I read with interest Martha Wickett’s article on free pickleball in Salmon Arm and although I don’t know Mr. Barnard and do not currently indulge in playing the game I believe it is truly wrong for the city to enter into competition with a tax paying business by offering a free alternative to his for-profit enterprise.
Apparently Council has discussed the issue but has yet to arrive at a solution.
There are clearly only two alternatives.
Council could offer Mr. Barnard property tax and business license tax relief to enable him to offer his court time at a competitive rate or the city must charge for access to their service.
Either way, they must level the playing field so to speak.
If there is truly a need for pickleball playing opportunities for those in tight financial circumstances, the city could come up with a means tested voucher system (redeemable at either location) to facilitate access for all.
Bill Cuthill
