To the editor:

Although the headline read “Neighbors volley concerns,” what actually happened Thursday night was that the tennis players hit a winning volley. Of the 75 in attendance, about 65 were tennis players.

The fact is that the proposal meets the requirements of the Land Development Code, Section 20-1103.

The city has already granted variances for other sports’ lights. Variances allowed 90-, 75- and 65-foot tall poles for baseball, football, soccer and softball. The tennis court lights will not require a variance, because they meet the 60-foot maximum allowed in 20-1103.

We have been without lights for two years. Tennis is currently the fastest growing sport in America. We invite everyone to come and play because we are a friendly bunch.

The neighborhood however, doesn’t seem so friendly. The church has numerous signs telling people to stay out of their parking lot. Fences have been installed to make sure no one walks to a baseball game from 22nd Street. We have been loudly accused of cursing. There are more sounds of joy and camaraderie coming from those courts than profanity.

There is no connection between drainage issues and tennis lights. Taxpayers have spent $3 million on drainage projects in this neighborhood to bolster property values. There is no proof that proximity to recreational facilities decreases home values.

It is good that the city listens to the neighbors, but it must not kowtow to a small vocal group. Do what is best for the most people and least expensive for the taxpayers.