Board approves new pumps at Scotsdale

"The irrigation system at Scotsdale is the oldest one in Bella Vista. … but because of the age of the system, a decision was made to replace them." Keith Ihms Director of Golf Maintenance

Although the board had already approved a capitol expense at the Scotsdale Golf Course, Keith Ihms, the director of golf maintenance was at the regular monthly board meeting to talk about the malfunctioning irrigation system. The meeting was Thursday night.

The board approved the expenditure of $20,000 on May 10, the day of their regular closed, discussion meeting with General Manager Tom Judson. The discussion meeting was turned into an executive session so the board could vote.

The irrigation system at Scotsdale is the oldest one in Bella Vista, Ihms said. When it went out, they considered repairing the existing pumps which would have been an operating expense, but because of the age of they system, a decision was made to replace them. Since new pumps will upgrade the system and extend the life of the pump station, it became a capitol expense.

Scotsdale is closed while the greens are replanted, so providing adequate water is vital, Ihms reminded the board. But the entire course would suffer if the irrigation system remained down.

The board approved an expenditure of $20,000 for new pumps and labor.

Meanwhile, Ihms said, work is well underway to level the 12th green

Scotsdale before the new grass is planted on greens affected by winter kill. He expects to begin planting on June 4. The course will be closed until September.

The board approved a recommendation from the Lakes Committee to lower Lake Windsor this winter. Judson said he has heard from several residents in the Lake Windsor area who want to work on their docks and seawalls. All those residents will be notified as soon as possible so they can line up contractors to do the work during the winter months.

Recreation Director Joan Glubczynski reported that the Branchwood recreation building will close this week and remain closed for about four months while major renovations are done inside. The locker rooms, restrooms and lobby will be updated and the fitness area will be expanded and moved to the new addition. During the shutdown, some classes will be moved to the Highlands Clubhouse and water classes will be available at the Kingsdale pool. She said the Kingsdale pool will be open for lap swimming a few mornings a week.