Chatham-Kent administration is recommending council implement a neighbourhood-managed outdoor ice rinks program, similar to the one that is already in place in Mitchell’s Bay.
This program would allow volunteers to install an outdoor ice rink in their local park after obtaining the appropriate approvals through an application process. A report to council isn’t clear whether the rinks would be in place this year or would have to wait for funding from the municipality for next winter.
Municipal staff would provide training to approved groups and install signage outlining responsibilities
and rules. Volunteers would be responsible for rink construction and maintenance, daily
inspections, and reporting incidents.
Administration estimates that to implement six rinks in the municipality it would cost about $38,000 for training, maintenance, and signage. Council will discuss a base budget increase of $37,747 that administration is recommending to be referred to the 2024 budget process next year.
