HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Meeting - Council Workshop - Minutes - 10/07/1997 Kent, Washington
October 7, 1997
A workshop on the Riverbend Golf Course Management Proposals was
called to order at 5:40 p.m. by Council President Houser.
Councilmembers present: Bennett, Clark, Epperly, Houser,
Johnson, Orr and Woods.
Parks Director Hodgson explained that the contract for the
management of the Riverbend Golf Course expires at the end of the
year, and that it began in 1993 . He stated that many changes
have occurred since then at the golf course and in the golf
industry. He noted that the number of rounds of golf has gone
down and that less revenue has been generated, and said that the
City wishes to present an opportunity for contractors, including
the current contractor, to give a proposal and recommendation as
to what the golf course can do in terms of revenue and use in the
next five years. He noted that two companies, SSMD Enterprises
and Golf Resources Northwest (GRI) , will make presentations.
Doug McArthur of GRI explained why they should be selected,
noting their experience, commitment to customer service,
integrity and performance. He named some of their other clients,
and introduced the members of the GRI team. They discussed
revenues, marketing, capital improvements, management,
inventories, and merchandising. McArthur said Riverbend has
unlimited potential and that they would be honored be take it
into the next century.
John Duncalf spoke as a satisfied customer of the Riverbend Golf
Complex, citing SSMD's experience, staff, ability to meet
financial obligations without subsidies, and merchandising
proposal with the Nevada Bob's franchise. He then introduced the
Riverbend team. Victor Sia, owner of a Nevada Bob's store, said
they would provide high quality products and services at
competitive prices. Brett Wilkinson, Head Golf Pro, explained
the programs at Riverbend and said that SSMD is very innovative.
Jim Stone of SSMD then explained how they can meet financial
obligations, discussed capital improvements, and said they are
ready and able to continue what they have started at Riverbend.
The Parks Director and both companies then answered questions
from Councilmembers on issues including tournament revenue,
unrestricted play, the phone system, golf course maintenance, the
State Auditor's report, merchandise sales, lesson fees, and hours
of operation.
The meeting adjourned at 6: 53 p.m.
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Brenda Jaco CMC
City Clerkl