One of the most discussions of the meeting revolved around proposals to enhance the clubhouse atmosphere to attract more visitors and members. Ideas included incorporating live music, pizza, beer, and retro games such as Ms. Pac-Man. A board member humorously suggested the potential for forming a band to perform at the clubhouse, believing this could encourage visitors to stay longer and return more frequently.

The conversation also included plans to clean up the deck area to make it more inviting. Enhancing marketing strategies was another focal point, with one board member acknowledging the board’s shortcomings in promoting activities and engaging with social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. The idea of preparing a detailed report summarizing current marketing efforts, costs, and unimplemented proposals for the December meeting was proposed.

Further, the board discussed possible collaboration with the city council on marketing initiatives, particularly concerning a new liquor store. There was a suggestion to pool marketing efforts for various city enterprises, including the library, campground, marina, golf course, and liquor store. One board member proposed organizing a golf tournament to create synergy between the golf course and the liquor store, and the idea of using shrink wrap advertising on golf carts to increase visibility for local businesses was floated.

Another topic of interest was the condition and maintenance of the golf course. The golfing operations had performed well compared to the previous year, with August’s income slightly surpassing the record set last year. However, revenue for June was approximately 20% lower than expected due to poor weather conditions. Despite this, the operations were reportedly on track to make up for these losses, with estimates suggesting a potential increase of about $6,000 over the previous year.

Concerns were raised about the need for new golf carts, as the existing ones were aging and insufficient to meet demand. The golf operations had not purchased new carts in several years, and the cost of new carts had increased, which could lead to purchasing fewer units than previously planned. The discussion acknowledged the necessity of these investments to accommodate players and maintain the course’s appeal.

The board also touched on the golf course’s maintenance, noting that the course had been in great shape throughout the year and received positive feedback from patrons. However, the seasonal challenge of aerification was discussed, which is necessary to maintain healthy greens but can temporarily disrupt playability. The timing for aerification was projected for late September, with discussions about potentially keeping the course open into October, contingent on weather conditions.

The irrigation system was another point of concern, with a recent motor replacement beginning to fail. The board considered the necessity of further repairs or replacements, emphasizing the importance of maintaining operational efficiency and managing costs effectively.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the conclusion of the golf league’s activities, with championship rounds being played. A decline in player turnout was noted, attributed to the end of summer, but there was good support from out-of-town visitors, including many from Canada.

The meeting also included updates on the park’s financial performance. August concluded as the second busiest month for the park, with July being the peak. Revenue for August showed a modest increase of 1.8% compared to 2023, bringing the year-to-date revenue to a 1.3% increase over the previous year. However, there was a noted decline in occupancy, largely due to a 5% rate hike and severe weather conditions in June that resulted in numerous site closures and cancellations.

Preparations were underway for the upcoming “Radio Waves” event at Sweetheart’s Bluff, scheduled from Friday afternoon to Sunday afternoon. This event was anticipated to draw significant attendance, with a large tent already set up and local food vendors preparing for the influx of visitors.

The board also discussed the need to stripe the ball field parking lot to improve parking efficiency. Appreciation for the seasonal staff was expressed, with a picnic appreciation party planned for the 18th to recognize their hard work and dedication.

An update was given on the newly seated City Tree Board, formed to assist in a relief grant program aimed at tree inventory and forestry management planning. An open house event was scheduled for September 12 at the community center to raise public awareness about the tree survey, focusing on managing hazardous trees and assessing the health of the urban forest.

Lastly, the board touched on the ongoing operations of the park, with assurances that full-service camping would be available through October 20, and mentioned a pending art installation project, the Driftwood project, set to go before the City Council.