In a recent government meeting, Beau Preston, the golf course manager, presented an extensive evaluation of the golf course's current state and future plans, highlighting significant operational changes and budgetary increases aimed at enhancing customer service and course quality.

Preston reported that the golf course, which has not undergone a re-grassing in 40 years, is in urgent need of maintenance due to aging infrastructure, including irrigation and drainage systems. The proposed budget for the golf course has increased by 35%, rising from $1.6 million to nearly $2.2 million, with a focus on improving maintenance and customer service. This increase is attributed to a substantial rise in revenue, which has grown by approximately $1 million over the past year and a half, largely due to a restructured fee system and improved operational efficiencies.

Key initiatives discussed include hiring additional staff to address the current shortfall—14 employees for 27 holes, significantly below the industry standard of one employee per hole. Preston emphasized the need for more personnel at the golf shop and maintenance areas to enhance service and operational capacity.

The meeting also addressed the introduction of a $50,000 budget for a solo rider handicap cart to better serve veterans, alongside plans to expand the golf cart fleet from 87 to 125 to meet demand. Preston noted that the golf course has seen a 70% online booking rate, which has helped reduce no-show rates from over $200,000 to $105,000, although challenges remain with phone bookings.

In response to a commissioner's inquiry about charging for no-shows, Preston confirmed that a $20 fee is applied to those who book online and fail to show, but challenges persist with securing credit card information from phone reservations.

The discussion also touched on the condition of the snack bar, with concerns raised about the outdated appearance despite recent renovations. Preston assured that while kitchen equipment had been updated, further improvements to furniture and decor are planned but currently delayed due to other pressing expenses.

Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to revitalizing the golf course and enhancing the overall experience for patrons, particularly through improved infrastructure and customer service initiatives.