Parks and Recreation Committee sets June 27 pickleball event, plans cooling measures and vendor outreach

The Belleair Beach Parks and Recreation Committee set a June 27 date for a downsized family event centered on a pickleball tournament, with play scheduled for 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. to reduce heat exposure.

The Chair said the committee had talked with Spence, who recommended an early-morning schedule because of high daytime temperatures, and the group agreed to focus on a streamlined program of matches, simple concessions and kid-friendly water activities. "He said, he kinda agreed with us about how hot it is and that if we did do something, early in the morning would probably be best," the Chair said.

Committee members discussed cooling measures including misting hoses, a water mister and water games for younger attendees, and suggested limiting other on-site attractions to keep the event compact. The body also discussed offering snacks and refreshments—snow cones, popcorn and bottled water were suggested—and contacting local vendors. One member urged outreach to Kona Ice and neighborhood vendors; another offered to contact Clean Eats to request donated gift cards for prize rolls.

The committee sketched logistics for the tournament: multiple skill levels (beginner/novice), small prize baskets (towels, hats, gift cards) and volunteer scorekeeping. Members noted donation quantities and the number of prize winners remain "not specified" and left those details to follow-up.

The committee directed staff or volunteers to: confirm Spence’s availability for June 27; secure misting equipment and placement; contact Kona Ice and other vendors about donations or flat fees; and finalize categories and prize counts once donor commitments are known. The Chair asked members to report back with vendor responses and a finalized prize list at the next meeting.