After years of discussion on the subject, the future of the Glencoe Golf Club’s clubhouse is now in the hands of the village’s residents.
At their Dec. 15 meeting, trustees unanimously voted to put a $15 million bond sale referendum question on the ballot in April’s election. If the measure passes, the bond sale proceeds would be used toward construction of a new, approximately 10,000-square-foot clubhouse/pro shop along with a new restaurant intended for year-round use, an event space and other recreational opportunities including a croquet court, community garden and a bicycle repair station.
To make way for the new spaces, the existing clubhouse and pro shop would be demolished.
The financial impact would be an additional $140 a year per $10,000 in property taxes for a village property owner every year for the next 20 years, according to the Finance Director Nikki Larson.
Village President Howard Roin believed a change was necessary, alluding to the current clubhouse that is approximately 100 years old.
“At this point, something must be done for the clubhouse,” Roin said. “We have to get the advice of the residents on what they want done.”
The action by the village board is the latest chapter regarding the clubhouse and pro shop going back to 2012 when a task force called for their replacement, believing they were no longer viable.
Other steps followed included an amended land share agreement with the Cook County Forest Preserve District and the formation of a 501(c)(3) organization allowing for private fundraising efforts.
An architectural firm then drew up different concepts leading into an October meeting at the Golf Club where trustees preferred a larger project with more features.
There is hope from the staff that additional revenue will be created as non-golfers will be enticed with opportunities for group outings, enhanced restaurant operations, special events, an indoor simulator, in season leagues and larger pro shop revenues, according to village documents.
Moreover, staff anticipates a 10% increase in the number of rounds played if the new buildings are constructed.
It is still unknown if residents will be interested in the borrowing plan but they will get the chance to decide in April.
“In the end, it is up to our citizens to determine the scope, costs and quality of our amenities by voting on this referendum,” Village Trustee Dudley Onderdonk said.
Daniel I. Dorfman is a freelance reporter with Pioneer Press.