Fort Payne approves lease for DeSoto Golf Course

Fort Payne approves lease for DeSoto Golf Course

By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com

PHOTO: DeSoto Golf Course is in new hands after the Fort Payne City Council approved a lease for the property at Tuesday's special called meeting. (golfpass.com)

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — (Full video at southerntorch.com) The DeSoto Golf Course is expected to reopen under new management next month.

On Tuesday, the Fort Payne City Council approved a three-year lease on the property for Darrel Shankles, who will serve as the property's new owner. The council previously closed the property earlier this year due to financial issues.

"I think Mr. Shankles coming in, being one of us, a citizen of Fort Payne and [wanting] to help us have this thing be successful...that's like a blessing in disguise," said Council President Walter Watson. The lease passed the council with a 3-2 vote.

Shankles will serve as owner and operator of the property for at least three years. According to discussion during the special called meeting, Shankles will have the option to purchase the course in the amount of $225,000. 

The DeSoto Golf Course is a nine-hole course in Fort Payne, featuring more than 3,000 yards of golf with a par of 36. It first opened in 1961. In addition to a golf course, the property is also capable of serving as a place for public meetings, meals, and larger corporate events.

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