Pickleball Expansion in Peachland: Peachland council has decided to move forward with a pickleball court expansion at Lambly Park, sticking to a $200,000 budget allocated from the Growing Communities Fund. However, any additional costs will need to be covered by the Peachland Pickleball Society through fundraising efforts.
Council Moves Forward Despite Setbacks
At the January 28 meeting, the council learned that the Peachland Pickleball Society had been unsuccessful in securing a significant Community Gaming Grant. This means the society is unable to contribute additional funds beyond the $200,000 provided by the council for the project.
Corey Labrecque, the director of community services, explained that the Society’s fundraising efforts are critical for covering any costs above the allocated budget.
Council discussed several options, including postponing the project or re-evaluating it at a later date. One proposal was to move forward with a Request for Proposals (RFP) to determine the exact costs of the project. A November 2024 report from Urban Systems estimated the total cost for design and construction to be $315,000, with an additional 30 percent contingency.
Councillors Express Mixed Views
Councillor Dave Collins suggested that the rejection of the gaming grant might provide an opportunity for “a sober second thought” on the project. Despite the challenges, he expressed support for the expansion of two courts, contingent on ensuring proper soundproofing for the neighborhood.
“I think it would help that neighbourhood and alleviate some concerns.” – (Collins)
Councillor Alena Glasman supported the expansion and emphasized that council would honor its initial commitment.
“We are not going to renege on our agreement. We are not that council.” – (Glasman)
The estimated cost for the RFP is between $18,000 and $20,000, which is included in the council’s $200,000 budget. If the results of the RFP show that the project exceeds the budget, staff will return to council with an update and request further guidance.
Opposition to the RFP
Councillor Keith Thom expressed opposition to the decision to move forward with the RFP, while Councillor Randey Brophy recused himself from the discussion and vote due to his role as president of the Peachland Pickleball Society. Councillor Terry Condon was absent from the meeting.
News in Brief: Pickleball Expansion in Peachland
Peachland council has approved a pickleball court expansion at Lambly Park, sticking to a $200,000 budget from the Growing Communities Fund.
The Peachland Pickleball Society will need to fundraise any additional costs. Council also discussed the possibility of issuing an RFP to determine the exact project costs.
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