Recreation Matters. Supporting the Proposed Pickleball Facility

Much of the discussion during this election has focused on public safety, housing, taxes and the future of our local economy. Those are important issues, and they deserve our attention. Recreation and quality of life deserve a place in that conversation too.

I fully support moving the proposed pickleball facility forward on lands at the Recreation Complex, to be leased by the City to the qathet Pickleball Association.

The hold-up has been the Recreation Services Master Plan, but that is still a long way off. I have seen the proposed location, and I firmly believe it would not interfere with a future expansion or rebuild of the Recreation Complex. For that reason, among others, I don’t see a reason to make the association wait any longer for an answer. Let’s give them a clear path forward.

That means working through the lease, site requirements, community input and responsibilities so the association knows what it needs to do to proceed.

For me, this is about giving people more opportunities to get out, be active and spend time together.

That matters at every age, but I want to give particular attention to our seniors. Retirement should come with opportunities to enjoy life, maintain friendships and stay involved in the community. We need to consider those needs when planning recreational spaces and programs.

A regular game can give someone something to look forward to, a reason to leave the house and a chance to build friendships. The time spent talking before and after can be just as valuable as the game itself.

Pickleball brings people of different ages together. I see the proposed facility as an opportunity to build on that, creating a welcoming place for experienced players and people interested in learning.

As the proposal moves forward, I would want accessibility and opportunities for beginners to be part of the discussion. We should also listen to neighbouring residents and understand how the facility would fit alongside other recreational uses.

The qathet Pickleball Association is proposing a fully self-funded facility and already has some financial backing. They are asking the City to lease them land at the Recreation Complex so they can move their project forward. I believe Council should work with them to establish clear lease terms and responsibilities, and give them the certainty they need to continue.

I appreciate the people putting their time and effort into this proposal. That kind of community initiative deserves a council willing to work with them and help find a practical path forward.

A stronger Powell River includes places where people can gather, enjoy themselves and remain connected as they grow older. Recreation belongs in our plans for the future