City council set to consider next move on planned ice arena project

The Worthington City Council on Monday is expected to take action on submissions from construction firms for a remodeling and addition project on the Worthington Ice Arena.

During their Sept. 8 meeting, council members authorized city staff to request qualifications from construction firms on the project. The closing date for submissions was Oct. 8, and staff received a total of 10 from interested firms.

A selection committee was subsequently formed consisting of city staff, council members, and District 518 and Worthington Hockey Association representatives. These individuals rated the submissions, and the committee ultimately recommended that the city turn down the Requests for Proposals that were received and review other options. It’s noted in the agenda packet for Monday’s meeting that the selection committee believes that the best path forward is looking at a two-rink option to be placed on public property – an option scheduled to be discussed Monday.

Also during Monday’s meeting, the council is expected to consider the city Planning Commission's unanimous recommendation this past week to grant a conditional use permit to NB2A Investments for the operation of a cannabis retail store at 607 10th St. in Worthington.

An additional agenda item on Monday is the proposed 2026 Sewer Service Charge System. If approved as drafted, the “average” residential user (4,000 gallons per month) will see about a $2.45/month or 4.25% increase. The total revenue to be generated by the 2026 rates is 7.0% more than that generated from the 2025 rates.