The Parks Commission will discuss a community proposal to redesignate one of the two tennis courts at Mingus Park for dedicated or primary pickleball use while retaining the other court for tennis. The proposal cites growing demand for pickleball, limited court availability on the south side of Coos Bay, and the development of a nearby school pickleball club. It also recommends evaluating the courts’ condition and use, identifying necessary improvements, and pursuing community fundraising and volunteer support.

The Commission is being asked to determine whether the proposal should advance to a future regular meeting for formal consideration and a possible recommendation to the City Council.

If it pleases the Commission, discuss the proposal and decide whether it should be brought before the Commission at a future regular meeting for formal consideration and a recommendation to the City Council.

At the August 20, 2026, regular Parks Commission meeting, citizen Bill Davis recommended during public comment that one of the two tennis courts at Mingus Park be converted into a pickleball court. The Commission requested that the matter be brought to its September 3, 2026, work session for further discussion and suggested that Mr. Davis provide staff with a proposal describing how the conversion could be accomplished.

On August 25, 2026, the City received a proposal from a member of the local pickleball community requesting that one of the two existing tennis courts at Mingus Park be redesignated for dedicated or primary pickleball use. Under the proposal, the remaining court would continue to be available for tennis, allowing both sports to be accommodated at the park. The proposal is attached for the Commission’s review.

The proposal identifies growing participation in pickleball and reports that existing courts in the Coos Bay area, including those at Southwestern Oregon Community College, are regularly in use. It also notes that there are currently no dedicated pickleball courts on the south side of Coos Bay. A court at Mingus Park would provide a more centrally located option and could improve access for residents and students who have limited transportation to other facilities.

The request also relates to the development of a new school pickleball club. Because Mingus Park is located near the school, the proposed court could provide students with an accessible location for practice, physical activity, and recreation outside of school hours.

The proposal suggests evaluating the condition and current use of both tennis courts, identifying any repairs or modifications necessary for conversion, and working with the local pickleball community, schools, and interested residents on fundraising and volunteer support. Potential community participation could include raising funds for court repairs or resurfacing, purchasing nets and equipment, assisting with appropriate cleanup or improvement activities, and promoting use of the facility.

The Parks Commission is being asked to discuss the proposal and provide direction regarding whether the potential redesignation of one tennis court for pickleball should be explored further and brought before the Commission at a future regular meeting for formal consideration.

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