Golf facility may get new operator

AURORA -- The Orchard Valley Golf Course and Restaurant could be under new management as early as Jan. 1.

On Nov. 9, the Fox Valley Park District board will decide whether to accept a proposal from Virginia-based Billy Casper Golf to operate both the golf course and restaurant, located off Orchard Road in Aurora. The company manages more than 100 facilities nationwide, according to its Web site, including the Cook County Forest Preserve's courses and Poplar Creek Country Club in Hoffman Estates.

Details of the arrangement have not been finalized.

But residents should not see any changes, according to Laurie Hoffman, director of recreation and communication for the Park District. Golf rates will remain the same, she said, and all existing golf course and restaurant staff would have the option of joining up with Billy Casper Golf.

Orchard Valley has been losing money each year for some time. Hoffman said the course was $170,000 in the red last year, and this year revenue is down by more than $100,000. Hoffman said there was no discussion about closing the course, only about finding some way to reduce expenses.

The Park Board meets at 6 p.m. Monday at the Prisco Community Center, 150 W. Illinois Ave.