I would like to address the current issue concerning the conversion of the tennis courts at City Park to pickleball courts.

My problem lies in the use of private funds to renovate public property. It is up to the city to maintain the courts.

The use of private funds for the conversion creates a public conflict of interest.

The City of Salisbury is allowing a special-interest group to dictate the use of public property.

It’s interesting that in Salisbury you can dictate public policy if you have the money.

I would also like to see full transparency of these private funds, including from whom money was received and how much was donated down to the last penny. This transparency would demonstrate just who is dictating Salisbury public policy.

The Parks and Recreation Department is accountable to all residents, not just a select few.

Here’s a question: is it even legal to use private funds to renovate public property? It is certainly unethical.

— Steve Williamson

Salisbury