El Cerrito community debates preserving tennis courts amid pickleball growth

The Corona City Council meeting on June 18, 2025, featured passionate discussions surrounding the future of tennis and pickleball courts at El Cerrito Park, as well as community engagement in local protests.

One resident shared a personal testimony about how tennis played a crucial role in his recovery after open-heart surgery nearly a decade ago. He expressed concern over plans to replace tennis courts with pickleball facilities, emphasizing the importance of preserving the existing tennis courts for the community. He suggested that an area currently used for storage at El Cerrito Park could be repurposed for new pickleball courts without displacing tennis players. The resident highlighted the significance of tennis in his family's life and urged the council to maintain the two tennis courts, which are heavily utilized by local players.

Another speaker, representing the pickleball community, echoed the sentiment that public spaces are vital for fostering community connections. She noted that a new private pickleball club opened nearby but did not provide the same sense of community as public parks. She emphasized that public parks serve as social hubs, bringing together diverse groups of people, and urged the council to ensure that any changes to the park facilities maintain this community spirit.

In a different segment of the meeting, a resident commended the local police department for their conduct during recent protests against the current administration. He shared his experiences participating in protests and noted a growing diversity in the crowds, which now include families and individuals of all ages. He praised the police for their discreet presence and for maintaining peace during these events, reinforcing the importance of community engagement in civic matters.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to preserving recreational spaces and fostering inclusive environments for all residents, whether through sports or civic participation. The council's decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in addressing these concerns and shaping the future of El Cerrito Park.