Arena ice rates in Saint John have been frozen for the upcoming 2022-23 season.
The motion was approved during a Common Council’s regular meeting on Monday.
It comes as city staff recognize that the last two ice seasons have been challenging for user groups and leagues.
“Freezing the arena rates will potentially allow groups the chance to rebound and encourage leagues and teams to reestablish,” reads a City of Saint John staff report.
It will also give city staff the opportunity to evaluate the Recreation Subsidization Policy as directed by council, which was approved in 2019 and brings a new vision for cost recovery in the usage of city-owned recreational facilities.
Revenue from arena ice rentals is projected to be $700,000 for the 2022-23 season, while overall operating costs will be in the range of $1.3 million.
For the upcoming season, ice rates will range from $115 to $293 per hour.