Volunteers to build temporary rink at Brentwood rec center; commission pushes sponsorships

A group of volunteers will build a temporary ice rink at the Brentwood recreation center starting tomorrow, and commissioners urged a sponsorship model to offset operating and fuel costs.

Unidentified Speaker 1 said four local volunteers, with longtime helper Kevin Breen, plan to assemble the rink on the basketball court, using liners stored in the garage and a donated light tower for evening use. "They're gonna be building it tomorrow," Unidentified Speaker 1 said, noting the town already has much of the material on hand.

Commissioners discussed programming (family skate nights, late-night skating and beginner lessons) and liability questions for organized hockey. They also focused on fundraising through banner advertising: suggested banner rates discussed in the meeting ranged from roughly $200–$300 with businesses providing banners; commissioners noted the garage wall provides a visible placement from the parking lot.

"Sell what the advertising is worth, not what it costs," Unidentified Speaker 6 said, urging a concrete approach to sponsorship pricing and outreach to medical centers and local retailers. Commissioners volunteered to contact local businesses and to check historical sponsor lists for comparable rates.

The rink build is a volunteer-led, short-term effort this winter; commissioners asked staff to track usage, sponsorship revenue and any repairs (liners, light fuel costs) for future budgeting. No formal vote was taken; the project proceeds as a volunteer-run program with sponsorship outreach to follow.