Residents and council spar over location, cost and scope of proposed pickleball complex

Several residents and council members pressed Peachtree City leaders on Tuesday to honor earlier recommendations for a multi‑court pickleball complex, while council and staff emphasized funding limits and site constraints that could change how many courts are built and where.

During public comment, Christine Castagna, a 30‑year resident and former recreation advisory board volunteer, said the Recreation Advisory Group recommended 18 courts at Mead Field and criticized council members for not supporting that recommendation. "You need to have that vision. These courts can help pay for themselves," Castagna said, pointing to a county economic model that estimated a $4,500,000 local benefit from tournaments on an 18‑court site.

Sue Reed, who said she represents Peachtree City pickleball players, told the council that pickleball is year‑round and benefits all ages. "Pickleball is growing and growing and it is here to stay," Reed said. Jeff Williams, another longtime resident and player, urged the council to build at least 18 courts and to avoid a smaller, inadequate solution that would close existing community courts.

Councilmember Brown said she raised concerns after learning the Recreation Advisory Group lacked information about a third potential location, Bridal Field, and explained constraints that affected the advisory group's options. "You can only build ... 12 courts in that location," Brown said, meaning two separate 12‑court groupings would be required there to reach higher totals. Brown also noted moving the mulch pit at Mead Field, a recommended location, would add significant cost and that the council must weigh how courts would affect nearby future housing at Clarendon Place.

Councilmember Holland said council members had discussed multiple options, including 24 courts in total and staging construction between Mead Field and Riley Field. "We did not want to cut it down to only 12," Holland said, adding that finance and logistics must be confirmed before final decisions.

Staff and council repeatedly cited funding limits. Brown said SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) includes money for pickleball but may not cover the full cost of placing courts where the recreation plan recommended. She said those funding constraints and proximity to planned housing require more study before committing to a final site layout.

Speakers for and against various locations also cited regional examples. Castagna noted Griffin has hosted tournaments on 18 courts and used a county model to estimate economic impact. Williams said nearby cities have added courts and that tournaments can drive hotel and restaurant revenue.

Councilmembers described next steps as ongoing review rather than a formal vote. Brown said staff is "looking into alternative locations at Mead Field" and Holland said funding options and timing remain under review. No formal motion or vote on a court location or final scope occurred at the work session.