Altmann Calls for End to Park Policy Mandating Use of Golf Carts

Nassau County Legislator Lisanne Altmann (D-Great Neck) called for an end to an Eisenhower Park policy making the use of golf carts on the Red Course mandatory, and is seeking a resolution by the Legislature to ensure that golfers can walk the course if they choose.

“Requiring golfers on the Red Course to use carts is an unnecessary cost to pass on to our residents and only entices golfers to play at other courses,” Altmann said. “I hope that my legislators can come together to outlaw what appears to be another money grab to fill the County’s coffers.”

A recently imposed measure forces golfers to pay for and use electric golf carts when playing on the Red Course, Eisenhower Park’s highest-rated course seven days a week. The cost of these carts ranges from $9.50 to $29 per person. The policy has existed for a year, but only during the weekend. The decision to charge daily has been panned by golfers, including many senior citizens who use their round of golf as exercise by walking the 7,003-yard course.

“During a time when more Americans are obese than ever before, limiting the opportunities to exercise is backwards thinking,” Altmann said. “Our residents deserve the right to choose whether they walk or ride. Otherwise, they’ll be deciding to play elsewhere.”