Land Bank Commission hears golf-course financial update; putting green rebuild planned
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Summary
Golf operations staff told the Land Bank Commission the golf facilities posted revenue gains and improved gross profit year to date, described operating and payroll trends, and outlined capital work including a USGA-spec putting-green rebuild and a handicap-parking project to be completed before next season.
Golf operations staff reported to the Nantucket County Land Bank Commission that rounds and revenue are up year to date and that gross profit is tracking above budget despite seasonal closures and aeration days.
"First and foremost, we have money to give you," said Sean, the golf operations presenter, as he opened the financial report. He told commissioners revenue was up 7–16 percent across several metrics depending on the line item and that payroll and operating expenses were being actively managed to keep the operation near budget. "Payroll is down 4%" was presented as a line-item improvement on the year-to-date report; staff also cited higher cost-of-goods sold driven by merchandise sales.
The staff presentation emphasized recent operational changes: adoption of tee-time reservations, a larger share of rounds played at the nine-hole course noted in the packet, and the effect of closed days for events (including multi-day member-guest events and aeration). Staff said they do not amortize membership dues across the full year for cash-reporting purposes, a recognition that can distort month-to-month comparisons.
On capital and maintenance, Sean said the commission had approved plans for a handicap parking area and an access ramp; staff are double-checking bids and expect work to be complete before the course reopens in spring. The commission was given a timeline for rebuilding the practice putting green to USGA specifications: sod will be stripped, a USGA-spec sand mix and base installed, and the green resodded. Staff estimated the green is approximately "7,800 square feet" and anticipated the green will be closed over the winter and reopening in May (subject to spring conditions).
Commissioners complimented staff on operational performance and on managing seasonal hiring and housing pressures. One commissioner noted that maintaining a conservative approach to hiring and payroll is important in a seasonal and weather-dependent operation, while another asked that staff present next month—inancials that include the October closeout.
The report concluded with a preview of next steps: staff will provide detailed budget drafts and a proposed rate sheet for the coming year at the November meeting, plus a housing schedule that explains rental terms for seasonal employee housing.