Dear Editor:
I am pleased that Rich Glorioso has asserted his leadership skills in broaching the subject of a community solution for Walden Lake’s withering golf facilities. I hope the community will keep an open mind and think constructively on how things might proceed. A committee of professional and thoughtful people would be a good first step.
I would ask Walden Lake Community Association President Jan Griffin and those on the board to refrain from speculating on what the cost might be. The truth is, no one really knows, until qualified accountants perform due diligence.
There are many unknowns. Is the golf course for sale? Are the current owners valuing the golf course as a golf course as it is, or as something else assuming a favorable rezoning vote? What would be the repair costs? If the city votes denies on a rezoning, and the owners want out of the golf business, then a complete due diligence of the books would be more meaningful.
Maybe there is an opportunity for the owners to exit financially intact and an opportunity for city government, WLCA, private businesses and the residents to collaborate on a true community solution. Could one scenario be a purchase of the property by the city, in essence making it a municipal course, operated by our state-funded Tampa Bay Sports Authority, clubhouse leased to private business entities, and WLCA taking a much more proactive role in rebuilding the course and membership for the benefit of the community and city? Just a thought.
Don Marshall
Walden Lake
