Residents split over proposed Farm Street par‑3 course; many ask for feasibility study and broader input

A stream of citizen comments at the Sept. 30 Bastrop City Council meeting focused on a proposed 9‑hole par‑3 golf course on 14+ acres off Farm Street, with speakers offering sharply different views on priorities for the parkland.

Gwyneth Howard, a Bastrop High School sophomore and varsity golfer, told council she supports a closer course for students: "As of now, we have to leave school early via bus for a 30 minute plus commute to Cola Vista Golf Course." She said a nearby par‑3 would reduce travel time, increase practice opportunities and open scholarship paths for youth.

Small‑business owner Samuel (Sammie) Mubasher, Rick Rivera and other supporters framed the course as affordable, family‑friendly recreation and a local attraction. In contrast, Andrea Hashkey raised budget and process concerns after finding what she described as an $800,000 line in the draft budget, and urged the council to rename the project “Farm Street Park,” conduct a feasibility study comparing multiple uses and solicit transparent public input. "Public input has been bypassed," Hashkey said, asking the council to publish a timeline and comparative cost data before committing land and funds.

City staff told council the budget line for the par‑3 had been adjusted in staff materials to $550,000 with $50,000 set aside for a feasibility study; councilors and the city manager agreed additional public engagement and clear feasibility comparisons would help guide any final decision on park use.