Leesburg residents urge officials to keep ION ice rink open as owners seek conversion

Dozens of parents, coaches and skaters urged the Leesburg Economic Development Commission on Feb. 5 to oppose a proposed conversion of ION from an ice facility to an event or conference center, saying the rink is essential for youth sports, jobs and local businesses.

The speakers described ION as a regional hub for youth hockey, figure skating and recreational ice programs and said losing the ice would force families to travel outside Leesburg for practices and tournaments. "Please, dear god, please don't take this ice away from these kids," said Marilina Pinto, who identified herself as a coach at ION, speaking of students coping after a recent local tragedy.

The commission's role is advisory; staff and commissioners explained the proposed change would follow the town's zoning and permitting process and is ultimately a property-owner decision. Russell (staff) told the audience that the use proposed for the property is allowed under the zoning ordinance and that the matter would proceed through the town and county planning and zoning process with required criteria and approvals.

Speakers recounted the facility's…