Summer just started and residents are already seeking ways to cool off.

McMinnville Tourism Development Board members think an ice rink might do it.

“We are super excited. Bringing a portable synthetic ice skating rink to McMinnville has been a longtime wish of the board,” said Sarah Cantrell, Tourism Development Board chair. “We feel like it’s a good time to move into the discovery phase with it. We met to discuss the project, the potential of it and unanimously approved taking bids for both purchase and rental.”

TDB will receive bids on a 1,600 to 1,800 square foot synthetic ice rink. Bids will be accepted no later than 2 p.m. on July 8. Additional specifics include lubrication, skates, skate rack and skate helpers to assist beginners and prevent falls.

Cost is unknown until after those bids are received, opened and inspected.

“Until the bids come in, we have no idea what the cost will be,” said Cantrell. “This discovery phase will tell us what it would take and look like for us to move forward with this project.”

McMinnville officials approved temporary placement of the rink on The Lot during December, if one is rented or purchased by Tourism Development Board members.

“The city does a fantastic job with the Christmas lights,” said Cantrell. “An ice skating rink would be a wonderful addition to the downtown festivities in December. We intend for it to be used on The Lot. If it’s feasible to buy one, it could be used at other places. As long as you have a subfloor, you can place it anywhere that’s a flat surface. We could be creative, but within reason.”

TDB members Christy Ross, Brooks Young, Don Vizi and Cantrell voted unanimously to go out for bids on an ice skating rink.