Foster City extends VB Golf lease to 2032

With the updated amendment, VB Golf will pay a minimum of $450,000 annually in rent, with a 6% contribution from its annual operations revenue toward a city-maintained capital improvement reserve fund, an increase from prior amendments. The latest change extends the lease to 2032. The change also requires that the entrance gate and gate to the levee path remain open to the public during business hours, according to a staff report.

Most councilmembers were on board with the update, though Councilmember Patrick Sullivan, who voted against the resolution, said he felt the continuous changes over multiple decades necessitated a brand-new agreement.

“I’ve always supported the golf course … and I think they've been good tenants, but I feel more comfortable if we had a new lease,” Sullivan said.

Councilmember Phoebe Venkat, who ultimately voted to approve the amendment, said she wanted to see more data and environmental initiatives baked into the agreement.

“I would love to be able to include some kind of environmental sustainability goal, given Foster City is really growing in the environmental sustainability space,” she said, citing potential changes to artificial turf or pesticide use as examples.

She also added a preference for site inspections and data related to the percentage of patrons who are Foster City residents.

The amendment was approved, though staff agreed to potentially add Venkat’s suggestions to the agreement.