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Park District Wins Key Ruling in Golf Course Dispute
17 Aug
Summary
- Judge approved park district's eminent domain action for golf course.
- Dispute centers on valuation of 14-acre private parcel.
- Legal battles may delay management transition at the golf course.
A Pierce County Superior Court judge has ruled in favor of PenMet Parks, granting their eminent domain action to acquire the privately-owned 14-acre section of the Madrona Links Golf Course. Judge Diana Lynn Kiesel's order on July 17, 2026, allows the case to move forward to determine the compensation PenMet Parks must pay ZTM Holdings LLC. PenMet Parks has offered $470,000, based on their appraisal, while ZTM Holdings seeks approximately $2.49 million, citing an earlier appraisal.
The ruling is a critical step in a complex legal dispute involving the ownership and management of the 18-hole course. The property's valuation has been affected by changes in Pierce County zoning regulations. This ongoing legal entanglement has delayed PenMet Parks' intended transition of operations to a new management company, Troon Golf, which was initially expected in September 2025. ZTM Holdings has also filed a separate lawsuit alleging unpaid rent for their 14-acre parcel.
As of August 17, 2026, the Madrona Links Golf Course continues to operate as usual under Stutsman Enterprise, Inc. The outcome of these legal proceedings, including a trial scheduled for May 25, 2027, will determine the final ownership and management of the golf course. PenMet Parks continues to pay Troon Golf for consulting services while awaiting resolution.
