HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-10-21 Golf Baord Minutes a . •
CITY OF CALDWELL APPROVEL
Caldwell Golf Board—Meeting Minut:. - . ... fr.
Wednesday, October 21St, 202 re ate I loal
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8:00 AM
Zach Wagoner,chairman,called the meeting to order.
Members Present:
Zach Wagoner,Chairman
Shirley Akagi,Vice Chairman
Doreen Burnham
John McGee,City Council Representative
Jeanne Cridebring,Women's Representative
Sue Kushlan
Chuck Bosen,Secretary
Staff Present:
Brett Williams,Purple Sage Golf Course Professional
Ken Wheeler,Course Superintendent
Carol.Mitchell, Finance Director City of Caldwell
Members Unable to Attend:
George Scott,Men's Representative
Pete Burton, PGA Associate Director of Instruction
Pam Wagoner,Jr. Golf Representative
Review of Minutes from June 17,2020 Meeting:
The board reviewed the minutes from the June meeting. Jeanne Cridebring moved to accept the minutes
with one minor clarification from Brett William's report. Shirley Akagi seconded the motion. The
motion carried.
Old Business:
New Business:
Staff/Representative Reports:
Golf Professional Brett Williams reported that revenue for the year is up approximately 20%year over year.
There are still some pending expenditures and playing time for this season,but this is terrific news especially
in light that the course was closed down to play for approximately 3 weeks early in the season related to the
pandemic. There were some increased costs associated with the pandemic related to increased cleaning and
sanitizing protocols,but overall,a positive year. Brett also reported that Vera,who works in the snack bar
area,will be out for the rest of the year due to an unfortunate accident. The staff will be donating tips
received to her to off-set expenses she may incur. The revenue increases for the year were evident across all
areas including green fees,pro shop sales,driving range and snack bar. With the improved revenue,the golf
courses are hoping to be near the`break-even'mark on the bottom line for the first time in many years. Brett
noted a common thcme throughout the season—fantastic course conditions. Nearly every day and after
every event there ware continuous compliments for the quality of the playing conditions and genuine support
from the staff. Brett further reported that with Roger Garner's retirement,he would be providing some
coverage at Fairview and working to hire some part-time help to ensure ongoing coverage. He also expects to
have some juniors employed to clean carts in the evenings. In addition,Brett reported the addition of a repair
center at Fairview. This will provide full-service for grips, shafts and clubs. With the both courses under city
operations,the ability to combine services to realize increased savings is expected.
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Superintendent: Ken Wheeler reported that the water well project at Fairview is coming along very slowly.
Hoping to wrap up soon. Will include landscaping around the pump house. As the season winds down,
expecting to punch fairways soon. With the lack of precipitation,the fairways will need to soften up some
before this can be done effectively. Ken further reported that Purple Sage is hoping to have cart paths done
on another 2-3 holes next year. This work is being done by the street department and so will happen as time
and availability allow. This has been a very positive and much appreciated message to the Caldwell Golf
Community. Again, the board would like to recognize Ken and his crew for the exceptional work in taking
care of the courses. The praise has been frequent and consistently positive from the patrons at both courses.
Report on Women's Association: Jeanne Cridebring, the Women's Representative reported that there is a
need to do some additional work in the Rose Garden at Fairview. Some clean-up work has been done,but
there has not been time or resources to do much beyond that. Jeanne further reported that more players
participated in the 2-Lady Best Ball tournament this year. The Lady's travel team from Purple Sage had
another terrific showing this season - Congratulations ladies!! Jeanne reported that the players from other
courses were very complimentary to the Professional Staff for accommodating them and ensuring an
excellent experience. Thank you Brett, Ken and team. Finally, Jeanne reported that CLGA will continue the
tradition of doing service. This year they anticipate helping with Meals on Wheels. This will be the third year
in a row. The demaad is higher than ever this year due to the pandemic. They plan to put together gift bags
with the essentials aid will gladly accept donations.
Report on Men's Association: No report at this meeting.
City of Caldwell Report: Carol Mitchell provided an overview of activity from City Hall. The dates for next year's
Golf Board Meetings will be determined and communicated to Susan at the city by Zach Wagoner. Carol also
reported that they are seeking a grant to employ some displaced employees to provide some deep cleaning on a
regular basis—perhaps every six months. Carol also announced that they anticipate hiring an assistant
superintendent to work with Ken. The position has been posted and an update will be provided at the next
meeting. It is anticipated that the assistant superintendent would be stationed at Purple Sage while Monte
continues to lead the team at Fairview. Carol noted that the financial status at the September year end was
trending positive. The city had approved the purchase of two new mowers(including a greens mower)and a
range picker/cart. It is anticipated that the snack bar would continue with a limited menu approach for now.
At this point of the meeting,the board discussed some upcoming changes. The primary discussion was related to
cart storage at Fairview. Carol and Ken noted that the recreation office near Fairview was undergoing a major
renovation that necessitated relocation of the maintenance equipment that is stored there. The most logical
option was to utilize current space at Fairview that has been private cart storage. A letter was sent to current
occupants to notify them of the necessary change and notice to vacate the area by December. There are
currently 26 members that store their carts at this location. Most are long-time members of the Caldwell golf
community and have contributed much to golf in the city. The concerns were recognized and will be addressed.
Shirley will continue`.o seek input from current members while Carol will consider options and present them to
the City Council. Some options that will be considered include additional cart storage to be built,option to
expand the building to accommodate private cart storage, building codes, improved communication,the option
for additional city owned carts for rental to generate revenue,usage of the small driving range,etc. The board
acknowledges the significant contribution of the Akagi's and the other 25 members that currently store a cart
there.
Junior Golf Report: No report.
Adjournment:
Jeanne Cridebring moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:00 AM,Sue Kushlan seconded the motion,motion
carried. The meeting was adjourned. Next meeting will be Wednesday, February 17`x',2021 at 8:00 AM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Chuck Bosen
October 2020