The Yarmouth Golf Enterprise Committee moved to solidify the town's 2026 financial and infrastructure roadmap this week, centering discussions on a 5% cap for resident fee increases and an ambitious plan to transform the Bass River cart barn into a dual-purpose function facility. Director of Golf Scott presented the initial fee projections, emphasizing the constraints of the town’s current pricing structure. This was our first run at potential 2026 fees, Scott explained to the committee. We have a 5% cap on resident fees. I can’t go up 5% and then round it down; I have zero control over that. Either you go up the full 5% or you don’t. For non-residents, we can go to the Selectmen to increase it more.

The committee debated the nuances of age-based categories, specifically the Under 35 bracket which currently serves as a bridge for younger players. Secretary Jerry Niedermeier questioned the strategy behind the age thresholds, asking, What was your thinking in coming up with these numbers, Scott? Scott noted that while he has increased senior rates by more than 3% recently, the Under 35 category remains slightly above that mark. Niedermeier pointed out that Yarmouth’s threshold is high compared to neighboring courses that drop the junior-adult rate at 25 or 29. However, Chair Ellen Chapman noted the success of the current model, stating, We’re getting the members, though. Member Doreen Levitan added historical context to the debate, noting that the 'Under 35' was created when golf was on the decline to try to give the next generation a reason to play at an affordable rate. Staff member Dennis cautioned against lowering the age limit too aggressively, warning that people between 30 and 35 might go back to the towns they live in if we do that. You could have a big hit. People look for the best deal.

In addition to fee structures, the committee pivoted toward significant capital improvements at Bass River. Scott reported that Town Administrator Robert Whritenour is 100% on board with a renovated cart barn and the addition of a new function facility. By choosing to renovate rather than build new, the town expects an easier bidding process and lower immediate costs. Scott noted he was able to lower the initial funding request by $100,000 by opting to paint the existing structure for aesthetic improvements while focusing resources on the new function space. We are going to proceed with PAR for the study, Scott said, referring to the architectural firm. The Chamber of Commerce said there is no place like this in the immediate area to hold things. We can utilize it for tournaments, weddings, or Chamber events. We collect a fee, and the restaurant is happy. It’s a building for the town. Levitan recalled previous iterations of such plans, asking if the new proposal mirrored past efforts, to which Scott replied that the current location is the only viable spot identified for such a home run project.

The meeting also marked a transition in committee leadership and membership. New members Frank Zappulla and Barbara Lavoine were introduced, with Lavoine stepping in to fill the remainder of a term vacated by a previous member. Nice to meet you. You will be voted up tomorrow night by the Board of Selectmen to be a member of the GEC, Chair Chapman told the new arrivals. Zappulla expressed his enthusiasm for joining the board, stating, Thank you. Sorry I didn’t meet you, Scott. Nice to meet you, Director. Vice Chair Ted Deckel welcomed the new members while sharing a recent personal success, noting he had recently won and donated a golf foursome through a local fundraiser.

A poignant discussion regarding the committee’s refund policy arose following a request from a long-time member suffering from a declining heart condition. The member had played two nine-hole rounds outside the standard 30-day refund window but provided medical documentation of his inability to continue. The problem is our procedure says it must be within 30 days from the time you purchase your pass, Levitan noted. While Member Dick Donovan initially leaned toward a denial because the member had played some holes in June and July, Secretary Niedermeier argued for flexibility. I’m leaning a little bit more towards mercy because he wasn’t aware of his inability to play. It’s not like a broken leg; it’s a heart issue, Niedermeier said. Donovan ultimately agreed, citing extenuating circumstances and the need to apply rules on a case-by-case basis. Motion Made by D. Donovan to honor the refund request on a pro-rated basis due to medical circumstances. Motion Passed 6-0.

This case prompted a broader review of the golf courses' refund policies and general rules. The committee is considering removing the 30-day limit entirely, instead basing eligibility on whether a member has played fewer than five rounds. Director Scott also proposed a new rule to maintain course conditions and safety: I also added a guideline that we do not allow walking of dogs or animals of any kind on the course. The committee also moved forward with a plan to honor community members through a new memorial clock project. The $30,000 clock will be funded through donations, potentially allowing residents to purchase plaques in memory of loved ones. Motion Made by D. Levitan to approve the concept of a memorial clock for donations. Motion Passed 6-0.

Long-term planning for the Bass River course layout was also addressed, with staff member Ian presenting plans for the renovation of holes 5, 6, and 7 to address safety concerns regarding the nearby road. The plan involves removing trees to push play away from traffic and introducing sandy fescue areas for aesthetics. The yellow shaded areas are possibly more sandy fescue areas. We want to give Tim a direction to go, Ian said. Donovan expressed support for the look of the tall grass, though he joked, I like the fescue, I just don’t like being in it. It’s actually in places where you’re not supposed to be anyway. Scott noted the changes align with the broader master plan, adding that hole 5 and 6 are being changed because of safety and the road.

Finally, the committee addressed growing frustrations from year-round members regarding weekend tee time availability. Chair Chapman reported hearing from members who feel squeezed out by tournament blocks. Members get up and can’t get a time because a tournament is taking up time, Chapman said. Do we say we could do more for members? We have money in the coffers; we don’t have to get every dime from tournaments. Scott agreed, suggesting that major tournaments should shift to weekdays to protect weekend access for local players. Tournaments should not be on weekends, Scott said. We’ll get you data for the tournaments and leagues. A member-guest tournament needs to be something special, not just on a Saturday.