City OKs oil drilling at Stambaugh golf course

YOUNGSTOWN — The shady North Side golf course that has tested the likes of Arnold Palmer as well as generations of local foursomes has been tapped for a entirely new purpose.

Brecksville-based energy firm, Duck Creek Energy Inc. has entered an agreement with the city of Youngstown to drill for oil and natural gas at Henry Stambaugh Municipal Golf Course.

The company is preparing to install four wells at the 81-acre course. In return, the city has received a $12,000 up-front payment and will be entitled to 1/8 of the extracted oil or natural gas, or the cash equivalent, said Law Director Iris Guglucello.

Golf course director David Boos said he’s satisfied the drilling will have a minimal impact on the course.