By ROBIN SHANNON

L’Observateur

LAPLACE – Two weeks after completely shutting down its golf operations amid a cloud of bankruptcy, officials at Belle Terre Golf and Country Club said Tuesday the course will reopen for public use Friday.

Belle Terre Greens Superintendant Donnie Savoie said new management has taken over operation of the club’s 178-acre golf course, as well as the driving range, tennis courts, swimming pool and clubhouse at the site.

“Nothing has changed,” Savoie said. “We have new management and a new attitude, but the same great facilities.”

The golf course, one of two in the LaPlace area, had been struggling financially since 2005 when the club was purchased from a Baton Rouge holding firm. The club’s owner, Tim Duhe, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last year in an effort to reorganize his debts and stave off foreclosure. In August, the case was converted to a Chapter 7 filing, which precludes liquidation of assets.

The mortgage broker, Dr. Manjit Wadhwa, moved to foreclose on the property Wednesday and took control of the property from Duhe.

Duhe said in a statement Monday that he expected to resolve the mortgage issue and had plans in place to retire the debt.

“It looks like time has run out for us,” said Duhe. “I am hopeful they can address most of the concerns soon.”

Savoie said no part of the club’s current operations would change under new management. He said the club would still operate the banquet hall inside the clubhouse, and all events will run on schedule this year. He also said plans are in the works to heat the club’s outdoor pool in preparation for a trio of year-round swim leagues that will use the club to practice and compete.

“All of those agreements will remain in place,” Savoie said. “Work on the pool is ready to begin immediately.”

Savoie said the public is welcome to contact the club’s management today to schedule tee times for the weekend. He also said management is considering discounted rates to attract new membership.