What's the Latest on the Hampshire?

There has been a lot of conjecture about what's going on at the Hampshire Country Club, but those interested in what will become of the private club that lines Orienta's neighborhood along the Sound Shore will be happy to find out that answers will most likely arrive in the coming weeks.

Despite being renovated in 2006 with additions of new golf and tennis pavilions, an upgraded dining and entertainment facility and a redesigned clubhouse, the economic climate had played havoc with club membership over the past 18 months, and the Hampshire ceased operating in mid-December.

The club has not, as previously reported elsewhere, declared bankruptcy. The decision to sell the asset was made late last year and the club began entertaining initial talks with buyers, according to Stan Brettschneider, Hampshire board president.

On January 28, Hampshire Country Club was officially listed for sale by CB Richard Ellis (CBRE), with an asking price of $14.9 million.

"The Hampshire Country Club's prestigious and iconic property in Mamaroneck's elite Orienta Point neighborhood offers a savvy investor or operator one of the largest assemblages of undeveloped land along Westchester County's Long Island Sound shore, known as the gold coast," said William V. Cuddy Jr., executive vice-president of CBRE. "A property of this magnitude rarely comes on the market and will appeal to a variety of purchasers, including private or public clubs, golf course operators, municipal uses, schools, and residential development. We are seeking the right buyer to take advantage of all this unique property has to offer."

Just as Rye and Eastchester run public country clubs in their respective municipalities, the town and village of Mamaroneck have had ongoing discussions about purchasing the Hampshire Country Club.

According to Village Manager Richard Slingerland, the village and town are cooperating to explore the possibility of buying all or a portion of the country club property to use as public recreational facilities.

"There's a lot of broad plans in discussion, ranging from keeping the full golf course to creating other recreational opportunities," Slingerland said. "Things such as playing fields and things like that will be considered."

This action would also keep the land from falling into the hands of a developer as many in the community are against any sort of housing development popping up in the space.

While some taxpayers may be concerned by the news, if the municipality were to buy the property, financing could come from bonds, donations or grants, and public hearings would be held to discuss any financial implications, officials said. It is believed that talks between the Town/Village and representatives of the club are going well and that something could be announced in the next few weeks.

"The price is something that's really up for negotiation, just as it would be for any property," Slingerland said. "A lot remains to be seen. We are doing our due diligence to see what might be appropriate."

Situated on nearly 116 acres, the private, member-owned country club was first organized in 1944. The property's 18-hole golf course was designed by Devereaux Emmet, and built in 1927. Today, the property offers a driving range, chipping and putting greens, seven tennis courts, a heated pool, a children's playground, a fitness facility and dining rooms.