In this compelling episode, we dive into the heart of a Texas community's passionate endeavor to save the cherished Northcliffe Golf Course. Join us as we converse with the dedicated individuals behind the "Save the Northcliffe Golf Course" movement. We start by tracing the rich history of this iconic golf course, reliving its glory days when it was a vibrant hub for golf enthusiasts and a vital part of the local community. We explore how Northcliffe became one of the most beautiful and well-maintained golf courses in the San Antonio and New Braunfels area. However, not all is well on the greens. The Northcliffe Golf Course has faced significant challenges in recent years, leading to its unfortunate closure. We delve into the present state of the course, discussing the effects of its closure on the local community and the environmental impact. The story doesn't end here though. The "Save the Northcliffe Golf Course" group shares their ongoing efforts to prevent the rezoning and potential housing development on the land. They recount the protests, community meetings, and their strategies to keep the golf course intact. Finally, we look towards the future. Our guests share their hopes and plans for the revival of the Northcliffe Golf Course, discussing potential solutions and the support they need to bring their vision to life. Tune in to this episode to understand the importance of preserving local recreational spaces and how a community is rallying together to protect their beloved golf course. Whether you're a golf fan or simply someone who values community spirit, this episode is sure to inspire.

Local Politics Episode 11: The Fight to Save Northcliffe Golf Course

When change comes knocking, this community doesn't take it lying down! On this episode of Local Politics, Kevin and Jason interview two residents fighting to save the Northcliffe Golf Course in Schertz, Texas.
Paul Kendzior and Heather Jackson set the scene by explaining the significance of the golf course and just why the planned housing development would hurt the local community. Then they go into their plans to save the green space through an unusual move known as a Public Improvement District, or a PID. You’ll hear them walk through the developer’s plans on the map, unpack what exactly a PID is, explain why it’s an innovative tactic for the community to take, and lay out just how much it might cost you and your family to save the golf course.
This episode is essential listening for anyone in the local area to find out what’s going on with the golf course. Learn what the proposed PID timeline is, how you can get involved with the PID project, and just what will happen if it fails and the housing development goes ahead.
Please share this episode with everyone concerned by the proposed Northcliffe Golf Course development, and think about how you can get involved in the PID. It could be as simple as helping a non-techy neighbor to download or watch this episode! And of course, subscribe to the Local Politics podcast to stay on top of what’s going on in the Schertz-Cibolo-Northcliffe area.

Timestamps
[0:17] Kevin introduces this episode’s guests, Paul Kendzior and Heather Jackson
[1:50] So, what’s going on at Northcliffe Golf Course?
[5:28] Balancing the need for affordable housing with preserving the golf course
[6:55] Heather and Paul’s vision for the golf course
[10:07] “We’ve got one shot to do this”: Getting the PID ready
[12:40] Unpacking the PID application process
[13:48] What’s going on at PID Island and PID Elbow?
[19:19] How is the community reacting to the PID plans?
[21:32] “The broadest shot” petition to the Council
[28:02] “We’ve struggled with this”: What are the long-term plans for the space if the PID goes through? [30:05] The inner workings of the PID Advisory Committee
[31:36] Would the landowners give the committee a deal?
[32:51] A sewer treatment plant, a rehab facility and other terrible ideas for the space
[34:00] Pricing up the land value[36:36] Getting into the nuts and bolts of the PID
[40:42] Paul’s estimation of the PID timeline and what the community can do to help
[42:52] Aaaaaaaaand… What happens if it doesn’t work out?
[47:50] Where to go for more information about the PID project

Highlight Quote“It’s a lot of work, but it’s nothing compared to what everybody in this committee has already bitten off. To get to this stage has been weeks and weeks of long nights, meeting 2, 3 times a week, discussing “How do we do this?”, “What do we do with this?”. We’ve just been given this big mountain to climb and we’ve just put our heads down and taken one step and one step”.

-Paul Kendzior, Local Politics podcast (24:15)

Links:
Follow the Northcliffe PID project

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