Municipality of Chatham-Kent staff is recommending the creation of a neighbourhood-managed outdoor ice rinks program.
A report and recommendation is set to be discussed at the upcoming Council meeting on December 12, 2022.
“This program will allow volunteers to install an outdoor ice rink in their local park after obtaining the appropriate approvals through an application process,” said Ian Clark, manager of parks, recreation and cemeteries, in a staff report.
“Municipal staff will provide training to approved groups and install signage outlining responsibilities and rules. Volunteers will be responsible for rink construction and maintenance, daily inspections, and reporting incidents.”
Clark said a base budget increase of $37,747 will be referred to the 2024 budget process.
“Costs are necessary for increased part-time wages to deliver training and inspections, the installation of signage, and potential use of utilities for six approved rinks in Chatham-Kent,” he said.
“More rinks can be approved annually where resources permit. Parks, Recreation and Cemeteries is working with Legal Services to ensure program terms balance community access with acceptable risk to the Municipality. If approved, this program will be advertised on the municipal website and other platforms where appropriate.”
Since local volunteers would be responsible for building and managing approved outdoor rinks, Clark said administration does not recommend corporate sponsorships be pursued by the Municipality.
“Volunteer groups would be open to pursue sponsorship agreements to cover their costs,” he said.
“Recognition of these groups and their sponsor can be provided on municipal signage subject to reasonable restrictions.”
Clark added the park locations for outdoor rinks should not be restricted through a pre-identification process by the Municipality, adding that it is anticipated that local groups would be formed only if parks were available within proximity to their residences and where water can be sourced.
The full report can be read, here.
Monday’s meeting begins at 6 p.m.
It can be live streamed, here.
