Summary of Services
The City of Tallahassee runs two public golf courses where players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the game at affordable prices. Over 50,000 rounds are played each year on these courses. Value and convenience are key themes that define 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 event space, locker rooms, and a golf pro shop. Management continues to invest in the course and facility, with a renovation to the driving range, future golf cart replacements, and ongoing improvements to the grounds of the course.
Jake Gaither Golf Course
Jake Gaither is a 9-hole, par 36 golf course with rolling hills and majestic trees that can be truly called a “diamond in the rough.” In August 2022, the course was added to the National Register of Historic Places, the official list of the nation’s historic sites worth preserving. Additionally, Jake Gaither was included in the Florida Historic Golf Trail, being the second course added, and it originally served as a golf course for African Americans. In FY26, staff will continue refurbishing the bunkers and perform other landscaping and grounds maintenance to support the ongoing growth in popularity.
FY26
• In FY26, the Golf Department will continue to deliver excellent services to the community at their current staffing level.
• Revenues are expected to increase slightly in FY26.
• Total expenditures at Hilaman are also budgeted to be slightly higher in FY26 due to the number of rounds played and increase in costs of goods and personnel.
FY27-30
•Steady revenue growth is expected over the next four years.
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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.
