Can public golf survive in this economy?

Question

Municipal golf courses are set to take the brunt of budget cutbacks. Furthermore, many munis have their superintendents and crews as muni employees, raking in high wages and benefits. Can quality public golf exist in this economic time?

Answer 1

Sure not in Michigan. I was trying to get a summer job at a course for minimum wage, and my dad told me that, because of the slow start, I'd be doing it for no pay.

Answer 2

Golf courses will do just fine, unless they are mismanaged. People still want to get out and hit the links to unwind and relax. I don't see the courses in my neighborhood easing up on play. They are just as crowded as ever.

Answer 3

I recently read an article that indicated during the first part of an economic slowdown, many non-resort golf courses actually see an increase in business.

This was attributed to individuals who still need to relax, but can no longer afford to go away from home on vacation. Local golf courses provide a quick and affordable escape.

Once the slowdown deepens or moves into recession, many begin to trim such leisure activities. At that point, public golf courses may feel the effects.

Answer 4

Why can't public courses survive ? What factors in this economy are depriving public courses, most of which are self sustaining ,the funds required to operate. Several municipalities have turned over the course operations to companies which  manage golf courses. In most instances when this has occurred, the muni course has been improved condition wise, with fewer employees, less interference from those who know little or nothing about operations, resulting with more money in the town or city's till.

Answer 5

i got a membership for 500 dollar this year and there was about 30 people playing today a golf course 10 miles south of columbus.ohio

Answer 6

It would seem that they should be struggling, but in my region (Chicago) they don't seem to be yet.  They are still busy, although they are doing promotions to keep volume up like discounts during slow periods of the day, and coupons for 2 for 1 or free cart etc.