By Susan Gonsalves, Contributing Writer
Photo/submitted
SOUTHBOROUGH – The Southborough Golf Club is experiencing record activity and financial performance, according to Selectman Sam Stivers.
But there are still some concerns—including a need for better fencing for the safety of pedestrians.
Stivers spoke to Selectmen on Oct. 19 about some of the matters discussed by the Golf Course Committee at its latest meeting.
He said that, before the town acquired the course, they were doing between 12,000 and 14,000 rounds there. However, recent numbers from 2021 show that total increasing to between 19,000 and 20,000 rounds.
Noting that a resident was injured by a stray ball, though, Stivers said they are looking to add fencing on Latisquama Road. In addition, signs will be placed warning pedestrians to be on alert for golf balls when players are present.
An existing fence is between 10 and 12 feet high. But it has gaps in three spots, including at Latisquama.
Town Administrator Mark Purple noted there is a revolving fund that holds money raised by the course that must be spent only on its needs. He said the balance in that fund is approximately $40,000.
In addition to fencing, the town is also looking to examine irrigation options for fairways and greens. It’s exploring options to pave the parking lot and driveway and considering making upgrades to food and beverage offerings at the clubhouse, Stivers said.
Stivers added that a consultant previously said the course should be able to support at least 25,000 rounds per year without getting too crowded. The Golf Course Committee expressed interest in having additional marketing activities to increase volume in the future.
In response to a question, Purple said the golf club has been licensed to serve beer and wine for several years. Sandwiches are also available, although “they don’t push it.”
“All in all, it seems like they are on a great track and the COVID pandemic actually helped volume there, which is good news in a perverse kind of way,” Stivers said. “We hope that trend in volume continues.”
