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Council tables $30,000 pickleball funding request pending budget review
Summary
A volunteer-led request for $15,000 (2026) and $15,000 (2027) to add two outdoor courts at a school-district site was tabled until the budget meeting; presenters emphasized health, community and economic benefits and estimated a near-$100,000 project cost.
Members of the Thief River Falls pickleball club on Oct. 30 requested city support to add two courts to an existing five‑court complex located on school-district property. Club representative Kermit Genrichs asked the council to consider $15,000 in 2026 and $15,000 in 2027 to help complete an estimated $91,003–$100,000 project.
Genrichs said membership has grown to roughly 100 weekly players, the club maintains the facility and has raised funds but still needs city assistance to complete planned expansions, which would convert an old batting-cage area into two courts and improve access. He highlighted health and community benefits and local spending by visitors.
Council members responded that the request is well received but unbudgeted for 2026. Several members suggested the club pursue 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsorship or foundation grants to receive outside donations. Councilwoman McCraw and others recommended tabling the request until the council's scheduled budget meeting; the motion to table passed.
Staff and council noted that the courts are on school-district property, which affects access and agreement terms, and that the city could reconsider support after budget review.
