Poll: Is the Golf Course Safe for the Public?

Do you walk or run on the golf course? Well, if you're unsure whether or not you're allowed to, you're not the only one.

Councilmembers this week asked for clarification on public use of Foxtail Golf Course — the sprawling city-owned green that stretches from North Rohnert Park, along large swaths of Golf Course Drive, south to parts of D Section.

According to the city's municipal code, although play on the course is restricted, the city "shall not prohibit use of the golf course by residents or their guests for walking, jogging or other forms of exercise or recreation."

"The discussion came up for clarification," said Marilyn Ponton, the city's planning and building manager. "We can't prohibit use of the golf course, the way that the code reads right now."

Vice Mayor Jake Mackenzie raised safety concerns.

"My concern is people walking on the golf course or on cart paths when it exposes individuals to danger," Mackenzie said. 

Councilwoman Pam Stafford said regarding the golf course that there are many public misconceptions floating around.

Foxtail made when the management company, CourseCo, asked the city to reduce its $175,000 annual rent fee. Folf course managers said the company hasn't broken even from a 2000 renovation, and has not made a profit.

Tom Isaak, the president of CourseCo, said in September that the previously negotiated rent is unsustainable, citing a bad economy and a decline in the golf industry as a whole. City Manager Gabe Gonzalez said the issue will be taken up by the City Council soon.