Planning commission backs referral to consider buying Chipeney Golf Club for public recreation

The Bristol Planning Commission voted to send a positive referral to the City Council on a proposal for the city to acquire the Chipeney Golf Club on Marsh Road for continued passive recreation and municipal golf use.

Staff presented the referral as an opportunity to preserve open space and noted that "36 other municipalities in the state of Connecticut own golf courses," saying the city could protect land value even if operations later changed. Staff also warned the club’s Olympic-sized pool is in disrepair and might be removed if the city takes ownership.

Commissioners asked several operational and fiscal questions before voting. Commissioner John Posey asked directly, "What is the purchase price? Is this something that we're gonna bond?" and pressed whether an appraisal exists. Staff said an appraisal was being prepared or had been initiated but did not provide a purchase-price figure during the meeting. Posey said he would not vote in favor without that financial information; other commissioners said the referral question was limited to whether the acquisition idea was a good one and that detailed financial review could follow.

Commissioners also raised who would operate and maintain the facility if the city acquires it and how a bond or purchase would affect taxpayers' ratings and taxes. One commissioner noted examples of nearby municipal courses that generate revenue when managed for multiple uses.

The planning commission’s motion to send a positive CGS A-24 referral to the city council carried by voice vote; the transcript records one commissioner (John Posey) expressing reservations and opposing the motion. The referral will move to the City Council for further fiscal and operational review.

Next steps: the planning commission’s role is advisory; the City Council and board of finance will review fiscal details, appraisal(s) and potential bonding before any purchase is finalized.