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City details transition plan as it assumes operation of Ottawa golf course from Great Life
Summary
City staff outlined a transition plan and communications strategy as the city will take over the Ottawa golf course lease from JPM Enterprises/Great Life effective Dec. 30; a member survey, hiring for a general manager and superintendent, and short closure for physical transition were discussed.
Parks staff updated the commission on the city’s transition to operate the Ottawa golf course after the termination of the JPM Enterprises (Great Life) lease effective Dec. 30. Director Landis said staff are preparing letters and a survey to send to members and patrons, have begun hiring for a general manager and superintendent, and are conducting a facilities review to inform short-term operations and 2025 planning.
Landis said the city will coordinate separate communications for members who store carts and will post the survey and updates on the city website and social media. Staff noted current memberships will remain valid through March 31, 2025, and members may have temporary access to other managed courses while the city completes a short physical transition (Landis estimated a brief closure window may be needed to change technology, security and building contents).
Commissioners asked about hiring rounds (48 applicants were received and five candidates advanced to interviews for one of the early hires), the distinction between general manager/golf pro and superintendent positions, and whether the survey will be available to non-members. Landis said the survey will be posted publicly and the city will continue to collect community input as it finalizes fees and event schedules for 2025.
Next steps: staff will send a membership letter and survey, continue hiring and complete the property assessment and transition tasks ahead of a January 2025 reopening under city oversight.
