Residents and golf manager spar over proposed 2026 golf passes; council asks advisory board for more review

Councilors heard an online statement from Liz Woods and a presentation from Jim Pratt, general manager of the Aspen Golf Club, about proposed 2026 pass changes included in the City's 2026 fee ordinance (Ordinance 11). Woods said the changes would "create significant barriers for many residents," urged a two‑tier structure and asked the council to retain walking and mid‑tier options for twilight and moderate users. "The Aspen Golf Club is a public resource that supports community connection, health, and inclusion," she said.

Jim Pratt described operational reasons for bundling carts and range balls into passes, citing survey results indicating the majority of pass holders ride and use range balls, and explained that the golf fund is an enterprise fund with caps on passes to protect tee‑time availability. He said the city's local rate provides discounts ("if somebody comes to the golf course and shows a local ID...we basically give them 50% off their greens fee") and noted the 10‑punch pass being removed and senior and local rates currently priced at $125 (local) and $105 (senior, 62+). Council asked for a formal endorsement or memo from the golf advisory board and directed staff to take proposed solutions back to that advisory body before second reading and public hearing.

Council members agreed that further detail on golf revenues, pass caps and advisory‑board recommendations are needed; a golf advisory board meeting was scheduled for the next morning to gather additional input before the ordinance returns for final consideration.