The Village of Berwyn has made a crucial decision regarding the future of the Berwyn Arena by choosing to proceed with its sale. This choice, while significant, was not made lightly. The Village Council is dedicated to transparency and wants to clearly communicate the reasons behind this decision.
Background
On October 10, 2024, the Village Council met to discuss an appeal from the Arena Society. They urged the Council to reconsider the sale of the arena and asked for a chance to propose a viable plan for its future. Despite this, as of November 25, 2024, the Council had not received any substantial proposals or feedback from the Society.
This absence of a viable plan played a critical role in the Council's ultimate choice. The lack of communication suggested that a workable solution to secure the arena's future was unlikely.
Reasons for the Decision
High Operating Costs
The Village incurs significant annual expenses to maintain the arena, including utilities, insurance, and general upkeep. These costs strain our operational budget, diverting funds from other essential services.
This financial burden takes away from funding essential community services. As the village budget tightens, it is increasingly difficult to justify the continuing investment in the arena when it draws resources from vital programs.
Cost of Repairs
The financial burden is further compounded by the estimated $150,000 required to repair the ice plant. Previous assessments highlighted no guarantee that these repairs would ensure the ice plant's future functionality or longevity.
Investing such a hefty sum without any assurances, especially when the village is facing budget constraints, is not seen as a practical financial decision. The Village must prioritize spending in ways that address the community’s more pressing needs.
Community Feedback
A past survey conducted with residents showed a lack of support for increasing taxes to fund repairs or operations for the arena. Council has taken this feedback into consideration in its decision-making.
This feedback made it clear that the community prefers financial strategies focused on broader benefits rather than preserving one specific facility. Understanding resident priorities is essential for making choices that truly reflect their needs.
Financial Responsibility
With the Village's financial position, taking on additional liabilities is not feasible. Selling the arena allows the Village to focus on sustainable priorities that benefit the broader community.
This focus aligns with responsible governance practices and acknowledges the financial realities the Village faces. By making this decision, the Council demonstrates a commitment to the community's overall well-being.
Commitment to Transparency
The Village Council understands that the arena has sentimental significance for many residents. This decision was made with careful consideration of all factors, including community input, financial implications, and the lack of a viable alternative plan.
After thorough deliberation, the Village is moving forward while responsibly managing its financial resources.
Looking Ahead
The Village will ensure that the process of selling the arena is conducted transparently and responsibly. We remain open to engaging with residents and community organizations to explore ways to support recreation and community activities in other ways.
We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our residents as we navigate this difficult but necessary decision. If you have questions or wish to provide feedback, please contact the Village office at 780 338-3922
By keeping residents informed and engaged, the Village can pursue initiatives that reflect the values and needs of the entire community. Through open communication and responsible decision-making, Berwyn aims to lay a strong foundation for its future.