Get Ready for Ancient Oaks pickleball!

Q:  Where will be courts be located?

A:  The courts are planned for the common grounds adjacent to the Parking Lot

Q:  Will the courts be secured?

A:  Yes, there will be a 8 foot fencing with locking keypad

Q:   How many courts are proposed?

A:  There are plans for two courts housed within an 8 foot fence

Q:  Are there plans to use lighting for safety

A:  After the initial build, lighting will be reviewed and planned.   As the courts will not be operational during evening hours, to respect noise after hours, it will need to be evaluated

Q:  What about criminal activity?

A:  There is always a risk of criminal activity, with or without  pickleball courts.   The long term goal, however, is to install security cameras as a preventive measure

Q:  Does access require everyone to have waivers?

A:  Yes,  anyone who wants to use the courts must have a waiver.

Q:  How many votes are needed?

A:   51% of the total membership 246/51%=124 votes needed to approve this project 

Q:   What happens if we don't get 51% vote?

A:   The entire project is cancelled.

Q: What liability will the HOA take on by installing the pickleball courts?
A: The pickleball courts will be included under the Association’s existing insurance policy as a covered community structure. Additionally, to protect both the HOA and residents, a liability waiver will be required for any resident who wishes to use the courts. This waiver must be signed prior to court access, and instructions for signing will be provided before the courts open.

Q: Will the pickleball courts create ongoing maintenance costs for the HOA?
A: The initial installation includes a manufacturer’s warranty that covers early maintenance needs. After that period, we expect minimal ongoing expenses, such as surface cleaning, net upkeep, or repainting.  These costs will be modest and integrated into the regular budget planning process.  We do not anticipate this to impact membership dues

Q: How will the courts affect the view for homes on the lake?
A: We understand and respect the desire to preserve scenic lake views. The final court design will include professional landscaping with natural plantings and buffers to ensure the courts are discreet and visually shielded from lakefront homes.

Q: What about noise from the courts?
A: Pickleball is generally considered a low-noise activity, especially when compared to other sports. To further minimize potential disruptions, the courts will operate only during daytime hours and will close at a reasonable hour in the evening. These hours will be clearly posted and enforced.

Q: Who can use the courts, and how will access be managed?
A: The courts are for the exclusive use of Ancient Oaks residents. To access the courts, residents will need to sign a liability waiver in advance. Details about the access system (e.g., key fob or code) will be shared prior to opening.

Q: Will there be a reservation system?
A: Yes. A simple online reservation system will be implemented to allow residents to reserve court time in advance and ensure fair access. Walk-ups will be allowed when the courts are not in use, but reservations will take priority.

Q: Can residents bring guests to play?
A: Yes, residents may bring guests, but guests must be accompanied by the resident at all times and a liability waiver must also be completed. The resident assumes full responsibility for their guest’s conduct. Guest use may be limited during peak hours to prioritize resident access.

Q:  What are the policies and procedures for using the courts?

A:  These will be developed upon completion of the project if approved 

Q:   What about all the unknown expenses?

A:  Great question,  we are trying to identify all the ongoing  operational costs and how to address them.   There is a proposal on the table to establish teams that would contribute a small amount  that could be leveraged for some ongoing maintenance.   This would not only generate a little revenue for operational costs, but would also encourage the community to participate and engage on the courts.  I would pay the $5 / month fee to be part of the Ancient Oaks Board team (Net Results)  that crushes Compliance team (rule smashers), or the FB Warriors,  Modification team (The Fix-it flickers) or general teams (Block Party Smashers, The Net Set, The Home court heroes) in a tournament!   : - )   I get some bragging rights and even may make a friend in the process.

Q:  What if we vote "no",    will there be additional opportunities for pickleball courts at a later date?

A:  Unfortunately, no.    This is a one time opportunity due to the incredible donor.  Due to the shear cost associated with the up front development that is being considered, Ancient Oaks will not be in a position to pursue this afterwards.    Make your vote count

Have questions or comments? We'd love to hear from you! Send an email to hagerchuck@ancientoaksinc.com to submit your questions