A.W. Stanley Park Pickleball Funding Debate: The Common Council is set to vote Wednesday night on a $5.8 million budget transfer that includes $470,000 for new pickleball courts at A.W. Stanley Park. Council Democrats questioned the cost, saying funds should go to more urgent needs.
Budget Transfer Details
The resolution proposes moving unused revenues from the 2024-25 fiscal year into the current budget. The funds support nine projects, including $1 million for the Board of Education, $1 million for city vehicles and equipment, nearly $2.7 million for the tax stabilization fund, City Hall window repairs, parking garage masonry work, fire station renovations, the Myrtle Street Streetscape, and design work for Route 174 reconstruction.
Concerns From Democratic Leaders
Council President Francisco Santiago (D-5), Assistant Majority Leader Iris Sanchez (D-3), and Majority Leader John McNamara (D-4) said,
“The city, however, should use these general fund dollars to meet more urgent priorities other than the addition of more pickleball courts at this time.”
They noted needs such as housing, food insecurity, and infrastructure, citing federal funding cuts and local Medicaid losses.
Alderwoman Wilma Barbosa (D-2) added,
“Spending with our limited resources should go to essential services and investments that directly improve the health and well-being of residents.”
City Officials Respond
City officials said council members raising concerns have not suggested alternative projects for the $470,000. Officials noted pickleball has grown in popularity, and the new courts would expand access, especially on the city’s north side. They emphasized the resolution is a routine yearly process to balance accounts and fund projects.
The Common Council will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall. Public participation is scheduled before the vote.
News in Brief: A.W. Stanley Park Pickleball Funding Debate
The Common Council will vote on a $5.8 million budget transfer, including $470,000 for new pickleball courts at A.W. Stanley Park. Council Democrats questioned the spending, urging funds be directed to urgent priorities like housing and infrastructure. City officials noted growing demand for pickleball and said the vote is routine.