Grandote Peaks Golf Course, a Tom Weiskopf-Jay Morrish design in La Veta, is closed for business and might not repopen in spring.
According to Huerfano County's The Signature, Dr. Randy Briggs, owner of the course, terminated his 35-member staff Dec. 1. He then called a meeting with Steve Perkins, president of the La Veta Cuchara Chamber of Commerce to discuss the closure. He said economic, political and weather conditions informed his decision, and that he could not afford to operate the course without local business support.
"This will have a devastating impact on the community," said Perkins, who added that the course is not going to to be listed for sale.
According to the La Veta/Cuchara Chamber, more than 20 percent of summer visitors to the area stayed overnight for the purpose of playing golf at Grandote. "They buy gas, eat meals, visit galleries and shop for gifts," Huerfano County Tourism Board chair Deb Malone told The Signature. "Everyone in the town will feel the impact of this closure."