City files show‑cause, gives 10 days to Silver Oaks golf course owner to address trees and buildings

City staff told the council May 11 that code‑enforcement actions are underway at the former Silver Oaks Golf Course after residents raised safety concerns about diseased trees, debris piles and unsecured buildings.

The city’s code enforcement officer and staff met with the county assistant attorney and prepared an affidavit and a show‑cause filing that staff said was completed and will be filed with the court. The filing asks a judge to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed; if so, a hearing date will be set in June or July.

"Officer Bacon completed that and sent that back today, and it will be filed with the court," the city manager said, adding that a 10‑day notice was issued the same day requiring the owner to secure buildings, cut and maintain grass, and address standing trees that pose a safety threat. Staff observed mowing activity but council members pressed for a comprehensive cleanup given the property’s size (estimated at roughly 130 acres).

Residents who spoke at the meeting described dead or dying trees near homes and broken windows at structures on the property. Kimber Rhodes of Brentwood Drive said trees behind her house have browning needles and missing limbs, and asked for more definitive action; Mary Hamill asked whether deed restrictions require the land to remain a golf course.

City staff said they have passed photographs and documentation to the court and that the owner will be required to obtain legal representation because the property is a corporate entity. Staff also said they are researching deed and plat restrictions to determine long‑term uses and that a judge will decide whether the show‑cause filing proceeds to a hearing.

Next steps: the court will review the affidavit and determine a hearing date if it finds sufficient cause; staff will continue to document conditions and coordinate required abatement if the judge orders corrective action.