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South Shore Health and Racquet Club gets tax exemption for $2.7M expansion

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Pickleball enthusiasts in southwest Michigan have a new reason to cheer.

St. Joseph Charter Township trustees on Monday unanimously approved a 10-year tax exemption for a $2.7 million rehabilitation and expansion project at South Shore Health and Racquet Club, 3630 Tennis Court, St. Joseph.

The rehabilitation will include the construction of a new facility with more than 15,000 square feet dedicated to pickleball courts. The existing facility will see electrical upgrades, plumbing upgrades, new floor surfaces, a pool and hot tub remodel, new viewing room and additional courts.

Club owners Jake and Sarah Lancaster, former club owner Tony Monte and Cornerstone Alliance Business Development Director Cathy Tilley attended the meeting and answered the board’s questions throughout a public hearing.

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Sarah Lancaster said the decision to expand was due to popular demand from members.

“Over the last 47 years in business, South Shore has continued to evolve to the wants and needs of its members and the community,” she said. “With this next exciting phase of growing and adapting, we will be able to meet these requests.”

Prior to approval, board members were unsure about the the duration of the tax break, which freezes the property tax rate applied to the South Shore parcel of land until the certificate expires. That’s when Monte spoke up, saying they would have to scale back the project if 10 years wasn’t approved.

“I’m going to lose my spot with construction companies, which is gonna put this project off or stopped because there’s just too much going on in with construction,” Monte said. “We’re pleading that you please, please consider making a move on this tonight. If it has to be tabled again, I’m concerned about our forward progress on the project.”

After the decision, Monte thanked the board.

“We appreciate everybody’s support and questions,” Monte said. ” I know these things are difficult, and we’ll do our best and start getting the bulldozers ready.”

Likewise, board members thanked Monte for being up front about the situation.

“I’m glad one of you shared with us about the 10 years that you needed project done that way,” said Supervisor Roger Seely. “I think you guys do a great job over there and we’re happy you’re in our township.”

Established in 1976, the club has about 85,000 square feet of space, with indoor and outdoor tennis courts, indoor racquetball courts, a 15,000 square foot fitness area, an outdoor basketball court, indoor basketball hoop, swimming pool, whirlpool, steam sauna and more. They also offer an array of classes, lessons, personal training programs and leagues.

Trustees voted to approve a commercial rehabilitation district at the property at the May 1 meeting.