Golf course managers reviewed a 2026 budget that includes higher allocations for simulators, internet service, fertilizers, irrigation supplies and equipment loan payments. Staff said the new simulators required switching from consumer mobile Internet to a two-year Comcast/Xfinity contract that costs roughly $600 per month, and that operational costs for fertilizers and chemicals have risen.

Irrigation was a central topic. Staff reported the driving-range irrigation system is installed and that routine irrigation supplies were increased from $5,000 to $7,000 to cover more repairs and parts. Managers said one irrigation pump has failed and replacement or a full system redo could be expensive. They provided rough capital illustrations: a full replacement with new piping, heads and a pump house could run about $1.5 million; drilling and equipping wells could be roughly comparable depending on scope. Staff said they had received conflicting guidance on the feasibility of switching to well water and recommended bringing in an outside evaluator; a consultant review was estimated at roughly $10,000 to $12,000.

Staff also reviewed capital equipment requests: a new triplex mower/verti-cut reels, a new sprayer that was purchased last year (cited as beneficial), and loans for carts and mowers. They asked to prioritize an outside irrigation assessment and suggested that larger capital costs would be considered through CIP or host/infrastructure funds.

Discussion vs. decision: councilors did not approve new borrowing or capital projects at the meeting. Staff were directed to obtain quotes and bring detailed cost information for proposed pump/piping work, well feasibility, and equipment loans before council action.

Ending: staff will solicit formal bids and an independent irrigation assessment and return with costs and options so council can decide whether to pursue pump replacement, well drilling, or phased irrigation upgrades.