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COURTLAND

The Southampton County Board of Supervisors voted 4-2 last Monday night to renew the County’s agreement with the Cypress Cove Country Club –  a $15,000 arrangement that will enable non-members to use only the golf course at a reduced rate.

Speaking to the board, county administrator Mike Johnson pointed out in the agenda packet that Jerry Grizzard, vice president of the club’s director, stated: “Between Dec. 1, 2018 and Oct. 1, 2019, 1,323 rounds of golf were played by non-member Southampton County residents. In addition, more than $30,000 was raised for the local community through charitable golf events hosted by Cypress Cove Country Club. The value of in-kind contributions to golf teams at Southampton High School and Southampton Academy exceeded $14,000.”

There are nominal increases of $2.50 for playing on the golf course. On weekdays, county residents will spend $30 per round; on weekends, $35 per round. Johnson pointed out these proposed rates are $5 less expensive per round for county residents that non-residents.

Another change is the annual remuneration by the county is proposed to be reduced from $25,000 to $15,000. When in 2017 the board first agreed along with the City of Franklin to help the club, each pledged $30,000. Last year, the city chose not to renew its commitment.

For those wondering how much of the $25,000 takes out of this fiscal year’s $63.23M budget, it is 0.0395 percent. Supposing the budget stayed flat for fiscal year 2020-2021, then $15,000 is only 0.0237 percent of that budget.

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Even before the matter came up on the agenda, county residents during the citizens comment period decried renewing a proposal that many others in the past have called a subsidy. That term is essentially defined as a government agency giving money to a business so that its service or product can stay at a competitive rate.

The first to speak was Cynthia Edwards who said, “We have other needs in the county. We should be really watching where we’re spending our money.” She went on to commend supervisor Dr. Alan Edwards for his past votes of no. “I hope the rest of you will follow. I’d appreciate you thinking hard.”

Mandy Crumpler wondered if Johnson or any board member has ever gotten a statement from the club. She said she’s aware of a letter written in July to private investors asking for financial support, with a goal of $400K.

“How much pledged?” she asked. “Why throw money at a sinking ship? It needs to be sold. Our displeasure of your past actions was reflected on Election Day.”

Victoria Edwards of Boykins asked if any of the board members or administrators have connection personally and professionally to the club. “Should you not recuse yourself,” she asked. “Our taxpayer money should not be used by the club. They can go to the bank like a regular business.”

During a different presentation, Nicole Hubert asked if money for the club could be rerouted to the animal shelter.

As seen on the newspaper’s Facebook page, opposition to the board’s action is also vehement. A few examples:

• Candace Duck Triplett: It’s extremely sad and disheartening. I just logged onto the board of supervisors website and sent an email. Everyone should! I want answers of WHY? Of all the things that money could have gone too? (sic)
• Shay Ann: And this is why we need FRESH, NEW — DIVERSE representation on the County Board.
• Scott Phillips: They also don’t charge the schools (both franklin and soco, franklin has the same deal) to use the course. They are hosting a district tournament there this year. While it seems steep, there are a few advantages to this. Do I wholeheartedly agree, no, but I do see where it helps the area.
• Tommy Simmons: That would have been a nice down payment on something on the school grounds pertaining to the sport.

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In response, the supervisors gave their reasons for there votes.

Ronald West, vice chairman: “It is a form of recreation. An amenity. It is well-maintained. I am in favor one more time.”

Barry Porter: “This is not a donation, it never was.” He acknowledged being a club member, but has not been able to use its offerings. Further, he pointed out that high school golf teams get to use this facility. Earlier this year, for example, the Southampton High School team made it to regionals, and on to state, placing fifth. This provides an opportunity to 100-plus residents. We’re not subsidizing.  I can’t vote to jeopardize the facility, thousands of dollars are generated.

Bruce Phillips said he abstained last year, but this time is against the renewal, and suggested further study, asking, “Where is the money going?” He also reminded the board that Franklin has dropped its support.

Dr. Alan Edwards: “It’s a question not of math, but funneling money to private enterprise. The club is on shaky ground, and I can’t see [renewing].”

Porter interjected that for those people who say, ‘I don’t care” — “You’d better, [because] it generates $22K in property taxes.”

Carl Faison: “The county benefits from this. I took kids to the course for first time, and wish there were more volunteers. Golf is a great sport. It’s character-building. We should do all we can to preserve it so we can continue to benefit. Nothing has changed my mind.”

Randolph Cook also said he would support it again.

Edwards added to give the money to the animal control people, which earned his audience applause.

Porter then made the motion to vote, and the ayes had it.