The Lake Chelan Golf Course is currently evaluating its management options, with city employees presenting a business plan to continue city operations. The initiative follows a request for proposals (RFP) from private management companies, but city officials emphasize that no decision has been made to privatize the course or replace existing staff.
City Administrator Laura McAloon addressed public concerns, clarifying that the RFP process is meant to gather comparative information alongside the city team’s business plan. Recent discussions have indicated there is a growing need for financial sustainability at the course, which, despite record levels of play, is facing a significant revenue shortfall.
The National Golf Foundation has recommended investments of between $5.7 million and $7.3 million for improvements, particularly citing the aging irrigation system. To address financial challenges, city staff’s business plan focuses on optimizing pricing and operations rather than simply increasing golfer numbers. Ideas include changing annual pass options, expanding services, and leveraging new technologies to cut operational costs.
The proposals from private management companies will be reviewed at an upcoming council workshop on October 8, where they will be compared with the in-house plan. There has been no final decision on management changes, and the city hopes to adopt a more entrepreneurial approach to ensure the course remains a vital community asset.
