iTennis Expected to Stay in South Pas

By Francine Rios

iTennis Operator and former tennis pro John Letts is currently in the negotiation process with the City of South Pasadena to keep his wildly popular tennis program running at Arroyo Seco Racquet Club.

"Although it was a scare at first, the City is being very accommodating now, and it looks like things will move forward in a positive manner," Letts said.

While exact details of the negotiations were not given, Letts mentioned that the City could be working to improve the facilities at the Arroyo Seco Racquet Club.

Sheila Pautsch, Community Service Director for the City of South Pasadena, said they are far from finalizing any agreements with Letts and that the process could last until Sept. 1.

Letts initially denied the City's request to raise the rent at the Arroyo Seco Racquet Club from $1700 to $7000 last month. While he thought a negotiation process would follow, he says he was instead served with what he calls an eviction notice. The news caused quite a stir among South Pasadena residents, at the June 15 city council meeting in support of iTennis.

Even residents outside the community showed appreciation for the program. Art Chmielewski of Pasadena, who has been involved in iTennis since its inception, said he would love to see Letts' program continue in South Pas. 

"This has became family. World class institution—world class coaches," said Chmielewski at the Council meeting June 15. "But not only pegged as world class, they are incredible human beings. My kids just love hanging out there."

"It's not just about tennis, its about growing up," he added.

Letts entered into his first community agreement with the City of Pasadena in 2002. Since then, iTennis has grown to employ approximately 40 tennis pros throughout Pasadena, South Pas, Whittier, Narrows, Carlsbad and Riverside. 

"The City has seemed to side with the people. They listened to what the had to say, and they're accommodating that," Letts concluded.