In order to make full use of the new clubhouse under construction at Newton’s City owned Westwood Golf course, personnel changes were approved at the Newton City Council meeting Monday night. The council unanimously approved recommendations from the City’s Community Development Department, which are meant to grow services and revenue through the new clubhouse that is expected to be completed before the start of the golf season. Newton Mayor Evelyn George noted no tax money is used at the Golf Course, as the facility funds itself.

“The revenue that comes into Westwood is what is used to pay the expenses of Westwood. It’s a separate fund.”

Plans include adding golf simulators, offering golf lessons, increasing food and beverage options, and having more events and tournaments. To accomplish that, the Newton City Council approved the hiring of an additional golf professional and changed the title of that role to Westwood Operations Manager. Staff believes it better reflects the work current Golf Pro Brad Sponseller is doing. Newton’s Community Development staff says Sponseller has no time to do normal duties, such as golf lessons, and the Golf Pro that would be added would focus on growing use of the golf course through lessons, additional tournaments, and off season events and activities.