Now that the golf season is over for 2011, it seems like the year flew by pretty quickly. Preparations are underway for the 2012 season and the 2012 budget and membership rates have been approved. In spite of increased costs, increase in minimum wages, etc for 2012, the board of directors has trimmed a lot of expenses and cut back on some staffing hours in an effort to keep the impact on dues at a minimal.

The complete membership dues can be found under the dues heading of the webpage. Dues increases of 2.3% to 4% for a few categories were necessary to combat the increase in the costs of doing business. The largest category of memberships which is the adult shareholder went from $1,140 to $1,170. The second largest category which was the Monday to Friday shareholder went from $1,000 to $1,025. Any way you cut it, it is a great deal when you consider the quality of the golf course you get to play on.

Again this year, if you pay your dues by Jan. 31st, 2012 you will receive 2 green fees for the 2012 season (1 green fee for junior memberships paid by Jan. 31st). An email will be sent out to members shortly with the new membership rates and info concerning early payment. For those without computers, or those that did not give their email address on the membership form last year, I have no way of contacting them other than by word of mouth. I ask that if you are in touch with some of your regular playing partners and they may not have heard the new rates, that you spread the word.

When paying your dues, remember that we paid out over $6,000 to credit card companies just to collect our dues last year. We ask that everyone do their part in trying to keep expenses down and pay by debit, cheque or cash if possible. It will have an effect on the rates for dues in the 2013 season. 

Andy and his crew did an amazing job with the course last year and we are hoping for great things for 2012 as well. This fall, the pond has been dug in the low wet spot on the 14th hole and the shaping of the forward tees has been started. Also, the chipping green located below the private cart storage is being reconfigured and we should have a larger and much improved practice area by the middle of June.

As always, if anyone has any questions or concerns, please contact me at peter@hamptongolf.ca . 

Peter Cameron
General Manager

Hampton Golf Club