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Pilot 'round up' at golf course raised about $2,500; committee discusses whether to continue
Summary
A pilot program to let customers 'round up' charges for a local youth golf charity (Next 18) generated about $2,500 and 208 survey responses; staff recommended pausing further rollout while refining capture of online transactions and program scripting, and supervisors offered mixed views on whether the county should continue the program.
Washington County reviewed results of a pilot program that asked golf customers to "round up" payment at checkout to support Next 18, a youth golf initiative discussed at the meeting. Staff reported modest revenue and mixed survey responses and sought committee feedback on whether to continue.
Jamie Ludovic, who presented the roundup report, said the pilot raised only $2,500 and gathered 208 survey responses. She said question 2 of the survey—about whether respondents were asked to round up at checkout—showed that 65% said no, which staff believe reflected several factors: many customers book and pay online and so never see the checkout prompt, inconsistent in‑person execution by staff, and the presence of many repeat players who decline when asked.
"We did pilot the rounding up at the checkout. We only raised, $2,500, which was, I think, significantly lower than we were expecting," Ludovic said. She said staff debriefed and concluded the pilot provided learnings on scripting, online capture and selection of recipient organizations.
Supervisors offered mixed reactions. Supervisor Bridal told the committee many people are tired of constant "round up" requests at retail and events and questioned whether the county should run such a program. Supervisor Mary said she shared that sentiment and did not think the county needed to lead rounding‑up activities. Supervisor Conrad urged viewing the pilot as an initial step in a plan‑do‑study‑act cycle and suggested a second trial with better scripting and online capture. Supervisor Krebs said he was neutral and suggested less intrusive presentation (an unobtrusive screen option rather than staff scripting) and emphasized that clear charitable messaging helps donations.
Committee members and staff discussed alternatives such as tip jars, clearer beneficiary names (for example, a local high school program), and focusing on a single, well‑explained recipient to improve response. Ludovic said staff do not plan an immediate program rollout; they may revisit a second pilot with improved execution and clearer beneficiary selection. She added that construction bids for the golf course expansion return Oct. 21 and a large opening event is planned for early June, and staff may focus off‑season work toward that event rather than expanding the roundup program now.
No formal vote was taken; staff will consider feedback and may return with a refined proposal.
