Jan 7, 2016 By Suzanne Elliott 1 min read

Horizon Properties, a major developer at Southpointe, is in the process of negotiating to buy Rolling Hills Country Club in McMurray.

Eric Neishloss, president of Rolling Hills, confirmed the talks with Horizon. He said the club made this decision because of its financial situation due in part to declining membership. Rolling Hills has 140 equity members.

Neishloss said talks are ongoing, but an agreement could be finalized later this month. The club is expected to close at the end of the month, leaving organizations, such as the McMurray Rotary Club, looking for a new place to meet.

One of the talking points in the negotiations is a guarantee Rolling Hills employees would be given jobs at Southpointe Golf Club, which is owned by Horizon principals Rod Piatt and Mike Swisher. Neither Piatt or Swisher returned telephone calls or emails seeking comment.

Also, Neishloss said Rolling Hills’ equity members would be given the option of joining Southpointe. It is not clear whether Rolling Hills membership could be transferred, or whether they could join at a discounted rate. Southpointe has around 375 members and 275 golfing members.