Utilize the indoor Western Park Ice facility year round

Recent signers:
Skylar Stevens and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Western Park Ice Facility is a beacon of athleticism and recreation in our community in Vernal, Utah— an essential hub for ice sports, enthusiasts, families, and individuals alike. However, right now, its operational season does not fully meet the needs and expectations of its patrons. Operating the facility only part of the year limits opportunities for consistent training, regular recreation, and hosting events that energize community spirit.

A year-round schedule for the Western Park Ice Facility will bring numerous benefits. Firstly, young athletes seeking to hone their skills in sports like hockey and figure skating would have the chance to train consistently throughout the year, placing them on a level playing field with competitors in other regions where facilities are available more regularly. It’s essential for their growth and competitive success.

Moreover, maintaining the ice facility open all year would act as a catalyst for tourism and local economic growth. Events and tournaments bring visitors to our region who spend money at local hotels, restaurants, and shops, directly benefiting local businesses and providing an economic boost that can support even larger community projects and events.

Additionally, a year-round ice facility provides a healthy and fun recreational space for individuals of all ages. It supports active lifestyles not just in the winter months, but promotes health and wellness throughout the year by providing opportunities for exercise in a refreshing and engaging environment.

In conclusion, consistently utilizing the Western Park Ice Facility would provide significant benefits ranging from athletic development and economic growth to promoting community wellness and environmental consciousness.

Let’s seize this opportunity to make Western Park Ice Facility a year-round hub for sporting excellence and community engagement! Please sign the petition to support this initiative.

532

Recent signers:
Skylar Stevens and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Western Park Ice Facility is a beacon of athleticism and recreation in our community in Vernal, Utah— an essential hub for ice sports, enthusiasts, families, and individuals alike. However, right now, its operational season does not fully meet the needs and expectations of its patrons. Operating the facility only part of the year limits opportunities for consistent training, regular recreation, and hosting events that energize community spirit.

A year-round schedule for the Western Park Ice Facility will bring numerous benefits. Firstly, young athletes seeking to hone their skills in sports like hockey and figure skating would have the chance to train consistently throughout the year, placing them on a level playing field with competitors in other regions where facilities are available more regularly. It’s essential for their growth and competitive success.

Moreover, maintaining the ice facility open all year would act as a catalyst for tourism and local economic growth. Events and tournaments bring visitors to our region who spend money at local hotels, restaurants, and shops, directly benefiting local businesses and providing an economic boost that can support even larger community projects and events.

Additionally, a year-round ice facility provides a healthy and fun recreational space for individuals of all ages. It supports active lifestyles not just in the winter months, but promotes health and wellness throughout the year by providing opportunities for exercise in a refreshing and engaging environment.

In conclusion, consistently utilizing the Western Park Ice Facility would provide significant benefits ranging from athletic development and economic growth to promoting community wellness and environmental consciousness.

Let’s seize this opportunity to make Western Park Ice Facility a year-round hub for sporting excellence and community engagement! Please sign the petition to support this initiative.

The Decision Makers

John Laursen
Uintah County Commission - Seat A
Responded
I understand that you have spoken to Melanie Silcox about year round ice-skating, however I have not heard from anyone about a petition. My only question is who is going to pay for addition funds needed to keep the ice, replace the compressors (about $1.5M) when they overheat, and pay for the funding we lose during the summer months when the building used for the ice rink for many other things. I do not believe that the citizens of Uintah County would want to have a tax increase just so a few of the 37,000+ citizens would have a place to ice skate. I am basing this only on the understanding from this e-mail and information from Melanie on what you are asking for. I would welcome a meeting with you to discuss this further if you like. If so, please contact our Administrative Assistant Nicole at 4357815380 and can arrange a meeting date and time. Thank you John E. Laursen Commissioner Uintah County, Utah
Willis LeFevre
Willis LeFevre
Uintah County Commissioner- Chairman
Sonja Norton
Sonja Norton
Uintah County Commissioner
Uintah County Western Park
Uintah County Western Park
Sheri Allen
Sheri Allen
County Commissioner

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates

Share this petition

Petition created on February 3, 2026