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Council splits over Menard Center turf replacement and ice‑surface covering
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Summary
Council members debated whether to keep $325,000–$425,000 in the FY26 budget for an ice‑surface covering system or reallocate funds to replace indoor turf; some members favored preserving ice operations as the facility's primary revenue source while others argued for delaying turf purchase pending a feasibility study.
Council members spent substantial time on May 27 debating two capital items for the Curtis Menard Memorial Sports Center: purchasing an ice‑surface covering system and replacing the indoor turf.
Supporters of retaining funding for the ice covering system said the ice rink is the original and primary revenue‑producing function of the Menard Center and that the ability to cover the ice makes the facility a true multi‑use venue. Councilmember Graham and others said they preferred leaving funds in the budget to preserve current ice operations.
Other council members and some staff argued for delaying a turf replacement until the facility feasibility study is complete; they said a feasibility study could identify whether the community wants a larger turf footprint, and replacing the turf now could lead to wasted expense if plans change. The turf replacement was estimated in handouts at roughly $325,000; a separate handout showed an ice surface covering figure of $425,000. During the amendment process the council approved an amendment adding $325,000 to the CIP for turf replacement (amendment 39 passed by recorded vote).
Council members also discussed that the Menard Center feasibility study could affect whether the turf should be replaced now or redesigned later. Several council members said a feasibility study alone may not preclude urgent maintenance needs, but others said feasibility results should guide replacement decisions. The council postponed final budget adoption and will revisit these and other CIP items at its next scheduled meeting.
No final construction or procurement contracts were authorized at the May 27 meeting; the council recorded amendment votes that adjusted FY26 capital appropriation lines and requested further information where needed.
