Fernandina Beach advisory board endorses buying golf maintenance equipment rather than leasing

The Fernandina Beach Golf Course Advisory Board voted Aug. 22 to back General Manager Jeffrey Biggers’s plan to purchase new maintenance equipment for the coming fiscal year rather than lease it.

Biggers presented a pros-and-cons analysis of leasing versus purchasing, saying government purchase discounts and on‑site maintenance capacity weighed in favor of buying. "So as far as what I can see with the city being government purchasing these, I believe going forward is gonna be our best plan," he said.

Scott Michaelson, the city’s director of parks and recreation, gave a specific example: greens mowers list at about $50,000, and leasing quotes came back essentially the same as purchase price. Staff argued that owning the machines can yield residual value after several years and that having an on‑site mechanic and a multi‑year capital plan make purchasing fiscally sensible when numbers are equal.

Board members pressed staff on logistics and lifecycle risks. Members raised concerns about storage and protection from sun and rain; staff said they would use the existing shed and explore a low‑cost pole barn or covered shelter to extend equipment life. Biggers and staff also noted that leases can shift repair obligations onto the city at lease end, while ownership leaves the city with residual value.

A committee member moved to approve the plan as presented by General Manager Jeffrey Biggers; another member seconded. The board approved the motion by voice vote with all in favor. The recommendation will be carried forward to the City Commission as part of the FY25 budget process.

Board members said staff will continue refining the capital plan and storage options before the commission vote.