Broome County Rejects Bidding Process for En-Joie Golf Course

Broome County announced it will not submit a proposal through the Village of Endicott’s bidding process. Instead, county leaders want the village to reconsider a proposal that could eventually transfer En-Joie Golf Course to Broome County.

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar and Legislature Chairman Daniel J. Reynolds outlined the proposal in an August 4 letter to Endicott Mayor Nick Burlingame and the Village Board.

Broome County’s En-Joie Agreement Ends in December

Broome County’s five-year agreement to operate and manage En-Joie expires December 31, 2026.

Endicott recently issued a request for proposals for the operation and management of the course. Broome County confirmed it will not submit a bid.

Instead, the county is offering to manage En-Joie for one more year while the two governments work toward transferring the golf course to Broome County.

As part of that proposal, the county would replace En-Joie’s aging irrigation system. County leaders say the investment is necessary to protect the course and help keep the DICK’S Sporting Goods Open successful for years to come.

County Leaders Question Timing of Endicott’s Request

County officials say Endicott’s decision to begin the bidding process during the final months of the existing agreement has created questions about what happens next.

They also say the timing complicates Broome County’s work on its 2027 budget because financial and operational decisions will need to be made in the coming months.

The people who work at En-Joie are also waiting for answers. The restaurant at the course employs 20 local residents and already has graduation parties, rehearsal dinners and other events booked into 2027.

En-Joie Tournaments Raise Money for Local Nonprofits

The course hosts tournaments that raise money for local organizations, including Mercy House, Habitat for Humanity and Little Italy.

County leaders say the lack of a long-term decision affects more than golfers. It also leaves employees, customers, local organizations and businesses wondering who will manage the course next year.

What Happens Next at En-Joie Golf Course

Broome County says its previous offer remains on the table if Endicott leaders want to revisit discussions.

The county wants any transition to protect employees, honor events already booked at the course and preserve the DICK’S Sporting Goods Open.

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The August 4 announcement did not include a response from the Village of Endicott. Unless another agreement is reached, Broome County’s current management role will end December 31.