Harlingen narrows proposed 20% golf-fee discount to city employees and veterans

The Harlingen City Commission on Tuesday amended a proposed ordinance that would have created a 20% discount on green fees and golf cart fees at Tony Butler Golf Course, limiting the benefit to city employees and veterans.

The change followed sustained public comment and commissioner debate about the fiscal impact of the discount. Victor Leal, a Harlingen resident, urged the commission to delay action until a formal feasibility study could be completed and presented a numerical example he said showed an $800 revenue shortfall for every 100 discounted rounds of play. “To date, no formal feasible study has been provided to the public or to this board to substantiate any change,” Leal said during the public-comment period.

Commissioners questioned both the assumed loss and the policy’s scope. Commissioner Perez moved to amend the ordinance to limit the discount to city employees and veterans; the motion was seconded and carried. Mayor Norma Sepulveda framed the golf course as a “quality of life” operation that is not expected to generate net revenue but said targeted concessions for veterans and city employees are a reasonable form of appreciation.

Supporters said the narrower approach balances appreciation for service with fiscal caution; opponents had argued for broader recognition of teachers and first responders but acknowledged the absence of a staff financial study. City staff told commissioners the municipal course has trimmed losses in recent years but continues to operate at a deficit.

The ordinance was advanced on first reading with the amendment; the commission discussed the possibility of further refinements or a formal financial analysis before final adoption.