What exactly is the Preservation Foundation? Why do we need it?

When a building or property is classified as having “historic value”, the government makes available a vehicle through which tax-deductible donations may be used to maintain these assets. This vehicle, a 501(c)(3) tax exempt foundation, has strict guidelines that need to be followed in order retain its tax-exempt status.

What parts of the club are covered under the Preservation Foundation?

By law, any monies donated to the Preservation Foundation must be used to maintain the existing golf courses, pro shop, original clubhouse structure, swimming pool, tennis courts, and the golf course maintenance shed.

I have seen the term “contributing factor” used in some articles. What is a “contributing factor”?

The term “contributing factor” refers to the historic properties of NHCC that are eligible for maintenance under the 501(c)(3) vehicle (i.e., original clubhouse, both golf courses, the pro shop, pool and tennis courts and the maintenance shed for the golf course).

Who determines what is a “contributing factor”?

Landmarks Association of St. Louis is the local organization that specializes in these determinations. We will submit all projects to Landmarks before making any final determinations as to projects that can be funded by Preservation dollars.

Is the addition to the clubhouse that we did in 2005 considered a “contributing factor”?

It is not.

What about the pool and tennis courts? Are they considered “contributing structures”?

Both are “contributing structures” but the Tennis Pro Shop and Pavilion as well as the Pool House are not.

What exactly on the golf course is covered?

Both golf courses, as they are currently configured, are covered. Any re-configuration (i.e., the proposed 14-17 West Course re-configuration) would not be covered.

Are the new cart paths and the irrigation system covered under Preservation dollars?

Yes, both are covered.

How are the projects identified? Will members be able to make suggestions for projects? Who ultimately selects which projects are to be done and how they should be prioritized?

Club management, in conjunction with the Preservation Foundation Board of Directors, will ultimately make the decisions on projects and their priority. Members are always welcome to offer opinions. It should be noted that our top priority for the next couple of years is raising the necessary capital for a new irrigation system. The current system is well past its projected life span.

If I contribute, can I specify where the money is to be used?

You may not specify, but all monies that are raised by or donated to the Preservation Foundation must, by law, be used for the above-mentioned historic properties that are part of NHCC.

How can I contribute?

Contributions to the Preservation Foundation can be made monthly, yearly, or anytime. Monies can also be bequeathed to the Foundation through an estate. Should you decide to write a check, it should be made payable to the Norwood Hills Preservation Foundation, rather than to the club.

If I contribute, how will I receive communication and know specifically where the money is going and the status of the various projects?

By law, any monies donated to the Preservation Foundation must be used to maintain the existing golf courses, pro shop, original clubhouse structure, swimming pool, tennis courts, and the golf course maintenance shed. We have established a Preservation Foundation display in the area between the dining room and the bar to showcase projects that are underway and those that have been finished using Preservation dollars.

Can I contribute additional funds to the Preservation Foundation and are they tax deductible?

Any funds donated to the Preservation Foundation are tax deductible.

How much money has been raised to date?

The assessment in 2019 generated $3,073,326 and of this total, $921,998, or 30%, was designated for the Preservation Foundation. So far in calendar year 2021, members have contributed $30,000 to the Foundation. So, almost $952,000 has been raised to date for the Foundation. Through June 30, 2021, $359,688 has been spent on eligible projects, including the West Course bunkers, the Ballroom restrooms, the Golf Shop restrooms, and the renovations to the Pro Shop. The Preservation Foundation goal is to raise $5 million over the next few years so that we can continue to fund projects that need to be done immediately and in the near future.

Will the projects be started before the entire $5M is raised?

The immediate priority is the Irrigation System. We know that it is a $3 plus million-dollar investment. We need to raise as much of that as possible so that when Mike can no longer make repairs, we are ready to fund the new system.

What happens to any unused funds if the club should cease to exist?

If NHCC were to cease existence, by law, the 501(c)(3) Preservation Foundation would have to be dissolved. Very simply, any dollars left in the Foundation would first be used to pay off any existing debts that the Foundation had incurred, and any remaining dollars would have to be given to another 501(c)(3) entity.