Chamber clarifies carnival role as council weighs city involvement in pickleball weekend

Ronnie Goodson, who identified himself as executive director of the Clay Pinson Chamber of Commerce, told the council the carnival is run under a longstanding contract with CNM Midway and that the chamber historically received a portion of proceeds that it used to fund local projects.

"The carnival that we've had for the last few years is CNM Midway's. There is a contract. It has been a long standing contract," Goodson said, adding the chamber received a share and is not the sponsor of the pickleball tournament. He described the Alabama Open as an event that in prior years drew players from 17 states and four countries, with roughly 450 individual players and thousands of spectators across a multi‑day schedule.

Councilors pressed for clarity about responsibilities during the shared spring‑break week when the carnival and the Alabama Open overlap. Goodson said the chamber opened concessions in the past but will not this year and that the tournament helps bring hotel and restaurant business to town; the city serves as presenting sponsor in some capacities for the Alabama Open but is not the carnival sponsor.

Councilors and the chamber discussed whether the city should take on concessions or other operational roles; volunteers and background checks for advisory board members working with youth sports were also raised in the broader parks discussion. The chamber said the events produce significant foot traffic and economic activity during the tournament week and that previous logistical support (sound systems, concessions) had been provided when needed.