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Golf Course FAQ: Click here "Letter to Mayor Begich" By Michael J. Hurdzan, Ph.D. - ASGCA Click here to download (PDF format). NOTE: PDF files require Acrobat Reader to view. If you do not have Acrobat Reader, you can download a FREE copy here. Golf course may be back on track following litigation Five years ago, when the Girdwood Area Plan was adopted by the Anchorage Assembly, the municipality embarked on one of the most controversial "first steps" identified in the plan &endash; a resort golf course and nordic ski course for Girdwood Valley. After sending out two requests for proposals spanning three years, the municipality selected Glacier Valley Development Corp. (GVDC), a team of international golf resort developers headed by local Girdwood resident Tom Yeager. The team includes Michael Hurdzan, an internationally recognized golf architect who uses environmental amenities in his golf designs. Although the lease between the city and GVDC was approved in August 1998, it was the subject of litigation brought by several environmental organizations. Motions for summary judgment were filed and after a series of rulings, the court agreed with the plaintiffs that the city provide more specific information about the lands leased and the valuation of those lands. Rather than appeal these rulings, the municipality contracted with an Anchorage planner, Chris Beck and Associates, to conduct a site- specific land use study of the overall 750- acre "project area" established in the golf course lease. The study will more clearly identify the land proposed for development and will address seven specific issues, especially environmental constraints and historical sites, as required by municipal ordinances. Chris will work with GVDC and the local community to identify the specific 380- 400 acres that will be included in the lease, and he is expected to finish this summer. After that, the municipality will conduct an appraisal of the property, followed by renegotiation of the lease agreement with GVDC. It is anticipated that the proposed lease will be back before the Assembly for approval this fall. Copyright © 2006 Girdwood 2020. All rights reserved Website by Sundog Media & Alaska Internet Services