SHELBY — Pickleball has been one of the hottest sports to play over the past few years and is continuing to rise in popularity.
But a poor experience at a court can sour the sport.
Several pickleball courts have been installed throughout Richland County within the past few years in places like Mansfield, Lexington and Shelby — where three courts were opened about two years ago.
On Monday evening, the Shelby Park Board addressed complaints and concerns received from local users of the courts. Issues included groups of players not sharing the courts, littering and the use of foul language.
At-large board member Dave Downs said most of the complaints are related to incidents happening most frequently during evening hours.
Cathie Albert, 1st Ward board member, said she’s never experienced any issues while playing, but noted that she typically plays during the earlier hours of the morning.
Parks Superintendent Jerry Marshall said the Shelby Police Department was called once due to an incident involving property damage.
A pickleball racket was thrown from the court and broke through the window of a nearby property owner’s greenhouse, Marshall said.
Damage has also been done to equipment at the Seltzer Park courts, including a paddle holder. A net has also been broken.
Downs said his sister-in-law put up temporary signage regarding proper disposal of trash. Albert said she’s also placed temporary signs.
“The trash is a big deal,” Marshall said, adding there are several trash cans at the courts.
The board agreed to consider putting up signage regarding rules of the game and the facility. Downs has been researching what rules are listed on signs at courts in other communities.
There is currently no camera coverage of the courts. Ralph Rosinsky, 4th Ward board member, asked about the logistics of having one installed.
No action was taken, but the board agreed to research the possibility of putting a camera at the courts, which are located off of Parkwood Drive.
Seltzer Pool update
During his report Monday, Marshall said Seltzer Pool may be ready to open Wednesday.
After a leak was discovered in the pool prior to opening, work has been completed and the problematic area has been plugged. The parks superintendent said the pool is back to normal.
“If everything goes right, we’ll inspect it tomorrow (Tuesday) morning and open on Wednesday,” Marshall said. “That’s the plan right now.”
Other improvements have been made at Seltzer Pool during its offseason, including a new hot water tank in the concession stand, new grips along the water slide steps and updated paint jobs for the deck markings.
Marshall also thanked David Keinath, 3rd Ward board member, and his son for replacing the counter and a window in the concession stand.
In other action Monday, the Park Board:
— accepted a bid of $5,100 from Mid Ohio Tree Service to remove four trees and three stumps — due to their condition — from within the city’s park system. The board also received a bid for the same work from K&A Tree Service, which came in at $7,950.