Alt Uses for Muni?

I have read that the City of Santa Barbara’s Municipal Golf Course is endangered because of declining use. I am not a golfer, but I do appreciate the open space that comes with a golf course. Providing recreational space is a responsibility of the city that should not be taken lightly.

I have also read stories that other golf courses across the country have adopted “footgolf/soccer golf” as a method to save courses by increasing their use, especially by the younger generations. Soccer-ball-sized holes are set up off the greens allowing golf and “footgolf” to be played on the same course.

The positive effects of such a move are long term. We would save the golf course, maintain open space, encourage more outdoor activities (making a small dent in the rise of obesity), and create the opportunity for more wholesome social interaction. It is easy to envision college and high school students joining clubs and school teams and engaging in friendly competition. This may evolve into a California State High School Footgolf Championship Tournament.

I was surprised this was not discussed during the examination of Muni’s future and wonder if those who drive such discussions are really interested in saving the Municipal Golf Course or if the real agenda is to turn our golf course over to a private agency (Los Positas Tennis Courts?). Before we “pave paradise,” we should explore the creative solutions that are working for other golf courses.