WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- A center-hung and two end-rink scoreboards with a presented cost of over $402,000 were approved at tonight’s City Council meeting for the all-new Prairie Lakes Ice Arena through a lease-style program with Daktronics.

Public Works Director/City Engineer Heath VonEye.

Scott Gloe, Director of the Prairie Lakes Ice Arena.

VonEye mentions a budget of $84,000 for scoreboards, but since this program is available and the fundraising, it doesn’t compromise the budget.

Councilman Vilhauer inquired about when the Council will know what promises are being made during these processes, and City Manager Amanda Mack responded.

Gloe says the center-hung scoreboard is just like the scoreboard at the civic arena in Watertown High School.

VonEye says the scoreboard will eventually generate additional revenue, even if it takes time.

Mayor Ried Holien says it will be a “big boom” to the arena and agrees it will generate future revenue with scoreboard video advertising. They are currently set up on five-year contracts.

Councilman Mike Danforth confirmed these contracts and dollars are separate from the construction dollars that have been donated.

Councilman Colin Paulsen expressed concern with the upfront cost but feels it’s necessary, “especially if we get a junior team.”

Mack replied the funds raised thus far have an estimated three years of bond payments. That doesn’t include the annual $1 million payment from Prairie Lakes Healthcare System.

With a unanimous roll call vote, the bid award was approved.