Guilford Lakes Golf Course Money Woes Has Officials Worried

GUILFORD, CT - It's been no secret over the years that while many enjoy playing the links at Guilford Lakes Golf Course that it hasn't been a money maker for the town.

The town has tried several things to shore up finances at the course, including hiring a golf pro, holding tournaments, increasing social media presence, and more, but still the issue of whether or not the course is doing well enough financially remains.

It is so much of a concern that town officials recently called a special meeting to discuss the golf course's future.

First Selectman Matt Hoey said he called the meeting "because of some financial concerns the Board of Selectmen has raised regarding the course."

Both Hoey and Selectwoman Sandra Ruoff noted hat neither expect the golf course to make money or even have the revenues equal the expenses, however, the increasing losses are concerning.

Those who attended the meeting said part of the problem is that golf is a sport that is weather dependent.

Economic Development Coordinator Brian McGlone said that he was a member of Clinton Country Club and that Clinton, too, has had a difficult time recently due to the impact weather has had on the golfing season.

Another issue brought up at the meeting, by Golf Commission Member Chris Hodgson, is that the number of golfers in general is declining.

One of the suggestions was to scale-back on the course, perhaps making it a more simpler, 9-hole layout.

There were other suggestions to "think outside the box," and increase the revenue stream by bringing in more popular versions of golf with younger people - such as disc and soccer golf.

One other option was suggested as a possibility to boost revenue at the golf course - opening it up to serving alcohol.

It was decided that more discussion and options needed to be explored and the group said it would get together in July to continue the discussion.