Ice skating rink for Sturgis

Sturgis officials have approved city staff to purchase a portable ice-skate-rink kit.

The $5,000 was a budgeted item, as city officials have indicated their interest in the purchase and use of such a community-friendly attraction.

Though a firm location has not yet been identified, commissioners agreed two high-profile places where the rink could be set up are at Oaklawn Park off South Nottawa Street and at the Arkwright property, on the north side of U.S. 12 to the east of the Sturgis Post Office.

Commissioners agreed that because of its portability, the rink can be tried out at different sites to help determine its most prolific location.

City Manager Mike Hughes said the commission is optimistic the ice-skate rink will be in place during downtown’s “Winter Blues” celebration later in January.