Membership surges and infrastructure focus: tennis and golf updates at Oak Hills; superintendent warns of drought

Officials reported strong operational momentum across facilities but flagged infrastructure needs and water risks.

Tennis professional Arland said memberships rose quickly this month from about 73 to 215 total members, including 42 family memberships, and noted increased clinic activity and a 75% spike in social-media followers that has driven sign-ups. Denise Brown previewed upcoming tournaments (Wimbledon event July 11 and the Arthur Goldblat tournament) and described landscaping and facility improvements around courts.

Restaurant manager John Lloyd described a successful off-site operation for a June outing that served approximately 250 people on the Great Lawn, calling it a proof of concept for larger outdoor events.

Golf professionals reported strong participation: Nick Novak said women's clinics and junior golf schools are sold out, junior teams are performing well and merchandise and branding changes have drawn positive feedback. Staff said higher utilization has increased wages and maintenance needs, contributing to expense pressure in May’s budget results.

At the same time, Superintendent Jim Shell warned the authority that Oak Hills “has entered a severe drought according to the U.S. Drought Monitor,” and said the park has already had an inquiry from the water utility; he urged prioritizing drainage and irrigation projects so fairways stay open to carts and pace-of-play complaints diminish.

Board members and staff discussed practical timing for capital drainage work — including closing holes 1–6 temporarily to complete course improvements — and agreed to refine schedules and member communications before any closures.