The city of San Diego has received a lot of unwanted attention in recent years over its real estate deals, but when it comes to the three municipal golf courses, it has a lot to crow about, based on a newly released revenue report.

The three courses — Balboa, Torrey Pines and Mission Bay — generated $40 million in revenue, and after costs, cleared a $14 million profit for the 2024 fiscal year ended June 30, thanks to a record-breaking 420,000 rounds of golf played. 

Torrey Pines North was the leader with 94,000 rounds. That’s according to the report presented by the city’s golf division to the San Diego City Council’s Environment Committee.    

The courses have 81 holes of golf spread out over 400 acres. The golf division is a part of the Parks and Recreation Department and has a staff of 122 and a $28.4 million budget.

The division’s 35% profit margin for this past fiscal year would probably be considered more than just par in the business world — maybe even a birdie.

But every silver lining has a cloud. Starting this January, green fees will increase 3% for residents and 5% for non-residents. The increase is based on rising expenses, the need to fund future capital improvements, and “improving the “overall golf experience.”

The increase in fees doesn’t require City Council approval, as the power to do so rests with the Parks and Recreation director.

The power given to the director to raise the fees is permitted by a business plan created for the courses in 2012. While golfers might be unhappy about the fee increase, they should know that overall the business plan to maintain and upgrade the courses seems to be working.

At Torrey Pines, for example, the first phase of a project has begun to create a master plan  to replace the existing clubhouse and maintenance facilities. This would include a new golf shop, barn for 150 golf carts and office space for Golf Operations Division management and administrative staff. An architect has been chosen and officials are working toward finalizing a contract. 

At the Balboa Park Golf Course the staff is planning a change to the nine-hole course.  The goal is to realign the road that runs parallel to the course so it’s safer for walkers, automobiles and bicyclists.