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Council approves purchase of Lebanon Area Community Golf Course after divided vote
Summary
The Lebanon City Council approved purchase of the 153‑acre Lebanon Area Community Golf Course, using economic development funds; two members voted no, citing concerns about borrowing costs and long‑term fiscal risk.
The Lebanon City Council voted to buy the Lebanon Area Community Golf Course, a 153‑acre property at 16744 Missouri Highway 64, for $735,000 using available economic development funds.
The proposal prompted an extended staff presentation about potential redevelopment costs, grant opportunities and a 10‑year master plan; council members asked about facility repairs, irrigation, ADA compliance and potential strategies to increase membership and events. Jared, a city staff member, outlined capital needs including clubhouse repairs, irrigation work and ADA upgrades and said the city would pursue grant funding from multiple sources.
The vote was not unanimous. Atkins and Mitchell voted no; the ordinance passed 7‑2. Mitchell explained on the record that his no vote was not opposed to a golf course but stemmed from concern about the “millions of dollars we're getting ready to have to borrow to make this thing go.” Another council member framed the vote as an investment in the city's future.
Why it matters: The purchase transfers ownership of a large parcel into city control and starts a process that could convert the course to a municipally managed facility. Staff said the acquisition enables access to grant programs (including state and federal conservation and recreation funds) and would allow the city to build a master plan and pursue phased improvements.
What staff said: Jared said capital costs for facility and system upgrades could range broadly; staff identified potential grant sources including the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Land and Water Conservation Fund and regional programs. Troy, the city administrator, said the survey needed to complete the transaction had been finished and the negotiated purchase price was ready for council consideration.
Next steps: The purchase closed the transaction authorizing staff to proceed under the terms in the contract. The council and staff indicated a master plan and grant applications would follow.
