A La Pine Park & Recreation board member responded to concerns about a financial transaction involving the La Pine Pickleball Club. At a board meeting Monday, Carlos Soto explained that the club’s funds were member-controlled and not taxpayer money.
Explaining the Financial Transaction
Last month, questions arose about a check issued on October 10, 2024, to the La Pine Pickleball Club. The check was signed by then-board chair Gary Gordon and then-treasurer Deren Ash, and deposited by Soto, who serves as the club’s president. Soto stated this was the remaining balance after the club separated from the district.
“The question about the check … has been asked and answered twice now,” Soto said. He clarified that the club legally transitioned out of the La Pine Park & Rec District (LPRD) and that all financial matters were handled accordingly.
Pickleball Club’s Role in the Community
Soto emphasized that the La Pine Pickleball Club is self-funded, with members covering costs for court upgrades, maintenance, and contributions to the district.
“At no point has taxpayer money ever been used or asked for by the La Pine Pickleball Club,” Soto stated. The club donates $10,000 annually to LPRD, timed to support the district’s needs.
The club also proposed building a $2.1 million multi-use recreational facility on district property, entirely funded by members. This project would be donated to the district, with no taxpayer burden.
Calls for Better Financial Oversight
Since joining the board, Soto has pushed for better budget oversight within LPRD.
“Because of that, I have been championing the installation of a budget committee,” he said, encouraging community involvement in financial decisions.
Soto reaffirmed the club’s commitment to working with LPRD while ensuring financial clarity. He urged residents to participate in future board discussions to enhance transparency.
News in Brief: La Pine Pickleball Club
Carlos Soto, a La Pine Park & Rec board member, defended a financial transaction between the district and La Pine Pickleball Club, stating the funds were entirely club-controlled. He called for greater budget oversight within the district and reaffirmed the club’s commitment to supporting the community without taxpayer funding.
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