I am writing to express my concern regarding the future of the Whistler Racket Club (WRC).
As a regular user of the club, I note that every day the WRC is busy, welcoming not only the Whistler community but also visitors. I am not aware of any other club where you could call and have a tennis or pickleball game set up within 24 hours—the folks there work hard to make things happen, even lending rackets when needed. WRC staff embrace inclusiveness and work hard to have programs for all stakeholders—racket players, kids, seniors, party rentals... In summary, WRC is a fabric of community, making a proven meaningful impact.
I have now attended two council meetings in trying to get educated. However, I am not clear on meaningful solutions, and there seems to be more of an economic focus at the expense of community. The results of the first two rounds of public engagement indicate a top priority related to the development of Northlands; the replacement of the existing WRC with a viable, multi-use racket centre that meets the community’s recreation/social needs.
I note also the RMOW’s first two guiding principles, as stated in its May 27 report on the Northlands rezoning: Balance Resort and Community Needs; and Strengthen Sense of Place and Social Connections.
Related to the above, the WRC has demonstrated value to long-term community, recreation, and social well-being—a highly used and much-loved community amenity.
Whistler needs this valuable asset.
I hope my input may be considered when working toward a solution that balances both the growth of Whistler and the preservation of the Whistler Racket Club.
