Cape Coral pickleball tournament sets attendance record with 19500 fans

The Committee of the Whole Meeting for the City of Cape Coral took place on March 12, 2025, focusing on significant developments in local events and budget planning.

The meeting commenced with a highlight of the recent pickleball tournament, which attracted over 19,500 fans, setting a new record for attendance at the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) event. This surge in participation underscores the sport's rapid growth and popularity. Notable achievements during the tournament included 16-year-old John Goins defeating the world’s top player, Ben Johns, and Annaleigh Waters securing her 100th career PPA title. Council members expressed enthusiasm about the event's success and discussed the potential for a long-term partnership with the PPA, emphasizing the need for capital improvements to enhance future events.

Following the discussion on the pickleball tournament, the meeting transitioned to budget development. Nicole Reitler, the budget administrator, introduced a workshop series aimed at providing insights into the city’s key revenue sources and expenditure categories. She highlighted the importance of collaboration among staff members in the budget development process. Several team members shared their backgrounds and experiences, emphasizing their commitment to effective financial planning for the city.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the upcoming budget season, with staff expressing their dedication to ensuring a balanced budget that meets the needs of the community. The council acknowledged the importance of these discussions in shaping the city’s financial future and enhancing the quality of life for residents.