0:02The committee noted an increase in revenue, with actual earnings for November reaching $128,827 against a forecast of $106,180. This uptick was partly attributed to a surge in season pass sales, which soared to $39,000 from November to December, a substantial leap from the previous year’s combined total of $42,000 for October and November. The committee addressed the importance of informing potential buyers about the availability of season passes exclusively at the pro shop, not at Town Hall, and discussed the need to adjust passholder rates, which had remained unchanged despite inflation.

As part of the budget review, the committee discussed discrepancies in salary, benefits, maintenance, and insurance figures, which required adjustments to align with requests from the Board of Selectmen. Attention was drawn to the impact of inflation on pro shop supplies, especially items like balls, gloves, and hats, which are important for impulse sales. Credit card fees, amounting to $29,000 so far, also prompted discussions about potential budget overages. Despite concerns about specific budget line items, the committee remained confident in meeting fiscal year-end needs, with plans to allocate unspent funds toward projects such as sprayer and bunker renovations, estimated at $37,000.

16:44The committee also focused on proposed rate increases for the golf course. A $5 increase across most rates and a $4 increase for Twilight rates were suggested to prevent Twilight players from opting for season passes. The outing rate was identified as lower than competitors, prompting a proposal to align pricing with market conditions. This adjustment could potentially raise revenue by $188,000, though thorough analysis of weekday and weekend rates was advised before finalizing any decisions. The committee unanimously approved a motion to present the proposed rate increases to the town select board for further consideration.

1:00:41Renovation plans for several bunkers, specifically on holes six, seven, and ten, were a significant topic of discussion. The proposed budget for these renovations was approximately $137,000. The committee expressed a preference to start with the tenth hole, given its complexity, followed by the seventh and sixth holes. This systematic approach aimed to minimize disruption to play. The design changes, particularly on the tenth hole, involved widening the approach and adjusting existing bunkers. Challenges posed by tree roots, especially on the seventh hole, necessitated additional excavation work.

33:33Maintenance updates were another focal point, with the committee addressing ongoing landscaping efforts, equipment cleaning, and tree management. Notably, the acquisition of a hot water pressure washer enabled thorough cleaning of golf course equipment, excluding two sprayers due to cold weather. Vegetation overgrowth along entryway roads was addressed to improve visibility, and plans were made to install a circular highway mirror near a guard rail. Additionally, various landscaping tasks, including bench repairs and brush cutting, were underway in preparation for the upcoming season.

46:59Tree management on the course, particularly around the 10th green, was discussed, with approximately a dozen trees identified as affecting sunlight exposure and delaying play on frosty days. The committee expressed a desire for more input on tree removal decisions, considering the limited machinery available for such tasks. A previous proposal to offer hardwood from tree removals to town residents at no cost was revisited, emphasizing community involvement.

1:14:50The committee also discussed operational changes, such as a new invoice approval process to streamline operations, and addressed scheduling issues for maintenance Mondays. Aeration dates were confirmed, with plans to align these activities to minimize disruptions. Updates were provided on the architectural plans for a new clubhouse, which had faced delays due to a cyber incident. The retirement of two long-standing committee members, Ed and Manny, was acknowledged, recognizing their decades of service.