Lakeview Park Committee debates $28K tennis rebounder installation amid usage concerns

In the heart of Middleton's city hall, members of the Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Commission gathered to discuss the future of local tennis facilities, a topic that sparked a lively debate. At the center of the discussion was a proposed $28,000 rebounder board, intended to enhance practice opportunities for tennis players. However, the board's potential to interfere with the limited court space raised concerns among the commissioners.

As the meeting unfolded, one commissioner expressed skepticism about the rebounder's utility, citing personal experiences and the lack of community feedback on its necessity. "I have never once seen somebody use ours," they remarked, referring to an existing rebounder that had fallen into disuse. This sentiment echoed throughout the discussion, as members weighed the rebounder's benefits against the backdrop of only two available tennis courts in the community.

The conversation shifted to the implications of removing the rebounder from the project. Some commissioners suggested that if the rebounder were eliminated, it might be prudent to consider sound abatement panels to mitigate noise from pickleball and tennis activities, which could impact nearby residents. The idea of enhancing the facility's acoustics was met with cautious optimism, though it was clear that any changes would require careful planning and additional funding adjustments.

Commissioners also reflected on past public comments regarding the tennis and pickleball courts, noting that while there was interest in improving facilities, specific feedback about the rebounder was lacking. This raised questions about the decision-making process and whether community input had been adequately considered.

As the meeting drew to a close, the commissioners faced a pivotal decision: to invest in the rebounder, which could potentially limit court availability, or to redirect funds towards soundproofing measures that might better serve the community's needs. The outcome of this discussion will shape the future of Middleton's tennis facilities, highlighting the delicate balance between enhancing recreational opportunities and addressing community concerns. As the commissioners left the meeting, the air was thick with anticipation about the next steps in this ongoing dialogue about public spaces and community engagement.