Calhoun County to Resurface Pickleball Courts: Calhoun County will resurface the tennis and pickleball courts at Heyward Community Park in Sandy Run. The County Council approved the project last week, despite concerns about using public funds for a privately owned park.
The council voted 3-1 in favor of awarding a $45,043 contract to Calhoun County-based Smoak Builders LLC for the resurfacing. The project includes converting one of the two existing tennis courts into a pickleball court, using funds from the Park and Recreation Development program.
Debate Over Public Funding
Councilwoman Rebecca Bonnette opposed the decision, arguing that taxpayer money should not be spent on private property. “I do not think public funds should be spent on a private park,” she said, casting the lone vote against the spending.
Bonnette suggested the funds would be better used for the walking track at U.S. 21 and U.S. 176, where residents were promised adult exercise equipment that has yet to be installed. “The people of Sandy Run were told we would have adult exercise equipment,” she said. “That is still not there.”
Calhoun County Administrator John McLauchlin defended the project, explaining that the county has a long-term agreement in place with the park’s owner, Heyward AME Church’s nonprofit alliance.
Lease Agreement Provides County Control
The county secured an annual $1 lease for 50 years to use the park, which McLauchlin said legally allows taxpayer dollars to be spent on improvements. “We have gotten our attorney and Miss Bonnette has gotten that information from our attorney whereas in the courts’ eye a 50-year, long-term lease is as close to owning as it can be,” he said.
Bonnette expressed concern that the lease allows Heyward AME Church to reclaim the park after ten years. “And we are going to spend public funds,” she said.
McLauchlin responded, clarifying that the church can only reclaim the property under specific conditions outlined in the lease. “There are only certain situations where they can take it back, not just because they want to,” he said. “It is laid out in the lease agreement.”
Park History and Future Plans
The 40-acre Heyward Community Park, formerly known as Carolina Eastman Park, was built by the Eastman Kodak Company in 1962. It is located on Savory Hunt Creek Road near the former Eastman plant.
McLauchlin noted that there has been significant interest in having pickleball courts in the Sandy Run area. The resurfacing project is expected to enhance recreational opportunities for local residents. Council Chairman James Haigler did not cast a vote on the matter.
News in Brief: Calhoun County to Resurface Pickleball Courts
Calhoun County Council approved resurfacing tennis and pickleball courts at Heyward Community Park in Sandy Run. The $45,043 project will convert a tennis court into a pickleball court. One council member opposed the funding due to the park’s private ownership, but officials say a long-term lease allows public spending.
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