Duluth’s Former Golf Course Property Development Plan Moves Forward
DULUTH — After a period of inactivity and discussions regarding its future, plans are emerging for the former Lester Park Golf Course property.
City councilors approved a potential transfer of up to 230 acres of the unused municipal golf course to the Duluth Economic Development Authority (DEDA) with an 8-1 vote. This narrow approval was necessary as the land is publicly designated as open space/parkland, requiring at least eight of the city’s nine councilors to agree before any sale can proceed.
The only opposing vote came from 1st District Councilor Wendy Durrwachter, who represents neighborhoods including Lester Park. The council held a roughly two-hour session of public testimony, with over 30 citizens speaking out before the discussion regarding the golf course’s future.
Many community members expressed opposition to transferring control of the land to DEDA without broader community input regarding its ideal use, which is expected to involve a blend of housing, commercial development, and recreational green spaces.
While the council has approved a potential development agreement, the ultimate transfer of the property will depend on a completed land-use plan created with public input. Durrwachter recommended conducting the land-use study prior to any moves to lift parkland protections, emphasizing the importance of understanding infrastructure costs tied to new development.
Support for the transfer was evident among many councilors, with 3rd District Councilor Roz Randorf indicating the importance of balancing community conservation desires with the city’s housing needs. In contrast, concerns arose about linking the development of the golf course to the preservation of 1,500 acres of land designated for conservation, as voiced by Duluth Area Outdoor Alliance member Dave Pagel.
Amid these considerations, Mayor Roger Reinert highlighted the pressing need for housing in Duluth. A recent study has identified a requirement for over 8,000 additional housing units in the next decade, emphasizing the necessity to address this challenge and shape the future of the community effectively.
