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Steamboat Springs — After sub-zero temperatures in Steamboat Springs last week, it could be time for a larger Igloo.

But weather has nothing to do with a recommendation by the city's Parks, Open Space and Recreational Services department. Director Chris Wilson will make a presentation to the Steamboat Springs City Council tonight recommending expansion of The Igloo, the city's youth and teen recreation facility adjacent to Howelsen Ice Arena. The recommendation is part of a plan developed by the department in meeting the needs of the city's youth and teen programs. The City Council is expected to use the plan in addressing the city's recreational needs.

"It is the recommendation of staff that we immediately obtain bids for remodeling The Igloo to allow for provision of a more comfortable atmosphere for program participants and staff as an interim solution until such time that a more permanent plan is set in motion," reads a section of the plan.

City Parks & Recreation is not the only group waiting for the City Council to create "a more permanent plan." The Steamboat Springs Health and Recreation Association has announced plans for a possible $8.5 million expansion but is holding off on construction of a 12,000 square-foot addition until the council resolves issues including a possible city purchase of the neighboring U.S. Post Office, a site which could be used for recreation facilities. Also, a community group called Citizens for a Recreation Center is working to place a new recreation center on the 2007 city ballot.

The strategic plan says an expansion of youth and teen programs will be needed in coming years, as birth rates and school enrollments continue to climb.

Also tonight, the City Council will discuss issues including open space preservation, funding for downtown infrastructure improvements and affordable housing.

City Council President Pro-tem Steve Ivancie said after a half-day retreat Friday, facilitated by new council member and psychotherapist Karen Post, the council is better suited to handle contentious issues.

"Karen is a wonderful facilitator," Ivancie said. "Friday was about the theories and practices of problem-solving. We need to be more concerned with a vision for the larger picture and then working that vision down to strategies."

- To reach Mike Lawrence, call 871-4203

or e-mail mlawrence@steamboatpilot.com