The Gazette Opinion Staff wrote a new blog post: Public golf course must adapt

The Gazette Editorial Board

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Cedar Rapids has four public golf courses. They?re intended to be self-supporting but taxpayers have covered $1.4 million in collective losses since 2010. There?s been no cash reserve for the operations since fiscal 2008.

Fewer golfers, reflecting a national trend, and fewer paid rounds played because of more frequent flooding are getting the blame. The Great Recession undoubtedly had reduced the number of active golfers, too.

If these trends continue here, or in other area communities, should city leaders consider selling one or more of the courses to private contractors to develop for other purposes?

Go slowly on that idea.

Municipal golf courses are an asset to the community, similar to swimming pools, parks and libraries, albeit

golf is a more expensive activity.

Public assets generally are not expected to be profitable. Taxpayers are asked to support them at reasonable levels because they are good for the overall quality of life.

And once a golf course is sold, it?s likely not going to be a golf course anymore.

That?s not to say the amount of tax subsidy should have no limit.

At some point, changes may be needed ? such as the one proposed for Cedar Rapids? Jones Park course.

The proposal would return the 18-hole layout to a nine-hole course, with four of the other holes used for an instruction center and a driving range located on much of the flood-prone back nine?s remainder.

Officials say it would reduce repair costs from frequent flooding and keep the front nine operating all season during most years.

It makes sense.

And if golf operations citywide continue to see deeper deficits, with fewer golfers on the courses, then other changes should be considered.

Options might include converting a course into a low-maintenance park or even privatizing the golf operations, which Des Moines appears to have done successfully with its three municipal courses.

But don?t rush to sell this public asset.

The regret a few years hence could be painful.

l Comments: editorial@thegazette.com or (319) 398-8262

Source: http://thegazette.com/2013/07/24/public-golf-course-must-adapt/

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