Cuba Parks and Recreation Board member Roslind Reiner said on Oct. 13 that she talked with Noel and Amy Hendrix, of the Cuba Soccer Program, who had a few requests to improve the soccer fields in Hood Park.

Proposed improvements start with adding eight handicap parking signs and T-posts near the concession stands to allow those who park there to watch from their car.

They also reported that they have two cameras, as security is in their contract for the field, but one needs to be repaired and the other needs to be readjusted so it is pointing in an effective direction.

Lastly, while the bathrooms at the soccer fields are well maintained, they asked if there could be some updates made over the winter. While the Hendrixes weren’t too specific about exactly what updates they were looking for, board member Karina Rice said that Amy Hendrix had texted her about a situation where a woman was changing her baby on the bathroom floor and asked if a baby changing station or table could be added.

While he agrees that the facilities could use some work to improve them, it would strain the city’s finances more than they already are.

Board member Ashley Wells suggested the city apply for more grants, and Board President Chris Kight asked if the sports programs could also go out for grants themselves.

The main issue that the board found with the handicap signs is that it would require them and the surrounding area to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Instead, they want to request reserved parking spots.

No vote was taken.

The board recognized the popularity of the new pickleball courts at Tangle Creek Park.

Board Vice President Beth Kight started the discussion of possibly hosting pickleball tournaments and asking local businesses to donate something, like a gift certificate, as prizes.

Reiner asked about finding someone who would be willing to give lessons to people, or at least post the game rules on the Cuba, Mo. Parks & Municipal Pool Facebook page, which board member Dian Cooper agreed with.

“I was just thinking that because I don’t know how to play,” Cooper said.

Rice inquired about the process of reserving courts for a large pickleball tournament if anyone was interested in organizing one.

A motion to recommend that the city look into a court reservation system was approved with an 8-0 vote.

In other business, the next meeting will be in the council room at City Hall at 6 p.m. on Nov. 10.