Robert Schwalboski, Sartell
In a recent letter to the editor by Commissioner Joe Perske, he voiced his concern about the Sartell City Council’s approval of supporting the replacement of the outdoor ice rink with an enclosed version. Granted the city is only “contributing” to the cost while Scheels is providing most of the funding for naming rights, but Sartell is also being asked to provide $130,000 per year over a 20-year period. I strongly support Joe and his concerns and would like to add my own.
First let me ask this question: Did the city purchase this property for use as a “park?” IF so, then it should fit the criteria of a “park.” Webster’s definition goes something like this: “an area of land, usually in a largely natural state, for the enjoyment of the public.” Parking lots and ice arenas don’t fit the criteria or benefit ALL of the residents of Sartell.
Personally I think the City Council has caved to the special interest groups in the city. We now have a moratorium on apartments; how about one on discretion of parks.
