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A Toronto committee is being asked to consider the future of golf as play wanes at money-losing city courses.

A report by city officials to Thursday’s meeting of the government management committee says that without a substantial investment to upgrade facilities and technology, that trend will continue.

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“The participation for golf is declining across North America as well as in the city’s golf operations,” the report says.

The report recommends the committee approve two-year extensions to existing contracts to private companies that provide services such as ticket sales, golf cart rentals, pro shops and lessons.

Golf course assets and turf would remain the responsibility of city workers during that period.

But for the long-term, parks and rec wants to hire an external consultant to review industry trends and Toronto golf operations to help develop a 20-year model.

The report notes that many Canadian municipalities are exploring using private operators for their entire operation.