Author: Kristie Wells
It has come to our attention that Tim Sands is no longer serving as the General Manager of Golf Operations for IVGID. Sands had stepped into the role in May of this year with an expanded set of responsibilities that included overseeing the Championship and Mountain Golf Courses as well as Food and Beverage operations—a promotion from the original Director of Golf position, which was encouraged by the Board of Trustees. (IVGID Golf Page)
While the specific details surrounding Sands’ departure have not been disclosed, it is clear that this position was not the right fit for either party. His exit leaves a significant gap in IVGID’s organizational structure, further disrupting an already busy season for the District’s staff.
This unexpected development is sure to raise concerns about the future direction of IVGID’s golf operations, especially in the wake of recent discussions regarding the outsourcing of district management. During the August 6th Board of Trustees meeting, representatives from Troon Management proposed taking over all of IVGID’s operations, including golf. Public response to the presentation was overwhelmingly negative, reflecting widespread community apprehension about outsourcing. (Watch meeting – the first two hours were public comment; Troon proposal starts at 2:15:50)
The matter will be revisited at the August 20th Board of Trustees meeting, where Erin Feore, IVGID’s Director of Human Resources, is scheduled to present a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Management Services. The Board’s decision on this issue will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the District’s future.
Additionally, the agenda for the August 20th meeting includes a discussion on the Employment Separation Agreement with current General Manager Bobby Magee, the potential appointment of an Interim District General Manager, and a review of applications for the open General Manager position. IVGID’s challenges in retaining staff continue to raise concerns, and the outcome of these decisions could shape the District’s course for years to come.
However, help could be on the horizon with the upcoming election. Three of the candidates running for IVGID Trustee have the expertise to help stabilize the District:
- Michelle Jezycki, with her deep leadership and human resources experience, could provide crucial support to Erin Feore through these difficult transitions.
- Mick Homan’s extensive finance background would be invaluable in ensuring appropriate budgeting for key roles and establishing long-term sustainability for salaries and market rates.
- Michaela Tonking has demonstrated leadership and a keen understanding of accounting, and she has already been working to guide the current Board of Trustees through the ongoing discussions around IVGID management.
It is clear that the current Board majority—Schmitz, Dent, and Tulloch—continues to make unwise and financially harmful decisions regarding staff and operations within IVGID. As we approach the November election, voters should remember the impact these decisions have had on the District’s stability and future.