M&M Pickleball Association’s Fundraiser: The M&M Pickleball Association is making strides toward enhancing the community’s pickleball facilities while addressing some pressing needs. During a recent meeting with the Marinette Parks and Recreation Committee on October 21, the association shared updates and outlined its plans for future projects.
Fundraising Initiatives for Enhancements
Association President Brian Swenson detailed the ongoing efforts surrounding the OSMS Court Complex at Higley Field. The group has already procured sunshades, windscreens, benches, and tables, but now they are focused on raising additional funds for these improvements.
“Hopefully, we can raise enough money to take care of the outdoor lighting and installation.” – (Brian Swenson)
He also expressed hopes for a dedication ceremony in the spring, timed with the completion of the installation.
“We can have some local dignitaries come down, kiss some babies and cut a ribbon.” – (Brian Swenson)
Call for Sidewalks
In a bid to enhance pickleball player convenience, Brian Swenson highlighted the need for connecting sidewalks, enabling players to avoid trudging through wet grass in the mornings.
“I’m not sure where that’s at, but we’ve talked about it numerous times.” – (Brian Swenson)
Committee Chairperson Dorothy Kowalski assured him that she would take the lead on this matter.
Duer Gym’s Future Remains Uncertain
The discussion then shifted to the future of Duer Gym, which Alderperson Tom Karban reported has remained unused for over four years. Gavin Scray, Executive Director of Recreation and Events, confirmed that a local hockey association toured the facility last month, though interest has since waned.
Alderperson Tom Karban expressed concern over the gym’s deteriorating state, noting that the longer it sits vacant, the more issues are likely to arise. He acknowledged its overall structural soundness, aside from a minor leak in the roof, and suggested that the city should place a “for sale” sign on the property to raise awareness. “Most people don’t even know it’s for sale.” he said.
Dorothy Kowalski responded, stating, “The city’s not interested in using it anymore at all.” while also suggesting that it could be listed on the city’s website for potential buyers.
As previously reported by The EagleHerald, if the city opts to sell Duer Gym without designating another youth recreation building of equal value after Richard Duer, any proceeds would revert to the Kansas University Endowment Association.
Alderperson Rick Polzin weighed in on past negotiations, recalling, “We offered it for a dollar because of the liability of the building.” He acknowledged the challenges of funding necessary repairs, stating,
“It’s going to take money to fix it up, and you’ve got the zoning problem… we’ve been around this bush. The only thing that’s going to happen is it’s going to get torn down. But the council’s not going to pay $100,000 to tear it down. So there it sits.” – (Rick Polzin)
News in Brief: M&M Pickleball Association’s Fundraiser
The M&M Pickleball Association is raising funds for improvements at the OSMS Court Complex in Marinette, focusing on sunshades, windscreens, benches, and outdoor lighting. Association President Brian Swenson also called for sidewalks to improve accessibility for pickleball players.
Meanwhile, Alderperson Tom Karban expressed concerns about the future of Duer Gym, which has remained unused for over four years, suggesting the city place a “for sale” sign on the property. The gym’s fate remains uncertain as the city has not set an asking price.
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