Seniors petition Niceville council after public access opens on senior-center pickleball courts

A group of residents presented a petition with 703 signatures asking the Niceville City Council to restore dedicated senior-only hours or otherwise ensure senior players safe, reliable access to the three pickleball courts at the Niceville Senior Center. Speakers said the courts were opened to the public on May 1, 2026 and that the policy change removed previously reserved hours for older players.

Katherine Hartgrave, who presented the petition, said the change "has caused a great deal of stress and concern within the community" and argued that older players face increased fall and injury risk when paired against younger, faster opponents. Hartgrave told the council she had submitted documents and said several requests to place the item on a council agenda were denied by staff; she asked the council to consider a formal resolution or funding for dedicated senior courts.

"We have here before you a petition...with 703 signatures," Hartgrave said during public comment. She cited medical risks for seniors and referenced earlier council minutes and local reports describing the courts as part of the senior center amenities when built.

Dr. John Kazuna, a pulmonary and critical care physician, described on-court medical events he has seen among older players, including heat-related emergencies and falls. He urged restored senior access and said the senior centers air-conditioned interior historically provided a place to cool and treat players; with the courtyard access routed differently, he said seniors no longer have the same practical access to the building in an emergency.

Several speakers, including a long-time resident, also criticized school-zone camera citations and asked for better city responsiveness on multiple issues; the council invited continued dialogue and offered to meet with organized pickleball representatives after the meeting. The council did not adopt a resolution on the issue at this session; the mayor invited the group to select a spokesman and allotted 10 minutes for their presentation under council rules.

Speakers asked the council to restore senior-only hours, to fund dedicated senior courts, and to improve communication about park and recreation decisions. Council members thanked speakers and agreed to follow up with staff about next steps.