YORKTON - When Deer Park Golf Course sets its rates, it has an impact on what other courses in the area can do in terms of fees.
That was the message Rick Schrader vice president of York Lake Golf and Country Club had for the regular meeting of Yorkton Council March 28.
Schrader acknowledged Deer Park is “the premier course” in the area “without a doubt.” With that in mind the fees charged are seen as being for the best course, meaning other courses in the area can’t go higher in fees since they are not seen as being at the same level.
“We have to reflect that we’re not as good,” he said, adding that is something for Council to keep in mind “when you make your decision on your rates.”
That is an issue for York Lake which is ran by volunteers and must generate a profit because it does not have the backing of municipal funding as is the case at Deer Park, said Schrader. He pointed to evening fees as an example, where Deer Park has charged $29 for 18 holes, and York Lake is charging $30 for 12 to try to stay profitable.
“It’s a tough slug for us,” said Schrader.
Schrader said it’s just not York Lake either, suggesting courses at Good Spirit, Canora and Melville are all impacted by the fee structure at Deer Park.
Schrader said given the increasing costs of operation, fees need to rise.
“The last two years our fuel costs have doubled,” he said.
With that in mind Schrader suggested a 10 per cent increase in fees was warranted, but then added he didn’t want to step on toes of those crunching the numbers at Deer Park.
Councillor Ken Chyz said rates in the area are certainly good for golfers.
“It’s a steal of a deal no matter what course you play,” he said.
Coun. Chris Wyatt said it comes down to the city doing what is best for its course. “We do want to see people at our facility,” he said, then adding a 10 per cent increase would be “a hard no from this cat.”
