By Brad Palmer
Marion, IL – Kokopelli Golf Club is under local ownership.
Two years after it began the process, Herrin-based Green Grass Group announced the completion of the purchase Tuesday. The sale had been blocked by the federal government after a partner in the previous owner's group was suspected of having ties to an African dictator.
The group also announced its plans to revitalize the area around Kokopelli. The highlight of which involves the construction of nearly 100 homes, including 48 in phase one of the project.
Green Grass Group Vice President Mike Koller says the affordable homes will feature 19 to 26-hundred square feet of living space.
Koller says another feature will be the building of an access road connecting Kokopelli to the Hill area near Rent One Park.
Green Grass Group also plans to renovate the Club House by moving the Pro Shop to the first floor and splitting the parking lot to allow easier access to the soon to reopen Kokos Restaurant.
The group says the work is being paid for with around two million dollars in private funds.
