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RCSC raises resident golf no‑fee pass to $2,800; committee says goal is to cover golf operating costs
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Summary
The Golf Advisory Committee and budget presenters outlined planned increases to resident golf passes and related fees for 2026, and said the operating budget goal is for golf to break even on operations while major capital needs (mowers, rolling stock, pumps) are addressed separately through capital funds.
The Recreation Centers of Sun City (RCSC) presented a package of golf fee adjustments in the 2026 budget proposal that includes raising the resident, no‑fee golf pass from $2,500 to $2,800 and increasing the resident surcharge from $1,200 to $1,300. Presenters outlined modest increases to greens and guest fees and noted changes in payment timing for some passes.
Preston Kais, chair of the Golf Advisory Committee (GAC), and Kim Wanek said the committee expects those adjustments to help shore up golf operations. When asked whether golf is subsidized by assessments, Preston Kais said, "The goal, Jim, is the golf will break even." Committee materials project golf operating income for 2026 roughly in the $9.3–$9.5 million range and the budget shows an operating profit for golf of about $86,000 under current assumptions.
Golf capital needs were discussed separately: presenters said rolling stock and golf equipment are aging (mowers averaging 14 years, utility vehicles 15 years) and require significant capital replacement. Committee members described a $1 million golf capital allocation in 2026, including $200,000 earmarked for wells and pumps and other large purchases for rolling stock.
Speakers noted that fee increases are still competitive locally; the committee compared Sun City resident pass pricing to nearby courses and said some fee lines are at or near market parity. Presenters also described steps to make fee increases less sudden for members, including a payment plan for the no‑fee annual pass (50% down and 60 days to pay the balance) and reliance on the Sun City Foundation for assessment assistance for qualifying members.
Questions from members focused on retention of pass holders after last year’s increases and whether additional price pressure could reduce renewals. Committee officials said they expect some attrition but noted regional price comparisons and program changes intended to improve course playability and merchandise/food offerings could offset revenue risk.
