Resident urges council to clarify golf course damage policy after repeated errant balls

Charles Ethridge, a resident on the 13th hole of the Crestview municipal golf course, told the council that errant golf balls frequently land on his property and have caused damage to siding and a window.

Ethridge said he spoke with the golf course’s assistant manager and was told the city policy requires homeowners to locate the golfer who hit the ball to pursue damage claims. Ethridge said he was surprised by that direction and asked the council to clarify the city’s policy because he has received repeated balls in his yard and currently has five holes in his vinyl siding and a broken window.

Councilmembers and staff did not provide an immediate policy change during the meeting; the mayor asked Ethridge to add contact information to his speaker card so staff could follow up. The council chair also asked whether new netting planned for the course would address the area; staff did not confirm a timeline in the public discussion.

Ethridge identified himself as a veteran and longtime Crestview resident and asked only that the city review its practice for handling property damage from golf balls. Staff said someone would contact him after the meeting.