Critics of Carson City's downtown ice rink say they are concerned that the city spent too much money on equipment for the rink during the 2009-10
season.
Of the total expenditures for the season, $32,822 went toward the purchase of two large tents, portable light towers with a public announcement system and eight portable heaters.
Parks and Recreation Director Roger Moellendorf said the cost of the one-time purchases will be spread over five years, which amounts to about $6,576
per year.
"What I and others are concerned about is that if the ice rink is not approved by the board (of supervisors) for next year, then the city will have to deal with the remaining $26,000 or so that has been deferred to the next four years," said resident Bruce Kittess.
He added that if the rink is not approved in future years, it would have been more prudent to "hang onto that money rather than spend it on something so contentious."
Moellendorf said that his department looks upon the ice rink like other recreation programs - while they don't always pay for themselves, they do add to the quality of life for residents.
He said he does not believe the purchase of equipment for the ice rink, or spreading the cost of that equipment over five years, in any way will affect the board of supervisors' decision as to whether to operate the rink in future years.
"All of that equipment - the lights, tents, all of it - can be used for other special events and projects," Moellendorf said. "I don't think it ties the board's hands or obligates them to approve the ice skating rink."