WAITSBURG – Walla Walla County commissioners have approved releasing $94,856.12 in funds from the county's sales tax economic development fund to the city of Waitsburg for its project to convert the former city swimming pool site into a winter ice skating rink.
Waitsburg City Manager Randy Hinchcliffe says the cement slab for the rink has been poured and the decorative fencing, skates and skate sharpener have been delivered. Synthetic ice sheets are currently being delivered and the office space that will serve the rink has been fenced off, modernized and repainted.
Hinchcliffe added that they are on schedule to have the rink ready in time for the Home Town Christmas event the first weekend in December.
Commissioner Bertha Clayton asked about the discrepancy between the approved $102,000 grant and the $94,856.12 requested in the last proposal and asked if the project was under budget or if additional revenue was expected. Board Secretary Diane Harris said she would look into it.
Commissioner Gunner Fulmer praised the effort, saying, “I think it's a great idea to get people there.” He also said that since the project is in Commissioner Todd Kimball's district, he expects to see photos of Kimball skating on the completed rink.
Kimball playfully replied, “I was on a hockey team as a kid and was a terrible skater, so I'm guessing not.”
Artist's impression of the Ice Rink in Waitsburg, courtesy of the City of Waitsburg