Deliberations at the Reading Recreation Committee meeting brought to the forefront the historical agreement involving the Burbank Ice Arena and the use of its profits. A select board representative provided a detailed historical overview, highlighting the past financial challenges that led to a deviation from this vision, with profits being directed into the general fund. The committee’s dialogue suggested a renewed commitment to redirecting those funds toward capital projects to enhance recreational amenities in Reading.

The committee considered the Burbank Ice Arena’s annual financial impact and its value as a community asset. Members contemplated the potential for these funds to improve recreational facilities, including the infield at Barrows and the resurfacing of tennis courts at Bankr Park. The conversation extended to the importance of ensuring that funds are transparently and fairly distributed, possibly by having them go directly to the recreation department or into a separate recreation line item.

Moreover, there was discourse about the possibility of developing near the ice rink and the implications for the current lease agreement. The committee expressed unanimity on the motion for profits to be directed towards the recreation division for programs and projects and the importance of a mechanism to guarantee the funds’ intended use. This motion was unanimously approved, and it was agreed to advocate for it to be included as an agenda item for the select board meeting.

In other matters, the Recreation administrator shared updates on the resurfacing project at the tennis courts at Bankr Park, set to commence in the fall, and the need for improvements at Barrows Elementary School’s courts. The administrator also reported on the DPW’s successful field work at Joshua Eaton, which was well-received by the Little League, and the recent Lions Club road race at Memorial Park.

The committee also addressed a public comment from a former member who expressed concerns about the treatment of town volunteers and potential political motivations influencing appointments to various committees. The committee reviewed an amplified sound request for a basketball event organized by the Friends of Reading Basketball, aimed at engaging the community and building excitement for the season. After discussions of logistics such as parking and age group inclusion, the request was approved.

The annual reorganization was another point of order, resulting in the re-election of the current chair and the election of a new vice-chair. Acknowledgement of the committee’s cooperation and anticipation for future productivity closed the discussion on this topic.

The committee concluded with a commitment to support the motion regarding the Burbank Ice Arena funds at the select board meeting and plans to continue pursuing the matter if it was not included in the agenda. The meeting adjourned with a unanimous approval of the motion to do so.