SHEBOYGAN – The Vollrath Park disc golf shop could reopen this year with a new operator.
West Bend-based Riverside Disc Golf could assume operations at the concession building, 124 Park Ave., after Public Works Committee approval June 9. This comes after the city decided to pursue a new vision for the concession stand after the contract with long-time operators of The Shack, Dennis and Patti Wield, expired at the end of 2024.
Superintendent of Parks & Forestry Joe Kerlin said at the committee meeting Riverside Disc Golf was the only applicant to submit a request for proposal to the city. The city would enter into a three-year agreement, with an optional two one-year renewals.
Kerlin said Riverside Disc Golf has a background in tournament play and hosting leagues. Additional information submitted to the committee said Riverside can work with beginner to advanced players, and it will facilitate Professional Disc Golf Association tournaments.
The concession stand would still sell discs, but Kerlin said people would be invited into the small building to shop.
“We’re very comfortable we have people who have been around this that know our players, know the equipment,” Kerlin said.
Josh Hamm, operator of Riverside Disc Golf, could not be reached for comment or to learn about future plans for the concession stand.
Disc golf stand doesn’t have an opening date yet, but needs some repairs
A reopening date hasn’t been set for the disc golf shop.
Kerlin said the Department of Public Works will make some updates to the 30-year-old building by the end of next week, supported by funds from the park department’s annual budget.
Riverside would also make some updates to the building. Repairs include new roofing, leveling the flooring, and installing indoor and outdoor carpet.
Riverside Disc would pay a one-time $500 security deposit, $100 monthly user fee and $50 monthly utility fee between April and October, according to the agreement.
The Shack operators moved business to their garage
Kerlin said the Wields operated The Shack for more than 20 years. They are still operating the disc golf pro shop out of their home garage at 203 Lincoln Ave., near Vollrath Park.
Dennis Wield said The Shack doesn’t have a set schedule, opening at varied hours and offering appointments until they see how the season progresses. Customers should check “The Shack” on Facebook for weekly hours and updates.
Contact Alex Garner at 224-374-2332 or agarner@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Sheboygan Press: City plans for new operator at Vollrath Park disc golf concession stand
Reporting by Alex Garner, Sheboygan Press / Sheboygan Press
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