City Commits $10,000 To Pickleball Courts

The second time proved to be the charm for the Southwest Iowa Pickleball Committee (SWIPBC).

By a unanimous 5-0 vote, the Glenwood City Council agreed last week to contribute $10,000 toward a $160,000 project that would turn the city’s former tennis complex on South Vine Street into six pickleball courts. A request for the same amount was denied by the council last February, but council members Laurie Smithers and Holly Jackson, who both voted “No” on the request last winter, had a change of heart this time around after hearing additional information and support for the project from pickleball proponents.

Approximately 20 pickleball players from several southwest Iowa communities were in attendance at last Tuesday’s city council meeting to show their support for the pickleball courts and encourage the council to make a financial commitment to the project. The city has already agreed to provide some in-kind labor at the site of the project. SWIPBC spokesperson Sally Prickett said the commitment for funds from the city is needed to help secure grants for the project, particularly from the Iowa West Foundation.

“Approving the funds shows strong backing from the city and in our opinion greatly enhances our chance for grants,” she said.

Prickett said the outdoor courts in Glenwood would compliment a new indoor complex built in Council Bluffs with the aid of Iowa West Foundation funds. The pickleball courts, council members were told, will attract visitors to Glenwood who enjoy playing the sport outdoors.

The  pickleball commitee reminded members of the council of the city’s mission statement that says the city will partner with other sectors of the community to get projects done that will enhance the quality of life for Glenwood residents.
Smithers and Jackson both praised committee members for their on-going efforts to get the needed funding for the project. More than $80,000 has been raised for the project to this point.

“I want to commend you for all your work,” Smithers told SWIPBC  members in the audience.

Jackson echoed Smithers’ comment, adding she’s appreciative of the committee members’ efforts to answer questions and provide requested information about the project.

“I think it’s important for us to do everything we can to improve the city,” Jackson said.
Mayor Ron Kohn, who has voiced support for the project on multiple occasions, said he personally enjoys playing pickleball.

“I have played pickleball,” Kohn said. “It’s a fun sport, but the companionship is also a part of it.”
Prickett and fellow pickleball players at the meeting thanked the council for pledging their financial support for the project.

Extension denied for repairs
to property at 307 N. Vine St.

The city council denied a request from Dr. George Weber for an extension to  abate nuisances and make repairs to a property he owns at 307 N. Vine St.

The property, the site of a shooting two months ago, has been determined to be a safety hazard and structurally compromised. City code enforcement officer Devon Hitchcock said Weber was served on Sept. 10 with a list of issues that needed to be addressed by Oct. 30. Neighborhood residents have voiced their complaints about the property to the city council and have requested the house be demolished.

City attorney Matt Woods is advising the city on its legal options and proper procedures to address the situation.

The Opinion-Tribune

116 S Walnut St Glenwood, IA 51534-1665
P.O. Box 377, Red Oak, IA 51566
Phone: 712-527-3191
Phone: 712-623-2566
Fax: 712-527-3193

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