Harlingen limits new 20% golf-fee discount to city employees and veterans after commission debate

The Harlingen City Commission on first reading approved an amended ordinance to offer a 20% discount on green fees and cart fees at Tony Butler Golf Course only to city employees and veterans.

The proposal originally would have extended the discount to city employees, veterans, active-duty military, first responders and Harlingen resident teachers. During public comment, Victor Liao questioned the financial basis for the change, saying the city had not provided a feasibility study and warning of a revenue shortfall: “You’re proposing to give a 20% discount … the city faces a guaranteed loss of $800 for every 100 rounds of play,” he said. That figure and the absence of staff-driven financial analysis drove much of the commission’s discussion.

Commissioners debated where to draw lines for categories such as teachers and how to verify eligibility. Commissioner Mesmer and others argued the course operates at a loss and cautioned against expanding discounted groups. Mayor Norma Sepulveda framed the course as a quality-of-life amenity and urged showing appreciation for veterans.

To narrow the scope, Commissioner Perez moved to amend the ordinance so the discount would apply only to city employees and veterans; the motion was seconded and carried. The commission then approved the amended ordinance on first reading. The commission did not record a detailed roll-call tally in the public transcript; the presiding officer announced the motion carried.

What’s next: The item was approved on first reading; by the city’s rules, it will return for a second reading before final adoption, at which time the commission and staff may provide additional financial detail.