If two local women can fulfill their current mission, Kingfisher will have a miniature golf course in the future.

They got a boost Tuesday from the Kingfisher City Commission.

Commissioners voted at the October regular meeting to further explore a potential agreement between the city and Kathy Altizer and Pearl Underhill, who have spent more than a year researching the project.

The two addressed commissioners seeking to lease a portion of the north end of Oklahoma Park, which is currently a seldom-used softball field.

“We were wanting something that will promote the community and give everyone entertainment outside the norm,” Altizer told commissioners.

They presented members with a detailed plan that included a preliminary layout of an 18-hole course.

It would primarily use the northeast portion of the current ballfield, could use existing parking, wouldn’t disrupt any usage of the park’s train and would be handicap-accessible, among other features.

The location, they said, was recommended by City Manager Dave Slezickey in early talks with him.

“I think it’s a great concept for the community. It’s a recreational venue that fits into everything else we do at the park,” Slezickey told commissioners.

He added that although the proposed location would be on city property, it would be better run by an outside group.

“I don’t think we (City of Kingfisher) could operate it as well as a private entity can,” he said.

Altizer said they have contacted numerous miniature golf course owners during their research.

She said the sport, like golf, has seen its popularity grow since the onset of COVID-19 due in part to most courses being outdoors and the natural social distancing that takes place from other groups.

Commissioner Bill Tucker noted the growth he’s seen in the number of courses in a Missouri tourist location.

“In the last four years, you’ve seen more and more miniature golf courses in Branson,” he said. “They’re great.”

Added Altizer: “The people we’ve talked to in the (miniature golf) community only foresee (the popularity) continuing.”

As they await four more estimates on various aspects of the course, the two will soon approach the financing part of the project.

Having a lease agreement in place for the location will aid them as they move forward, they said.

Upon Slezickey’s urging, commissioners appeared open to leasing the area of the park for a minimal fee.

“There are a lot of intangible benefits for the city in this,” Slezickey said. “They’re making an investment to try to better the community.

“One option is to look at a low annual lease and then revisit it down the road.”

Amounts mentioned were $1 to $10 annually, but commissioners ultimately voted to further explore it, but authorized Slezickey to draft a letter of intent stating the city’s willingness to lease the property.

“Your presentation has been great,” Commissioner Kyle Mecklenburg said. “It’s very evident you’ve taken a long look at this.”

Commissioners said they could revisit the lease at their next meeting. Altizer and Underhill said that would still allow them ample time before seeking financing.