San Clemente committee backs green-fee increases, keeps Fridays at resident rate

San Clemente City Golf Course Committee members voted unanimously at their Oct. 25, 2025 meeting to forward a resolution to the City Council that raises green fees and related charges at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course and to treat Fridays as weekday rates for residents but as weekend rates for nonresidents.

The measure, presented by staff member Samantha, would raise resident green fees by about 10% and standard nonresident rates by about 18%, retain junior rates at current levels and add or adjust several ancillary charges. Staff also proposed a refundable compliance damage deposit of $200 and an $18-per-hour golf-course marshal support fee to cover tournament-related course protection. The committee approved the fee package and directed staff to add a clear sentence in the resolution specifying Friday rate treatment before the City Council hearing.

The vote followed public comment from several residents who urged the committee to weigh affordability for local families and to provide clearer financial reporting. Joseph (resident) said the course is "the heart and soul of this community" and warned higher fees could push middle‑income golfers away. Chris Oholo (resident) and Bill Calgary (resident) asked for the underlying fiscal analysis showing how much additional revenue is needed; committee and staff members said the packet includes activity and…