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Volunteers pitch $800,000 West Lakes pickleball project, report land donation and programming plans
Summary
Volunteers presented a plan for nine fenced pickleball courts near the Long Lake Fire Station, said a parcel donation and stormwater support have been pledged, and outlined an $800,000 fundraising goal relying on grants, corporate sponsorships and community pledges.
Volunteers leading the West Lakes Pickleball fundraising campaign presented the Orono City Council on Aug. 12 with a proposal to build a nine‑court, fenced pickleball complex with programming aimed at community engagement.
Sandy Rasmussen (speaker 3) and Caroline Melberg (speaker 4) described the sport as "an inclusive, all‑ages" activity that helps combat social isolation. Rasmussen cited national and local participation trends and shared personal anecdotes about players who received social support through the sport.
Melberg outlined the project footprint: nine fenced courts with parking for about 40–50 vehicles, programming developed with Orono Community Education (drop‑in play, lessons, themed nights) and an initial commitment of a $7,375 land donation adjacent to the Long Lake Fire Station and donation garden. "We are looking to raise $800,000 to build the courts," Melberg told the council, saying the campaign will combine grants and public donations.
Organizers described sponsorship tiers including founding/legacy gifts ($5,000+), court sponsors (up to $25,000 for a court legacy sponsor), net sponsors and a paver fundraising program (donor pavers for $500–$2,000, with naming opportunities at higher levels). They also announced outreach events: a booth with a pop‑up court at James J. Hill Days (Sept. 6–8) and an open house at Wayzata Country Club (Sept. 9) with instructors and demonstrations.
Council members thanked the volunteers and expressed support for the outreach approach; staff noted that donations must be accepted through the city's donation processes. Organizers said they are taking pledges now and will return with details as fundraising progresses.
If built, project partners plan to emphasize drop‑in play rather than private‑club membership and to fund instructional programming to engage youth and adults.
