Timothy J. Adkins, a businessman, said that he anticipates a deal to purchase the 27-hole Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links property in the near future.
Adkins stated that he bought the property to buy it after hearing from a national homebuilder that the course was for sale. Adkins had hoped to develop approximately 450 homes.
Adkins stated that he plans to develop the “water nine”, which is located on the west side, of the property. It is in New Franklin. He said that the 18-hole section is located in Green and that he plans to keep it there for the foreseeable future.
Adkins stated that Water 9 at Turkeyfoot Lake would be an upscale mixed-use development. Adkins is currently working with a local firm to determine what would be most appropriate and compatible with the area. He said that the firm is currently putting together several proposals.
He said, “I don’t have any designs (yet),” “I don’t have any ideas on paper.”
Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Course: Businessman had two days to make an offer
Adkins stated that his investment will amount to $9.5 million for the running of sewer and water lines to the property. This will allow nearby residents to connect and remove failing septic systems.
He stated, “All these houses will be able hook up to the sewer I’m going private fund.”
Adkins, the owner of Upper Deck and nine Basement Bar & Grill locations from Twinsburg to North Canton, as well as other properties, stated that he only had two days to make a competitive offer for the course.
He reached out to local business and political leaders to solicit their opinions and made an offer of $8.6million, which was slightly more than the unnamed builder. He didn’t specify any conditions for the sale. The buyer could have withdrawn from the deal if the other offer contained contingencies regarding water and zoning costs.
“This one was very emotional.”
Adkins gave details of his plans in a prepared statement.
He said, “I grew-up in this area, and I live about a mile from the golf club. I want to ensure that any development at the course is good for the Portage Lakes.”
Adkins stated in an interview that out of all the business deals and purchases he made, Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links was his most personal.
He said, “Of all the properties that I purchased, I never got emotionally involved.” “This one was very emotional for me.”
After considering the Bath area, he said that he hopes to build a home there.
Adkins’ 160 employees are employed by his businesses in New Franklin. He is the city’s biggest employer. Another 60 people will be added to the total by the golf course.
He stated that all 27 holes would continue to operate through next year.
From golf course worker, to golf course owner
Paul Adamson, New Franklin Mayor, stated that Adkins has been in preliminary discussions about the purchase of the course.
The mayor stated that the intention was to preserve the 18 holes, and develop the “water nine”, as everyone calls it.
The 18-hole course opened in 1925. A few years later, the water nine was added.
Adamson stated that Adkins is still working on plans for the water nine but he is confident that the new owner of the course will offer a development that blends in well with the surrounding area.
Adamson stated that Adamson “understands the priorities that people have in this area.” Adamson added that he expects to present something that is consistent with that. We are happy that he is developing it.
Adkins stated that he started his businesses from humble means. Adkins, who was a young man, worked at Spring Hills Golf Course and would park his car in the lot.
He said that he will sometimes walk out to the golf course after he finishes at Upper Deck Bar and Grill in Portage Lakes.
He said, “I go out to the golf course and just sit down and think, ”
Leave a message for Alan Ashworth at 330-996-3859 or email him [email protected]. Follow him @newsalanbeaconj on Twitter.
