Consultants: Hampton cannot financially sustain both Hamptons and Woodlands; $16M+ in renovations estimated

Richard Mandel of Richard Mandel Golf Architecture presented Phase 1 and Phase 2 findings from a two‑phase study of the Hamptons and Woodlands golf courses. "Irrespective of any potential design changes, the Hamptons Golf Course needs complete reconstruction to replace that failing infrastructure," Mandel said, and he estimated a reconstruction cost for Hamptons of approximately $8,850,000 and for Woodlands of about $7,400,000. He said combined renovation costs could exceed $16,000,000.

Mandel summarized operating performance: Hamptons averaged operating losses of roughly $315,000 from 2022–2024 (with year‑to‑date 2025 also in the red) while Woodlands losses averaged about $150,000; the National Golf Foundation model projects that the city’s appropriate golf inventory is likely no more than 27 holes based on local demand and capacity calculations.

Phase 2 design concepts included an 18‑hole Hamptons course with a proximate practice facility and a separate 9‑hole short course option; the consultant projected that both design options could move the golf fund toward more favorable operating outcomes if paired with increased maintenance staffing, modern reservations/marketing, tiered pricing and added practice facilities. Council questioned drainage, clubhouse access and how to retain Woodlands’ loyal golfers; the consultant recommended targeted redesigns (relocating holes away from the lowest soils, modern drainage, and new practice facilities) and increased operational investment if the city elects to rebuild.