... what is the real issue in this controversy? ...
That's a good question. I spent an hour reading the materials they present, and I'm still not quite sure what the issues are. Much of the communications are unfocused, sometimes rambling and full of so many acronyms that make it difficult to understand. They would certainly benefit by a more clearly stated and concise presentation of the nature of their dispute.
As best I can tell, the main problems:
- Oppose the AGA as the manager for several reasons primarily the fact that golf course management is NOT the AGA's charter or normal business. They frequently point out the failure of the AGA's one previous attempt at golf course management.
- Funding - The AGA brings the least amount of upfront cash to the table.
- Concern about proposed higher green fees and possible change of culture from a municipal facility to an more upscale environment.
- Concern about reduced access by the Men's Club for events.
One often has to read between the lines to pick out the issues and seperate from the sometimes unprofessional acrimony that is prevelant.
There is one thing that interested me about the AGA proposal - Phase 2 plans include building a new structure that would house AGA offices...
That concerns me.
It is interesting to read the bid proposals. The AGA for sure offers the least detail.
Off topic to the "dispute," but of interest to GCA fans, the Bellows proposal details the changes that have been made to the course as observed by study of early 70's aerials.
Tom