Bernard says the cause of the fire has been ruled inconclusive, with no signs of foul play. She says she hopes to rebuild, and is thankful for the community support, including an online GoFundMe page.

"Incredibly overwhelming. And we are extremely grateful for it. It's one of the reasons we live in a small community is because of the sense of family we all feel towards each other," said Bernard.

Young says with both businesses along the snowmobile and equestrian trails, he hopes Cherry Creek will once again become a tourist destination.

"And with those two opening, yes it would be, you don't know how excited I am. I get a little emotional about it even. It's going to be great," said Young.

The Trillium hopes to reopen in the fall, while the resort could be ready to go by next year.