MuskogeePhoenix.com, Muskogee, OK

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March 21, 2008

Golf not state business

The state doesn’t have any business in the golf course business, especially one that can’t support itself.

Area legislators are scrambling to find a way to keep Fountainhead Golf Course open. The state Department of Tourism and Recreation, which operates the course, has let the grounds and facility deteriorate.

According to the department, the course now attracts about 14,000 rounds each year compared to 20,000 a few years ago. The department and others in the area contend, however, that the course is needed and in great demand.

If that is true, it seems more golfers would be using the course. But of course, the state has proven to be a poor manager of recreational facilities, not just golf courses, and we only have to look at Western Hills and other resort facilities to realize that. The state should operate parks, but golf courses and resorts are businesses better left to private enterprises.

The tourism department reported the Creek Nation has shown an interest in operating the golf course. The Creeks plan to open a resort and casino where the state once operated a resort near the course.

That makes sense, but the state running a golf course makes little sense.

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