Opinion: Why a new golf clubhouse is a good idea

By LINDA MATTLAGE

Published: 01-14-2025 6:00 AM

Linda Mattlage is a Concord resident for 40 years, a retired nurse, and a member of the golf advisory committee and ad hoc building committee.

Once again discussions have begun about a new clubhouse at Beaver Meadow. Those against this project have voiced concerns about incurring this expense for a facility that is used by only a few people. I would like to refute those concerns.

In full disclosure, I am a member of the golf advisory committee and the ad hoc building committee, and I have learned a lot.

Did you know that Beaver Meadow is the oldest golf course in New Hampshire, founded by three women and one man in 1896? Did you know that Beaver Meadow makes money for the city? Under the leadership of head pro Phil Davis the yearly revenues at the course have increased from about $800,000 ten years ago to over $2,000,000 in 2024. This means that golf course expenses are paid by the golf course, not the taxpayers, and excess monies are available for the city general fund.

Did you know that thousands of rounds of golf are played at Beaver Meadow each season, and every golfer pays to play? It’s true that not every golfer is a Concord resident, although Concord residents do get a reduced greens fee. New Hampshire is more than happy to have tourists come here and add to our revenues. The city of Concord is no different.

Did you know that Beaver Meadow is an affordable option for the senior citizens and the youth of our city? That there are three leagues for women? That everyone is welcome regardless of age, sex, race or gender identity? Come to the course some time and see how many people are there and how welcoming the atmosphere is. It is not an exclusive club, but a microcosm of our whole community.

Did you know that the clubhouse is used for baby showers, weddings, celebrations of life, and city and community meetings? Did you know that in 2024 alone tournaments at Beaver Meadow raised $281,500 for local charities? These included the Boys and Girls Club, CHS football and hockey, Chamber of Commerce education fund, and Concord Rotary to name a few.

Did you know that when it snows, Beaver Meadow is used for cross-country skiing and racing? That when it’s cold the pond is used for skating? That the new clubhouse will enhance existing ski programs in the community? Did you know that the current clubhouse is over 60 years old, not up to code, and has ongoing maintenance issues?

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Concord is a great place to live. Not everyone takes advantage of all it has to offer. I have never used the CAT or dipped my toe in a city pool, but I am glad they are available for those who do. Not everyone uses the trail system, or the library, or the soccer fields, but they should be available for those who do. Not everyone has children in school, but good schools and educated citizens benefit us all.

In the same way, not everyone uses the golf course, but many do. Unlike those other services, however, the golf course actually makes money for the city! In addition, the golf community is looking to raise money for the clubhouse to help offset some of the costs.

I am a Concord taxpayer, retired, and concerned about property taxes. I understand the concern that the new clubhouse seems like an extravagance we cannot afford. I would propose that instead it could be a source of revenue for the city and offset the cost of other services the city offers. It would be a mistake not to build it.