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Extensive root damage to the courts forced them to be closed for liability purposes last year. At that time, the village began looking into making repairs to the courts that would include removing trees, roots and fencing from the site, repaving and resurfacing the courts and adding new fencing and gates.

Three alternates were established, as well, including complete removal of pine trees near the courts, modifications to fence corners and fence post removal and replacement.

Ê A pavement repair company estimated the base repairs to the courts would cost around $40,000, which the village budgeted for the project, Village Manager Bob Peterson said. But the lowest bid - of three received by the village and open on May 3 - was $57,176. Including the three alternates would push the cost to $67,924, not including professional fees, Peterson said.

With 90 days to hold the bids, the village is left with few options. They can reject the bids and start over next year, wait for additional funding for the project to come in or make minor repairs to the courts and wait.

"I do not have another source of funds that I can recommend for this project," Peterson wrote in his report to the council.

But he also said that he had submitted a grant request to the Grand Traverse Regional Foundation for $10,000 and was planning on requesting another $10,000 from the rotary. Village President Dan Reszka said he was planning on asking the parks and recreation commission to eliminate their professional services budget and cut back on their capital outlay budget in order to better accommodate the project.

Trustee Don Marker, who serves as the council representative on the parks and recreation commission, said he would like to see at least some repairs made to the courts.

"If we're not going to do it the least we can do is go in and make repairs," he said, calling the temporary repairs a "band-aid" fix.

Several residents weighed in on the issue, saying they would prefer the courts repaired as soon as possible. People line up during the summer to play tennis at the courts, some said, and having all four courts open would make a big difference.

"If there's any way of getting it done this year, please get it done," resident Jim Sak said.

Sak also said that a lot of families and visitors walk away disappointed after seeing the courts from a distance, but then realizing that they are locked. He also said he would prefer to see the courts fully repaired instead of the "band-aid" approach. The courts have been significantly lifted by the roots, he said, and the temporary approach would cost a significant amount of money. "You'd be spending a lot of money that would be thrown away the next year when you do it right," he said.

Brian Keilen can be reached for question or comment at bkeilen@michigannewspapers.com or by calling 231-264-9711.