Board continues FY2026 review of municipal golf course budget; Kemper Sports outlines revenue plans and short‑game facility opening

Kemper Sports staff presented an update on operations and the proposed FY2026 budget for the Vernon Hills municipal golf course during the Committee of the Whole meeting.

Vince Suarez, regional representative for Kemper Sports, said the company instituted dynamic pricing for nonresidents, which helped increase green‑fee revenue by about 9% year‑over‑year despite an estimated 3% decline in rounds. He reported a company‑goal net promoter score (NPS) of 70; the Muni’s year‑to‑date NPS was 64.6 through February. Suarez and colleagues highlighted membership retention, recent facility improvements and food‑and‑beverage enhancements, including a new menu and equipment.

Kemper staff and trustees discussed FY2025 operating figures and FY2026 projections. Presenters showed an operating revenue projection (approximately $532,004), noted payroll and operating expense adjustments, and presented EBITDA and net‑operating‑loss estimates. Staff reminded the board that a general‑fund subsidy (previously discussed) covered capital costs including the short‑game putting green and that the FY2026 budget presented conservative assumptions pending fuller rollout of programming with the Chicago School of Golf.

Capital items for FY2026 were described as minimal; Kemper plans to buy new outdoor patio furniture, replace a canopy and finalize signage and marketing for the Back 9 short‑game facility, which has a grand‑opening ribbon cutting scheduled for April 29 at 4 p.m. The company also outlined marketing initiatives (internal promotions, paid digital and targeted display) and a Frequent Fairways loyalty program rollout.

Trustees asked detailed questions about depreciation schedules for carts and mowers, specific line‑item increases in 'other operating' costs, food‑and‑beverage cost percentages (estimated beverage costs ~33%, food ~40%), inventory cadence (monthly), and staffing and payroll impacts from local minimum‑wage increases. Staff provided clarifications about capital accounting, recurring vs. one‑time costs and the plan to expand non‑golf events and programming to increase revenues.

The committee requested follow‑up on signage options, lighting and possible security measures to prevent vandalism at course facilities; staff agreed to coordinate with Public Works and Police. The meeting closed with a motion to adjourn to closed session for land acquisition and personnel matters.