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Council debates Hill Ridge lease terms; staff seeks operator input, aims for first reading next meeting
Summary
Council discussed a proposed multi-year lease and operating agreement for Hill Ridge golf course run by Black Clock LLC (operator Josh Black), focusing on fixed rent, a discounted irrigation water rate, insurance and the city nd operator—inding a mutually viable deal; staff plans a first reading at the next meeting.
Council members and staff spent an extended portion of the meeting discussing a proposed longer-term lease and operating agreement for Hill Ridge golf course, which the packet identifies as operated by Josh Black of Black Clock LLC.
City staff (Speaker 11) described a proposed five-year primary lease term with an option to renew for up to an additional five years and said many operational terms mirror the prior operating agreement. The proposal would offer a discounted irrigation water rate tied to the lake pump-house meter and keep clubhouse and building water on regular rates.
"We're offering a five-year term with an option ... and a discounted rate for water," Speaker 11 said, explaining staff wants a written agreement now that water service has been extended to the course. Council members noted the operator has not been paying a fixed rent historically and emphasized the need for terms that keep the course economically viable.
Council discussion touched on several specifics: a referenced figure of $18,000 per year was cited in conversation as a point of comparison for rent; staff confirmed the operator holds business insurance and that the proposed agreement would require the operator to maintain liability and workers' compensation coverage and hold the city harmless. Speaker 7 said the city had previously offered charity or transitional arrangements while the water service was extended, but that executing a contract now would protect the city and clarify responsibilities.
Several council members asked for more financial detail from the operator before fixing rent or other obligations; one councilor urged getting the operator's input first so the council can set fair, justified terms. Staff said they plan to place a first reading on the agenda at the next meeting and aim to have an executed agreement by "starting January '26." No formal lease vote occurred at this meeting.
What happens next: staff will meet with the operator to gather financial information and proposed counteroffers, return to the council with a draft for first reading at the next meeting, and aim to finalize terms for implementation early next year.
