among the top five busiest public golf courses on the Front Range while
maintaining 10-minute tee time intervals and an average pace of play of 4.4 hours,
which he emphasized as a point of pride alongside on-time starts and overall
guest experience.
Brian reported that the facility also achieved record financial performance. Total
course revenue increased from roughly $3 million in 2020 to $5.9 million this year,
with records set across the course, golf shop and restaurant. Merchandise sales
reached approximately $360,000 and clubhouse restaurant sales grew from
$830,000 last year to $930,000 this year, crediting the success of the restaurant
team led by Gabby and Spencer since joining in 2022. Capital investments totaled
about $220,000 this year, including the addition of new black tees on holes 9 and
18 which extended the course yardage to qualify for state championships per CGA
standards.
He recognized Superintendent Jon Holland and Assistant Superintendent Bill
LaFleur for maintaining excellent course conditions despite heavy play, noting that
this is the most frequent compliment received from golfers. Jon has worked for the
Town for 17 years and Bill since 1999. Red Hawk Ridge received the Colorado
Avid Golfer magazine award for best conditions among Front Range public
courses in 2025 and best regional public golf course in 2024. The course regularly
sells out from early morning through evening, hosts full leagues with waitlists and
accommodated 33 company tournaments this year. Brian clarified that the 68,000
rounds figure includes all types of play such as nine-hole rounds, junior programs,
league play and tournaments.
In response to questions, Brian explained that while the course appears near
capacity, favorable weather conditions this year significantly contributed to higher
play and future growth may be weather dependent. He attributed the resurgence of
golf to COVID-era interest due to social distancing and noted that participation has
remained strong due to course conditions and overall experience. Discussion also
touched on the facility’s modest banquet amenities, which historically helped avoid
debt burdens common at other courses, though future expansion may need
evaluation. It was also noted the golf division's enterprise fund operates without tax
support and relies solely on revenue.
Regarding irrigation and water, Brian outlined plans to invest approximately
$300,000 into reserve funds bringing the balance to about $3.3 million to support
future infrastructure upgrades. A full irrigation system replacement is planned to
begin in early 2026 with new pump stations followed by broader system
replacement within five to ten years. Jeff B. added historical context, explaining
that the course transitioned from a private well to a partnership with Castle Rock
Water about six years ago, providing reuse water from the Plum Creek
Wastewater Authority. This partnership improved water availability and course
conditions while requiring careful chemical management, which Jon Holland
oversees, and the former well now contributes to the Castle Rock Water system
serving The Meadows and Red Hawk neighborhoods.
Brian closed by encouraging everyone to get out and play some golf in the new
year.
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT COMMENTS
Jeff Brauer, Director of Parks and Recreation, presented a surprise award
recognizing contracted photographer Twain Wilkins of Liberty Pro Imaging for his
ten consecutive years of service. Jeff thanked Twain for capturing moments and
experiences over the past decade that reflect the Town’s identity, noting that his