Committee endorses forwarding Golden Gate Park golf-course lease with First Tee; requires $2M operator investment for long-term option

The Budget & Finance Committee voted to forward a proposed lease and operating agreement with the Golden Gate Park Golf Development Foundation (First Tee San Francisco) that would govern operations of the nine‑hole Golden Gate Park Golf Course and clubhouse.

Dana Ketchum, director of property management at the Recreation and Park Department, said the agreement includes an initial six‑year term with an option to extend nine more years if the tenant invests at least $2,000,000 in capital improvements (irrigation, drainage and other course upgrades) within the first three years. Following reopening, the lease calls for $250,000 in annual base rent plus $53,000 for maintenance equipment and a share of greens fees and concession revenue.

The Budget and Legislative Analysts office recommended approval and noted the foundation was the sole respondent to the RFP; the BLA estimated the net annual cost to the city at about $20,000 after revenue sharing and recommended standard controls and revenue accounting.

Public commenters included longtime players and program participants who praised First Tees youth work and the courses accessibility. Committee members voiced support for preserving access for youth and seniors and added co‑sponsor names to the item. The committee forwarded the lease to the full Board with a positive recommendation (3–0).