Rexburg council approves public–private contract to build ice rink at Riverside Park

Rexburg City Council on May 15 approved a public–private partnership contract for a community ice rink planned at Riverside Park, adjacent to the Rexburg Rapids. Under the agreement the private operator will build and run the rink on city-leased land and commit to donating at least 4% annually to the city for the 25-year contract term, with the facility to become city property at the contract’s end unless a new operator is agreed.

Mayor (name not specified in the record) explained the location and basic terms of the arrangement, saying the developer would “build actually build this building and build an ice hockey rink” and “over a 25 year contract, they will donate at least 4% every year to the city where so that after 25 years, it will become city property.” The council removed the item from the table, discussed parking and operational arrangements, and voted to accept the contract and move forward with execution.

Proponents told the council the site leverages existing parking and can support recreation programming such as hockey and curling leagues. The mayor and council framed the arrangement as a way for the city to secure the amenity while minimizing upfront capital outlay: the private partner assumes construction costs and operational risk in return for a long-term lease and revenue-sharing arrangement.

Council member discussion at the meeting included procedural clearance (moving the contract off the table) and votes to authorize staff to finalize the agreement. Council members moved and seconded the motion to accept the contract; the motion passed with no recorded opposition.

Next steps noted at the meeting: staff will proceed with executing the contract and begin ordering materials and scheduling work; council indicated operational details and parking plans will be coordinated with city departments as the project advances.