Summary
The city is considering a deal with the Leipold Johnson Golf Group to stabilize the shoreline, build a clubhouse, and lease and operate Shoop Park as a dune-style golf course. Residents packed public comment worried about the 1917 deed requiring a public park, tree and bird habitat loss, and future golf fees. The council referred it to the Executive Committee, with a possible vote July 21.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 3
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jul 21, 2026.
Impact analysis
The lease terms and construction costs weren't detailed tonight; residents worry future greens fees could price out local golfers.
Golfers would get a new dune-style course and clubhouse; the city gets shoreline stabilization at private expense.
Opponents say migratory birds, wildlife, and residents priced out of a deeded public park would lose out.
Mentions & discussions (3)
Common Council — July 21, 2026
The council approved a 50-year lease letting the Leipold Johnson Golf Group spend roughly $10 million to rebuild the Shoop Park golf course, stabilize the eroding Lake Michigan shoreline, and construct a new clubhouse — at no cost to city taxpayers. Supporters say it saves a crumbling park; opponents worry about tree removal, bird habitat, and the 1917 deed donating the land as a public park.
Common Council — July 7, 2026
The city is considering a deal with the Leipold Johnson Golf Group to stabilize the shoreline, build a clubhouse, and lease and operate Shoop Park as a dune-style golf course. Residents packed public comment worried about the 1917 deed requiring a public park, tree and bird habitat loss, and future golf fees. The council referred it to the Executive Committee, with a possible vote July 21.
Common Council — March 3, 2026
Golf operators Keiser Golf Group and Leipold Johnson Golf Group may take over or improve Shoop Park under a potential long-term lease. The idea goes to the Committee of the Whole for study first.
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