Mattapoisett residents approved a $170,000 allocation from Community Preservation funds for the restoration of two tennis courts on Hammond Street, adjacent to Center School.

With facilities at the high school closed during classes and often occupied by teams, many people have requested public courts, Mattapoisett Recreation Chair Jeremy Collier told voters assembled at Town Meeting on Monday, May 14.

The courts will be reconstructed using post tension concrete that will last indefinitely, said Collier. “We’re looking for a long-term product that will not cost you money,” he said.

Some residents questioned the expenditure of the funds.

“It seems this refurbishment is a lot of money for a relatively small number of people who will use it,” said Bill Canter. He was also concerned there would not be enough Community Preservation money to help fund a Buzzards Bay Coalition land preservation article likely to come up in Special Town Meeting in the fall.

Community Preservation Committee Chair John DeCosta said the group had already decided against recommending funding for the Coalition's project. Selectmen Chair Jordan Collyer said the board was already applying for a grant to help offset the cost of the tennis courts.

Other residents urged voters to approve the article.

“I walk by those courts every day with my dog. They’re in disastrous condition,” said Kay Smith. “For children in the Village, for seniors in the Village who are able to use them, it would be a valuable resource to the town.”

Residents approved the article by a majority.