Leavenworth tables golf course housing concept

LEAVENWORTH — After a split discussion, the City of Leavenworth has decided to table a conceptual idea to transform the Leavenworth Golf Course property into a multi-use space with affordable housing units.

The concept, titled “A BIG Idea,” was submitted by Steven Booher of Syndicate Smith in response to the Housing Advisory Committee’s (HAC) request for affordable housing ideas. It was one of three submissions.

The idea envisions developing part of the 104-acre property into a mix of affordable housing after the Leavenworth Golf Club’s lease expires in 2034, while preserving 43 acres as parks, open space and trails.

Though deemed outside the scope of the original request, the HAC advanced the idea to the City Council for further exploration. Mayor Carl Florea emphasized the discussion was preliminary, noting the April 29 study session was intended to determine whether the concept should move forward to a broader public process. No formal action was planned.

About 40 community members attended the session, which included presentations from the HAC and representatives of the Leavenworth Golf Club, followed by council discussion.

“I think we can have a dialogue,” said HAC representative Kurt Peterson. “We can move forward for something that takes a city-owned piece of property and leverages it for the best possible use of all those in the city.”

Representatives of the Leavenworth Golf Club opposed the concept, emphasizing the course’s 100-year old history and involvement in the community. They also raised concerns over zoning, environmental impact, sewer limitations and undocumented fill throughout the property.

“This is a public resource that is irreplaceable, and we should hang on to it,” said Leavenworth resident and Golf Club member John Groen.

Councilmember Clint Strand sided with the club, noting the property was originally deeded to the city with the expectation it would remain a golf course.

“This is transformational…and I absolutely respect it, but I think that we should start with low hanging fruit before we tear up the orchard,” said Strand.

A majority of councilmembers signaled reluctance to pursue the idea further. However, Councilmembers Zeke Reister and Mike Bedard cautioned against closing off discussion at an early stage, especially with years remaining on the lease. Bedard said the council had a responsibility to regularly reassess how assets serve the community as a whole.

“Not having a discussion is not representing the government,” said Bedard. “Not talking about this is doing a great disservice to our community.”

Others pushed back, warning that continuing to entertain an already polarizing idea would fracture the city’s relationship with its constituents.

“We have an incredible asset…I also don't believe that every single idea that is brought forth to the city should be discussed,” said Councilmember Anne Hessburg.

Mayor Florea concluded there was not enough support to move the concept forward.

“Things may change,” said Florea. “For now, it looks like we are going to look at other options for housing and set this aside.”

In an email to Ward Media, Booher expressed disappointment over the council’s decision, but praised Bedard and Reister for advocating for “an open, community-wide discussion and evaluation of the idea.”

“It’s great when a City puts out an open call for ideas and is willing to think outside the box.  We are proud to have put forward an idea that has sparked some great conversations and perhaps given people the chance to consider housing and our public assets in new ways,” said Booher.

“Housing is such a difficult problem to solve, and we believe all ideas should be on the table for consideration and discussion,” he added.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media