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Brown Deer reviews first season of Community Square ice rink; officials cite heavy operating costs
Summary
Village staff reviewed usage and finances from the Community Square temporary refrigerated rink, noting high staffing and setup costs, revenue from rentals and events, and a multi‑year path for decisions on a permanent facility.
Village staff presented a year-one review May 5 of the Community Square refrigerated ice rink, reporting strong community use but net operating losses in the first season and a plan for phased decisions over the next one to two years.
Danny (recreation staff) told the board the rink attracted many youth users, recorded roughly 1,361 admissions and generated revenue from gate admissions, rentals and events, but staff and one-time setup costs pushed the facility into a net loss for the season. "Our total expense was $27,712.05, and our total revenue was $15,446," Danny said; she also noted a one-time expense of about $4,452 and said, "that would bring our potential loss out to $7,613" under the current cost structure.
Staff said the largest recurring expense was staffing, particularly for specialized roles such as Zamboni drivers; they have reduced staff per shift for future seasons and plan to expand rentals, birthday parties and event programming to increase revenue. The Milwaukee Winter Club, which supplied most weekday practices and extensive volunteer support, covered substantial costs for staffing and operations and contributed to activating the site: staff reported the club has about 320 players, ran 252 practices at the rink and used the facility for matches.
Matthew (public works/staff) and other officials said the rink filled a community need and that staff will seek grant funding and federal support for a more permanent facility; however, no new construction or permanent funding was approved May 5. Danny said the Milwaukee Winter Club has committed to another season while village staff pursue grant opportunities and evaluate whether to pursue a permanent rink via capital funding in a later budget cycle.
Board members and staff identified next steps: pursue grants and sponsorships, increase marketing and programming for the 2025–26 season, and review the rink's financial performance after year two before making any decision about a permanent structure or taking on long-term operating costs.
The presentation was informational; no board action was taken May 5.
