When it comes to deferred capital investment, the past inevitably catches up with municipal golf operations. To quote an ancient television commercial: You can pay me now, or you can pay me later.
This is where the city of Minneapolis, Minnesota currently finds itself, as its six golf properties require an estimated $34 million in improvements to remain competitive in their markets. Jim Keegan of Golf Convergence, who was hired to analyze the collection, has advised the city to close one of the deteriorating properties and spiff up the others, but where is the money supposed to come from?
Although a master plan for renovations is currently being developed, the city may be forced to seek help from the private sector.