First,Cerification of a race course provides more than an accurate course. I'm not a fan of insurance, but a certified course that's sanctioned provides insurance to the race and members of USATF particaptiong in the race.
You guys don't think landmarks change. Yes, maybe one measurement could be done, but a second measurement is no big deal. Cost, what is the actual cost to a race over 10 years? Say, you have 1000 runners over that time period. They pay an entry fee, which recovers the cost of certification in a very short time.
Do races make money? Some are there for a charity, while others are there strictly for making a profit. Why not have no entry fee? Just joking.
Jim, I suggest you look out for the people participating in the event and get the course certified.