Pierce golf course gets a financial lifeline
The Pierce Golf Course, burdened by significant debt from past incidents and declining memberships, was saved by anonymous investors, ensuring its continued operation and community value.<br/>
By News Channel NebraskaPIERCE, Neb. — The Pierce Golf Course, a fixture in the community, faced an uncertain future as mounting debt threatened its existence.
"Right now, the amount of debt we're in, the interest we're paying every year at the bank... that takes away any profit that we have any chance of making," said Travis Pint, a former member of the Pierce Golf Board.
Board members hinted at a debt exceeding half a million dollars, stemming from past misfortunes, including vandalism, a fire, an irrigation system failure, and declining memberships.
The community rallied in support, and three anonymous investors from Pierce stepped forward to provide financial assistance.
"They were able to come in and bail us out financially," said Alisha Stolze, head of marketing and communication for the Pierce Golf Course. "So right now, physically the course is in great shape. It's where it needs to be. And now, because of these investors financially, we're in a good spot as well, and we're fully planning to be open this season."
Beyond the financial relief, former board members emphasized the course's importance as a recreational outlet.
"It's a way for somebody to relax, to get away from everyday life. You know, everybody needs that," Pint said.
Debbie Altwine, former president of the Pierce Golf Board, added, "It brings business to the community of Pierce... there are quite a few golfers out there, and the community of Pierce is here to supporting this."