Country Club mad(ness)

It is time to apply some practical and unemotional analysis to the bruhaha about the maintenance practices at Kona Country Club. The golf course has been there since before 1970, and dwelling units were built surrounding the club shortly thereafter.

Why, just now, is there so much upset in the community? Because of a failure of management to address and solve the issues, which are real and outrageous! In truth, this management has never been engaged with the community, at least for the past 15 years or so. There are easy and practical solutions that management can take to ameliorate inconvenience to neighbors and alleviate the noise of maintenance equipment, if only management will consider the options with an open mind. Running equipment at 4:30 or 5 in the morning in a residential zone is not an option!

Fairways can be easily maintained during the day by careful planning. If, for example, the tee off time is 7 a.m. (or whatever) players could be started on both the first hole and the ninth hole simultaneously. At the same time, the maintenance crew can start work on the sixth and 15th hole, well ahead of players. By the time players reach the sixth and 15th, maintenance will be well ahead. Near the end of the day, tee times must end well before closing time, allowing maintenance to commence on the first fairway. You get the picture. Rotate players and crews in such a way as to keep them well apart.

At the end of the day, and well before quiet hours should be in force, the parking lots and other maintenance can take place until, say 9 p.m. See? It’s easy to be a good neighbor if you have an open and creative mindset.

Management, get on board and consider crafting a neighbor friendly program! You can do it!

Howard Conant

Keauhou