Dauphin Island's golf course set to close later this month

Isle Dauphine Golf Course file photo taken in October 2007. (Press-Register/Bill Starling)

MOBILE, Alabama -- Citing declining revenues, the Dauphin Island Property Owner’s Association voted to close the Isle Dauphine Golf Course in two weeks on Dec. 19.

“It’s totally a financial decision,” said Jack Gaines, president of the Dauphin Island Property Owner’s Association which manages the course. “Between hurricanes and oil spills, it hurt us.”

The Gulfview Grill, a restaurant on the golf course property that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico, will remain open five days a week, course officials said.

Dauphin Island Mayor Jeff Collier, 50, who also serves as the Isle Dauphine’s golf professional and manager, was told last week his job there ends on Jan. 31.

“This is something I’ve never had to deal with in my life,” Collier said. “It’s more than a job. It’s been family. It’s become a part of our life. I’ll have to figure out which direction I’ll go in next.”

Collier's position as mayor of Dauphin Island is a part-time post.