Spencer, IA (KICD)– It appears as though the shared use tennis courts between Spencer Community Schools and the City of Spencer will be moving to a new location following some lengthy discussion.

The thoughts of at least replacing the current courts at Fairview Park began some time ago after complaints started coming in regarding the condition of the playing surface which then led to some negotiations to move the courts to a piece of land near Spencer Middle School.

The change does not come without some hesitation starting with Councilman Donovan Wunschel initially concerned about public availability for pickle ball on the new courts.

Councilman Brian Balk also voiced some concern over having tennis courts partially owned by the city of private land controlled by the school district.

City Attorney Don Hemphill did add some ease to the room noting such a short-term change is not very likely based on the time period covered by the agreement that has been drawn up by both sides.

On the positive side, Parks and Recreation Director Bob Fullhart noted making that move could end up having the new courts finished faster than keeping them where they are.

Councilman Tom Nelson seemed to show support for whatever direction the entities decided to go but would like to see the project move forward sooner rather than later despite what may be found for construction costs.

Monday’s Committee of the Whole discussion was based around securing the site at the Middle School for which a general consensus was approved. That will now allow engineers to finalize designs and plans before getting some hard numbers through the bidding process to allow the budgeting portion of planning to move forward.