Council approves 10% membership-rate increase at River's Edge Golf Course

The Needles City Council approved Resolution 2023-41 (an amendment to Resolution 2022-26) to set a revised membership-rate structure at River's Edge Golf Course. The motion to approve passed on a roll-call vote with Council members Campbell, McCorkle, Merritt, Vogt and Longbraith recorded as "Yes."

City staff and the presenter identified as "JJ" explained that the proposal is intended to help the golf course approach breakeven operations after rising minimum wages and other costs. Staff proposed a 10% increase across monthly and annual memberships and said the course remains priced below regional competitors. Council members questioned the pace of increases and suggested phasing to reduce "sticker shock," but supported a modest rise to reduce the general-fund subsidy.

The public hearing was opened, staff presented an analysis included in the meeting packet, council members asked clarifying questions about comparators and timing, and the public hearing was closed before the vote. The council approved the resolution at the same meeting.

Action details: Resolution 2023-41, described in the staff report, was moved and seconded; roll-call votes recorded an affirmative majority. The resolution was presented as effective with the incoming fiscal year start (staff noted the fiscal year begins in five days).