In a recent meeting held at Austin City Hall, the Parks and Recreation Board discussed a significant proposal aimed at aligning the sale of alcohol at three local golf courses with city regulations. Ray Hernandez, a landscape architect and project manager for the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department, presented the recommendation for conditional use permits (CUP) for the sale of alcohol at Jimmy Clay, Rory Kaiser, and Morris Williams golf courses.

Currently, both Jimmy Clay and Morris Williams are serving alcohol without the necessary compliance with city code. The CUP process is designed to rectify this situation, ensuring that the sale of alcohol adheres to the Austin Development Code. Hernandez explained that the vendors involved—Stagg and Finch at Jimmy Clay and Fairways Cantina at Morris Williams—have already obtained permits from the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission (TABC) to sell beer and wine.

The discussion highlighted the historical significance of these golf courses. Jimmy Clay, which opened in 1974, and Morris Williams, established in 1964, are integral parts of Austin's recreational landscape. The proposal aims to change the zoning designation from public to park and recreation services, allowing for the legal sale and consumption of alcohol on the premises.

Hernandez emphasized that no construction is planned at these sites, and the CUP would cover specific areas within the golf courses while excluding parking lots and maintenance buildings. Signage in both English and Spanish will be installed to inform visitors about where alcohol consumption is permitted.

The board's recommendation to the city council is a crucial step toward ensuring that these popular recreational spots operate within the legal framework, enhancing the overall experience for golfers and visitors alike. As the meeting concluded, the board members expressed their support for the proposal, recognizing its potential to bring these beloved community spaces into compliance and improve their offerings.