Beaverton Arena ice extension deemed a success, set to return in 2026

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: Local councillors recently voted to continue offering late-season ice, at the Foster Hewitt Memorial Community Centre, in Beaverton, next year, following a successful pilot program this past spring.

At their meeting on Monday, July 28th, Council received a detailed report from, Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities, Wayne Ward outlining the usage, costs, and revenue associated with extending the 2024-2025 ice season into May. Despite challenges, including a late March ice storm which caused a temporary facility shutdown. Council ultimately concluded the extension was both popular and profitable.

“We were very fortunate the ice surface was not compromised during the power outage,” Mr. Ward said, noting the facility was unavailable from March 30th to April 2nd. “Overall, the initiative went smoothly, and we saw strong interest from several user groups.”

According to the report, total rental income during the six-week extension reached approximately $22,672.50, while additional utility and staffing expenses totalled $8,633.23. That left the Township with a net profit of just over $14,000, not including HST.

Brock Minor Hockey Association (BMHA), Beaverton Skating Club (BSC), Ringette, Brock Bandits, and the Canadian School of Cirque (CSC) all took advantage of the late ice. In particular, Ringette and the Bandits exceeded their initially scheduled hours. Although some groups fell short of planned usage, such as adult rentals and BMHA, the overall ice time booked totalled 163.5 hours.

“The demand is clearly there,” said Mr. Ward. “With more promotion and improved coordination, we believe next year’s extension can be even more successful.”

Council had originally approved the 2025 spring extension back in February, after receiving a request from BMHA and hearing strong community support. Staff were directed to maintain the ice, until May 11th, and to work with local and outside user groups to maximize usage. That directive will now carry into next season.

Mayor Mike Jubb expressed optimism about the program’s future, stating, “This is a great example of how staff and the community can work together to meet a need, while also making good financial sense. I’m excited to see what we can build on for next year.”

Mr. Ward’s report did note some minor asset wear and increased utility consumption, including a nearly $5,500 spike in electricity, gas, and water costs, compared to the previous year. He also acknowledged the environmental impact of extended operations but emphasized energy-efficient upgrades, such as LED lighting and high-efficiency boilers, are helping to offset those effects.

“We’re doing what we can to reduce our footprint while still meeting community needs,” he said.

Council passed a motion to receive the report and directed staff to proceed with preparations to continue late ice, again in 2025-2026, and enhance efforts to promote available times and boost rentals.

“There’s room to grow,” said Mr. Ward, “and we’re committed to making the most of it.”