Ione City Council manages Castle Oaks golf course amid ownership transition

In the heart of Amador County, the City Council convened on May 20, 2025, to address pressing community concerns, from traffic safety to the management of the Castle Oaks Golf Course. As the meeting unfolded, residents voiced their frustrations and hopes, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities facing their city.

One resident raised alarms about a hazardous situation at a local intersection, where parked vehicles obstructed visibility for drivers. "I was literally in the lane trying to turn," he recounted, urging the council to take action. His gratitude towards District 10 representative Ronaldo for his responsiveness highlighted the importance of community engagement in local governance.

The council then shifted focus to the Castle Oaks Golf Course, which has recently come under city management. George Lee, a city official, reported that the city is currently responsible for the course's financial obligations while also receiving its revenues. However, concerns were raised about the lack of communication regarding the course's operations and membership options. One resident lamented, "Nobody knows the course is open," emphasizing the need for better marketing to attract players back to the greens.

In response, Lee assured attendees that the management company, Troon, has been instructed to enhance communication through social media and local newspapers. He acknowledged the ongoing discussions about potential buyers for the course, indicating that interest is growing but no final agreements have been reached yet.

The meeting also addressed the city's wastewater management, particularly the Title 22 report concerning the Castle Oaks Wastewater Facility. Michelle Chester, a special counsel, provided an update on the report's submission to the State Water Board, which is crucial for the facility's operation. She noted that while the golf course is currently relying on well water, the tertiary facility is not operational, raising concerns about the course's maintenance during the upcoming hot weather.

Public comments reflected a sense of urgency, with residents expressing worries about the drying conditions of the golf course and the potential fines facing the city due to capacity issues with the Sutter Creek system. The interplay between local governance and environmental management was evident, as residents called for swift action to ensure the health of both the golf course and the community's water supply.

As the meeting concluded, the council's commitment to transparency and responsiveness was clear. The discussions underscored the vital connection between local government actions and community well-being, leaving residents hopeful for positive developments in the weeks to come.