Sandpoint Tennis Association partners with USTA for Russell Center's future development

The City Council meeting on May 7, 2025, focused heavily on the future of the James E. Russell Center, which has been a source of controversy since its establishment. The discussions highlighted concerns regarding the facility's location and intended use, particularly as the city considers altering its original purpose.

After four months of operation, the city has shifted its approach, directing the Sandpoint Tennis Association to develop their own programs, as the city will no longer be organizing camps, clinics, or leagues. This decision has prompted the association to seek external support for the center's usage.

Jeff Klein, representing the United States Tennis Association (USTA), has been in discussions with Patrick Dreybus, the USTA's general manager for infrastructure and delivery. Dreybus aims to enhance tennis facilities across the Pacific Northwest, taking over operations from municipalities to alleviate financial burdens. He has visited the Russell Center and praised its potential, describing it as one of the finest tennis and pickleball facilities in the region.

Dreybus outlined the USTA's commitment to growing the sports of tennis and pickleball, emphasizing their focus on youth programs that foster skill development and retention. He noted that while it may take three years for the center to become financially viable, the USTA is not primarily profit-driven; their goal is to expand participation in these sports.

Dreybus also expressed a willingness to collaborate with other sports organizations, provided they do not harm the facility's court surfaces. He urged the city to consider the USTA's proposal before investing in new court services or turf, suggesting that this partnership could relieve the city's financial responsibilities while honoring the Russell family's generous gift.

The meeting concluded with a call for solutions to ensure the Russell Center's success and sustainability, reflecting the city's ongoing commitment to addressing community needs and maximizing the facility's potential.