Pelican Rapids council authorizes planning for four downtown pickleball courts

Pelican Rapids city officials on Jan. 28 authorized preliminary planning for a four–court pickleball complex on two city-owned parcels near downtown.

Economic Development Director Jordan Gman told the council a volunteer committee of local players has identified the parcels as the most feasible location, that water and sewer access are already present and that private fundraising and a local Economic Development Group have pledged initial support. "We've been looking at some potential sites within City Limits and possible collaboration with other agencies," Jordan said, asking the council to permit staff to proceed to initial design work with Apex Engineering.

Jordan said the group expects to start with four courts, with room for future expansion, and that volunteer organizers are planning a capital campaign; he emphasized the committee will lead fundraising and that the city would not be asked for construction funds in this phase. He also described available public parking nearby and the recent bridge repairs that improve access to the site.

Council members asked about Park Board support and site constraints; Jordan reported one Park Board member had voiced support and that the Parks Board would be asked to weigh in before final design. The council voted to "move forward" with planning, a motion that was seconded and carried by voice vote.

Next steps: staff will request preliminary plans from Apex Engineering and continue coordination with the Parks Board and the pickleball committee. No funding appropriation was approved at this meeting.