Palmer City Takes Back Golf Course Control

0:00Here's more Anchorage news from March 11th. The city of Palmer in Alaska has reclaimed full control of its municipal golf course. After 18 years under contract with Eagle Golf Course Management, the agreement expired earlier this year. Negotiations fell apart over legal issues, leading to an executive meeting Tuesday that sealed a handover. During talks, the city uncovered problems in the original contracts, including liquor sales revenue, going to the contractor instead of the city, and issues with full-time employee pay. Investigations into both matters are now underway. The city offered $475,000 to extend the deal, but key terms remained unresolved. Mayor Jim Cooper praised the outgoing manager for doing a terrific job, but emphasized the need for a contract that legally protects everyone involved. George Column, who runs Eagle Golf, objected to the city's added controls, especially on setting prices for course sales, which he had recommended in the past.

1:01In the end, no new agreement was reached, so the city stepped in to manage operations. Officials plan to run the course themselves for just one year before seeking a new private company to take over. Joe postings for staff will open soon, with hopes that current employees stick around. The golf course aims to welcome players again in mid-April. The daily news now is made possible with support from our sponsor. It is the pillow that plays your podcast and music without earbuds, built for listening in bed. S-O-L-L-I, solely pillow.com.