On November 6, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended Council approval of Application #24-8, to amend the current Sugar Camp/ Pointe Oakwood Master Plan for the installation of a sports court (pickleball) at the existing site located at 1 Russell Place under the following conditions:
- The hours of operation are from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- The applicant must work with city staff to develop a lighting plan to ensure the lighting is installed no higher than 12' and look into using a timer for the lighting.
- The applicant must restrict the use of the pickleball courts to Russell Total Wealth and Wellness employees, existing clients and potential clients.
Mr. Kroger shared that city staff recommends that the applicant work with the City Engineer and public works staff to ensure that all water runoff within the disturbed area of the project is ultimately collected by the drainage infrastructure as indicated on the approved drainage plans and that a full lighting plan be submitted by the applicant showing that the lighting/fixtures will be 12' in height and lights on only during permitted hours of operation.
Mr. Stephens inquired about the lighting on the court and suggested that the lights be directed toward Russell Total Wealth & Wellness and the parking lot.
Mr. Kroger explained that a final lighting plan will be submitted and approved by city staff.
Mayor Duncan asked about the drainage study that was completed for this application.
Mr. Kroger said that the drainage study was reviewed and approved by the City Engineer.
City Engineer Chris Kuzma shared that the applicant submitted a drainage plan that was approved. The applicant will work with city staff to ensure that the plan is being followed and that the water runoff will be directed away from the homes in Pointe Oakwood.
Mayor Duncan invited the applicant to speak.
Mr. Parker, Synergy Building Systems, said that Mr. Kroger provided a detailed summary of the project and commented on three items. First, Mr. Parker opined that at the October 7 meeting, Council viewed the application favorably and believes the neighbor notification was the principal reason why the application was recommended to go back before the Planning Commission. Second, Mr. Parker stated that the existing drainage concerns in Pointe Oakwood are unrelated to this project. Third, Mr. Parker shared that the Applicant took time to determine the best court location and develop a robust vegetation screening plan to be considerate to the existing neighbors. The substantial landscape plan is above the code minimum. Mr. Parker closed his comments by mentioning the existing pickleball courts in Oakwood and the recently approved pickleball court in a residential area.
Mr. Stephens asked if the entire hill could be added to the drainage study versus just the area for the proposed pickleball court.
Mr. Parker said that this project does not require the entire hill to be part of the drainage study.
Mr. Stephens asked how many light poles would be around the court.
Mr. Parker said there will be four light poles and added that the location can be moved to the east side toward Russell Total Wealth and Wellness if needed.
Mayor Duncan asked about landscaping.
Mr. Parker said that the court will be heavily screened and may help mitigate with any water runoff.
Mayor Duncan opened the public hearing.
Mark Farrell, 241 Pointe Oakwood Way, shared that he lives at the corner of Pointe Oakwood and Ledges Trail directly below Russell Total Wealth and Wellness and his main concern is noise. He does not believe the proposed location is the best spot for the court.
Craig Rohan, 135 Ascent Circle, said he shares the neighbors concern with potential sound issues. He commented on how some municipalities are not allowing pickleball courts within 250 feet of residential properties. He also shared information about pickleball paddles and balls with noise reduction technology.