Letter: Show support for Jones Golf Course

I have been a 30-year golfer of the city courses, moving to Cedar Rapids to attend college and play golf. I am disappointed in the manner in which the decision to close Jones Golf Course has played out with little or no suggestions from those who play and support the golf courses in Cedar Rapids.

I'm disappointed that the city never pursued a savings contingency plan for when the course flooded. A few years ago, there was a public session held on how to solve the issue of Jones flooding; questions were raised on whether working with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources was an option.

I could see closing Jones Golf Course if it was the only course losing money over the past few years; however that is not the case. All of the courses are losing money. So what are possible solutions? Consider moving Jones back to a 9-hole golf course. Yes, you would have expenses; however, if you move it to a parklike setting, you will still have the expense of cutting the grass and maintaining the 70 acres. The city could leave the golf management business and go back to contracting with the golf pros to run the clubhouses, sell equipment, apparel, etc.

The vote to close Jones Golf Course is scheduled to go to the city council on Feb. 28. Show your support to keep Jones Golf Course open by attending the meeting or emailing city council members.

Kim Fensterman

Cedar Rapids