David Castro

The board conducted a public hearing regarding the intent to sell $1,200,000.00 in limited tax park bonds. Additionally, an audit presentation was provided by Sikich, which covered the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, fund balance reserves, and recommendations for improving financial management, specifically regarding golf course deficits and the implementation of electronic time card systems. The board also discussed the selection of a search firm for the Director position and expressed a preference for Hazard, Young, Attea.

The Board of Commissioners conducted a comprehensive review of the Park District finances. Key topics included an overview of fund accounting, property tax revenue, the tax levy process, and reserve fund balance targets. The Board discussed capital fund management, including the proposal to separate capital accounts and phase project spending over two years to improve transparency. Additionally, the meeting covered special revenue funds, specifically addressing deficits in the golf and aquatic accounts, and proposed transparent mechanisms for transferring funds to balance these accounts while ensuring proper allocation of taxpayer dollars.

The board convened an executive session to discuss the process of filling a vacant position on the board. Following the session, it was noted that no action was recommended regarding the vacancy at that time.

The board conducted a review of the FY 2014 capital budget, covering expenditures for maintenance equipment, park landscaping, paving projects, ADA compliance improvements, and renovations for community facilities. During the public session, the board awarded a contract for a paving project, authorized the solicitation of bids for the Ellwood House water tower roof replacement, and established a Trails and Trees Committee. Additionally, the board discussed two TIF project proposals from the City of DeKalb, scheduled a workshop for the Hopkins Pool renovation, approved the payment of invoices, and held an executive session during which the board appointed an interim executive director and authorized a stipend for the position.

The board discussed a collaborative agreement with ComEd regarding trail maintenance and tree planting, and reviewed the progress of the ADA transition plan for the pool and facility locker rooms. The board swore in newly elected commissioners and conducted elections for board officers. Business conducted included the approval of an ordinance amending the revenue policy to reclassify certain funds, and the approval of concession service contracts for the aquatic center and athletic facilities. The board also discussed potential new tax proposals by the city, approved the purchase of a new phone system, and reviewed financial reports. Additionally, updates were provided on Ellwood House projects, planning commission activities, and the introduction of Foot Golf.