City review reveals $60K annual overpayment to Troon for flawed golf contract

In a recent session of the Leawood City Council, significant concerns were raised regarding the management of the city's golf course contract with Troon, highlighting a lack of oversight that has persisted for over 15 years. The review revealed that the city has overpaid Troon by more than $60,000 annually due to outdated incentive management bonuses, which have not been revised since the contract's inception.

The findings pointed to a troubling absence of data on how many rounds of golf are played by Leawood residents, as Troon's point of sale system fails to track demographic information. This lack of insight is critical for understanding community usage of the public golf course. Additionally, the contract does not include any provisions related to the $2 million investment made by the city for a new facility, raising questions about accountability and transparency.

Concerns were also voiced about the absence of annual independent audits of the facility, which have not been conducted in 15 years. This lack of oversight extends to the management of liquor sales, with no clear reporting on revenues generated from alcohol sales, despite contractual obligations for Troon to maintain such records.

The council was informed that Troon has full control over the scheduling of tournaments at the golf course, which has resulted in 55 tournaments planned for the year. This has limited access for local residents, who find it increasingly difficult to enjoy the course during peak season. Furthermore, the green fees at Iron Horse Golf Course are reportedly higher than those at comparable facilities, raising concerns about affordability for residents.

In conclusion, the council was urged to conduct a comprehensive review of the contract with Troon, focusing on financial terms and operational oversight. The goal is to enhance revenue for the city, improve access for residents, and ensure that the golf course serves the community effectively. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of the need for better governance and accountability in managing public resources.