Worthington District 518 Explores New Two-Sheet Ice Arena Options

The Worthington District 518 Operations Committee convened on Monday to explore potential locations for a new two-sheet ice arena in Worthington. This discussion follows a recent request for proposals from the Worthington City Council regarding renovations of the existing arena located on the Nobles County Fairgrounds. A contractor from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, indicated that they could construct a new facility for under $16 million, a significantly lower figure than the previously estimated $29 million suggested by the Worthington Hockey Association earlier this year.

According to Joel Heitkamp, the Superintendent of ISD 518, the contractor’s experience includes the successful development of the Scheels IcePlex in Sioux Falls, which further assures the committee of their capabilities. Heitkamp noted that ongoing discussions have highlighted not only the lower construction costs but also new site options for the proposed arena.

Initially considered was a site in Worthington’s Industrial Park, situated north of Interstate 90 and west of U.S. 59. However, Heitkamp pointed out that this location is not viable for an ice arena due to restrictions imposed by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, which mandates that the site be designated for economic development purposes.

The city is now actively evaluating various alternative locations for the new ice arena. Among the possibilities are two parcels owned by District 518. One is situated north of the Community Education and Learning Center along Crailsheim Road, while the other is located south of the Intermediate School, either along Crailsheim Road or off Fox Farm Road, adjacent to a small creek. Heitkamp emphasized that the project would require approximately six to eight acres of land, which the district is prepared to lease to the city.

Heitkamp expressed the importance of choosing an optimal location, especially given the proximity to three of the district’s schools, which would facilitate accessibility for students. He stated, “We’ve got one chance as a district to decide what we’re going to put where, but we better not mess it up. This decision dominoes the rest of it.”

Another potential site has been identified along Plotts Avenue on the south side of Worthington, where a parcel on the east side is currently for sale. Heitkamp also mentioned the availability of land at the Prairie Elementary site, although he characterized this option as less desirable.

Funding for the project remains a critical issue. The school district’s initial commitment of $5 million toward the construction of the new ice arena is still on the table. Currently, the district pays a flat fee of $25,000 annually for the use of the existing arena, with the Worthington Hockey Association contributing $32,000. The City of Worthington manages the current facility.

School board member Erin Schutte Wadzinski highlighted the need for careful consideration of community opinions, noting that while there is strong support for a new ice arena, some community members feel that the district’s contribution of $5 million may be excessive given other pressing needs. She proposed that if the district contributes $200,000 in land, they could negotiate a waiver of the annual fee for a decade.

Fellow board member Darla Agard echoed the sentiment, suggesting that if one of the rinks were to be converted to turf for part of the year, it could serve additional student needs. “To me, it’s exciting that we’re finally getting the ball rolling,” said Matt Widboom. He appreciated the city’s proactive approach in seeking proposals.

As discussions continue, Assistant Superintendent Josh Noble emphasized the importance of clarifying details surrounding ice time availability, financial commitments, and access for not only varsity teams but also youth programs.

In related matters, the committee received a preliminary audit report from Ellen Hoefker of Drealan, Kvilhaug, Hoefker and Co. The report revealed that the district’s general fund has grown to $67 million, an increase of $7.5 million from the previous year. The district’s unassigned fund balance now stands at $15.79 million, which covers approximately 13 weeks of expenses, up from 12 weeks last year.

Following this financial assessment, Schutte Wadzinski suggested that the board needs to address the significant increase in the general fund during future meetings. The committee also advanced several items for discussion at the upcoming full board meeting, including a second reading of Policy 722 regarding data requests and other administrative matters.