Austin Bruins Praised for Beneficial Community Partnership

Team's lease deal will reinvest savings into Riverside Arena improvements, boosting local economy without taxpayer burden.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:21pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstract ice hockey game, with sharp, overlapping planes of navy, green, and silver representing the action on the rink.The Austin Bruins' partnership with Riverside Arena showcases how private investment can improve a public facility for the entire community.Austin Today

In a letter to the editor, an Austin Bruins leader defended the team's proposed lease agreement, stating that the Bruins generate significant economic activity for local businesses and will directly reinvest their lease savings into upgrades at Riverside Arena that will benefit the entire community, not just the team. The letter argues this is a rare model of private investment improving a public facility without increasing costs for taxpayers.

Why it matters

The letter responds to previous commentary suggesting the Bruins' community investments are contributing to rising costs of living in Austin. It aims to provide important context around the team's positive economic and community impact, as well as the structure of the proposed lease deal.

The details

Under the new lease agreement, the Bruins' lease savings will be directly reinvested into facility improvements at Riverside Arena that will benefit youth hockey, figure skating, public skating, and community events, not just the team. Bruins owner Brian Raduenz has continually invested money back into the team and the facility over the years, keeping prices low for fans and allowing the organization to continue its philanthropic efforts in the community.

  • The proposed lease agreement is currently under consideration.

The players

Austin Bruins

A junior ice hockey team that plays its home games at Riverside Arena in Austin, Minnesota.

Brian Raduenz

The owner of the Austin Bruins.

Riverside Arena

A multi-purpose arena in Austin, Minnesota that serves as the home venue for the Austin Bruins and hosts various community events.

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What they’re saying

“The Austin Bruins are not a cost burden on this community—they are a community asset. Each season, the Bruins bring thousands of visitors into Austin, generating meaningful economic activity for our hotels, restaurants, and local businesses. Beyond that, the organization has consistently reinvested in Austin through charitable giving, youth engagement, and community partnerships.”

— Austin Bruins Leader

“The proposed lease structure is not about increasing costs—it is about creating a sustainable, long-term plan that benefits all users of Riverside Arena. The Bruins' lease savings will be directly reinvested into the facility, funding improvements that serve youth hockey, figure skating, public skating, and community events—not just the Bruins.”

— Austin Bruins Leader

What’s next

The proposed lease agreement between the Austin Bruins and Riverside Arena is currently under consideration by local officials.

The takeaway

This letter highlights how the Austin Bruins' partnership with Riverside Arena is a model of private investment benefiting the broader community, generating economic activity and funding facility upgrades without increasing costs for taxpayers. The team's reinvestment in the arena and local charitable efforts demonstrate their commitment to being a true community asset.