WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — A growing uproar is unfolding in West Palm Beach as residents rally to keep a longtime tennis director from being pushed out of the job he’s held for nearly 25 years.

The controversy began after the city awarded a contract to the United States Tennis Association (USTA) to manage three public tennis centers following planned renovations. For many in the community, the decision isn’t just about who runs the courts—it’s about preserving the sense of family built under director Skip Jackson.

South Olive Tennis Center, now at the heart of the debate, has long been a hub for kids, families, and seasoned players. Residents say Jackson transformed the facility into more than just a place to play—it became a community.

“He has a dynamic personality. We want him as the head professional. We don’t want anybody else. We don’t want USTA. We don’t want another pro. We want Skip Jackson,” said Micah Ford, a 17-year tennis veteran.

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Jackson, who has overseen the center for nearly a quarter-century, says the city’s decision feels like a betrayal.

“I worked seven days a week for probably 18 to 19 years to get this facility where it is now,” Jackson said. “It’s pretty frustrating. I’ve built this facility for almost 25 years with this community and now they want to remove me.”

Residents fear that bringing in an outside organization could erode the camaraderie and local connection that define the center.

“The fear is the camaraderie piece—not knowing our community, not knowing what we want,” Ford said. “This is ours. We pay property taxes here. We should decide who we want.”

Last week, Jackson filed a formal protest against USTA’s bid, alleging the organization failed to disclose involvement in pending litigation. He hopes the move will prompt city officials to reconsider.

“I would like the city to demonstrate—and these politicians to demonstrate—that they do listen to the people,” Jackson said. “This community is outraged. They are outraged at what the city is trying to do here.”

CBS12 reached out to both the city and USTA regarding the allegations and community concerns but has not yet received a response.

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