Tucker’s city council recently faced continued opposition from local residents regarding a proposed pickleball court project, even though the city officially announced the plan is currently on hold. During a public meeting on November 12, several community members voiced their concerns about the impact of constructing 12 pickleball courts at the Tucker Recreation Center, emphasizing issues related to flooding, property values, noise, and the lack of adequate public input in the planning process.
Council member Cara Schroeder, who was standing in for Mayor Frank Auman, reassured attendees that the pickleball court project was not part of the evening’s agenda. She reminded the crowd that the project had been paused after an informational meeting on November 7, where residents had already raised their concerns. However, despite the temporary halt, several citizens expressed their belief that the project might still move forward, urging city officials to reconsider the proposed $3.25 million price tag and the potential loss of one of the last remaining green spaces in the city.
Beyond the cost, the residents also pointed to the disruptive effects that the new courts might have on the neighborhood. Many were concerned about the noise and traffic generated by pickleball enthusiasts, noting that existing courts have already led to disturbances for nearby homeowners. This ongoing opposition suggests that while the city may have paused the project, significant community concerns remain unresolved.
In other city matters, Tucker’s engineering team, led by City Engineer Ken Hildebrandt, briefed the council on a required infrastructure change due to a mandate from Gwinnett County. The mandate calls for DeKalb County to reverse the direction of sewer flows currently entering Gwinnett’s water treatment plants. This will involve constructing new sewer lift stations and pipelines, which will affect parts of Henderson Park and require both temporary and permanent easements. The city is not expected to bear the financial burden of this project, as DeKalb County has offered compensation for the easements required in Henderson Park. Construction is expected to begin in 2026.
The city council also acknowledged the Friends of Tucker Parks (FOTP), who were honored with the Georgia Park and Recreation Association State Volunteer of the Year award. The group has played a crucial role in maintaining and improving the city’s parks, regularly organizing cleanups and volunteer events. This collaboration between the city and local volunteers highlights the positive impact of community engagement on public spaces.
Additionally, the council held discussions on several other local issues, including potential guidelines for city signage, landscaping, and streetscapes, as well as the approval of a Special Land Use Permit for a building conversion on Cowan Road. The council also introduced an ordinance to address blighted properties in the city, proposing tax adjustments for properties either being improved or abandoned. These measures aim to enhance the overall livability and aesthetic appeal of the city while addressing the concerns of residents.
The meeting showcased a strong community presence, with citizens remaining active in discussions about the future development of Tucker, particularly around the contentious pickleball project and broader urban planning initiatives.