click to enlarge Courtesy Topgolf

Independence City Council will take up final say on the various rezoning, variance, tax incentive financing and other matters relating to a proposed Topgolf location in the suburb beginning on Feb. 13, but it seems like a foregone conclusion that it'll be green lights from here on out.Mayor Anthony Togliatti and others having been working with and wooing the company for about 18 months, according to Crain's . The process cleared another hurdle yesterday when the planning commission voted unanimously to rezone 15 acres off Rockside Woods Blvd. for the operation. Independence is offering about $1.5 million in incentives to Topgolf but, with estimated employment of some 400 workers, the long-term benefits, they argue, in payroll taxes and further development merit the initial public outlay.Topgolf, for the uninitiated, offers a year-round, climate-controlled facility where golfers hit microchipped balls at various targets. Players accumulate points based on distance and accuracy. Yes, it is mighty good fun.The proposed Independence operation would span some 65,000 square feet with 102 suites, a restaurant, and more. Topgolf has 44 locations around the U.S. and U.K.