Improve financial planning at Glendoveer Golf Course to achieve desired outcomes
August 31, 2016
The Office of the Metro Auditor released an audit today of Glendoveer Golf Course. The Metro-owned facility in east Portland includes golf courses, indoor tennis courts and a fitness trail. Metro took over Glendoveer from Multnomah County in 1994. In 2012, a new operating agreement was put in place. The agreement included financial, community and environment sustainability goals. The audit reviewed progress on those goals.
The audit found mixed financial results during the first three years of the agreement. Enough revenue was generated to cover operating expenses. The operator generated an average of about $200,000 per year in net income during the first three years of the agreement. However, Metro spent an average of about $277,000 per year on capital improvements during that time. Establishing more specific financial goals would help guide long-term planning.
Metro’s investments, combined with the operator’s management practices accomplished several of the environmental sustainability and community goals in the agreement. Water and energy use declined and recycling rates increased. Golf customers were generally satisfied and prices were in line with comparable facilities.
“Metro’s planning for the facility did not provide a long-term outlook.” Metro Auditor Brian Evans said. “Increasing revenue and controlling costs will determine if progress on the goals can be sustained.” The audit recommended improving financial planning, clarifying financial goals, and addressing the remaining environmental and community goals.
For more information, contact Brian Evans, Metro Auditor, at 503-797-1891. The Metro Auditor will brief the Metro Council on Thursday, September 15 at 2PM.