The Arroyo Grande City Council was divided between approving a plan that would convert two tennis courts into multi-use courts that would allow both tennis and pickleball.
After a split decision, the council voted to defer the plan and wait until survey data and community input is reviewed.
The change was proposed as part of the city’s Soto Sports Complex Masterplan, which is aimed at upgrading the Sports Complex.
During public discussion of the masterplan, the dual use of tennis courts for pickleball and tennis players alike drew the greatest response from those in attendance at Tuesday’s meeting.
Arroyo Grande Mayor Caren Russom says with the overwhelming concerns from both the tennis and pickleball communities, she did not feel ready to make a decision.
“I came in thinking doesn't it make sense to just try it out temporarily, and what I learned tonight was nope, that doesn't make sense. It makes sense to one group but not the other and I'm not willing right now to favor one group over the other,” said Russom.
Russom said some may be upset about the council’s decision, but she hopes with survey data and more community input, the council can make a final decision that benefits both groups.
