Fellow Hillcrest golfers: For several months, I have been begging the Hillcrest board to poll the membership about the adopted master plan. Now, I understand via the plan’s narrative why they were unwilling. The plan will cost $3 million to $5 million and will be funded by increasing the membership fee to 40 times a daily green fee. It will be $1,600. Soon, all deals – family, juniors, students and coupon books – will be based on the $1,600 membership fee. It is treasonous; it’s a violation of trust at its most basic level. The board you elected is now dissolving you.
Consider this: Hillcrest made a substantial profit in 2012 and 2013 when membership fees were $450. The hired architect rated Hillcrest with mostly B grades in his initial evaluation. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. If the board will not slow down and poll the membership with all the information available, it’s time for a new board. As retirees, my buddies and I love this course for its affordability, challenge and outstanding maintenance. It has become part of our time-filling exercise regime.
If this were about cost vs. expense, members should jump on board, but it’s not: It’s about manufacturing a new course to supposedly compete regionally. The good news is, despite our trust and naiveté, it is not too late to stop the implementation. We have spent $20,500 and committed $4,500 more, but it is time to rise up and say “no” to this impeding destruction. Presently, members have a say in Hillcrest’s future. It will not last. Our ranks have been and will continue to be decimated by the membership fees. Soon, if there are any members left, it will be an elitist group of people who are willing to plunk down $1,600 that can vote and hold position on the board. Remember, this is city property with free city water. Important meeting dates: 6:30 p.m. April 4 with the architect and a board meeting at 7 p.m. April 8 at the clubhouse. Poll the membership!
Ron Pond
Durango
