Costa Mesa commissioner urges study of Fairview golf courses for housing, open space

Commissioner Dawn Parker on Jan. 8 asked the Parks and Community Services Commission to begin an advisory discussion on reimagining the city‑owned Fairview golf courses and adjacent Fairview Development Center as potential space for housing, community fields and open space.

Parker described the parcels as a “once in a lifetime opportunity” and called for the commission to request financial and participation data from staff — including gross revenue, the number of players by course and operating expenses — so commissioners and the City Council can assess the net fiscal impact of converting part of a course to parks or housing. “I keep hearing about $3,000,000 but what is the net?” she said.

Why it matters: Parker and other commissioners cited crowded youth‑sports fields and long waitlists for community recreation as a reason to examine alternative uses of city land. She suggested preserving access for golfers while creating shorter, lower‑cost nine‑hole options and adding fields, playgrounds or courts to meet documented demand.

Discussion and context: Commissioners agreed the topic merits more study but differed on timing and scope. Some members urged pursuing public engagement and data collection before any policy change; others said the family and community interest in timely action argues against long delays. Chair Brown said staff and the vice chair would consider how to agendize the issue and noted commission schedules are busy through April.

Next steps: No formal motion or directive was filed; Parker asked staff to provide the requested financial and usage data so the commission can decide whether to place a study or recommendation on a future agenda.