Alameda Golf Commission Meeting - May 22, 2025

This meeting of the Alameda Golf Commission featured extensive public comment from members of the Alameda Women's Golf Club and the Alameda Niners Golf Club, who expressed frustration and concern over the cancellation of their scheduled tee times by the course operator, Greenway Golf. Commissioners and Mayor Ashcraft listened, expressed support, and pledged to seek resolutions.

Consent Calendar

• The minutes from the March 2025 meeting were approved unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Diane Hughes (Captain, Alameda Women's Golf Club): Described the club's 96-year history, 106 members, and the social and health benefits. Reported that in mid-April, an NCGA tournament was booked over their usual Thursday tee times without notice, and that seven Thursday dates so far in 2025 had been lost to events. She stated the club feels unwelcome and asked for stability.
• Peggy Marcinero (President, Alameda Niners Golf Club): Stated that nine of their previously scheduled Monday play dates (23% of the year) were canceled by Greenway, with no alternative options offered. She noted that when playing at other courses, participation drops 30%. She reported that prior to Greenway's management, the Niners had never been bumped in 53 years.
• Jan Payrow (90-year-old member): Shared her personal story of moving to Alameda because of the golf course and the community. Stressed the importance of golf for physical and mental health.
• Pam Curtis (Member of both clubs and Junior Golf): Thanked Greenway for allowing a shotgun start for the annual invitational, but expressed overall lack of support. Noted the club's upcoming centennial and the volunteer-run junior golf program serving thousands.
• Emily Gorin (online, AWGC member): Expressed concern that Greenway is unresponsive to the local golf community. Described the club as a “public health asset” and a reliable revenue stream. Asked for protective language in future lease contracts.
• Cindy Withrow (20-year member, AWGC board): Stated that members feel disrespected and dismissed. Questioned why Greenway cancels club play when the North Course is available, and noted the club's charitable contributions (e.g., Alameda Food Bank).
• Mary Jo Knight (10-year member): Emphasized the social welfare network provided by the club, noting that many members are afraid to speak publicly due to potential retribution. She highlighted the club's tax contributions and charitable giving.
• Jane Solwald (former Golf Commission member, 23-year club member): Described moving to Alameda because of the golf course. Recalled being impressed by Greenway's promises to support service clubs during the operator selection process, and was shocked by the recent cancellations.
• Audio Lee (former public official): Stated that the city's role is to serve the community, not maximize profit. Argued that Greenway's treatment of service clubs may violate the lease's non-discrimination clause, and urged the commission to act as guardians of the public asset.
• Claire Lau: Mentioned that the women's club was promised 1,600 tee times per year (for 18-hole group) and 1,600 for the 9-hole group, and that the men's clubs also had access to 3,200 tee times. She called for continued access to the park.

Discussion Items

• Commissioner Tong: Expressed appreciation for the public comments, stated a desire for regular feedback from the golfing community, and acknowledged the need to work within the commission's mission.
• Commissioner Boris: Welcomed the speakers, noted their perspectives are valuable, and assured that the commission is listening actively.
• Commissioner Allen (Ed Downey): In his final meeting, expressed gratitude for his time on the commission but regret that things could be better. He expressed hope that the operator would have a change of heart.
• Commissioner Sarant: As a new commissioner, resonated with the speakers' frustrations and expressed interest in understanding how the commission can move forward with the operator.
• Mayor Ashcraft: Thanked the speakers and stated that the issue “troubles” her. Noted ongoing litigation but promised to explore back-channel solutions. She also highlighted the importance of community and health.
• Director Wong (Recreation and Parks): Provided a department update on upcoming events (Alameda Walks, sand castle contest, July 4th parade, etc.). Reported that the 11th annual Play for the Parks golf tournament had nearly 140 participants. Regarding golf, he stated that the proposed North Course resident rates are still under negotiation with city management, and that the temporary implementation approved in March continues until a resolution is reached. He clarified that the 1,600 tee times per club mentioned by speakers is not in the lease agreement.

Key Outcomes

• The minutes from the March meeting were approved.
• No formal votes were taken on the public comment issues.
• Mayor Ashcraft committed to looking into the cancellation issue and working through city staff.
• The temporary implementation of the proposed North Course resident rates remains in effect pending a final resolution.
• The next regular Golf Commission meeting is scheduled for July 8, 2025, at 6:30 PM at City Hall.