The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee meeting on May 27, 2025, in St. Pete Beach, Florida, highlighted a pressing need for more pickleball courts in the community. A passionate public comment underscored the growing popularity of pickleball, with residents advocating for the conversion of existing tennis courts into dedicated pickleball facilities.

The speaker, a local resident, emphasized the high demand for pickleball courts, noting that the current two permanent courts are insufficient compared to the nine tennis courts available. "People are playing pickleball way more than tennis now," the resident stated, calling for the transformation of two tennis courts at Lazaro Park into six pickleball courts to better serve the community's needs.

The discussion also touched on maintenance issues, with the speaker expressing frustration over delays in repairs, particularly regarding lighting at local parks. "The wheels are pretty slow moving," they remarked, highlighting the challenges faced in ensuring facilities are well-maintained and accessible.

In addition to the pickleball discussions, the committee set a date for their next meeting on July 15, 2025, at 9 AM, where they will continue to address community needs and event planning. The committee plans to present budget considerations to the commission, which will ultimately determine the fees for upcoming events.

As the popularity of pickleball continues to rise, the committee's acknowledgment of these community concerns signals a potential shift in how recreational spaces are utilized in St. Pete Beach, aiming to enhance the quality of life for residents.