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Council debates pickleball courts at Hallowell versus high‑school courts; no action taken
Summary
Council members and residents disputed whether to add pickleball lines or courts at Hallowell or rely on recently resurfaced high‑school courts. Arguments cited athletic program needs, parking and maintenance; the council did not authorize permanent work at Hallowell and recommended administrative follow‑up.
The Town Council debated whether to expand pickleball access in town by adding dedicated courts at Hallowell or by relying on the recent high‑school court resurfacing and compromise lines.
Proponents said modest investment at Hallowell (crack filling, seal coat and line painting) could provide temporary or permanent courts and attract users to that site. Others — including council members connected to school athletics — urged caution, noting the high‑school courts were intentionally configured with two dedicated pickleball courts and two tennis courts retained for school programs, and argued the town should not compromise the high‑school tennis facility.
Speakers suggested temporary nets and portable courts at Hallowell, noted parking and restroom access considerations, and emphasized that Recreation and Public Works should furnish a cost and maintenance plan before council authorization. No capital transfer or final decision was made Sept. 16; council directed staff to coordinate with Parks and Recreation and DPW and return with cost estimates and an administrative recommendation.
