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Gold Baldy Golf Course proposes clubhouse with simulators, driving-range concept to boost revenue
Summary
Jesse Swenson, president of Gold Baldy Golf Course, outlined plans for a new clubhouse with simulators, a beer-and-wine service, and an interim 'Out of Bounds' style driving-range concept intended to increase year-round revenue and fund a possible additional nine holes in the future.
At the Aug. 18 Broadwater County Parks and Recreation Board meeting, Jesse Swenson, president of Gold Baldy Golf Course, presented plans for a new clubhouse, indoor golf simulators and an interim outdoor driving-range concept intended to boost revenue.
Swenson said the course is pursuing bids for a new clubhouse, describing a single building of roughly 5,000 square feet that would combine a pro shop, office space and a front clubhouse area with a small food and beverage operation. "We're looking at putting in simulators... not really going full restaurant," Swenson said, adding the club would seek a beer-and-wine license and keep food service limited to snacks and small items.
As a near-term revenue option, Swenson described a model similar to an "Out of Bounds" outdoor venue: bays positioned so balls would be hit safely away from public areas, a small shed near the road to handle payments and sales, and occasional food trucks. He said the driving-range bays could be rented by the hour, host leagues in winter with simulators and generally extend revenue beyond the summer season. "The simulators are getting more and more popular," he said, noting other nearby courses had substantially increased revenue after adding them.
Longer-term, Swenson said the club hopes to leverage increased revenue and grant opportunities to examine adding a ninth hole. The golf course currently has slightly more than 40 acres available in the area discussed, while Swenson said a typical nine-hole layout often occupies 60 to 80 acres; he described the site as "tight but fittable." He cautioned that substantial matching funds would be required for larger grants.
Swenson also mentioned plans to remove the existing deteriorated clubhouse structure; he said he spoke with Fire Chief Ed Shindle, who indicated the department could assist with a controlled burn for demolition if the club moves forward with a plan.
Board members asked about parking, placement of the new clubhouse near the current site, and how a driving-range interim use could be integrated with eventual course expansion. Swenson said the new clubhouse would be built near the existing clubhouse, and that the driving-range shed and bays would be arranged to maintain safety with over 400 yards of separation from other facilities.
No formal board action was taken; the presentation was an informational update to the board.
