Potsdam’s Pickleball Controversy: As dedicated pickleball players and property owners in Potsdam, a couple has voiced their frustrations regarding the management of the Sandstoner Courts, currently under the oversight of the North Country Pickleball Club (NCPC). Their grievances center on a lack of transparency, inconsistent treatment of members, and the questionable behavior of a village official. This taxpayer-funded facility, they argue, is being run like a private club, alienating many pickleball players, including themselves.
Membership Issues Spark Controversy
The couple’s membership, initially granted by Trey Smutz, the Director of the Potsdam Recreation Department—who lacks jurisdiction over the pickleball courts—was abruptly revoked by NCPC leaders. Despite claiming an overload of members, the NCPC continued to accept new members during this same period.
The pickleball club extends lifetime memberships to Potsdam residents for $60, while non-residents face a fee of $125 annually. However, the couple highlights a troubling pattern of favoritism, noting that lifetime memberships have been granted to non-residents who are friends of the board.
Unfair Control and Taxpayer Concerns
Adding to their frustration, the couple points out that five of the nine NCPC board members do not contribute to Potsdam taxes, yet they govern a pickleball facility funded by taxpayer dollars. They suspect that their membership denial was influenced by their association with a friend who was banned over a minor tournament dispute.
This friend’s one-month ban has since been extended indefinitely, and there are persistent rumors of further scrutiny regarding her potential return. This situation has created a toxic atmosphere, compelling members to distance themselves from her to protect their memberships.
Inconsistent Policies Create Barriers
The couple also criticizes the NCPC’s inconsistent membership policies. With much of the court time reserved for lifetime members, eager players often find themselves unable to access the facilities, which contradicts the fundamental purpose of public courts.
Hope for Change
Fortunately, Potsdam’s Mayor Alexandra Wilke and Town Supervisor Marty Miller have taken note of these concerns and are committed to addressing the issues at hand.
The village is revising its policies to foster fair and transparent management of the courts and plans to hire an assistant recreation director to oversee court access, promising a brighter future for all pickleball players in the community.
News in Brief: Potsdam’s Pickleball Controversy
Residents of Potsdam, NY, express frustration over the management of Sandstoner Courts by the North Country Pickleball Club (NCPC), citing lack of transparency and favoritism. Membership disputes and inconsistent policies have created barriers for eager players.
Mayor Alexandra Wilke and Town Supervisor Marty Miller are addressing these concerns by revising management policies and planning to hire an assistant recreation director to improve access for all.
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