Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Parks Recreation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves conversion to 16 permanent pickleball courts; one abstention
Summary
Council approved a contract to convert tennis courts into 16 permanent pickleball courts and resurface existing courts at a cost below the $150,000 budget; council discussed funding sources and vendor concessions for free play before approving the project (vote 4-0, Mayor Buie abstained).
Assistant Engineer Ryan Demand presented a Parks Department proposal to resurface four existing pickleball courts, convert three tennis courts into a total of 12 dedicated pickleball courts (for 16 permanent courts total), and resurface two half-practice tennis courts. "The purpose of this project is to accommodate the growth and popularity of pickleball within the community," Demand said.
The project was bid and TrueLine Construction and Surfacing was the lowest responsive bidder. Staff said total project costs, including construction inspection and contingency, came in at $148,027 against a $150,000 general-fund allocation. Council members asked whether park-impact fees or alternative funds could be used; staff said those impact fees cannot be used for routine maintenance and resurfacing but noted staff would investigate whether alternative park funds could be applied.
Council also debated timing relative to the parks concession contract renewal and whether the operator should be asked to contribute maintenance or free-play hours for residents. Staff said earlier contracts required midday open hours but that staffing costs made that difficult for concessionaires; the council discussed negotiating terms in future concession agreements.
After discussion, the council voted to accept bids and award a construction contract to TrueLine Construction and Surfacing for the Pickleball Courts Conversion and Resurfacing Project, not to exceed $118,835. The motion passed 4-0 with Mayor Ted Buie recorded as abstaining.
