Summary of Services
The City of Tallahassee operates two public golf courses that allow golfers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the game of golf at affordable prices. More than 50,000 rounds are played annually on these two courses combined. Value and convenience are two key messages that describe the golfing experience at Hilaman and Jake Gaither.
Hilaman Golf Course
Hilaman is an 18-hole, par 72 golf course located in the heart of Tallahassee. The course provides a top-notch playing experience, but additional amenities, including a driving range, restaurant and bar, locker rooms, and a golf pro shop, are available. Management continues to invest in renovations and upgrades to the course and facility, with new golf cart paths, golf carts with GPS, landscaping, and resurfacing of the parking lot.
Jake Gaither Golf Course
Jake Gaither is a 9-hole, par 36 golf course featuring rolling hills and majestic tree coverage that can be truly thought of as a “diamond in the rough.” In August 2022, the course was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation’s historic sites worthy of preservation. It is one of only five golf courses in Florida to receive this Federal designation. Also, Jake Gaither was included to the Florida Historic Golf Trail, just the second course to be added that began as a golf course for African Americans. FY22 saw investments into the course and clubhouse with remodeling of the pro shop and bathrooms, new landscaping, on-course restroom facilities, and cart paths. Enhancements continue to be planned in FY23, with the additional course and facility upgrades on the docket.
FY23
• In FY23, the Golf Department will continue to provide outstanding services to the community at their current staffing level.
• Revenues are expected to increase in FY23 due to the continued number of rounds played at both courses.
• Total expenditures at Hilaman are also budgeted to be slightly higher in FY23 due to the continued increase of rounds played.
• Golf course management plans to remodel the driving range at Hilaman and refurbish the bunkers and greens at Jake Gaither in FY23.
FY24-27
•Steady revenue growth is expected over the next four years.
Click here to return to the budget presentation.
Short-Term Action Plan
Continue to utilize employees from the Department of Corrections 2nd Chance Program.
Invite quarterly motivational speakers from the community. Develop internal and community partnerships to increase job opportunities.
Challenges
High turnover rate: The golf course is operated primarily with temp employees and DOC employees. Most employees work less than a year.
Consistency: Due to our high turnover rate, we are constantly retraining employees which impacts our continuity and quality of work. Limited availability of DOC employees during peak season due to other employers hiring from the same pool.
Long-Term Plan
Implement Certification Program for 2nd Chance Participants:
* Fork lift operation
* CDL Training
* Golf Course Equipment Operation
Life Coach Mentoring:
* Basic Finances
* Housing/Transportation when released
* Continuing a support system after re-entry
Train 2nd Chance DOC employees to use the City of Tallahassee's job portal to watch for opportunities.
Develop partnerships with City departments and other community partners increase employment opportunities.
