For several years, Trump-owned golf courses have hosted many PGA tournaments in the past. However, with certain differences last year, the American Tour decided to suspend its contract with the Trump Organization. Moreover, the Business tycoon has now decided to join hands with the Saudi-funded LIV Golf and is set to host many of its events in the coming years.
Though Trump has been criticized for backing LIV Golf, this isn’t the first time someone has been unhappy with his golf endeavor. Back in 2007, Trump National Golf Club in Los Angeles was planted with ficus trees, without the permission of the city, leading to objection from the neighbors. So how did the 45th President react to the complaint?
Donald Trump plants nearly a hundred trees
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The Trump National Golf Course is surrounded by millions of dollars worth of homes. So it was quite apparent that long trees would leave the affluent peninsula neighbors fuming. “I laughed out loud – maybe I shouldn’t have – it’s either laugh or cry,” Councilman Doug Stern said. “It seems like this is a cultural trait within their organization.”
However, when Trump was questioned about the trees, he downplayed the controversy. While talking about the two rows of trees, he said, “It was done for two purposes: beautification and safety. About 45 of them are 12 feet tall and another 300 are about 6 feet high.”
The former president further added, “They’re bushes – they look beautiful and everybody loves them. We have not had one complaint”. The trees were mainly planted for the Michael Douglas & Friends celebrity golf tournament that year. They provided a green backdrop for television cameras.
Some of the city rules include a landscape plan requiring city approval for all trees and other vegetation. Trees taller than 16 feet or those that block views aren’t permitted. The Trump Organization belatedly applied for modifications to its landscape permit so the trees can become lawful. The organization likewise showed it was ready to eliminate or manage any trees hurting anybody’s view.
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Moreover, Trump also set up an unauthorized 70-foot flagpole at the golf club. He further built a tee 8 feet higher than the allowed height. An illegal freeway sign pointing to the ocean bluff golf course was also placed outside the club. Perhaps, Donald Trump does whatever he wishes to do, like becoming a successful billionaire or the President of the United States.
What are your thoughts on Donald Trump’s golf courses? Let us know in the comments section below!
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