(The Center Square) – After being heard by the Economic Development Committee, the Caddo Commission introduced an ordinance on Tuesday, that if approved, would appropriate $10 million for a state-of-the-art pickleball facility.
Questions are many among both commissioners and residents.
Eight commissioners voted to introduce the ordinance, while Commissioners Chris Kracman and Ron Cothran voted against. Commissioners John-Paul Young and Steffon Jones were absent for the vote. A public hearing and final vote are scheduled for Sept. 18.
The multi-million-dollar pickleball facility project has been actively discussed since June, so that commissioners, citizens and the committee could get some answers to unresolved questions.
The Economic Development Committee first recommended the ordinance to the commission, but it was sent back after more questions arose. The committee then continued addressing concerns from both commissioners and residents regarding the project’s funding.
Cothran, who voted no on introducing the ordinance, previously said he wasn’t against pickleball but needed additional information before approving $10 million.
Citizens believe the $10 million could go toward other things in the parish, like roads or education. While funding is allocated for those in other budgets, the money for the pickleball facility can only be used for specific projects. Caddo Parish Administrator Erica Bryant said the commission approved up to $30 million in revenue bond issues a few years back.
If the ordinance passes, the funds for the project would not come from any current fund balance or revenues. The money generated from the facility will go to pay back the bonds.
