Highlands County residents advocate to preserve municipal golf course for community

In a recent council meeting held on March 18, 2025, in Sebring, Florida, community members voiced strong opinions regarding the future of the municipal golf course, a cherished local institution. The discussions highlighted concerns about potential changes that could transform the course into a resort-style facility, which many residents fear would alienate local users and diminish the course's community value.

Several speakers emphasized the golf course's significance as a gathering place and a source of pride for the community. One veteran passionately argued that the course is "the heart and soul" of many residents, urging the council to maintain its municipal status to ensure it remains accessible to locals year-round. He expressed concern that converting the course into a resort would lead to a loss of local identity, particularly during the peak tourist season from November to May.

Dr. Princeton, a long-time resident and local physician, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of the golf course and its associated restaurant as vital community resources. He highlighted the economic impact of small businesses and the need for the council to protect them from monopolization. Dr. Princeton also pointed out the community contributions of local business owners, such as providing meals to healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring their commitment to the community's well-being.

Austin Armstrong, a golfer and taxpayer, added a different perspective, advocating for improvements to the municipal course to enhance its quality and competitiveness. He noted that while recent renovations have improved the course, ongoing investment is necessary to keep pace with other facilities in the region. Armstrong expressed concern over the financial losses reported by the municipal course, suggesting that better management and investment could lead to improved conditions and job opportunities for local workers.

The meeting underscored a critical crossroads for the municipal golf course, balancing the desire for modernization and improved facilities against the need to preserve its accessibility and community-oriented nature. As discussions continue, the council faces the challenge of addressing financial sustainability while honoring the course's legacy as a beloved local asset. The outcome of these deliberations will likely have lasting implications for the community's social fabric and economic landscape.