Skating Rink Debate Continues

Written by Shawn Payne

Blue Ridge’s ice skating rink continues to be the center of debate. As of September 11th, the Blue Ridge City Council continued to discuss the possible location of the rink. The two primary locations are downtown at the park, and the farmers market. During the meeting, citizens showed concern about the cost and benefit of these two possible locations. One citizen mentioned the liability of establishing the rink at the Farmers Market. The concern, here, is the railing around the Farmers Market which could be hazardous to children or spectators.

“You can have a seating area up top for people who want to (view the skaters) and have a vendor system on the sides below so people won’t have access to that railing.”

Julie Tiller said, who is an advocate of the Farmer’s Market location. Another argument against the Farmer’s Market location is its appearance. Many view it as unattractive.

Also supporting the Farmer’s Market location, Sue Taylor argued that the market is historical and that some individuals in the community are requesting to volunteer with bringing the Farmers Market up to date, if the rink is placed there. Taylor also brought up the issue of parking in the downtown area. Her concern was that parking downtown would not suffice for such a daily public gathering. Another citizen said this would not be an issue, citing that the rink would operate at night when other businesses are closed.

“Blue Ridge is more than downtown”

argued Joe Webb, who said that tourism is not limited to the downtown area. Webb highlighted the Farmer’s Market is close to the theatre and the high school. The theatre is another tourist attraction that could benefit from the rink. Also, one of the selling points of the rink is that it would provide an activity for kids during the winter months. As such, the proximity to the high school could benefit the rink and prove a convenience for young skaters.
Responding to the comments, Mayor Whitener mentioned her conversation with the city of Conyers public relation and tourism division. Conyers said the skating rink was very lucrative and brought people from surrounding areas. Whitener also said she spoke with Joe Fkopipz, who directs the Skating Rink at Centennial Park. The mayor said Centennial Park had nothing but good experiences with the rink.

“(The Rink) is a really good environment and is good for families and the rink is bringing people downtown that had not been coming down for other events,”

Whitener said.
Largely a donation, the rink will cost the city little.

“Both locations have pros and cons,”

Whitener said,

“and the counsel has not made a definite decision at this point.”

Whitener also said that when a meeting is decided, the public will be made aware so they may voice their opinions.

“This has generated excitement…my phone has been ringing off the hook,”

Whitener said. The rink is expected to open November 14th for Light up Blue Ridge. Days of operation for the rink will be Thursday through Monday. Also, Children will be able to skate for half price on weekdays. Hours of operations will be mainly after school hours and all day on weekends.

Council tabled the decision on the rink’s location until it receives a response from the city attorney on the issue.