Executive Golf - What if?

[UpNorth]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:

[Two Bills]

Absolute non-starter.
No way will the majority of people pay for Executive golf.
Non, Niet, Nein, Nada, Ugui..........!

[Bogie Shooter]

Nope

[ThirdOfFive]

Wouldn't work. Current residents would have to be grandfathered in.

Lots of grandfathers in TV.

[Papa_lecki]

Bad course conditions in season are due to incompetent maintenance

[golfing eagles]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:

Never happen. I don't know the true cost of an exec round, but last year one of our county commissioners posted the breakdown of monthly amenity fees. If I remember, exec golf received $5.90/ month. It might have been $7.90, but it was single digits and nowhere near $30-40. Now, how many people do you think would be happy to pay $10/ round for something they are getting for $5.90/month????? And if implemented, reneging on "free golf for life", and enough people were put off that tee times significantly opened up, what do you think will happen to your property value???

[tophcfa]

I doubt it would/could ever happen, but I’m not entirely against the concept. Ten dollars per round would be well worth it if it actually resulted in better/more consistent conditions, easier to get midday t times during busy season, and faster play.

[UpNorth]

Even at $1 per round it would chase some marginal players away. Right now it is "Freeloader Golf".

[Papa_lecki]

Even at $1 per round it would chase some marginal players away. Right now it is "Freeloader Golf".

True, but how many people picked up the game after moving here, and enjoy it?

It’s hardly freeloader golf if they are paying the amenity fee.

[Arlington2]

Interesting concept. It could be the start of a broader pay to play. Pickle ball at $5/hr (and pay for your own pickle balls), rec center meeting rooms at $25/night, pools at $10/visit, billiards at $5 per session and other outdoor activities at $5/hr. It would reduce our amenity fees and seriously free up recreation facilities. (I'm pulling your leg actually).

[Stu from NYC]

Sorry terrible idea

[golfing eagles]

Even at $1 per round it would chase some marginal players away. Right now it is "Freeloader Golf".

I didn't realize the goal of exec golf was to "chase marginal players away". It seems that the suggestion appears to be that "better" exec players should more of a right to getting the tee time they want over "lesser" players or beginners

That is NOT the spirit of this great game.

I don't play exec courses but from my point of view I can only laugh at those who think because they are better than others on exec courses that somehow they are Jack Nicklaus.

Let's engage in some reductio ad absurdum: Let's create a hierarchy of handicaps for full size courses. 0-5 get the best tee times, then 6-10, 11-15 and 16-20. Over 20 can only play on rainy days or get kicked over to an exec course. Shoot over 100 and you have to go to remedial golf school. Break a rule and you're banned for 2 weeks.

You see, there is only one best amateur golfer in The Villages so he should always play when he wants and have the right to kick anyone else off their tee time.

It's pretty clear where I was going with this, but there are doubts I'll be happy to play you from the black tees at Glenview or Tierra for say $1,000 per hole

[lkagele]

$10 per round for a reduction of $40 in amenity fees? I play approximately 15 rounds per month. I'd end up paying more.


Sounds like a government plan.

[golfing eagles]

$10 per round for a reduction of $40 in amenity fees? I play approximately 15 rounds per month. I'd end up paying more.


Sounds like a government plan.

and it's nowhere near $40/month

[Rainger99]

I didn't realize the goal of exec golf was to "chase marginal players away". It seems that the suggestion appears to be that "better" exec players should more of a right to getting the tee time they want over "lesser" players or beginners

That is NOT the spirit of this great game.

It's pretty clear where I was going with this, but there are doubts I'll be happy to play you from the black tees at Glenview or Tierra for say $1,000 per hole

What is your handicap? If I break 100 on a championship course I am elated. And if I play an 18 holes of executive golf, I am excited if I shoot my age!

[BrianL99]

I would usually comment on a thread like this, but Mr. GolfingEagles seems to have it covered fairly well and he's much more diplomatic than I.

I'll just add this:

I put together a complete proposal, including CSI ratings, performance/conditioning bonuses for contractors, a low-cost methodology to implement the ratings/CSI, using the existing Tee Time system ... etc, etc. etc. It would have been funded by a $1-$2 increase in trail fees.

I pitched it to the District and Mitch Leninger.

It's most likely in the circular file at this point.

[robsherry]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:
How about $5?

[eastmand411]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:

Everyone is entitled to an opinion. Honestly, I don't think he is far off. Novice golfers do in fact hurt the course because they are not familiar with filling divots, fixing ball marks on the green, and moreover, when they do hit the green, they are too excited than to worry about fixing a ball mark. I'd rather the Ambassador monitor the play, educate people to help them learn, and if there are repeat offenders, the Ambassador write's them up and they get more points for the week, limiting their ability to play. We do need to do better, but instead of shutting ideas down immediately, let's find solutions...

[seecapecod]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:

But your “marginal and casual” golfers (your #1 reason for a $10 charge) still love to play golf- for fun, for sport and for the challenge. My apologies for not playing up to your level. In my view, those with better games challenge themselves on traditional 18 hole courses.

[BlueStarAirlines]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community.

Like everything, there is nothing "free for life". We have trail fees. A lifetime subscription often has maintenance fees or some other mechanism to continue to feed the beast.

[Shelbyh]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:
That would be a hard sell to anyone that lives here including me and I don’t golf.

[LuLinn]

Nope

[golfing eagles]

What is your handicap? If I break 100 on a championship course I am elated. And if I play an 18 holes of executive golf, I am excited if I shoot my age!

It used to be +1, now it's a bit higher. But that wasn't my point. Golf is not a game of excluding beginners and poor players. No good player makes fun of someone who is not as good, which is why I called out the concept of restricting "lesser" players or trying to drive them away all together. If a new player is damaging the course and not repairing it, they probably are ignorant of rules and etiquette. The solution is to educate them, not exclude them. There are plenty of experienced golfers who seem to be allergic to rakes and sand bottles---if I had my way, I would deal with them more harshly than beginners since they know better. I'm not a big fan of "good golf school for everyone", since I don't think Stewart Cink or Patrick Reed need attend before they play here. But I would make it mandatory for beginners and those that flaunt the rules. The very fact that someone suggests that we make a system that excludes beginners shows that person is far from a great golfer themselves.

End of rant.

[merrymini]

I live on a championship course. Some of these people look like beginners and they pay to play on a championship course.People come on my property, hit my house, do not fix divets, and to top it all off, play pretty lousy golf. I watch them do it. There is no delusion as good as self delusion.

[asianthree]

Everyone is entitled to an opinion. Honestly, I don't think he is far off. Novice golfers do in fact hurt the course because they are not familiar with filling divots, fixing ball marks on the green, and moreover, when they do hit the green, they are too excited than to worry about fixing a ball mark. I'd rather the Ambassador monitor the play, educate people to help them learn, and if there are repeat offenders, the Ambassador write's them up and they get more points for the week, limiting their ability to play. We do need to do better, but instead of shutting ideas down immediately, let's find solutions...

Sorry have played with residents who have played for most of their lives, on more than one occasion, watched them trounce though sand traps, dig in hit the ball, and walk out. Never picking up a rake.
If you ask, their response is “gives the staff something to do other than put the pins in the wrong place.”, or that’s why I pay greens fee. Clearly they know golf etiquette, just choose not to follow.

[Mulliganguy]

How about “Leave well enough alone”!!

[villager7591]

If I play 5-6 times a week, $200/month. Maybe if groceries weren't so expensive...

[golfing eagles]

I live on a championship course. Some of these people look like beginners and they pay to play on a championship course.People come on my property, hit my house, do not fix divets, and to top it all off, play pretty lousy golf. I watch them do it. There is no delusion as good as self delusion.

I live on a championship course as well, and everything you posted is true. I once watched someone take 6 shots to get out of the bunker behind my house, walking the entire length of the bunker, exiting on the far side tripping over a rake on the way out. I couldn't help myself---I ran out there, raked the trap, and yelled "you're welcome" to that clown. No acknowledgement whatsoever. He probably believed he "paid me" to rake his traps for him. This is an example of someone I would send straight to good golf school .

Another unusual thing happened the week prior to Debby. On two occasions there was a group behind us, all men, playing from the nine holes from the yellow tees. It was obvious they lacked some golfing skill, but why pay to play what is essentially an exec course? Nevertheless, they kept up with us and did not back the course up behind them. I do think we'll see more of that in coming weeks with all the course closures.

Point is, you might be a lousy golfer, but you can follow the proper etiquette and keep up with the group ahead

[golfing eagles]

If I play 5-6 times a week, $200/month. Maybe if groceries weren't so expensive...

I think that post lacks a frame of reference.

[nn0wheremann]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:
$80 or $100 a month greens fee and I get $10 back? No thanks. $140+ for “trail fees” is more than I want to pay already.
If you call the amenities fees what they are, a parks and recreation property tax, then this place is already inching its way up to Illinois tax rates already.

[Acordionist]

The associated maintenance costs of keeping the golf courses must constitute the highest portion of the amenities that ALL owners pay every month. Don't you think that it is only fair that non golfers should pay a lesser amount than golfers who enjoy that activity?

[BrianL99]

The associated maintenance costs of keeping the golf courses must constitute the highest portion of the amenities that ALL owners pay every month. Don't you think that it is only fair that non golfers should pay a lesser amount than golfers who enjoy that activity?

Absolutely.

Residents who don't use the pools, should pay less.

Residents who don't play pickleball, shouldn't have to pay for the free pickle balls and the courts.

Residents who go to the Post Office for their mail, shouldn't have to pay for landscaping at the Mail Boxes.

What about people who don't have dogs, being required to pay for all those damn dog parks and poop bags that get used?

I live close to Sumter and never go South and have no intentions of it. Why am I paying for maintenance for all those bridges down there? I've never even been on one.

I'm pretty unhappy that I have to pay the same for trash removal, as the crazy lady across the street, who has 3 bags of trash, twice a week.

[golfing eagles]

Absolutely.

Residents who don't use the pools, should pay less.

Residents who don't play pickleball, shouldn't have to pay for the free pickle balls and the courts.

Residents who go to the Post Office for their mail, shouldn't have to pay for landscaping at the Mail Boxes.

What about people who don't have dogs, being required to pay for all those damn dog parks and poop bags that get used?

I live close to Sumter and never go South and have no intentions of it. Why am I paying for maintenance for all those bridges down there? I've never even been on one.

I'm pretty unhappy that I have to pay the same for trash removal, as the crazy lady across the street, who has 3 bags of trash, twice a week.

Don’t forget your school tax

[golfing eagles]

The associated maintenance costs of keeping the golf courses must constitute the highest portion of the amenities that ALL owners pay every month. Don't you think that it is only fair that non golfers should pay a lesser amount than golfers who enjoy that activity?

Again, a nonsense post that ignores the facts. Search this site from last year and you’ll find that a. County Commissioner posted the breakdown of our monthly amenity fees. A whopping $5-7/month goes to executive golf. You see, facts matter

[CybrSage]

allergic to rakes and sand bottles

Hah, is that what that plastic, sand filled thing on my golf car is for? I don't play golf so I named it my emergency kitty litter holder.
If we were up north I would have said it was for when you get stuck in the snow.
Seriously, had no idea what it was for. Never would have thought I was supposed to fill a hole in the dirt with sand. Sounds rather counter productive, really.

[BrianL99]

Again, a nonsense post that ignores the facts. Search this site from last year and you’ll find that a. County Commissioner posted the breakdown of our monthly amenity fees. A whopping $5-7/month goes to executive golf. You see, facts matter

I just did a quick "back of the envelope" calculation, based on the # of homes, number of exec courses & maintenance per course. I came up with $8/month.

If anyone is really interested in how money gets wasted at the District level, go to one of their budget sessions, when Community Watch is discussed. Management thinks they're Howard Hunter (the SWAT team commander from Hill St. Blues) and we all know the CW staff is much more like the Keystone Cops.

Want to know how many garage doors they can check per minute of driving? They have the information. "17" if I recall correctly.

What to know how many miles and average CW vehicle drives per hour and at what speed? They have it.

Want to know how many cars they wave through a gate, in comparison to how many go through an operating gate? They can tell you.

What to know how many phone calls they have to make, per open garage door, before closure? They've got the #'s.

They have more organizational structure and more nonsense statistics than NYPD. What's worse, they can't wait to explain it, in excruciating detail, to anyone who will listen. I've been to 3 District Budget Meetings. In every instance, I've walked out after listening to the CW people for 10 minutes ... & CW still had over an hour to go.

[Lancer]

Bad course conditions in season are due to incompetent maintenance

It’s also winter.

[dewilson58]

I live on a championship course as well, and everything you posted is true. I once watched someone take 6 shots to get out of the bunker behind my house, walking the entire length of the bunker, exiting on the far side tripping over a rake on the way out. I couldn't help myself---I ran out there, raked the trap, and yelled "you're welcome" to that clown. No acknowledgement whatsoever. He probably believed he "paid me" to rake his traps for him. This is an example of someone I would send straight to good golf school .

Hey, I got a par on the hole.

[Gpsma]

Golfers should be charged by their level of complaining.

[Bogie Shooter]

Hah, is that what that plastic, sand filled thing on my golf car is for? I don't play golf so I named it my emergency kitty litter holder.
If we were up north I would have said it was for when you get stuck in the snow.
Seriously, had no idea what it was for. Never would have thought I was supposed to fill a hole in the dirt with sand. Sounds rather counter productive, really.

You didn't know what the bottle of sand was for......now you do.

This is to help your continued education. Below is why sand is used.....

If a divot does not have any soil attached, or if it has shattered into small pieces, it cannot be replaced and expected to heal properly. Filling the divot with divot mix is the best option in these situations. Depending on the course and the grass types, divot mix may be pure sand or it may contain seed to aid in recovery. Regardless of what's in the mix, the way to properly fill a divot is the same: Add mix until it is slightly below the height of the adjacent turf, then smooth the mix and press down with your foot. It is worth taking a few extra seconds to get the level just right. Too little mix will create poor playability and may not allow the divot to heal fully. Too much mix creates playability issues and can damage mowing equipment.

[Joe Mack]

Terrible idea.

[Joe Mack]

Even at $1 per round it would chase some marginal players away. Right now it is "Freeloader Golf".

Actually it's not. It's people who paid for the privilege golf.

[justjim]

Absolutely.

Residents who don't use the pools, should pay less.

Residents who don't play pickleball, shouldn't have to pay for the free pickle balls and the courts.

Residents who go to the Post Office for their mail, shouldn't have to pay for landscaping at the Mail Boxes.

What about people who don't have dogs, being required to pay for all those damn dog parks and poop bags that get used?

I live close to Sumter and never go South and have no intentions of it. Why am I paying for maintenance for all those bridges down there? I've never even been on one.

I'm pretty unhappy that I have to pay the same for trash removal, as the crazy lady across the street, who has 3 bags of trash, twice a week.

If you did your due diligence when you purchased your home in TV you knew the deed restrictions, cost of amenities, and the fact you pay for trash pickup even if your gone, etc. etc. Not much sympathy for those that don’t due diligence. As far as changing executive golf to “”pay” I’m afraid that ship has sailed!

[UpNorth]

So, plenty of snarky comments. What's your solution to lack of tee times during high season? Or slow play? Or poor course treatment by players? Or poor conditions? If nothing changes, expect "all of the above" to continue and possibly get worse.

[Papa_lecki]

So, plenty of snarky comments. What's your solution to lack of tee times during high season? Or slow play? Or poor course treatment by players? Or poor conditions? If nothing changes, expect "all of the above" to continue and possibly get worse.

Lack of tee times - has to be done through the point system. Change the system so a player mathematically can play Executives 4 or 5 times a week. 4 is probably ok

Slow Play - nothing can be done, the rangers don’t have any authority.

Poor course treatment - nothing, same as above - maybe more rangers, but that costs $$$$

Poor course conditions - that’s the easiest, get real superintendents to over see maintenance of courses.

[bigstu1]

I know I pay about $140 for the year for trail fee, rather then not paying and walking. I’m sure most golfers here pay it also, part timers play a reduced fee.

[graciegirl]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:

It isn't really open for discussion. That isn't how The Villages is run. Other places run differently. I like it very much the way it is. Are you new?

[UpNorth]

It isn't really open for discussion. That isn't how The Villages is run. Other places run differently. I like it very much the way it is. Are you new?

Not by a long shot. Are you under the impression that people aren't allowed to discuss things here?:shocked:

[tophcfa]

I know I pay about $140 for the year for trail fee, rather then not paying and walking. I’m sure most golfers here pay it also, part timers play a reduced fee.

Reduced fee for part timers? Annual trail fee for full timers is $140, or $11.67 per month. It doesn’t make sense for part timers to pay the annual fee, so they pay $20 per month.

[LeRoySmith]

If or when I take up golf you can bet your bippy I'm going to take some serious lessons in golf etiquette and hook up with some old times that know the local dos and dont you dares

[fdpaq0580]

I live on a championship course. Some of these people look like beginners and they pay to play on a championship course.People come on my property, hit my house, do not fix divets, and to top it all off, play pretty lousy golf. I watch them do it. There is no delusion as good as self delusion.

Even poor golfers enjoy the experience of playing a great course. The same way old drivers enjoy the experience of driving a great sports car.

Sure do see a lot of corvettes around here.

[fdpaq0580]

The associated maintenance costs of keeping the golf courses must constitute the highest portion of the amenities that ALL owners pay every month. Don't you think that it is only fair that non golfers should pay a lesser amount than golfers who enjoy that activity?

When WE (all of us) bought here, we bought the "whole buffet". WE all have the opportunity to take, or not, anything and everything on the menu. Going back to cash register and wanting a discount because you didn't want to have the liver Is Not An Option!
You agreed to the terms and conditions. Supporting your community and the lifestyle!
KOOL-AIDE, KOOL-AIDE, KOOL-AIDE!

[BrianL99]

So, plenty of snarky comments. What's your solution to lack of tee times during high season? Or slow play? Or poor course treatment by players? Or poor conditions? If nothing changes, expect "all of the above" to continue and possibly get worse.

There are certain realities in life, one of which is, things that are "free" or close to free are going to be:

Hard to access. Poorly maintained. Busy. Frequented by the unwashed masses. Less than desirable in comparison to non-free venues.

You were expecting 1st class, uncrowded and meticulously manicured free golf?

Step away from the Kool-Aid. Sip it slowly, don't drink in large gulps.

[UpNorth]

You get what you pay for.

[FloridaGuy66]

Even at $1 per round it would chase some marginal players away. Right now it is "Freeloader Golf".

I seriously doubt that.

[kkingston57]

Personally like the idea.Appears that recently golf maintenanc budget is not sufficient. 1st thing this would do is that courses will have the money which would allow greens to be over seeded in the winter months.

Biggest problem is that too many people over use the exec courses. Met 1 guy who plays as many as 3, 9 hole rounds almost everyday and I am sure that there are others who do the same.

[jimmy o]

The bad course conditions are mostly due to the inconsiderate players. The oafs that don’t fill divots, rake sand traps, or repair ball marks. Some drive their carts across fairways or even right up to the green if they think no one is watching. Charging these morons $10 would nothing to change their behavior. A better solution would be kicking them off the course, then next time they’d be more considerate

[MandoMan]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:

The thing is, “marginal and casual social golfers” also enjoy playing and have as much right to play as “serious golfers.” $10 a round wouldn’t bother me, but there are thousands here who love golf but are scraping by with just a Social Security deposit every month. That $10 could mean they have to give up their major pleasure in life just so you and some pals can get a reservation more easily and play faster.

I play music at a bunch of rec centers, and I work hard at it, learning new material, practicing, and trying to play my best. Some people can only play a few chords and only know three or four songs and do the same ones every week. One thing I’ve realized, though, is that they have the same right to be there that I have, and part of my role as a participant is to encourage them, help them, make them feel valued, and make their time here happy. I’m thinking of some musicians who were frustrating for many of us, but they came every week and loved it. Then they were dead. What if I had said something that robbed them of their pleasure? We’re all in this together.

[Ignatz]

I just did a quick "back of the envelope" calculation, based on the # of homes, number of exec courses & maintenance per course. I came up with $8/month.

If anyone is really interested in how money gets wasted at the District level, go to one of their budget sessions, when Community Watch is discussed. Management thinks they're Howard Hunter (the SWAT team commander from Hill St. Blues) and we all know the CW staff is much more like the Keystone Cops.

Want to know how many garage doors they can check per minute of driving? They have the information. "17" if I recall correctly.

What to know how many miles and average CW vehicle drives per hour and at what speed? They have it.

Want to know how many cars they wave through a gate, in comparison to how many go through an operating gate? They can tell you.

What to know how many phone calls they have to make, per open garage door, before closure? They've got the #'s.

They have more organizational structure and more nonsense statistics than NYPD. What's worse, they can't wait to explain it, in excruciating detail, to anyone who will listen. I've been to 3 District Budget Meetings. In every instance, I've walked out after listening to the CW people for 10 minutes ... & CW still had over an hour to go.

Thankfully a lot of people feel differently about the value of the CW department and appreciate their efforts.

[srswans]

… the reason for lack of tee times during the high season…

So you’re trying to solve the lack of tee time problem. Unfortunately, this is unsolvable because the developer did not build enough executive courses south of 44. 12 neighborhoods were built, (Richmond to Dabney), with zero executive courses - this is probably 10,000 houses. This is the main contributor to the tee time problem.

New courses such as Laurel Oaks are coming online soon but with them are also four new neighborhoods so nothing is gained.

Converting Mickylee and Richmond pitch and putts to executives is something that might actually help.

[BrianL99]

Thankfully a lot of people feel differently about the value of the CW department and appreciate their efforts.

Mostly the folks who have no clue how much money is spent to support Community Watch driving around, doing whatever it is they actually do.

Do you have any idea how much the CW Budget is? I didn't think so.

(for those who care, it's approximately $12,000,000. In 2024, the AAC's portion of the CW budget increased by 49% from 2023.)

Our semi-elected officials are doing a bang up job of keeping costs under control.

[GizmoWhiskers]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:
"Free golf for life?" - I never saw that in an advertisement. Free if you WALK all the courses.

Free walking courses along with your Lifestyle monthly non-hoa fee that goes up about $10 per year.

Squirrel... They still advertising the Brownwood movie theater?

Nothing in life is truly free... including humans.

[Bogie Shooter]

Thankfully a lot of people feel differently about the value of the CW department and appreciate their efforts.

"Free golf for life?" - I never saw that in an advertisement. Free if you WALK all the courses.

Free walking courses along with your Lifestyle monthly non-hoa fee that goes up about $10 per year.

Squirrel... They still advertising the Brownwood movie theater?

Nothing in life is truly free... including humans.

Just curious, where is the Brownwood theater mentioned in advertising?

[Wilson02852]

No, just another plan that won't work for many of the residents.

The present plan is workable, just somewhat mismanaged. The biggest problem is the developers lack of creating enough golf courses in the newest expansion areas. Easy to verify with Google maps. Just compare number of courses between 466 and 44 to all other areas.

[Bruceg0028]

All you would do is open up higher costs. Amenity fee with a reduction now would continue to rise over time and you just gave the developer permission to raise green fees over time. 3-5 years down the road it would cost more not less.

If you want to improve speed of play and course conditions is to make it a prerequisite to take a golfing 101 course to be able to make a tee time. While they offer a class it’s not required. People don't fix divots, ball marks. They drive where they shouldn’t and they have no concept of golf etiquette and ready golf. I had one round where I was waiting to hit up on number 9 and the group in front of us literally stood on the green after they were done and decided to just talk. Had no clue we were waiting for them to exit the green. Really!

[BrianL99]

All you would do is open up higher costs. Amenity fee with a reduction now would continue to rise over time and you just gave the developer permission to raise green fees over time. 3-5 years down the road it would cost more not less.




The Developer has nothing to do with Executive courses that are owned by the CDD's nor are there any "green fees" associated with Executive courses.

Apples & oranges.

[LeRoySmith]

One thing I’ve realized, though, is that they have the same right to be there that I have, and part of my role as a participant is to encourage them, help them, make them feel valued, and make their time here happy. I’m thinking of some musicians who were frustrating for many of us, but they came every week and loved it. Then they were dead. What if I had said something that robbed them of their pleasure? We’re all in this together.

What a refreshing take and attitude. You win my Internet admiration for the day. If all the 'experts' here could learn a little from you imagine how much better life could be. ⭐

[ThirdOfFive]

Personally like the idea.Appears that recently golf maintenanc budget is not sufficient. 1st thing this would do is that courses will have the money which would allow greens to be over seeded in the winter months.

Biggest problem is that too many people over use the exec courses. Met 1 guy who plays as many as 3, 9 hole rounds almost everyday and I am sure that there are others who do the same.
Is the amount allotted for course maintenance not sufficient? Or is it more a case of money allotted for that maintenance being paid to people who really don't know what proper maintenance is? More than once I've seen fairways being mowed, where the mower might have one side on relatively firm ground but is leaving ruts in the softer ground on the other side. Ruts are harder (and assumedly more expensive) to fix than long grass. If the process of maintaining courses is itself causing more maintenance issues, then it seems that closer supervision and/or training of the people doing the maintenance might be at least a partial fix.

[Blueblaze]

Between the tee time system fee and the cart fee, I'm paying $20 for about 8 rounds of "free" golf per month. Why would I prefer to pay $80, just to get a $30 discount on my amenity fee?

I don't get it. How does that help anybody? Are we trying to give more money to the CDD to improve the courses somehow? They're in great shape by this time every year. Throwing money at them is not going to solve the tripling of rounds played for the 1st four months of the year.

I'd rather pay LESS for my "free golf" than more!

[Topspinmo]

Bad course conditions in season are due to incompetent maintenance

And incompetent golfers…:oops:

[Topspinmo]

The Developer has nothing to do with Executive courses that are owned by the CDD's nor are there any "green fees" associated with Executive courses.

Apples & oranges.

I bet their fingers stuck in pie somewhere? :mmmm:

[KenLee100]

Years ago, one of The Villages' advertising pitches was "Free Golf For Life". I'm sure that may have convinced many of you to buy into the community. But perhaps that could be the reason for lack of tee times during the high season, and poor executive golf course conditions. So, let's take a look at this alternative idea - open for discussion:

Executive golf costs (let's say) $10 per round. This would likely reduce the amount of marginal and casual social golfers who only play because it is "free". This would make more tee times available during the high season. And if you book your tee time and don't show up, it still costs you $10. No refunds unless you show up for a credit.

To compensate for the above, the amenity fee gets reduced for all. How much? Maybe $30- $40 per month? Don't know. But it would certainly appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

In addition, the $10 per round fee covers the so-called "trail fee". You can walk the course or drive your cart on the paths at no extra charge.

Perhaps the fees collected could provide superior course conditions. Plenty of room for improvement.

A good booking website is all you need to manage the payment system. GolfNow has been doing it for years.

The $10 fee and amenity fee reduction above are just guesses on my part. Someone would need to balance the figures. But perhaps this would provide a better experience for Executive Golf, for golfers and non-golfers alike.

"Free Golf For Life"? Or better Executive Golf? Open for discussion:

Alex, I'll take solutions for a non-existent problem for $100.
Learn how to navigate the system if you cannot get a "T" time. Invest your time in learning the system (in your control) rather than trying to upend and change the system. (not in your control)
I am in several groups and golf 4-to 5 times per week, but it's not always on my favorite course at my desired time. The system works well for the estimated 10,000 daily "T" times available. TV offers a good golf school to instruct you.
Good luck and hit 'em straight.

[golfing eagles]

All you would do is open up higher costs. Amenity fee with a reduction now would continue to rise over time and you just gave the developer permission to raise green fees over time. 3-5 years down the road it would cost more not less.

If you want to improve speed of play and course conditions is to make it a prerequisite to take a golfing 101 course to be able to make a tee time. While they offer a class it’s not required. People don't fix divots, ball marks. They drive where they shouldn’t and they have no concept of golf etiquette and ready golf. I had one round where I was waiting to hit up on number 9 and the group in front of us literally stood on the green after they were done and decided to just talk. Had no clue we were waiting for them to exit the green. Really!

Having played golf for the last 56 years I categorically reject that proposal. I suppose when Stewart Cink comes to visit his mom or Patrick Reed his grandparents they can't play until they go to golf school? Ridiculous. Give the ambassadors a bit more power and enforce the existing rules of golf and etiquette.

[ficoguy]

Free golf doesn't mean it's good golf

[tophcfa]

Having played golf for the last 56 years I categorically reject that proposal. I suppose when Stewart Cink comes to visit his mom or Patrick Reed his grandparents they can't play until they go to golf school? Ridiculous. Give the ambassadors a bit more power and enforce the existing rules of golf and etiquette.

Some would argue that Patrick Reed needs a refresher on the rules. Personally, I like the guy. I got a kick out of it, and could relate to him, when he could no longer take the slow play of the guy in his group (I think it was Brian Gay) and he walked to the green and putted out before the guy hit his approach shot. If that didn’t send the guy a message to pick up the pace, I’m not sure what would?

[golfing eagles]

Some would argue that Patrick Reed needs a refresher on the rules. Personally, I like the guy. I got a kick out of it, and could relate to him, when he could no longer take the slow play of the guy in his group (I think it was Brian Gay) and he walked to the green and putted out before the guy hit his approach shot. If that didn’t send the guy a message to pick up the pace, I’m not sure what would?

Is it true that part of his deal with LIV is that he’s permitted to carry a shovel in addition to 14 clubs😂😂😂

[tombigfoot]

Get real. Why don't you play the champion courses, so us old folks can go out and have fun on the executives. We forgot how to play. But, we have a great time laughing at each other.

[BrianL99]

I bet their fingers stuck in pie somewhere? :mmmm:

That they do, as all the employees at the Championship courses, are now District Employees.

I'm not suggesting the Developer would take advantage, but I question how that division of labor/costs works, giving many of the workers, work on the Execs & Championship courses, seemingly at the same time ... who's paying them?

[BrianL99]

Some would argue that Patrick Reed needs a refresher on the rules. Personally, I like the guy. I got a kick out of it, and could relate to him, when he could no longer take the slow play of the guy in his group (I think it was Brian Gay) and he walked to the green and putted out before the guy hit his approach shot. If that didn’t send the guy a message to pick up the pace, I’m not sure what would?

I'm not a Patrick Reed fan, as he's a renowned cheater.

That said, at LIV Boston, he was funny, personable and accessible to any fan who was interested. Much more so than anyone else in the field, in my opinion.

[Marathon Man]

That they do, as all the employees at the Championship courses, are now District Employees.

I'm not suggesting the Developer would take advantage, but I question how that division of labor/costs works, giving many of the workers, work on the Execs & Championship courses, seemingly at the same time ... who's paying them?

All you need do is attend the next meeting of your CDD board and step up to the podium. Ask your question. It will be answered, or you will be pointed in the right direction.

[Bwanajim]

I think they charge a four dollar fee to use your golf cart