FEBRUARY 3, 2025|
Photo – Golf course in Rawlins – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins Rochelle Ranch Golf Course Advisory Board updated the governing body on recent financial reports and future plans.
At the January 21st Rawlins city council meeting, Golf Course Advisory Board Chairman Timothy Hofmann reported that in 2024, the golf course’s revenue increased by 9% compared to the previous year. Furthermore, the pro shop saw an 18% rise in revenue. While the golf course is not expected to break even, Hofmann noted that the increased revenue and fees will reduce the financial support needed from the city’s general budget.
Head Golf Professional Kevin Gannon reported coaching 53 young people and nearly 200 out-of-town golfers.
Hofmann said last year, the Rawlins Rochelle Ranch Golf Course hosted the 3A division of the Wyoming High School State Golf tournament. The advisory board chairman said the event brough in a large number of people to the city, benefiting the local economy.
This year, the Rawlins golf course will host the Wyoming High School State Golf junior tournament.
Hofmann reported that golfers are very concerned by the quality of the course’s putting greens. A new lawnmower has the greens at the Rawlins golf course in much better shape, leading to improved gameplay and satisfaction among the golfers.
The Rochelle Ranch Golf Course was able to put its fleet of gas-powered golf carts to the test last year. Hofmann said the previous battery-powered carts did not last long enough in the cold weather and required too much maintenance.
The golf course entered into a 5-year lease with Yamaha for 45 gas-powered carts in November of 2023.
Hofmann said the advisory board is working on purchasing an indoor golf simulator to allow golfers to practice during the winter.
Hofmann said the simulator will also bring non-golfers to the Rawlins course and increase foot traffic to the new concessionaire. The city council revoked the agreement with the previous concessionaire, Win Hayward, for multiple breaches of contract.
Hofmann reported that he is enthusiastic about the changes at the Rawlins Rochelle Ranch Golf Course.
