Council looks at Polson Park skating for next winter

Jan 12, 2021 | 7:00 AM

An idea dating back five years to have an ice rink in Polson Park has returned to the fold, but it won’t be for this winter.

Coun. Dalvir Nahal originally brought the idea forward, but it was scrubbed due to the cost.

Coun. Scott Anderson, with full credit to Nahal, brought it back before Vernon Council again on Monday, to look at the 2021-22 winter season,altering a motion that had called for an ice surface for this winter.

It was also noted the surface could be multi purpose with a basketball court or in line skating facility in the summer months.

“How would the ice rink affect the Polson Park master plan?” Nahal asked. “Ideally we would like to see it in a permanent location.”

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The city is about to embark on a new master plan to revitalize the city’s main downtown park.

“If you look at social media, there is a huge degree of acceptance, even excitement for the this idea,” Coun. Kari Gares said.

“If you are looking for something like Stuart Park in Kelowna, there are public washrooms, a Zamboni and Zamboni room, change rooms, and equipment room. This is nowhere near the cost of (the rink) at Predator Ridge” CAO Will Pearce said.

Predator Ridge built a natural ice skating rink that is open to restricted to residents and registered guests, something that wouldn’t be possible in the valley bottom.

“I’m concerned about the water table in the park. It is going to have a significant cost, but I like the idea,” Vernon Mayor Victor Cumming said.

With the nearly $40 million dollar Greater Vernon Cultural Centre and a potential $90 million dollar Greater Vernon Active Living Centre potentially on the horizon, some councillors urged caution.

“These are things that we have to have balance on,” Coun. Akbal Mund said. “I’m not against the idea, but there are a lot of demands.”

The Centennial Outdoor Rink at the recreation complex is shutdown as a result of a chiller replacement, and won’t be in service this winter.

by Kevin Rothwell

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