The Helena City Commission voted 4-0 Monday to set a public hearing for April 6, 2026 on proposed fee increases at Bill Roberts Municipal Golf Course, repealing the existing fee schedule under resolution number 20906. Parks Director Smith explained the off-cycle timing — outside the city's standard fee-setting process — is driven by the seasonal nature of golf operations, with tournaments and events already being booked based on the prior year's fee schedule.

The Golf Advisory Board, represented at the March 18 administrative meeting by Chairman Jack Greg, fully supports the proposed rate increases, Smith said. Finance Director Danielson provided background on the golf fund's financial position, explaining that a 2018 general obligation bond of more than $2 million for the clubhouse had strained the enterprise fund — a problem compounded by the COVID-19 period — but that strong management by Todd Fritter and Steven Link has allowed cash reserves to rebuild. The general fund's contribution to golf operations is projected to decline to $80,000 in fiscal year 2027.

The fee adjustments are designed to help move Bill Roberts closer to full self-sufficiency as an enterprise fund as it prepares for a significant upcoming irrigation system project. Residents can weigh in at the April 6 public hearing.