More time is needed to make a call on where to put a proposed indoor racquet facility at Chapples Park.

Following a lengthy discussion Monday night, the referral motion from Mayor Bill Mauro passed 9-3 instructing city administration and the Thunder Bay Community Tennis Centre (TBCTC) to come back on or before May 9th.

The group wanted a site northwest of the existing outdoor courts while the city staff favoured a site adjacent to the golf course.

The tennis centre’s estimate indicated that the bubble would cost over $3.6 million at its preferred location, which takes into account $250,000 to relocate soil from a tobogganing hill.

Council approved up to $1.5 million from the Stabilization Reserve Fund in October 2019 to support the erection of an air supported structure at Chapples Park subject to confirmation of total project funding, due diligence review of the business plan, and future budget approval by Council.