Residents upset over Greenport’s tennis court policy

Angry Greenport residents who have been recently asked not to play on tennis courts during the day at Greenport School will meet Saturday at Aldo’s coffee shop about 1 p.m. to discuss the matter.
In an e-mail circulated to residents in Greenport, East Marion and Orient by Kate McDowell, she maintains that residents were able to use the facilities for 13 years without a problem.
Noting that taxpayers will be facing a bond issue in December for building repairs that would result in a tax hike over a 20-year period, Ms. McDowell wrote, “If we are going to pay more, we should at least be able to maintain our privileges.”
The school’s policy on use of building and grounds has not changed, Superintendent Michael Comanda said Friday morning. However the rules were not enforced prior to his taking the reins at the school this past year.
The tennis courts aren’t the only area affected, he said, adding he has also turned down requests from men who want to play soccer after school, citing security concerns.
Mr. Comanda is also looking into policies in other districts. Board president Tina Volinski said members will discuss the issue Wednesday night and consider whether the policy needs to be changed.
“We do open this building to the community,” Mr. Comanda said. But because of cracks that developed on the tennis courts, he said they were locked during a recent repair that took longer than expected due to weather changes. There’s still a need for additional work, he said.
The group plans to appear before the Board of Education Wednesday night.
Mr. Comanda said he is open to the board reaching an agreement with residents on facilities use, he said.
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