Golf, like life, is replete with compromise. So it is with the
bargain struck between CordeValle golf resort and the Santa Clara
County. For those who expect to play a golf course almost on par
with the posh Monterey Peninsula courses for $25 a round, it
’s not a perfect compromise. But for anyone with even a hint of
sensibility, the deal is well struck.
Golf, like life, is replete with compromise.
So it is with the bargain struck between CordeValle golf resort and the Santa Clara County. For those who expect to play a golf course almost on par with the posh Monterey Peninsula courses for $25 a round, it’s not a perfect compromise. But for anyone with even a hint of sensibility, the deal is well struck.
The county originally issued CordeValle a use permit based on the inclusion of public golf play. But CordeValle owners, who clearly built the course and lodge facility on a private member/resort guest basis, interpreted that public play rule to mean that guests of members and guests of the resort would be counted in the public play column. A disgruntled newspaper columnist from San Jose took issue with that interpretation and thus a public battle ensued.
The resolution is that CordeValle will host a series of four youth tournaments annually for a discount $140 entrance fee that will go entirely toward the CordeValle Youth Golf Foundation. That money – expected to raise at least $100,000 – will be used to support youth golf programs throughout Santa Clara County.
The foundation’s focus is to support existing programs, where children who normally couldn’t afford to play golf will receive instruction, equipment, practice and play opportunities, and most importantly – mentors, said Joe Root, CordeValle’s general manager.
The agreement with the county stipulates a board of directors for the CordeValle Youth Golf Foundation that includes five members appointed by each of the county supervisors, one Planning Commission appointee and one CordeValle representative. Given the circumstances, that’s a reasonable compromise. CordeValle maintains its identity as a private club and the public has an opportunity to play other than staying at the resort or knowing a member for a reasonable price.
Rest assured, when a future golf course project comes up for approval, county supervisors will make sure the language in the use permit is crystal clear and not subject to broad interpretation. Residents who aren’t entirely happy with the outcome should take comfort in the knowledge that the county has plans to build a new public golf course at Bear Ranch on the east side of the valley, which will, no doubt, feature fees that are much more affordable.
It’s worth noting, too, that CordeValle, beautifully maintained and impeccably constructed, brings much to the area as a renowned resort. Besides the good jobs provided, CordeValle caters to an upper-end clientele likely to stop at area wineries and specialty shops.
So, if you’ve been anxious to play at CordeValle, sign up for one of the youth tournaments and support the foundation. More information is available at 695-4573 or on the Web at www.cordevalle.com.
Thankfully, this wrangling over golf rounds is over – and everyone came away with a par.
