Pembroke Pines City Commission debates $100K fee increase for golf course management

A significant discussion unfolded during the Pembroke Pines City Commission meeting on April 16, 2025, centering on a proposed fee increase for the management of the Pembroke Lakes Golf Course. The proposal, which sought to raise the management fee by $100,000, sparked a debate among commissioners regarding the timing and implications of such an increase.

Commissioner La Penzina expressed strong support for the fee increase, highlighting the sacrifices made during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep the golf course operational. He emphasized the quality of management provided by PCM Management, stating, "Mr. La Penzina has given more to the City than we've given Mr. La Penzina." He praised the golf course as a "gem" of District 2 and noted its exceptional maintenance compared to other city facilities.

However, concerns were raised about the request for a five-year contract extension alongside the fee increase. Commissioner Rodriguez voiced her agreement with the fee hike but cautioned against establishing a precedent for future contracts. She suggested that while the current circumstances justified the increase, it should not become a regular practice for other vendors.

The discussion took a turn when Commissioner Goode proposed an amendment to the motion, advocating for the approval of the fee increase but rejecting the five-year extension. He argued for a competitive bidding process to ensure fair pricing and quality service, stating, "I cannot go on a best interest a 5-year contract."

The commission ultimately reached a consensus to approve the fee increase while opting to explore bidding options for future management contracts. This decision reflects a careful balance between recognizing the value of current services and maintaining fiscal responsibility for the city.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners acknowledged the importance of the golf course to the community while also emphasizing the need for transparency and competitiveness in city contracts. The anticipated outcome is a renewed focus on ensuring that Pembroke Pines continues to receive high-quality services without compromising on financial prudence.