Future of Tucson city golf still anyone's game
Reporter: Cory Marshall
TUCSON(KGUN9-TV) - Tucson's city-run golf courses are a way to play the green without spending a lot of green.
Jim Eggert first played Fred Enke when the course opened in 1983.
"I've been coming here ever since to the driving range and to play the course," Eggert said.
Eggert's weekly drive to the driving range could soon change -- pending course closure. City officials say the budget is in the bunker.
Right now, the city is hoping a management company will take over course maintenance and operation. Parks and Recreation reps tell 9OYS, if a management group can make the course profitable, the fairways can stay.
"If you get a management company in here that manages it right and takes good care of the course, I think more golfers would be willing to pay a little bit more," golfer Tom Bain said.
Tucson Deputy Parks Director for gold operations, Mike Hayes is still swinging. Tuesday, Hayes will hand over next year's budget to the Mayor and Council. The budget includes all five courses.
"We're actually projected to make money at Fred Enke this year. So, if you're projected to make money why would you let that go?" Hayes said.
"I would hasten to say that I don't think it would ever close as a golf course," Hayes continued.
City leaders say ultimately, they hope a management company will take over maintenance on all five city golf courses.
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