Matt Moynihan outlines programs, membership surge and new tech at Amberwood Golf Course

Matt Moynihan, clubhouse superintendent of the Inverwood Golf Course, told the Park and Rec Advisory Commission that a recent anniversary membership campaign and robust programming drove a large increase in play last year and are shaping plans for 2026.

"We did over 79,000 rounds between the 2 golf courses," Moynihan said, noting an average utilization near 86 percent when the courses are measured together. He described a fourth-anniversary membership push intended to move utilization from roughly 45 percent toward 80 percent.

Moynihan walked commissioners through program offerings aimed at building long-term customers: free junior clinics (Fridays, beginning June 5 through July 17), group and private junior lessons, family programs that let paid adults bring a junior for free, and a women's clinic series that drew unexpectedly high turnout (he said one session attracted about 120 participants). "If we cheated you on your instruction, I want you to know one thing. This token will get you 35 balls," he told participants after an overcrowded clinic.

He said staffing remains a core challenge for city-run courses, citing seasonal staff retention around 6872 percent. To improve operations the course is installing a new point-of-sale and tee-sheet system; Moynihan said hardware installation and staff training are imminent and will require hands-on onboarding rather than simple "plug and play." "This is how we check somebody in now," he said describing the new workflow.

On course equipment, Moynihan said the fleet will be replaced with new gas-powered cars rather than lithium-ion electric carts because the battery and charging infrastructure would require building a new electrical panel and chargers. The new carts will include GPS geo-fencing that limits where carts can drive and can trigger a kill switch if a cart approaches unsafe terrain, a feature he said will reduce recoveries and damage.

Moynihan also reported capital and maintenance work: a 2016 remodel that replaced irrigation and bunkers was paid off in nine years rather than the planned 20, and the parks division completed two storm-shelter renovations. He said the department is running a feasibility study for a new maintenance facility to cover expensive equipment currently parked outside.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions about membership blackout dates, tee-time access rules and whether members could walk the course; Moynihan said the membership provided a three-day booking window and listed seven blackout holidays. He closed the presentation with contact information and the course website for members seeking program details.