Local players urge Stockton to include community groups in Groupie Park pickleball planning

Two public commenters addressed the commission during the Feb. 24 public‑comment period to press the city to include local players and community organizations as Groupie Park’s permanent pickleball courts are planned.

Scott Sinclair, representing a loose confederation of players who use Groupie Park, said the group has more than 100 members and helped win council approval for 10 permanent pickleball courts at Groupie Park. He asked that the city “include” local players and organizations in discussions about tournaments and court layout as Parks and Public Works move from design to construction.

“Groupie Park is going to be a wonderful spot for our city,” Sinclair said, noting regular play times (Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, roughly 8:30–11 a.m.) and interest from Lincoln High School’s pickleball club.

Kelly Murphy, a competitive player and YMCA board member, encouraged the city to promote tournaments — saying events can attract out‑of‑area players and families that bring economic activity to Stockton. Murphy offered his experience with organizing events and volunteered to run clinics for city officials and staff.

Background and next steps

Stockton Public Works held a public meeting on Feb. 20 to gather feedback on pickleball-court design; staff reported about 40 members of the public attended and that the city has a project page and a survey for additional input.

Ending: Commenters asked to be included in future planning meetings and tournament discussions; public‑works staff have posted renderings and a feedback survey on the city project web page for the Groupie Park pickleball project.