MARQUETTE GOLF CLUB
MINUTES – BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
October 26, 2011
I.
Meeting called to order at 7:40 am. Present: Kenn Hruska, Tim Quinnell, Ward
Rantala, Dave Puskala, and Bob Raica. Absent: Robert Bartkowiak and Michele
Butler. No guests. Staff present: Marc Gilmore and Dennis Kargela.
II.
Approve agenda.
III.
Approve minutes from August and September meetings. Motion by Tim, second
by Bob, all approved.
IV.
A discussion of the 2012 dues menu was held. The discussion focused on
historical revenue from 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011. A slight increase is planned
for 2012 with a progressive discount based on when payment is made to the club.
The Playing Menu items was expanded by adding Unlimited Single and
Unlimited Couple Combined (under age 30) memberships under the
Combined/Greywalls category in an attempt to attract that age demographic. We
currently only have 4 members in that age category. Expand the Classic weekend
category by increasing play to all day Friday instead of 5:00 pm and after with a
greater than average increase in dues. Over all dues projections were discussed in
substantial detail.
V.
Empirical information reviewed by our Pro Shop allowed us to reconstruct
relatively accurate statistics regarding rounds played by member category. Some
estimates were required as some members who reserve tee times do not include
who the playing partners are. Members will be asked to include that information
going forward. This information is proving to be essential to analyze revenue per
round, revenue per category of membership, and revenue between Greywalls and
Heritage.
The revenue per round numbers are significant as they demonstrate our members,
on average, pay less than the public rate and guest rate for both courses. Dave
moved to approve the projected 2012 dues menu, support by Bob. Passed
unanimously. The menu will be published to members ASAP and will be
included with the annual meeting notice.
VI.
Stay and play revenue from The Perfect Foursome for 2011 was flat, due to a
decrease in players and a slight increase in the rate we received. Stay and Play
rounds were down from 1932 in 2010 to 1775 in 2011. Marc reports there is a
renewed effort by the casino to promote regionally instead of nationally. The rate
will remain the same in 2012 so the only increase in this revenue source will be
the number of golfers. Members are reminded that these players produce
substantial income to the club (roughly $120,900 in green fee revenue alone
during 2011).
VII.
Property tax discussion was held. Bob reports a conference call was held between
the City, our attorney, Bob Raica and Robert Bartkowiak. The proposed
settlement numbers are $1.7 million down in SEV to roughly $2.906 million,
resulting in a tax payment of $77,576 in 2011 and going forward, down from
$128,276, a savings of $50,700 annually. If this is not accepted, we will need to
continue with the tax court lawsuit, hire an appraiser, and not have certainty in
result. Motion to approve the settlement made by Ward, supported by Dave. Our
attorney will provide a letter outlining the exact terms of the settlement and
procedures used in calculating the settlement numbers. Unanimously approved
after a lengthy discussion.
VIII.
Bank refinancing. We were seeking a 30-year amortization from the bank. So
far, there has been no movement.
IX.
A discussion was held regarding the UPGA Tournament results. Next year, we
will host the UPGA Senior Tournament in 2012 alone. Junior golf was discussed
and a Junior Tour will be organized.
X.
The last day of operation will be October 31. The clubhouse will be closed for
the season that day along with the Pro Shop. The Pro Shop will reopen on black
Friday and remain open for the Christmas season.
XI.
The next board meeting is set for November 9 at 7:30 am at the clubhouse.
Dated: October 26, 2011
__/s/ Timothy C. Quinnell___________
Timothy C. Quinnell, Secretary