The future of Pirates’ Pointe Mini Golf was a central focus of Monday night’s Storm Lake City Council work session, as members debated whether the city should take early control of the 18‑hole course. The discussion unfolded during a review of the proposed capital improvement plan for fiscal years 2027 through 2031.
The course was built in 2013 under a unique agreement: the city owns the land, but the mini golf itself is owned by Reel Time Rentals. Reel Time leases the land from the city, while S&L Hospitality operates the course for a management fee.
The current lease runs through Oct. 31, 2028, but City Finance Director Tyler Gibbons told council members Reel Time has offered to terminate early and hand the property over “as is.”
That option raised immediate questions about cost. Gibbons noted that renovation estimates to keep the attraction as mini golf range from $200,000 to $400,000.
Council members pointed to broken pumps, leaking pipes, worn carpet, fencing issues, and deteriorating features like the cave and pirate ship. Public Services Director Brandon Ripke said even basic repairs would be costly.
Some questioned whether the city should simplify the attraction rather than restore its pirate‑themed features. Councilperson Richard Riner suggested scaling back.
Riner also warned of community pushback if the course were eliminated.
Usage numbers remain unclear, though staff noted annual revenues of $40,000 to $60,000, with operating profits around $20,000 to $25,000. Gibbons emphasized the amenity’s value despite modest profits.
The debate also touched on broader themes of taxation and core services. City Manager Keri Navratil raised the question of whether recreation should be considered a core service.
Council members further learned that Reel Time has not paid the city its required lease payments—three percent of gross revenues—for several years. Mayor Meg McKeon pressed the issue, and Navratil confirmed the lapse.
Another possibility discussed was reverting the property to green space—a condition already written into the lease agreement. Navratil explained that if the lease ends in 2028 without extension or early takeover, the land must be returned to its original state.
Council members confirmed that reverting to green space would not be the city’s financial responsibility. Still, McKeon cautioned that allowing the course to deteriorate over the next two years could reflect poorly on the city and King’s Pointe.
By the end of the discussion, the majority of council members leaned toward continuing with the existing lease until 2028, while keeping options open. That could include setting aside funds over the next few years to address repairs when the lease expires.