North Saanich Pickleball Controversy: In the quiet enclave of North Saanich, a storm has brewed over the closure of a much-loved pickleball facility. The move, announced in May, has left local players and enthusiasts in an uproar, pointing fingers at the city’s mayor, Peter Jones, and questioning his motives. The municipality’s official stance cited noise complaints from neighbors, the prohibitive cost of sound mitigation, and disputes involving players. But beneath the surface, there’s a simmering sense of betrayal and suspicion.
Disclosing the FOI Requests
At the forefront of the resistance is the North Saanich Pickleball Association, led by the determined Brad Watson. Armed with Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, Watson and his team have found data that directly challenges the city’s narrative.
“The FOI showed there was no bullying or harassment towards staff, mayor or council or the neighbors; there was actually reverse bullying or harassment from some of the neighbors.” – (Watson)
The documents also dismantled another pillar of the city’s justification: the lack of sound measurements taken before the closure. “In early 2023, neighbors were demanding the courts be closed.” Watson added, painting a picture of escalating tensions and unheeded pleas.
Allegations Against the Mayor
The FOI revelations didn’t stop there. They implicated Mayor Jones in a potentially damning light, suggesting that he had made clandestine promises to certain neighbors to close the courts by 2024. “We found the mayor had made promises to some neighbors that he would close down the courts in 2024,” Watson revealed. This accusation, hanging heavy in the air, has yet to be addressed by Mayor Jones, who has remained conspicuously silent despite repeated calls for comment.
Seeking Solutions
Amid this unfolding drama, the North Saanich Pickleball Association has shown a willingness to work towards a solution. They’ve proposed practical measures such as using quieter paddles and even offered to help finance sound mitigation barriers. While the city pegged the cost of these barriers at a steep $90,000, the association procured a more modest estimate of $35,000, showing their commitment to finding a feasible path forward.
Legal Action
Frustration over the pickleball court closure has now spilled into the legal arena. A coalition of players and supportive residents has filed a petition for judicial review, challenging the mayor’s decision and alleging procedural missteps by the municipality. As the legal process continues, the pickleball community in North Saanich remains steadfast, demanding courts, transparency, and fairness from their leaders.
In this small Canadian town, the battle over pickleball courts has become an example of broader issues—community, governance, and the ever-present question of who truly holds the power. The outcome of this conflict will undoubtedly echo beyond the boundaries of the court, serving as a testament to the resilience and resolve of the North Saanich pickleball community.
News in Brief: North Saanich Pickleball Controversy
In North Saanich, the beloved pickleball court closure has sparked controversy, with local players questioning Mayor Peter Jones’s role in the decision. The municipality cited noise complaints and high sound mitigation costs, but the North Saanich Pickleball Association, led by Brad Watson, disputes these claims. FOI requests revealed no evidence of harassment or sound measurements, contradicting the city’s reasons.
Allegations surfaced that Mayor Jones promised neighbors the court’s closure by 2024. The association proposed solutions, including quieter paddles and cost-sharing for sound barriers. Meanwhile, players have filed a petition for judicial review, accusing the municipality of procedural missteps. The community continues to fight for transparency and fairness.
Also Read: Rising Star Pickleball Tournament Hosted by Bama Beach
