Concerns for property values, overgrowth after Orange Park Golf Course abruptly closes

Local families are concerned for their property values and living near a rundown golf course after Orange Park Country Club abruptly closed its doors.

The course opened in 1990.  It’s part of what brought Wendy and Michael Jones to the country club in October.

“It’s very unfortunate,” Michael Jones said.  “It’s a huge asset to our community and obviously, with it closing, we’re very concerned about how that’s going to affect our property values.”

Action News Jax came across a notice on the door to the clubhouse.

It appeared to be from Clay Electric, and stated that the bill should be paid immediately.

It said the last payment came on Dec. 31.

The owner was responsible for the golf course, range, clubhouse and tennis courts.

Many now fear all will fall into disrepair.

A property records search reveals James Price, of Winter Park, is the owner, and that the course was purchased for $2 million in April 2018.

“There were some indications that business was not going well,” said homeowners association President John McCormack.  “They had dwindling membership. Rounds of golf were not where they needed to be.”

McCormack said the HOA could buy the course.

“You have to have 66.67% votes of the community to get anything like that done, which is going to be a challenge,” McCormack said.

The Jones family said it would be on board, before the course grows even more, and they have an eyesore in their backyard.

“If it does become overgrown, it’s going to be really a tragedy for this neighborhood,” Michael Jones said.

Action News Jax contacted the owner for comment, and to inquire about the Clay Electric notice, but hasn’t heard back.

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