The city of Augusta has closed its public golf course, creating controversy in the community.

The closing angered one city commissioner and left others inconvenienced.

City Administrator Fred Russell said the course, known as The Patch, was shut down at the close of business Wednesday with unspecified plans to put the lease or a management deal out for bids.

Climent Gardner, a Patch member, was with a group on the 12th tee Wednesday when they were informed the course was closing. He said by the time they got to the clubhouse, there were signs up that said the course was closed.

Michael Carlisle, director of the Augusta Area Junior Golf Association, said news of the closing was tough to hear.

Tags: Augusta, golf, The Patch, Fred Russell