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Greg says irrigation project should start by mid-June; course projected to reach break-even after one year
Summary
At the April meeting, Greg updated the committee on the Lago Vista golf course: pipe deliveries are scheduled between May 11 and June 3, irrigation work could start in mid-June with completion by November, and a new irrigation system plus a potential $15,000 Project Muni grant could push the course into the black within a year.
Greg told the committee the latest schedule from Diamond Golf shows pipe delivery between May 11 and June 3, meaning irrigation work could begin as early as mid-June and would likely finish in November.
The presenter said year-to-date play is up roughly 14% and revenue about 20''7% compared with last year, and that the course is currently "about $87,000 in the red." He said those improvements and the irrigation project are the largest factors that could move the operation into positive net revenue: "I've been making the comment for 3 years that a year after irrigation is complete, we'll have it in the black," Greg said.
Greg explained how the new system will change turf management: with reliable irrigation the course can better maintain tees and fairways and manage Bermuda and overseeded winter grasses, improving playability outside peak months. He told members that the USGA sent an agronomist to inspect the course and produced a report recommending changes that informed the irrigation plan.
On funding, Greg said the Texas Golf Association's Project Muni program has agreed to award up to $15,000, but the grant requires a city match. "They're gonna give us the highest amount they give, which is 15,000," he said, adding that the TGA will send a sample contract and the timing of city budget cycles (the city's fiscal year begins Oct. 1) will determine whether a match can be included in this year's budget. He said local fundraisers and tournaments have previously raised modest sums ($2,000 then about $4,000) and could augment grant funding if needed.
Greg told the committee he will email members the USGA report and Project Muni materials and that more detailed budget information will follow during the summer budget process. The group did not take a formal vote on funding at the meeting.
The committee set a follow-up cadence; Greg said he will supply documents and be available for questions before the next meeting on May 26.
