Residents debate pickleball courts and youth fields as district moves ahead with preconstruction

District staff told the board a preconstruction meeting for the community pickleball project occurred on Jan. 22 and that Jefferson County permit approval is expected in early February. Staff said the parking lot will be closed during construction except for ADA-accessible spaces and that they will coordinate with schools and parent organizations on access and timing.

At public comment, residents voiced strong concerns about siting and long-term impacts. Terry Sullivan warned that without written protections the district could lose control of land that residents expect to remain conserved and argued the district should secure enforceable protections and funding to defend them. Sullivan also raised concerns that installing multiple pickleball courts adjacent to youth baseball fields would harm family use of parks.

"Pickleball is generally played by senior citizens," Sullivan said, arguing the courts might prioritize older users over youth activities. Other speakers disputed that characterization and asked the board to look for siting options that minimize conflicts. One board member said, "pickleball is not gonna phase an 8 year old kid out there," noting skyborne noise and parent behavior are larger distractions than pickleball.

Staff emphasized coordination with the school and parent organizations and said additional updates will appear in district e-news and future meetings. The district will proceed with permitting and contractor coordination while noting community concerns raised during public comment.