Troy Park CONCEPT MEETING

November 14th, 2007
Charlie and Linda Brown’s house

Howard County Tennis Patrons held an informal meeting to let interested tennis players know where the project to build a regional tennis center at Troy Park stands and where it is going.

Attendees: Art Tollick, Dave Burnell, Jon Smith, Suzan Lumpkin, Kim Barnes, Bill Mueller, Doug Brooks, Patti Reynolds, Ken Lundeen, Garth Finney, Chuck Morgan, Wren Morgan, Sally Longinotti, Linda Brown, Joe Beitz, and Kalyna Nedilsky,

Topics discussed:

Art Tollick, the newly elected President of HCTP, reviewed USTA player data….the amount of players by county, types of players, frequency of play. Art also reviewed a chart showing the suggested amount of courts per citizen, according to USTA. The data demonstrates a shortage of courts, especially lighted and indoor courts in Howard County.

Art discussed the possible relationship with Howard County allowing the Patrons to lease land at Troy Park at nominal cost. Time frame could be 2009.

There is a need to recruit people, services, money, etc. The initial push is for more emails and accurate emails. Suzan Lumpkin has volunteered to be Volunteer Coordinator and handed out an information package.

The County has asked that the Patrons meet with the Greater Elkridge Community Association. That meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 15th.

Potential logos were distributed for input. Business cards were also previewed.

HCTP is asking for people to donate $100 each to further the development of the project.

About 50 people have contributed so far, and two donors (Hugh Cole and an anonymous party) have pledged to match contributions received during October and November. Total raised so far exceeds $10,000.

The proposed 25 tennis court layout was reviewed, but it is preliminary as court quantity and type may change. Tentative plans to finance the project through tax-free bonds were also discussed.

UMBC has written a letter and seems eager to participate with programs that will help produce income during lower utilized day hours. HCC has expressed similar interest.

Doug Brooks suggested asking USTA if it is possible to add a surcharge when signing up for leagues. Several attendees expressed interest in wanting to become more involved.