The Cleveland City Council on Monday voted to lease the Waterville Golf Course to Chattanooga businessman Henry Luken.
Other applicants were Sonya Merkel of Cleveland and James Leeth, who operates the Lupton City Golf Course.
The Luken offer was $36,000 per year, while Ms. Merkel offered $30,000. Mr. Leeth offered $12,000 the first year and $24,000 the second year, plus 10 percent of gross revenues. He offered $36,000 for years 3-10, plus 20 percent of gross revenues.
Mr.
Luken also offered $700,000 cash to purchase the golf course, though he noted he is aware of the issue of a well-head being on the course. He said members of his courses are able to play at all of his courses. Mr. Luken has acquired a string of golf courses in Chattanooga.
The city tried leasing it this season, but the lessee never picked up the key to the course.
Last Monday, the council terminated the contract with Rock Morgan of Morristown, Tn., and began looking for a new operator.
The city is owed $20,000 by Mr. Morgan, officials said.