The Carroll City Council was pleased to discuss the creation of an outdoor ice skating rink at Monday’s meeting. Director of Parks and Recreation, Jack Wardell, said he had researched a system that gets placed on the tennis court area, and after reviewing the site options, there were several reasons they elected to propose the rink be placed at Rolling Hills Park.
He also said that site would most easily comply with recommendations from the insurance underwriter that there be a sign that skaters can use the rink at their own risk, fencing and that the rink be checked by city staff each day. Wardell presented a recommendation that the council purchase a complete rink system from NiceRink which includes all panels, liners, adhesives and a resurfacing machine. The initial size reviewed was 52 feet by 84 feet, but Council Member Mike Kots asked if other options were available.
Wardell added that going larger would allow the rink to cover the edges of the tennis courts, reducing possible damages from traffic on and off the ice. He said they have considered opening the rink during the daylight hours and extending that to possibly 10 p.m. with proper lighting, but this would not be a “manned” site and they will not be offering skate or equipment rentals. Local resident, Bob Bryant, who is originally from Minnesota spoke at the meeting in support of the rink and to ask for children to be able to play hockey. The council agreed that an arrangement for appropriate times could be discussed for that option. The council approved the purchase of a larger rink kit from NiceRink at 88 feet by 104 feet that will cost $6,353.72 plus shipping that is estimated to cost around another $200. Delivery and installation of the rink is expected to take place in January. City staff will temporarily close the rink at their discretion if weather is not conducive to skating.
