To the editor:

I am a longtime regular tennis player on Bainbridge Island. Like many, I cannot afford to join private clubs for the privilege of access to tennis courts.

Thus, I was dismayed and disheartened to read Jessica Shelton’s February 26 article, “Sakai park planning continues.” Her article quoted Bob Linz, hired by the park district to conduct a public meeting to help develop potential park uses. At that meeting, Linz specifically said he was not supposed to influence decision making in any way.

In the article, however, Linz volunteered that tennis courts were “redundant” and he didn’t think they would make the cut. “There are already six or 10 or 12 tennis courts on the island,” Linz said. “You have to pay for them because it’s a private vendor, but it’s not like the need is not being met.”

A spokesman for the 1 percent could not have said it better! Bainbridge Athletic Club costs almost $1,825 per year to join and play, and Wing Point a cool $4,000, then just $2,500 each year (including $700 mandatory for food).

Neutral actors should never show bias or presuppose in a way that prejudices and taints the process. By mentioning only tennis, Linz violated his responsibility. Not to mention the information he conveyed is erroneous.

Bainbridge has just four tennis courts that are truly public. Two courts at Battle Point are in good condition. Dispersed single courts at Rose and Strawberry need improvement. Six courts at BHS are “quasi-public” because they are restricted from public use, even on sunny days, during school hours, tennis practice and matches, and when programs are offered during the peak summer playing times.

In fact, while the island’s population has increased, the number of public tennis courts has decreased. Two courts used to be at Waterfront Park, but are now gone. At minimum, this loss should be remedied at Sakai Park, though numerous good reasons exist for several courts, in terms of enhanced public participation and overall quality of life.

ERIC DRALUCK

Bainbridge Island