04-14-2009 ICE MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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which was a decrease of $19,000. On the expenditure side, it was noted that the cost of living has increased as well as operating expenditures. The contract with Bernick's Pepsi was also renewed and costs did increase. Overall in 2008 the arena had a net loss of $236,000. $100,000 of that was for the new Zamboni, which was paid for by the liquor store. The City then covered the remaining $136,000. The main discrepancy between the projected and actual costs came from utilities. Arena Manager Rich Czech noted that our utilities company projected a 3% increase last year, and in actuality an 8-9% increase was realized. Czech also stated that it appears this will be the norm in the upcoming years. Finance Director Tim Simon noted that we are hoping to achieve $432,000 in ice rentals for 2009 and that we have budgeted fora 5% increase for utility costs. Arena Manager Rich Czech noted that the arena has not had as many tournaments and that there may be a drop in the number of high school games. In addition the cost for concessions items has increased. Czech notes that in discussions with other arena managers, he has heard that everyone's concessions revenue has decreased. In addition, the arena purchased a convection oven this year which took some of our revenue. COMMISSIONER BARTH MOTIONS TO APPROVE THE BUDGET INFORMATION AS PRESENTED. MALZAHN SECONDS THE MOTION. APPROVED 5-0. 6. Ice Rates Arena Manager Rich Czech notes that last year, the rates were increased $5/hr, and traditionally, we only raise rates every other year. Due to our desire to stay competitive with other rinks, and to give relief to our customers, he suggests keeping the rates the same for the next year. Already, he notes, we are seeing a decrease in summer programs, and he fears that we will out price our customers and that we will see a decrease in new players due to the cost. Czech also states that the BeckerBig Lake district is very close to breaking ground for their own arena, which could also cause us to lose customers. Chair Martin opens the floor to the Public which includes Lyle Slawson, the President of the Elk River Youth Hockey Association, and Paul Paige, the Vice President. Slawson agrees with Czech that we need to keep rates the same for next year. He notes that they were taken off guard by the increase last year, and when rates increase, they are forced to either buy fewer hours, or raise their rates. Slawson states that despite the increase, they purchased the same amount of