WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – The offer to Watertown to lease and run the city-owned golf course in Thompson Park next season is worth $21,000.
Andrea Doane, involved in owning Rustic Golf Course on Pillar Point for more than 40 years, submitted the only bid to the city which was opened earlier this week.
Doane’s proposal to the city says she’ll lease the course property, equipment and carts from April 1 to October 31 for $3,000 a month, as well as obtaining all the permits and licenses to run the course and clubhouse. That would include a liquor license, food service permit and sales tax registration.
The proposal asks to have access to the property March 1, 2027.
Calling the city’s submission process “confusing,” the paperwork asks the city for clarification when it comes to the employees the new operators would hire and if they are subject to prevailing wages and benefit rates.
The proposal continues to say that if the new owners have to pay city wages then “this proposal is not feasible and should not be considered.”
When it comes to carts and other equipment, the proposal says the new owners have the financial capacity to provide its own equipment and carts with reduced lease payments, and using the city’s aging electric carts would imply significant repairs.
Doane’s proposal says the pro shop and golf course would be managed by John Lomber and Sean J.A. Doane and that both have more than 20 years experience as golf course superintendents.
Also, Erica C Doane-Gonzalez would run the restaurant and bar. She has more than 15 years of experience in managing a golf course clubhouse, restaurant and bar, the proposal says.
The proposal says a counter-offer would be considered.
The topic will come up at Monday’s city council meeting.
Copyright 2026 WWNY. All rights reserved.