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Touchstone reports stronger play, revenue at Mill Valley Golf Course; Porch 1919 nearing opening
Summary
Touchstone Golf managers reported a 13% year-to-date increase in rounds (26,470) and year-to-date revenue of $620,827 (about $54,000 higher than last year), highlighted course improvements and said Porch 1919 food service is nearly ready pending health and building inspections.
Touchstone Golf managers told the Parks & Recreation Commission on May 7 that Mill Valley Golf Course is seeing stronger participation and revenue after management and course improvements.
General Manager Andy Sellers reported 26,470 rounds played year-to-date — roughly 3,100 more than the same time last year, an increase of about 13% — and year-to-date revenue of $620,827, or about $54,000 more than last year. Sellers credited improved turf coverage, enhanced mowing detail and reduced weed presence, and said the course condition is “the best it’s been in years.”
Sellers and James Birchall, vice president of operations, outlined physical and programmatic upgrades: renovated tee boxes, a new putting-green surface at the first tee, an ADA-accessible restroom, patio seating and the renovated pro shop. They also emphasized community-oriented programming such as a women’s league (55 participants in a recent nine-hole event) and a summer “no clubs — just play” program that opens the course as a park space for the neighborhood.
Sellers said Porch 1919, the on-site food-service offering, is nearly ready; construction is complete and staffing plans are in place, pending final clearance from Marin County health inspectors and the City of Mill Valley building department.
Operational challenges remain: Birchall noted aging irrigation and drainage infrastructure that will require future investment to maintain winter playability and course quality. The presenters said modest rate increases (a $1–$2 adjustment to nonresident and resident green fees in staff’s proposal) are justified by improved services and rising maintenance costs.
Next steps: Touchstone and city staff will continue coordination on the Porch 1919 opening and capital-priority planning for irrigation and drainage improvements.
Sources: Remarks by Andy Sellers and James Birchall, Touchstone Golf, Mill Valley Parks & Recreation Commission meeting, May 7, 2025.
