San Luis Obispo City Council Votes to Keep Laguna Lake Golf Course Open

Residents and golfers successfully lobbied against a proposal to repurpose the course for low-cost housing.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The San Luis Obispo City Council voted 5-0 to reject a proposal by Councilwoman Jan Marx to repurpose the Laguna Lake Golf Course for low-cost housing. The council instead agreed to spend around $850,000 to repair a bridge and the pro shop at the 26-acre, 10-hole executive golf course, which has been operating at a loss of $450,000 annually.

Why it matters

The Laguna Lake Golf Course has been a community asset in San Luis Obispo for decades, and its closure would have deprived residents of a recreational amenity. The decision to keep it open reflects the city's commitment to preserving green spaces and recreational opportunities, even in the face of budget constraints.

The details

The golf course, owned and operated by the City of San Luis Obispo, has faced financial challenges, including $450,000 in losses last year. In 2021, flooding led to the closure of the pro shop and restaurant. Councilwoman Jan Marx had proposed repurposing the course for low-cost housing as a cost-saving measure, but the city council rejected this proposal after receiving more than 120 letters from residents and golfers opposing the closure.

  • The San Luis Obispo City Council voted on the proposal on Tuesday, February 5, 2026.
  • In 2021, flooding led to the closure of the pro shop and restaurant at the Laguna Lake Golf Course.

The players

Jan Marx

A San Luis Obispo City Councilwoman who proposed repurposing the Laguna Lake Golf Course for low-cost housing.

City of San Luis Obispo

The owner and operator of the Laguna Lake Golf Course, which has been operating at a loss of $450,000 annually.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The city council agreed to look into repairing the bridge and pro shop at the Laguna Lake Golf Course, which is expected to cost approximately $850,000.

The takeaway

The decision to keep the Laguna Lake Golf Course open demonstrates the city's commitment to preserving recreational spaces and community assets, even in the face of budget constraints. This move reflects the strong local support for the golf course and the value it provides to San Luis Obispo residents.