The Abilene City Council voted to reject the single management proposal the city received for Maxwell Golf Course and directed staff to reissue a request for proposals focused on professional course management rather than sale.

City Manager Emily Crawford told council the lease for Maxwell expired on Sept. 30 and that the city solicited both sealed bids to purchase the property and RFPs for management. She said the city received one management proposal and no purchase bids. To prevent deterioration of the course while the city pursues options, staff arranged a contract with a professional greenskeeping group to maintain irrigation and grounds.

Crawford recommended council reject the single management proposal because it did not meet staff’s expectations; council agreed, saying staff should reissue an RFP clearly stating the city is not seeking to sell the course. Council members said they want a professional manager that will invest in the course; council also acknowledged the city will likely need to invest in facilities such as the main building and restrooms.

Public commenters included Maxwell users and staff. Mike Frusch, a longtime player, described potential revenue and urged a management approach that returns funds to the city. Marcus Montelbias, Maxwell’s head instructor for about 20–25 years, said he submitted a proposal and asked staff to explain why it was rejected; staff said they would follow up with him. Other speakers urged careful drafting of any public–private management agreement to protect public access and ensure the city’s investment is preserved.

Council voted to reject the lone proposal and keep the course maintained while staff prepares a new RFP for management-only proposals. No council action was taken to sell Maxwell.