Starting Sep. 1, golfers will face increased fees at Fort Myers Country Club and Eastwood Golf Course. The Fort Myers City Council approved new pass rates, leading to significant price hikes for some players.
Tracy Robinson, a golfer who took a break from being an annual pass holder due to an injury, shared his perspective.
“I’m a golfer that will go anywhere. I research some of the best [courses] to play. But again, the price has to be reasonable at the same time,” said Robinson.
Robinson, along with many other longtime golfers living just outside the city limits, will experience higher fees to play.
“They keep the course in decent shape. The staff is nice, but as I said, if the price increase is too much, then in the long run, it’s still going to be worth it,” Robinson said.
For nonresidents, the increase could be as much as $800 per year, while city residents will see a $200 rise.
Golfer Dick Stanley expressed his concerns about the rising rates.
“The rates have gone up enough so that the people that I don’t want to pay,” said Stanley.
An attempt to allow 77 pass holders to maintain their previous rates failed in a 4-2 vote. Officials argued it wouldn’t be fair to city residents.
Zane Knake, another golfer, commented on the impact of the increase.
“My buddy over there, he’s been playing for a long time, and I know that’d be pretty that’d suck for him. You know? Have to pay the extra money,” said Knake.
Currently, there are approximately 400 to 450 annual pass holders. City officials acknowledge the potential loss of some due to the price hike but believe the increase could boost revenue if most golfers continue their memberships.