Plymouth residents urge town to purchase Atlantic Country Club for community benefits

Plymouth residents are rallying for the preservation of Atlantic Country Club, urging the Select Board to consider purchasing the property to maintain it as a golf course rather than allowing it to be developed into housing. During a recent meeting, community members voiced their concerns about the potential impact of new housing developments on local taxes and infrastructure.

Chris Jones, a long-time resident and parent of three children who have worked at Atlantic, emphasized the importance of the golf course as a source of employment and life skills for local youth. He argued that purchasing the property for $20 million could prevent significant tax increases that would arise from the need for new schools and infrastructure to support potential housing developments.

Jones proposed the creation of a golf enterprise account, which would allow the course to operate independently of the town's budget, alleviating financial burdens on taxpayers who do not use the facility. He highlighted the potential for the town to auction off parts of the property for development, which could generate revenue to support the golf course's operations.

Other residents echoed these sentiments, stressing the value of open space and the community benefits provided by the golf course. Don Daly, the golf professional at Atlantic, noted that municipal golf courses in surrounding towns have proven to be profitable and self-sustaining, further supporting the case for town ownership.

The discussions also touched on the logistical challenges of accommodating hundreds of new homes in the area, with concerns about the strain on local roads and services. Residents urged the Select Board to explore all options for preserving the golf course, emphasizing its role in the community and the potential long-term financial benefits of keeping it operational.

As the Select Board continues to deliberate on the future of Atlantic Country Club, the community remains hopeful that their voices will influence a decision that prioritizes both local interests and sustainable development.