Ludlow committee explores options to reopen West Hill ice rink

The Ludlow Recreation Committee discussed steps to restore local ice-skating operations at West Hill, including outreach to Okemo and Vail and questions about permit conditions and costs.

Frank Provance said he contacted "Bruce" at Okemo, who indicated Okemo could lend rink boards and discuss loaning ice skates. Erin Ladd reported she also contacted Bruce about the Jackson Gore ice house and was told the facility is closed because the compressor and chiller system is not working. Erin said she reviewed the town's Act 250 permit and that operating the ice house is a condition of that permit; she has emailed Bruce and said he forwarded the inquiry to Vail.

Nick Miele said the town should work toward operating its own rink. Committee members asked about rough startup costs; Nick estimated about $10,000 as a preliminary figure while Joe Gurdak cautioned that operating a rink is labor intensive and that providing ice skates would be an additional expense. The group identified two potential sites, Dorsey and West Hill, and Erin said she could use design software to assist with siting decisions.

Committee members agreed further fact-finding is required on permit limitations, equipment costs and the ongoing staffing needed to operate an ice surface. Erin noted any change to operating conditions in the Act 250 permit would require review by the Development Review Board (DRB).