Residents voice concerns over proposed pickleball complex

By Jessica Paine | March 15, 2024

MURRAY - There was standing room only in the council chambers at City Hall tonight as nearly 100 people showed up for the city council meeting. Many in attendance live in the vicinity of Chestnut Park and came in solidarity with Sue Hood, who requested time to express concerns about potential noise pollution in their neighborhood should the Murray Pickleball Association be allowed to proceed with building a proposed pickleball complex in the park.

Mayor Bob Rogers told attendees, "This will be a conversation, not a confrontation," before giving the floor to Hood, who was allotted 10 minutes to speak. Tim Thurmond, president of the Murray Pickleball Association was also given 10 minutes to address the council.

After the presentations, several council members asked questions before Rogers shared his thoughts on the controversy. He said that he has received many emails regarding the proposed complex - both for and against - and advised that he sees both sides of the issue. Rogers noted that he has been witness to many controversies over the years, citing disputes between local school districts, opposition to the payroll tax and issues related to the library as examples, adding that he believes the community will weather the current controversy as well.

Rogers further advised that the issue will not be brought before the council again until a consensus is reached.

Sue Hood stands at the podium as she addresses the Murray City Council Thursday night.Photo byJessica Paine/The Murray Sentinel

Photo byJessica Paine/The Murray Sentinel

Photo byJessica Paine/The Murray Sentinel

Photo byJessica Paine/The Murray Sentinel

Photo byJessica Paine/The Murray Sentinel

President of the Murray Pickleball Association Tim Thurmond also addressed the council Thursday.Photo byJessica Paine/The Murray Sentinel

Mayor Bob Rogers shares his thoughts on residents' concerns.Photo byJessica Paine/The Murray Sentinel

Photo byJessica Paine/The Murray Sentinel