Skate community urges Dolton leaders to partner on skating rink; residents defend events

Dozens of residents told the Dolton village board on July 6 that the village skating rink has become a community asset and asked officials to partner with skaters to sustain events and programs.

At the meeting, Miss Hill praised the rink for its organization and for bringing “young entrepreneurs” to the village, saying, “They represented themselves respectfully, they kept it in order … they just asking you all to believe in them.” Delvin New, a 27‑year Dolton resident who described himself as part of the JB skate community, said the rink attracts international instructors and offers opportunities for youth and fitness programming. “We are asking if we can partner with you guys,” he said, describing skaters who have traveled to teach in Paris and elsewhere.

The appeals included personal testimony. Amber Jones said skating helped her manage a recent mental‑health diagnosis and brought her family together. “Skating has been the outlet for me,” she told the board. Patrick Turner, who said he hosts many of the rink’s events, defended the gatherings as open and family‑friendly and asked officials to collaborate on safety and operations.

Why it matters: Rink organizers argued that formal village support would help maintain public safety as crowds grow and would keep youth engaged in supervised activities. Trustee Stan Brown said his committee is exploring amusement‑activity programming at the rink and preliminary plans for stepping and skating events. Trustee Norwood said the village will meet with skaters to discuss partnerships and use of the facility.

Village officials and public‑safety staff emphasized coordination. After the public comments, board members applauded the skaters and discussed working with police and public works to ensure safety during larger events. There was no formal vote; trustees asked staff to follow up with the skaters and to schedule a town‑hall style meeting to map next steps.

The board meeting record shows the skaters’ remarks occurred during the public‑comment period and trustees publicly committed to further engagement rather than formal funding or ordinance changes at this session. The village will decide any operational or financial support after staff follow‑up and committee review.