Need some inside info about Columbia Edgewater Country Club from a member

[zeke013]

I am considering joining Columbia Edgewater Country Club in Portland. But I have some concerns about the club's financial health.

 

I was blown away by the course and the practice area.

 

But the actual facilities are pretty run down.

 

I know they are just starting a major remodel of the pool house and pro shop - but they are funding that via a one-time capital call from members, along with an ongoing monthly capital assessment to pay off a loan.

 

And that project won't touch the main clubhouse which also desperately needs a facelift.

 

The quality of the course and practice facilities are the main concern for me - and CECC hits it out of the park there.

 

But I am a little concerned about paying a large initiation fee, signing up for a large monthly bill, and then getting hit with another capital call.

 

Any members here willing to post a bit about their internal view of the club's workings/finances? Not asking for state secrets - just some insight into the club's health and priorities.

 

While you're here - I'd also appreciate any info you have about the culture at the club. I'm 47 and a relatively poor golfer (Edit to add: career best 83, regularly shoot in the mid-90s). I'm a high-handicapper but have just committed to golf. (I have a son that has been sparked by the game and I am going to join a club, practice, and work to improve.)

 

I do worry about finding other members willing to put up with my golf during a round.

 

Thoughts on any of the above?

 

Thanks in advance.

[Matt J]

Might be a tough layout to learn the game. Perhaps join a semi-private or lower end club and see how you and the boy improve? CECC is a player's club. A first class layout isn't helping you much when you're struggling to break 100. I'd make sure you take to the game and it takes to you before dropping that much coin. My 2 cents.

[zeke013]

Might be a tough layout to learn the game. Perhaps join a semi-private or lower end club and see how you and the boy improve? CECC is a player's club. A first class layout isn't helping you much when you're struggling to break 100. I'd make sure you take to the game and it takes to you before dropping that much coin. My 2 cents.

 

Good advice.

 

What actually draws me to CECC is the Mason course - the 9 hole par 3, along with the practice area. I actually see myself using that more than anything else for the next few years.

 

A Mason membership is under consideration also.

[jwlesh]

This is an ancient post but just wanted to follow-up and see what the OP ended up doing.

[MR2Tyler]

Bumping this post again. CECC is running a trial membership promotion over the fall and winter, and I’d love to chat with a member before signing up. 

[njlam]

I think CECC is a great track, definitely in the top 5 of private courses in the Portland area

That being said, I wonder why they are having a membership promotion when other clubs in the area have raised their initiation fees and have waiting lists?

 

Seems weird.

Edited October 10, 2022 by njlam

[mallrat]

My guess; just a guess, no factual basis, would be based on location. With the homeless issue being horrible in that area. I can’t imagine you would want to deal with that every time you go to your club. 

[doc52]

Drive down 33rd and you'll see why...