The Medford City Council voted 6-0 on July 2 to approve a $500,000 naming-rights agreement with Lithia Motors that staff says will provide the final funding needed to build a 19-court dedicated pickleball complex at Howard Memorial Sports Park.

The agreement, presented by Rich Rosenthal, Medford parks and recreation director, would allow the city to start construction as soon as this fall on an initial development phase estimated at roughly $1.8 million and to open the courts in spring 2026 if weather and other variables permit.

Rosenthal told the council the initial phase would include 19 courts with room for an additional six courts in a later development phase. "Requesting your approval of a $500,000 naming rights agreement, with Lithia Motors would be the last money in needed to start construction of the 19 dedicated pickleball courts," he said.

The Howard Memorial Sports Park project includes other amenities: three sand volleyball courts, a neighborhood park serving about 2,000 residents within a half‑mile, youth ballfields and a planned championship or "main" court for spectators. Rosenthal said the broader park effort is intended to be substantially complete within about 18 months.

Council discussion emphasized both local recreational demand and potential regional economic benefits from tournaments. "It will be a bonanza of economic activity," one councilor said, noting daily drop‑in demand for courts and the potential to host regional and national tournaments.

Councilors also discussed future phases, including a covered facility, but staff said coverings would be a later addition if funding becomes available. The motion to approve Council Bill 2025‑62 passed 6‑0.

The parks director said the facility would be sited south of the existing Rogue X facility and that Logos Public Charter School’s auxiliary building and additional parking are nearby, which staff said helps event logistics.

The naming‑rights agreement was presented as the final funding piece to start the $1.8 million initial build; details about Lithia Motors’ contract terms beyond the $500,000 payment were summarized in the staff report provided to the council.

Councilors disclosed recusals or conflicts where required; none were reported for this vote. Construction scheduling, tournament promotion and future phases will be managed by Parks and Recreation and shared with council as the project advances.

The council approved the agreement and directed staff to proceed with contracting and project scheduling.