A heated debate over a proposed $13 million tennis facility dominated the Brentwood City Commission meeting on January 13, 2025, as officials grappled with the project's necessity and financial implications. Mayor Latimer expressed concerns about the facility's cost, suggesting it could escalate to over $20 million, and emphasized that such an investment would primarily serve a niche group within the community.

Latimer, who has been involved with the tennis community since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighted the need for careful consideration of public funds. He argued that while the project might be beneficial for some, it does not serve the majority of Brentwood residents. "This is not a project that benefits a majority of the citizens. In fact, it's a small minority of the citizens," he stated, advocating for a referendum to gauge public support for the initiative.

The mayor also drew comparisons to essential projects, such as the police headquarters, which he deemed necessary and worthy of significant investment. He cautioned that funding a non-essential project could negatively impact the city's bond rating, a concern echoed by other commissioners during the discussion.

Latimer's remarks reflect a broader sentiment among some city leaders who believe that government should prioritize essential services over luxury projects. He suggested exploring partnerships with county and state entities, as well as private organizations, to share the financial burden and ensure that taxpayer money is used wisely.

As the commission continues to deliberate on the tennis facility, the outcome remains uncertain, with many residents eager to see how their voices will be heard in the decision-making process. The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between community desires and fiscal responsibility, a theme likely to resonate in future discussions.