It’s time for Page Two: News that might not make the front page for Tuesday January 20, 2026.
Palmer Mayor Jim Cooper discussed the two Palmer Council meetings last week in an interview on Big Cabbage Radio last Friday.
The City Council held a special session with an executive session on the golf course contract last Monday. After the executive session, the Council offered a $475,000 management contract to George Collum. Collum’s company Eagle Golf Course Management Inc. has managed the Palmer Golf Course for 18 years.
Collum agreed to sign the contract without alcohol sales at this time. The sale of alcohol at the golf course was under the City’s liquor license. Sales in prior years were out of compliance with the license.
The revenues went to the operator. The City collected sales tax on the alcohol sales.
The City is working with the State’s Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office to resolve the issue. City Manager Kolby Zerkel will finalize contract details with Collum.
The Council discussed ongoing concerns about the golf course operating on airport land in the regular meeting last Tuesday. The FAA has requested documentation and is reviewing it. The City maintains that any expansion is not necessary. The City wants to keep the golf course and limit airport expansion.
The Council approved rezoning of two lots adjoining the airport from residential to commercial. Cruz Construction plans to build its headquarters on the site. Nearby homeowners objected to the rezoning. Planning and Zoning conducted an extensive review and added buffering and setback requirements to the lots. The project is expected to bring up to 50 employees and economic benefits to Palmer.
Councilwoman Victoria Hudson resigned during council comments. She cited frustration and stress. The Council voted 5 to1 to accept her resignation. Mayor Cooper praised her dedication and preparation.
The council vacancy will be posted for applications for two weeks. The mayor then has up to 45 days to appoint a replacement. Cooper said he is looking for someone open-minded, without a personal agenda, and committed to representing the entire city. The application was not posted as of this morning.
Cooper expressed confidence in the City staff and Council, appreciation for Public Works during heavy snowfall, and optimism about Palmer’s direction and future.
Page 2 airs weekdays at 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11:55 a.m., and about 6 p.m.
Please support Page 2 News. Pick.Click.Give to Big Cabbage Radio when you file online for your PFD.
This Page Two article was written by Mike Chmielewski and read by Lee Henrikson. If you have an idea for a Page 2 topic, please email us at page2@radiofreepalmer.org.
That’s it for today and the news on Page Two on Tuesday January 20, 2026.