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. . . ARDEN HIT ,LS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27. 1997 11 Councilmember Keim inquired how many residents of Arden Hills were expected to participate in the ice arena, Mr. Fritsinger stated approximately 144. Councilmember Keim inquired if the MASC would be able to lease the majority of the prime winter hours on the fourth sheet, which they currently own, Paul Erickson, MASC, responded by providing the Council with a brief recap of the MASC Board and their objectives, He stated the MASC's ultimate goal is to sell the fourth sheet of ice to a city. He reviewed the dates and times of "high prime time" and advised they are completely sold out in all the arenas in the Twin Cities area. The MASC feels there is no risk of these prime hours remaining unsold, that the risk lies more in selling the spring and fall hours, and they anticipate success in marketing those hours also. He stated the MASC's intention to stay within the Agreement, and stated they will aggressively market to hockey camps and leagues. Councilmember Hicks inquired if during the spring and fall all parties share hours equally. He expressed concern that, although no prime hours remain unsold at this time, that could change at some point in the future, especially if more rinks are constructed in the area. Mr. Erickson replied there has been substantial growth in both boys' and girls' hockey which is projected to grow by more every year. He stated according to the MASC's research, the state is short 50-60 rinks at this time. Mr. Erickson further stated the Board feels it is essentially taking the risk for all the rinks, and they feel confident enough in this venture to ask other communities for their financial commitment. He stated most rinks are built one sheet at a time, which the Board feels is inefficient. He stated the large arenas with multiple sheets attract more tournaments and events. Councilmember Keim inquired how many children are involved in the t-ball program through Parks and Recreation each year. Ms. Cindy Walsh replied that approximately 150 children participate each year. Councilmember Keim suggested that the Quad Ice Arena is how children in the City that wish to play hockey will be serviced. Councilmember Malone stated that potential costs involved in this Agreement are much higher than other recreation programs the City offers. He further stated his concerns regarding the liability of the City. He feels there is a lack of security in this Agreement, and has concerns with the large amount of debt being accrued. Councilmember Malone requested a clarification of the City's liability in this issue. Mr. Fritsinger stated the City's total liability to be approximately $1.4 million.