Maumee parks committee reviews proposal for 18‑hole Towpath disc‑golf course

Speaker 8 presented a plan to install an 18‑hole disc‑golf course on the towpath between the upper and lower trails, describing it as a low‑cost recreation project that preserves much of the site’s trees and natural character. "It's pretty low cost as far as the initial investment," Speaker 8 said, adding that baskets can be removed in flood events to protect equipment.

Local players and vendors urged careful layout and community involvement. Isaac Northfield (Speaker 10), a long‑time player, said volunteer maintenance and community interest have sustained other courses: "A lot of times, the community from the disc golf community is huge that they do a lot of volunteer work," he said. Joel Zeroni (Speaker 9), owner of Saucy Disc Golf, offered design and tournament experience and said courses with 18 permanent holes can support both casual play and organized events.

Committee members asked about flood resilience, safety near walking paths, concrete pad specifications and phasing. Speaker 8 said the equipment and materials estimate is modest compared with other city projects and stressed that concrete tee pads and a 6‑inch stone base would be considered to reduce movement from water. On timing and pricing, Speaker 8 cautioned that material costs may increase and provided separate 2025 and 2026 estimate windows for budgeting.

Environmental concerns surfaced in public comment. Speaker 5 asked the committee to avoid siting holes across sensitive grassy corridors and vernal pools and to minimize earth moving. The presenter agreed to examine low‑impact layouts and to mark low spots to reduce disturbance.

The committee did not take formal action on the proposal at the meeting. Staff will work with local players and provide updated layout options, clearer cost figures and a maintenance plan for future budget consideration.