Warsaw Parks and Recreation Board Addresses Pickleball Noise Concerns

WARSAW, Oct. 17 – The Warsaw Parks and Recreation Board addressed concerns about pickleball noise at Kelly Park during its meeting on Tuesday. Residents, including Judy Heiman, raised complaints about the noise affecting their quality of life. However, a recent measurement conducted by the Parks and Recreation Department showed that the noise levels were within normal ranges.

Decibel Readings and Community Impact

Superintendent Larry Plummer and Maintenance Director Shaun Gardner measured the noise levels on October 11. Plummer reported that even with all courts in use, the highest recorded decibel reading was 65, which is comparable to normal conversation levels. According to Board President Steve Haines, the World Health Organization considers 55 to 60 decibels as the normal outside range for residential areas during the day. While some residents expressed concerns, others living directly behind the courts had no problem with the noise, emphasizing that individual tolerance varied.

Board Member Michelle Boxell suggested that Heiman might have been more bothered by the consistency of the noise rather than its loudness, raising an important point about how perceived noise differs among individuals.

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Proposed Solutions and Cost Estimates

In response to Heiman’s complaints, Plummer presented options to mitigate the noise, including electronic gates at the courts and constructing a building to block sound. However, the cost estimates were significant. Electronic gates were quoted between $13,000 and $20,000 each, while a building tall enough to accommodate tennis, with necessary features like lighting and insulation, was priced at over $1.356 million.

Despite these proposals, the board decided to take no immediate action, opting to wait for Heiman’s response before making any changes to Kelly Park.

Center Lake Recreational Trail Progress

In addition to addressing noise concerns, the board received updates on the Center Lake Recreational Trail project. Plummer reported that the trail was progressing on schedule. Sections of the 10-foot sidewalks were poured, and the retaining wall was completed. The project received a significant boost with a $1 million donation from the Sasso family. Plummer anticipated the project’s completion before the expected deadline of Friday, Dec. 8.

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‘Light Up the Night’ Christmas Event

Recreation Director Stephanie Schaefer shared plans for the upcoming Christmas event, “Light Up the Night,” scheduled for Friday, Dec. 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Central Park. The event promises a delightful experience with a light display, goodie bags, glow necklaces, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Notably, the board clarified that photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus would not be taken inside the Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion.

Other Board Actions

In addition to addressing the noise concerns and discussing upcoming events, the board agreed to install six statues donated by the late Milton and Marie Holmgrain. These statues will be placed at various parks, enhancing the city’s public spaces.

Furthermore, seasonal laborer Isaiah Owens was recognized as the September team member of the month, highlighting the hard work and dedication of the Parks and Recreation Department staff.

The board’s next meeting is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 21, at Warsaw City Hall.