Conservation board hears update on repairs at golf course
By Tracy Runneberg Freeman-Journal Staff WriterMembers of the Hamilton County Conservation Board heard some good news from Golf Course Superintendent Russ Appel during Tuesday evening's monthly meeting, as he informed them he hoped to open another course hole by this weekend.
"We currently have the finest 16-hole golf course around, and I hope to make a 17-hole course by this weekend. We're working hard to have all 18-holes ready by the time the fall tournaments start," Appel stated.
Grounds crews are still working on repairing damage done this spring and early summer by the floods, to a large portion of the course.
He went on to add that the course hosted two recent tournaments, including a couples' tournament, and the Webster City Firefighters, with 140 players. Appel said that they are currently planning for three more company tournaments, and he is attempting to reach at least 20,000 people nationwide with a publication for the IMCA Nationals that will be running in Boone.
Early in the season, Appel had approached the board with the idea of putting additional signage on Highway 17, to help advertise the public course to those traveling by. The DOT offered some of their land for the project for free, with the stipulation that it had to be surveyed. Because the county doesn't keep someone on staff for those surveying duties, Appel stated that he approached two private firms, but felt the cost was too high for their budget.
Appel added that they are losing quite a bit of their staff, as they head back to school, but many of them will be returning on weekends to help out.
Park Ranger and Naturalist John Laird gave a presentation to the board, regarding a special event that will be held at Bells Mill Park.
"Many people are committed to improvements at Bells Mill Park after the flood damage this spring. Repairs are needed for the canoe access, the playground equipment, the cabin roof needs work and there is a lot of improvements needed. A grassroots effort has begun with these repairs in mind, and we are currently planning a chili feed on Saturday, September 13, from 5-8 p.m. We have people who are donating the chili, and we will be asking for a free-will offering. There will also be a silent auction, and we are still taking in items for that."
Laird went on to add that anyone wishing to donate could contact him at the HCCB office, 515-832-9570, and that the public is welcome to attend.
After seeing the cost specs for a recent computer needs update, which would cost just over $7,000, the board asked for more information. Lammers explained that the update would include a new server and networking system which would enable the department to be much more efficient, and assist them in new future technology transitions.
Lammers said that after a nearly two hour meeting with the Hamilton County Supervisors on Tuesday, he relayed their goal request, to find supplemental funds and revenue sources.
"The Supervisors are asking us to increase our revenues and income sources, other than tax dollars. They have requested a more detailed business plan, including how renovations can be done, and how we can show those benefits."
Lammers provided the board members with a preliminary plan, and the group planned to get together for a work session on Tuesday, Sept. 9, at 1 p.m. to continue discussion.
Golf Course Grounds Supervisor Matt Doolittle received a change of employment status from exempt to non-exempt as of July 1.
The next meeting is planned for Tuesday, Sept. 30, at 6 p.m., at Bells Mill.
