Supervisor discussion centers on $11,000 visitor improvement grant for Beatrice pickleball shade structure

Gage County supervisors considered a visitor improvement grant request on Feb. 4 to fund an $11,000 shading structure at Chicago Park's pickleball courts.

Taylor, speaking for the project, described a partnership among the city, the Beatrice Pickleball Association and Keep Beatrice Beautiful. Taylor said the courts draw visitors from across the county and neighboring states and that the shading structure would improve comfort for older players and support tournaments and youth activities.

A supervisor raised concerns about the county’s tourist-grant outreach and said grant opportunities and application procedures can appear opaque; the supervisor asked staff to improve how the process and eligibility are publicized. Board members also discussed signage and reimbursement conditions, saying the county would generally hold off on reimbursement until permanent signage showing the funding source is in place.

Motion to approve the visitor improvement grant was moved by Lionel and seconded by Jurgens. The transcript records the motion and second but does not include a recorded vote tally or a motion-carries statement for this item.

Why it matters: The grant is intended to support a tourism‑oriented park amenity that county and city officials described as an asset for local recreation and visitor draw. Supervisors also emphasized ensuring fairness in awarding tourism grants across the county.

What happens next: Staff will follow the board’s procedures for reimbursement and signage requirements; the transcript indicates staff will provide clearer guidance on how to find and apply for tourism grants.