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DISCUSSION Following the conclusion of this past holiday season, staff and SJAM met to review and evaluate the program. Discussion has focused primarily on the ice rink's location and unanticipated costs with the goal of finding a location that is capable of developing the synergy required to make the program a complete recreational, financial and economic success. In general, to meet this goal the parties are of the opinion that a Downtown location offers the best alternative for success. However, other locations where the ice rink would be visible, centrally located, accessible, and if possible, at a "destination" site like a regional mall, entertainment district or attraction are also potentially viable. To address this situation, staff has explored a number of alternative sites including the Stoneridge Mall, Alameda County Fairgrounds and Delucchi Park. The Stoneridge Mall has space available for lease in their parking area but the lease fees are excessive for this type of recreational program. The Alameda County Fairgrounds also has space available and leases it for approximately $7,500 per month. Similar to the mall space, the lease rate is more than the program can absorb and the location would not meet the holiday spirit and intent of merging the recreational activity with a Downtown experience. Delucchi Park was again considered but ultimately rejected because of the impact the event would have on the adjacent neighborhood and the additional funding ($60,000) that would be necessary to renovate and return the park to its "pre- event" condition after the ice rink had been removed. No private sites have emerged in the Downtown. As a result, staff does not feel comfortable in recommending any of these sites. Notwithstanding the above, staff is of the opinion that the program was well received and that there may be a place for it in the future. However, assuring a successful program will require a location near the Downtown and a complete review of financial commitments to assure the program is financially feasible with minimal impact on City operating costs. As a result of the above, staff is recommending that the program be suspended for at least the 2010 holiday season and that staff continue pursuing viable sites to enable the program to meet community, business, SJAM and City expectations. Staff discussed this matter with SJAM and they agree with staff recommendation. Submitted by: Susan Andrade -Wax Director of Parks and Community Services Fiscal Review: Emily Wagner Director of Finance Attachments: 1. License Agreement 2. Letter from Don Gralnek, EVP General Counsel Page 3 of 3 Nelson Fialho City Manager