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Plan Commission initiates rezoning application for six pickleball courts at Schacht Field
Summary
The commission voted 7–0 to initiate a zoning change to rezone part of Schacht Field from C‑1 General Business to CON Conservancy for six pickleball courts, pavilion, parking and lights; the Lancaster Pickleball Association said it expects to raise about $300,000 and cover upkeep with no cost to taxpayers.
The City of Lancaster Plan Commission unanimously voted on May 11 to initiate a zoning change application to rezone a portion of Schacht Field to allow six pickleball courts and related facilities proposed by the Lancaster Pickleball Association.
The association requested roughly 36,000 square feet in the northeast corner of Schacht Field for six courts, a pavilion, parking, lights and other amenities. Jeff Farrey, representing the Lancaster Pickleball Association, said the northeast location best meets goals for access, visibility, cost and minimizing noise impacts on nearby residents. The group said it expects to raise about $300,000 and to cover construction and ongoing upkeep with no cost to taxpayers; organizers said they expect courts to be open to the public without charge, with reservation options.
City administrator Michael Kuchta noted that placement of a storm sewer and other utilities could affect exact siting and proposed an alternative site in the northwest corner to preserve more land for future commercial development. Commissioner Carl Thiede asked whether the association would assume mowing responsibilities; the minutes note current mowing costs are about $1,650 per year. Ted Schacht, whose family donated the land for recreational use, said the pickleball proposal aligns with the original intent for the property.
Terry Meyer moved and Matt Pennekamp seconded initiation of a zoning change to rezone the petitioned area from C‑1 General Business to CON Conservancy to accommodate the courts. The motion passed on a roll call vote, 7–0. A public hearing on the rezone application could be scheduled for the June Plan Commission meeting.
