Board discusses pickleball rules, signage and queueing; paddle-rack suggestion advanced

Members of the Keizer Parks and Recreation Advisory Board discussed rules and field operations for the city’s new pickleball courts on April 8, noting user confusion about who is next and recommending low-cost queueing hardware and clearer signage.

Clay (parks advisory board member) described commonly used paddle-rack systems that let players register their turn by placing a paddle in a rack and said the units cost “probably less than $50 each court.” He said the racks accommodate singles, doubles and groups and that many facilities use them to manage on-court rotation.

Robert (parks staff) confirmed the board’s existing sign language posted at the courts reads that courts are open on a first-come, first-served basis and asks players to “limit play to 1 hour if others are waiting.” The sign also lists prohibited items (bikes, skateboards, food, glass) and hours (dawn to dusk). A board member read the sign in the meeting and noted a minor spelling error in an earlier draft that has since been corrected.

Board members agreed there is no systemic complaint yet but that clearer “who’s next” guidance would help as participation rises in warm months. Clay offered to provide sample rack signage and custom text the city could adopt. Robert said the department would monitor usage this spring and invite regular players or community groups to propose additional rules if conflicts appear.

Separately, staff reported that Keizerfest is planning a small pickleball clinic this year (not a tournament) to introduce the sport to new players; date and organizer contact were not specified at the meeting.

No formal changes were adopted; the board encouraged staff to monitor demand, consider installing paddle racks, and engage player groups if recurring issues arise.