Municipal golf course reports record play and flags irrigation pump station as immediate capital priority

Sierra Golf Management updated the council on operations at Madera Municipal Golf Course during the May 20 meeting and identified irrigation reliability as the most urgent capital need.

Operator Dan Botchi reported year‑over‑year growth in rounds (noting a strong 2025) and said the course draws players from across Madera and portions of Fresno. Operational improvements and marketing have increased facility use and revenues, which in turn support rent and capital contributions the operator pays to the city.

The operator and parks staff told council that the golf course’s original irrigation pump station is aged, often requires manual operation, and has generated frequent repairs; recent replacements and repairs have cost tens of thousands of dollars and do not restore reliable automatic control. Two contractor budget quotes for a VFD (variable frequency drive) and control panel upgrade were reported in the $58,000–$67,000 range; staff said one additional local quote was pending. The advisory committee and operator recommended prioritizing a pump‑station upgrade (modern controls and VFDs) because automatic, pressure‑regulated irrigation would reduce labor, prevent line failures and support use of surface irrigation when available.

Parks staff noted that the golf course had funds in its reserve and that staff will pursue procurement, possible additional city support and other funding mechanisms. Staff also mentioned other maintenance needs (roof leaks, banquet‑hall painting and parking lot resurfacing) and said the department would prepare project scopes and follow purchasing rules for capital work.

Outcome: Informational. Staff will finalize procurement steps for an irrigation consultant and pursue formal contracting options and funding sources to replace the pump station and address other capital maintenance needs.