Ken Pye, of 'Sk8te Hollinger', has asked the city to go 50/50 on costs for construction and operation for the 2016/17 season. This would cost the city $32,500 dollars, based on estimates for 100 days of use.
The figure-8 ice loop in Hollinger Park was overwhelmingly enjoyed by area residents in its first year of operation, which saw 59 days of action.
"It ended up being a much larger project than I anticipated" said Pye.
"It should be known that I don't make any money on that. I'm estimating that the amount of value I put into that was in excess of $60,000 dollars last winter. Sponsors put in another $60,000. I think we built a park that was world class. We didn't charge anybody for it, I don't want to charge anybody to go there. It's for everybody in town to enjoy" he added.
He also asked the city for permission to operate a concession stand, which would generate money towards operational costs. CAO Joe Torlone asked Pye if the concession stand would require any water connections. Pye said the stand would be entirely self-sufficient.
Councillor Noella Rinaldo inquired if the loop could be opened a little earlier this winter.
"Last year was an unusual winter. It took me 20 days to build it, and I think I lost it twice. It melted. Last year, The Rideau Canal (in Ottawa) ran 18 days, only nine of them end-to-end. I ran 59 days. I think we can get 100 days out of it" responded Pye.
According to Pye, users ranged from 4 to 90 years old. Some days saw over 1,500 skaters doing laps.
"Over the winter, you're looking at over 50,000 visitors."
Councillors Pat Bamford and Rick Dubeau asked Pye for clarification on the costs included in his request.
It was determined that some of the companies involved are looking for compensation on labour costs for the construction of the loop.
"I've heard nothing but great things about it Ken, and its a wonderful thing. We've helped a lot of non-profit organizations with this kind of stuff. Obviously, we've got to spend a little more time looking at the numbers, but it's a great thing, and I thank you for doing this" said Dubeau.
Councillor Mike Doody said he was often amazed at the size of the crowds using the facility last winter, and expressed sentiment in favour of assisting Pye.
"I think that there would be a big part of our community that would be upset if we couldn't continue this. If it wasn't successful, or it was something hit-and-miss, I could see myself wavering. But I think that has been a very successful venture and we should be trying to do everything we can together to make sure it continues" said Doody.
Pye also said that much of the major electrical equipment for the rink, worth around $15,000 dollars, was supplied by Great White Electrical Services and other sponsors should be useful for 10 years or so.
He said that there were approximately 80 volunteers who assisted in various capacities.
Mayor Steve Black said he would send the request to city staff for feedback and a report. Council will have to make a decision within a month or so.
"We will see what happens in the coming weeks, and what happens with our direction in the budget and this ask" said Black.
