City Is Evicting Operator of Sepulveda Golf Range

After a long dispute, the city is evicting the concession operator of the pro shop and driving range at the Sepulveda Golf Range Complex in Encino.

Ready Golf has been operating the complex since 2001 without a contract, according to its Chief Operating Officer Michael Bernback.

"I have always paid my rent on time," Bernback said in a statement to Patch.

However, there has been an ongoing dispute between the city and Ready Golf over utility payments.

The eviction notice was scheduled to take effect on March 1. However, late Thursday, Bernback said a temporary restraining order was issued against the eviction. A hearing has been scheduled for March 15 to contest the eviction order, he said

This is the third golf concessionaire to become involved in a major dispute with the city, according to the Los Angeles Daily News.

Regina Adams, executive officer of the Department of Recreation and Parks told the Los Angeles Daily News," there are no immediate plans to bring in a private operator," at the Sepulveda location.

"We have had problems with the concessions at two other courses and have city workers in there who are serving the golfers," added Adams.

"We are taking a holistic look at our entire golf operation to determine what is best for the golfing public," Adams told the Daily News.

Last year, the concessionaire at Rancho Park, a championship course in Cheviot Hills, left after the city demanded it make more than $2 million in promised improvements.

And the concessionaire at Woodley Lakes Golf Course in Van Nuys departed after the city refused to renegotiate its contract.

In an email to Patch, Bernback outlined his position:

"The 10 year contract was awarded to Ready Golf by the Board of Commissioners and approved by the Mayor, Chief Financial Officer, and unanimously by the City Council years ago.  The City staff has played games and not signed the contract.  They do what they want until someone forces them to do what is lawful and ethical.  Sometimes it's because of corruption or incompetence. Sometimes it's ego or Union selfish agendas.  And sometimes it's ignorance or prejudice and jealousy. My company has always been compliant and all rent has always been paid.  However, rarely does the Department of Recreation and Parks do what is in the best interest of the public. I am trying to force the City to sign it because it is illegal that they don’t, especially when they made their own finding four years ago that my company does the job more efficiently and with more financial reward to the City. But, it is very difficult to fight City Hall.

 "My entire adult business life has been in one lawsuit or another.  I hate lawsuits but those of you that no me know that I have one just about everyone and I have several pending now.

"It is a dog eat dog world and when you have something, anything that is prized … money, a successful business, an idea, a home,  a friend, or even a beautiful partner or wife … someone will try and take them/it from you.  The wolf is always at the door.  At least be aware my friends so that you have a fighting chance to win it back or block it from happening to you."

Michael Bernback