City staff will look into options for expanding the number of ice surfaces in the City and will be bringing back to council a report later this year that will outline the costs and financing options.
Council passed the motion after hearing from a Toronto consultant outlining an ice utilization report which indicates that based on 20-year projections there would be enough demand for prime time ice to warrant an additional ice pad.
The amended motion approved last night will see staff look at adding to the city’s ice supply by replacing the 51-year old McMeeken Arena with a twin pad or injecting money into the facility to extend its life and add just one pad.
That option brought out a strong reaction from Ward one councillor Steve Butland who called the rink an unmitigated disaster saying it’s like an outdoor rink with a roof and insisted it needs to be replaced.
Staff will also look into the idea of expanding the Northern Community Centre to accomodate a full indoor soccer pitch.
A report to council will come back later this year.