Bill > S1666

This bill authorizes the division of capital asset management and maintenance, in consultation with the department of conservation and recreation, to lease the Leo J. Martin Memorial golf course in Weston for up to 25 years, with a possible 5-year extension, to ensure its continued operation and improvement. The process prioritizes proposals from the town of Weston or a local non-profit organization, giving Weston 180 days to decide if it wants to submit a proposal. If Weston leases the course, it cannot transfer the lease to a third party. The lease agreements will require the lessee to manage, operate, improve, and maintain the golf course facilities, including making necessary capital improvements, and to carry comprehensive general liability insurance. Any revenue generated from these leases will go to the department of conservation and recreation for deposit into the General Fund. If no agreement is reached with Weston, the division will solicit proposals from other parties, with specific requirements for bidders, including offering employment to current golf course staff, providing discount programs, and maintaining the course as a 36-hole public facility. The bill also exempts these leases from standard procurement laws and requires review and approval by the inspector general, with a report submitted to legislative committees before any lease is finalized. The lessee will be responsible for all costs associated with the lease and the ongoing operation and maintenance of the golf course. Finally, the division and department are required to report on the results of the leasing process and any executed leases by February 1, 2016.