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Community Corner

Veterans Memorial Skating Rink


 

 

I was dismayed to learn that the Town of West Hartford is looking to privatize the Veterans Memorial Skating Rink.  After other failed attempts at privatization, namely Fairview Cemetery and the Facilities Services Department, I would have expected the Town to consider alternative solutions.  Both of these endeavors resulted in decreased service and in the case of the cemetery a lack of maintenance of the grounds.  Fortunately, the Town has regained oversight of these departments restoring the quality we expect for our tax dollars. 

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The skating rink is a gem in the crown of our recreation department.  It provides a well rounded program for all skating enthusiasts at competitive rates.  Will this be the case if it is privatized?  Did we not see increased fees from the privatization of Cornerstone Pool?  I doubt that the rink will be as fiscally available to all residents of West Hartford.  I also doubt that we would be offered the wide array of programs that are currently part of the rink’s schedule. 

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I also disagree with  the Town giving rein to a private entity to make money off of the taxpayers.  If I understand correctly, the Town would still be responsible for the maintenance of the building, as is the case with Cornerstone Pool.  Our tax dollars would then be used for an outside vendor to do as they will with OUR facility.  Programs can and most likely will change to primarily those that will make the most money.  Rates will no doubt rise when the bottom line becomes the main focus of this facility.  Prospective vendors could come in and form a monopoly with other area rinks.  Is this what we want for our hometown rink?

 

Veterans Rink has always been a place where our children learned to skate, play hockey, gather with friends and in a many cases, gain their first job experience.  Our families utilized the many programs offered to us.  Service is always top notch and accommodating.  It would be a travesty to lose this valuable facility to a corporation that would make profit their main focus. While things may look good on paper…the real picture needs to be viewed and a decision must be made for the good of the residents of West Hartford.  Please keep this jewel owned and OPERATED by the Town of West Hartford.

 

Sincerely,

 

Janet Fournier

398 Oakwood Avenue

West Hartford, CT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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