[May 24, 2018] – In an overwhelming show of solidarity and support, members of Woodbridge Golf & Country Club voted tonight to approve a $3 million Capital Improvement Plan, transforming the nearly 100-year-old local private club into a modern, resort-style destination.
The plan, which has been nearly four years in the making, received a nod of approval by more than 86 percent of the responding voting members. Included in the plan are projects that will create a boutique-style fitness center; resurface the club’s seven tennis courts and replace tennis netting and fencing; add al fresco dining to the club’s restaurant; and greatly expand the club’s golf practice facility with additional putting and chipping greens, driving range and an incorporated, covered entertainment area.
“Our members approved a plan tonight that really meets the current needs and desires of the existing membership, while also addressing the needs and desires of the local community,” said Woodbridge’s General Manager, Ernie Micelli. “We are very excited to raise the notch at Woodbridge and offer a place for the area’s residents to recreate, socialize, exercise and maintain or grow a healthy, enjoyable lifestyle.”
Four years in the making, the plan calls for $3 million in improvements at no assessment to the club’s members. Rather, the plan will be funded via a one-time membership dues increase ranging from $10-$30 per month and debt financing. Because the club’s current debt – totaling $293,631 – will be paid off in June 2020, Micelli said it is in a unique position to be able to service the new loan and a very minimal impact to the club’s budget.
“Woodbridge is in an amazing position financially that you just don’t see in the private club world, locally or nationally,” he said. “We wanted to make sure we maintain this by creating a plan that reasonably addresses the club’s needs while not over-reaching our incredible financial position.”
The plan is the culmination of collaborative work between club administration, committees and its Board of Directors, and represents a trend in the private club industry of increasing and diversifying amenity offerings to maintain relevancy in today’s market.
“This is exactly what the younger families in our community are wanting these days,” said Board President, Nick Meyers. “We need a place where families can come, socialize and have something for everyone – the husband, the wife and the children. This plan will make Woodbridge that place.”
Support for the plan was overwhelmingly positive. In addition to the reasonable price tag and no member assessment, Micelli attributed the support to the plan’s well-rounded approach. Projects are divided fairly equally between the fitness/tennis offerings, clubhouse upgrades and golf course improvements.
“The improvements this plan calls for will touch all of our members,” he said. “We aren’t just addressing one aspect of the club. We are taking a wholistic look at what is best for the club and what are present and future members want the most.”
Work is expected to begin nearly immediately, with the refurbishment of the tennis complex and the creation of the fitness center as the top priorities and expected to be completed the first half of 2019.
ABOUT WOODBRIDGE
Located in the heart of wine country, Woodbridge Golf & Country Club is a private, 27-hole champion golf course with seven tennis courts, a full-size swimming pool and a Clubhouse that offers casual and fine dining to its members and privately-booked banquets. In addition to an active golf and tennis schedule of events, the club also offers monthly social events and daily dining to its members. Memberships start at just $81 per month. More information about Woodbridge Golf & Country Club’s membership offerings can be found on the club’s website: www.woodbridgegcc.com, or by calling the club at 209.334.5454.
