With no takers beating down the city’s door to lease the golf course as the busy season approaches, Smithville leaders have opted to hire two people to operate the course and connected swimming facilities.

City leaders, during a special-called meeting last week, agreed to enter a contract with Jimmy Lewis to care for the golf course for the coming year. He will be paid $33,000 and will be expected to maintain the nine-hole, city-owned links. Meanwhile, Jeania Cawthorn will be hired to manage the pro shop and swimming pool. She will be paid $25,000 per year and be eligible for city benefits since she will be an employee, unlike Lewis who is contracted.

In making the decision, the aldermanic council agreed that something needed to be done immediately since golf season is nearing and things like aerating the course and spraying have to be done. It was suggested to the board during the meeting that a well-maintained golf course with lush greens and inviting fairways could bring in $100,000 a year for the city. Anything that is brought in belongs to the city of Smithville since they have to pay for the equipment, chemicals and related overhead to operate the course.

The pair started their new duties immediately.