Alameda Golf Commission Meeting - July 15, 2026

The Alameda Golf Commission met on July 15, 2026, at 6:30 PM, with Chair Lynn Jones presiding. Commissioners Boris, Tom, and Jones were present. The meeting included public comment, approval of previous minutes, and a detailed update on the Greenway Golf settlement and facility reports.

Consent Calendar

• The minutes from the February 11, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Lily, a former golf commissioner, raised several concerns about unfulfilled promises and ongoing issues at the golf course. She stated that cart paths were to be paved with brown textured asphalt, but only wood chips were installed. She also noted that building modernization and ADA-compliant bathrooms had been discussed but not completed. She criticized the condition of driving range mats and lighting, claiming only 10% of lights work. Additionally, she questioned a proposed rate increase that would raise resident weekend rates by 12.9% (from $62 to $70) while non-resident rates would increase only 5.6% (from $89 to $94), calling the disparity unfair.

Discussion Items

• Director of Parks and Recreation, Amy Long, provided a comprehensive update on community events, department highlights, and project updates. She reported on the Estuary Park Phase 2 construction, which includes pickleball courts, dog parks, and a playground, with completion expected in late September and opening in December/January.
• Director Long then presented an overview of the Greenway settlement. Key terms include: no financial obligation for the city (up to $15 million liability settled for zero), consolidation of lease updates, removal of the reserve capital fund requirement, city responsibility for commission agendas and minutes, audit rights with the city paying 50% of costs, a 20-business-day notice before a violation is issued, and a fee increase cap of 8% for residents with no increases until December 31, 2027. A minimum 10% separation between resident and other categories was also established.
• Commissioner Jones expressed concerns about the non-disparagement clause, asking whether it would limit the commission's ability to criticize Greenway. Director Long clarified that constructive criticism (e.g., about driving range mats) is not considered disparagement, which is defined as slander and libel under California law. She also asked about Greenway's attendance at meetings; Director Long stated that Greenway will attend once the lease is resolved, likely by November 2026.
• Commissioner Tom raised the issue of ADA compliance for the driving range bathrooms, noting that doors are heavy and difficult for wheelchair users. Director Long agreed to follow up with the general manager.
• The commission also discussed a drainage report, which is under the purview of the Public Works Director, not part of the Greenway settlement.

Key Outcomes

• The minutes from the February 11, 2026 meeting were approved.
• The next meeting is scheduled for September 8, 2026, at 6:30 PM.
• The meeting was adjourned by motion.