Purchase of Pro Shop inventory, associated items approved
The City Council heard a report on the strategic direction of Adams Municipal Golf Course from consultant JJ Keegan during Monday night’s meeting.
At its July 1 meeting, the council had approved an agreement with JJ Keegan to complete a comprehensive review of Adams Municipal Golf Course following the retirement of former Golf Professional Jerry Benedict, who acted as golf course director for 38 years. As a result of Benedict’s retirement in August, the City resumed operational management of the course. The findings were completed in September, and a draft report was presented to the steering committee on Sept. 18.
According to JJ Keegan, “in assuming operational responsibility for the Adams Municipal Golf Course, the City could implement a series of changes that will significantly enhance the value the golfer receives and dramatically improve the operational efficiency by adopting the policies and procedures highlighted (in the report).”
Some of the recommendations made include:
- The City should self-manage the golf course instead of retaining a private firm or leasing the facility.
- The City should anticipate continuing to fund capital improvements via the General Fund based on the issuance of voter-approved bonds.
- The USGA or the Oklahoma State University Turf Management should be retained to assist with the identification of trees for removal to ensure adequate sunlight on the green surfaces being renovated.
- A PGA Professional with a business degree preferred should be retained by Jan. 1, 2025, to ensure a smooth transition upon completion of the upcoming greens rebuilt project, which will close the course beginning Nov. 1 through mid-2025.
- The current rates should remain in place until the course reopens following the renovation.
- Season Pass sales should be suspended until the course reopens following the renovation.
- The Steering Committee will present to the City Council at the December meeting proposed rates based on recommendations submitted as part of the strategic plan acknowledging the current rate is far below market.
- The Steering Committee will review, with the guidance of the newly retained General Manager/Head Golf Professional, the continuing role of the Operations Committee that should remain inactive during the renovation.
- The options for food service, including the acquisition of a food truck, will be examined.
- The golf course should be updated and rebranded with a new logo upon the course reopening.
In a separate agenda item presented on Monday, the council also voted to approve the purchase of Pro Shop inventory, golf carts and other items used at the golf course previously owned by Benedict for a total of $149,531.