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Board approves pickleball agreement pending legal review after months-long partnership discussions
Summary
After lengthy discussion about hours, fees and access, the board approved the district's proposed multi-year pickleball agreement with a community club, subject to review by district counsel; the arrangement will provide rental revenue and maintenance support to the district.
The Fountain Hills Unified School District Board approved a proposed multi‑year agreement allowing a local pickleball club to use school courts in exchange for maintenance upgrades and rental payments, with final execution contingent on the district attorney’s review. The motion to accept the proposed contract "pending legal review" was made by a board member and carried by voice vote.
Club representatives described years of private investment in court upgrades and a membership model that covers maintenance costs. The board asked detailed questions about hours of use (the club reported near‑daily play), how much rental revenue the district would receive, and whether a rise in pickleball’s popularity as a potential AIA sport would require reserved access for students. Superintendent Jay said the agreement includes district access with appropriate notice and that rental proceeds would be recorded as flexible revenue (rental/gifts depending on accounting) to support maintenance or M&O needs.
The board also discussed the club’s membership model (current club membership noted as $100 per year), the club’s building fund accumulation and the club’s stated plan to escalate payments to reach a multi‑year total near $125,000 over the early years of the agreement. Finance staff warned that the agreement should be reviewed by counsel before signatures to ensure compliance with district contracting procedures; the board’s motion included that legal review.
Board members said the relationship has been positive and could provide a modest revenue stream while preserving student access. The approval was recorded as contingent on the district’s attorney review and finalization of contract language.
