Local golf course “Sanctuary” to permanently close after 2023 golf season

McKinley Development Company, the partnership of Bill Lemmon and Bob DeHoff, has announced the permanent closure of the Sanctuary Golf Course.

The decision resulted from the course’s long-standing financial struggles, exacerbated by mounting staffing challenges and the need for significant capital investments to update aging equipment.

The Sanctuary Golf Course, previously known as the Bob-O-Link Course, was acquired by McKinley Development Company in 2001 when they purchased the land from the Paul Weber family.

Initially envisioned as a promising investment, the golf course faced a series of challenges that hindered its path to profitability, a news release from the company said. Despite the best efforts of the management, the changing economics of the golf industry made it increasingly difficult to sustain the business over the years.

Bill Lemmon, one of the partners at McKinley, expressed regret over the decision but highlighted the insurmountable challenges faced by the Sanctuary Golf Course.

“The economics of running a golf course has changed dramatically over these last several years. Although we tried our best to make it work, it was no longer sustainable,” said Lemmon.

The closure plan includes maintaining the course for the 2023 golf season, which is set to conclude in October. This decision was taken with deep consideration, given the course’s longstanding significance and popularity within the community.

Bob DeHoff, the other partner at McKinley, acknowledged the emotional connection that many community members hold with the Sanctuary Golf Course.

“We know the Sanctuary has been a beloved golf course by many in our community. It was a difficult decision and one we did not take lightly,” said DeHoff.

The Sanctuary Golf Course has been a prominent fixture in the greater Plain Township/North Canton community, drawing golf enthusiasts and visitors from across the region.

While the closure of the golf course may leave a void for avid golfers, McKinley Development Company remains optimistic about the future plans for the property.

As of now, there are no immediate development plans, but the company aims to explore options that will have a positive impact on the community.