The city of Wichita has started discussions with a private group about taking over day-to-day operations, maintenance and financial management services for the city’s golf courses.
The city is talking with First Tee Greater Wichita about creating a sustainable, high-quality municipal golf system for the long-term benefit of Wichita residents, while removing financial responsibility and risk from the city.
The city has struggled with the finances of Golf Wichita for several years. The initial discussions are focusing on having the city retain ownership of the four golf courses, and they would be leased to First Tee. It would then be up to First Tee to develop a plan to generate funding to improve the courses and develop strategies to expand youth golf participation.
The golf courses have a total of 21 employees, and they would be interviewed for re-hire by First Tee.
The city council and the city park board will provide oversight of the business relationship with First Tee and establish measurements for success and accountability.
The city announced a program in 2018 with First Tee to provide new facilities for young golfers at the McDonald Golf Course.
