Jamie Shuda

The meeting addressed public input concerning the hiring of a new mowing and maintenance company. The Treasurer's Report, showing funds of $711,583, was reviewed and approved. The Directors Report included follow-up regarding student work on Black Partridge Park entrance and communication with legal counsel concerning a dispute with Jason's Lawn Care; the board decided to seek counsel before resolving outstanding bills related to this vendor. Committee reports noted the ADA committee was seeking grants and the Youth Advisors committee discussed pollinator gardens. Informational items included reviewing Fall Photo Contest winners and extensively revising the 5-year plan, which involved prioritizing paths, signage, water fountain replacements, and ADA compliance while removing items like dedicated Pickleball/Basketball courts and office expansion. Discussions regarding the farmer's lease emphasized potential conversion to CRP land due to deer population impacts. The board voted to approve the IParks Insurance Renewal for 2026 and to rebid the mowing and maintenance contract via RFP. A special meeting was scheduled for December 29th to discuss Tax Levy Input.

The Metamora Park District's Futures Plan outlines strategic initiatives from fiscal year 2021 with a long-term vision extending to a 10-year horizon. The plan focuses on several key areas: enhancing park infrastructure through improvements like signage, resurfacing, and new facilities such as bathrooms, a dog park, and various courts; ensuring accessibility by making parks ADA compliant; expanding programming to include outdoor education and diverse recreational activities; exploring land acquisition for future development; and strengthening organizational capacity by considering a full-time Director of Parks and Recreation. Additionally, it emphasizes community partnerships for larger recreational facilities.

The meeting included a public hearing for the FY26 Budget, a Treasurer's Report, and a Director's Report. Discussions covered ordering Christmas craft kits, park mowing estimates, Shine A Light information, Bits and Pieces night, swim lesson training, Trunk or Treat, and park picture settings. Informational items included a Fall Photo Contest, Park Rec Improvements for 2026, swim lesson changes, bids for mowing, a Foundation meeting with Boards, Tax Levy Input, IParks annual insurance renewal, changing the meeting night, and a Board Member Seat opening. The budget for FY26 was approved.