Letter: Golf course expenses questioned

As a longtime golfer in Cedar Rapids and having been told long ago that our courses are self-sustaining, I am having trouble understanding why they are losing money.

I am sure it is difficult to understand a budget the size of four golf courses. I would expect one major expense to be maintenance including care of the many trees. Does the city forestry department have responsibility for that task? Do city taxes pay for that task or is it a charge to the golf course therefore paid for by golf fees? I'm sure there are numerous expenses to a golf course and that same question would apply (taxes or golf fees).

In 2008, when Jones flooded, I remember discussion regarding the back nine being closed or repaired. More than once the back nine has been resodded/seeded and repaired. How was that decision reached?

The ladies' golf leagues were taken over by the city about three or four years ago. I have seen one financial statement in that time period. When you pay dues to be part of any group there is usually an annual finance report. Shouldn't whoever is paying the bill (golfers or taxpayers) be aware of how the expenses are paid?

Golf is one of the few activities in which a high percentage of senior citizens participate. I am not aware of any activities in the city of Cedar Rapids for senior citizens.

Who is making the decisions?

Barb Schriever

Cedar Rapids