TO: Mayor Richard C. Irvin
FROM: Jeff Schmidt, Golf Operations Manager
DATE: March 3, 2022
SUBJECT:
Resolution Establishing 2022 Golf Rates at Phillips Park Golf Course
PURPOSE:
To obtain City Council approval of requested resolution. Phillips Park Golf Course under the operation of the Public Works Department seeks authorization for the 2022 golf rates and fees for the operation of the municipal golf course.
BACKGROUND:
Attached are the proposed golf rates for the 2022 golf season. The City of Aurora has only made adjustments to the PPGC golf rates 2 times in the last 12 golf seasons, in 2016 and 2010. Historically the City has provided the most competitive golf rates in the Fox River Valley and has been sensitive to current golf and economic conditions.
Golf is a recreational and wellness activity not only for the citizens of Aurora, but also to those individuals in our surrounding communities. These rate adjustments are not meant to be reactionary to the current golf industry conditions, but simply to begin better positioning ourselves with our competitors. Phillips Park GC has established a reputation of being able to offer competitive golf rates, to be inviting for all golfer skill levels and genders, and to provide great turf conditions, exceptional customer service and a good pace of play.
The golf course has been able to operate within its budgeting constraints over the years, but unfortunately costs continue to increase. The proposed rate adjustments will allow for continued to investments in course amenities and services. Recent examples of these amenities and services include GPS golf carts, (2) indoor golf SIMS, and driving range enhancements.
As we begin to develop our 10-year Master Plan we need to begin looking to the future of Phillips Park Golf Course and positioning it appropriately as a destination golf course.
DISCUSSION:
When we compare our proposed rates against our nearby competitors, we still are the overall low price leader. Although historically we have been able to maintain a well-conditioned golf course, operating costs have continued to increase over the years and continued inaction likely will result in the overall golf value to suffer. The resolution still allows the flexibility of the Golf Operations Manager to offer course specials to compete with the local golf market.
An overview of the proposed changes:
- Golf greens fee rates were adjusted $1 - $2 with only one rate being adjusted $3
- Golf cart fees were adjusted $1 for 9- holes $2 for 18 - holes per rider
- Annual Card Membership purchase was held with no recommended increase. Annual Card Members save an average of 18% on daily greens fees
- Junior / Senior Season Pass recommended a purchase price of a 15% increase and a $1 increase in course usage fee
- Driving range fees increase $1 per bucket
- Promotional items priced according to market (cart pass and range card)
IMPACT STATEMENT:
By not approving the 2022 proposed rates, more than likely it will negatively impact the overall golf experience that our golfers have come to expect.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
That the City Council adopts the resolution establishing 2022 golf rates at Phillips Park Golf Course.
cc: Finance Committee
CITY OF AURORA, ILLINOIS
RESOLUTION NO. _________
DATE OF PASSAGE ________________
title
A Resolution Establishing 2022 Golf Rates at Phillips Park Golf Course
body
WHEREAS, the City of Aurora has a population of more than 25,000 persons and is, therefore, a home rule unit under subsection (a) of Section 6 of Article VII of the Illinois Constitution of 1970; and
WHEREAS, subject to said Section, a home rule unit may exercise any power and perform any function pertaining to its government and affairs for the protection of the public health, safety, morals, and welfare; and
WHEREAS, City staff has reviewed a number of changes in golf rates for the City of Aurora owned Phillips Park Golf Course for 2022, a copy of which is attached hereto; and
WHEREAS, The Golf Operations Manager and the Director of Public Works seek authorization to adjust rates for course specials offering competitive fees with area courses and adjust with market conditions through the various seasons and conditions
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Aurora, Illinois, as follows: Authorizes the resolution to establish the 2022 Golf Rates as set forth in the attached exhibit and authorize the Golf Operations Manager and Director of Public Works to adjust rates to remain competitive with area courses and adjust for market conditions as necessary.