Janet VanZant

The hearing is dedicated to the review and discussion of the Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Budget and Appropriation, including an opportunity for public comment.

The board discussed and took action on several items, including the scheduling of a public hearing for the Budget and Appropriation Ordinance, the appointment of a resident to the Grays Lake Management Committee, and the approval of an architectural services agreement for the Jaycee Park Courts Renovation Project. Additionally, the board reviewed a preliminary concept for a new residential subdivision and heard departmental reports concerning lake treatments, upcoming legislative conferences, progress on the Alleghany Bike Path, fundraising events, status updates on the Avon Baseball Park complex, registration for preschool and dance programs, seasonal maintenance activities, and financial reports on program revenue and energy expenditures.

The board discussed the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget timeline, including future draft presentations and public hearing plans. Reports were reviewed from the Executive Director regarding an upcoming foundation fundraiser and legislative conference participation, the Superintendent of Recreation concerning seasonal program guides, preschool registration, dance recitals, and upcoming community events, the Superintendent of Parks regarding ongoing maintenance and building renovations, and the Business Manager concerning financial performance related to affiliate fees and field rentals.

The committee meeting agenda focuses on the upcoming retirement of the Executive Director and the process of hiring a replacement. Key discussion topics include the development of an Executive Director search profile survey for board members and staff, and the finalization of the job description for the position.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of the agenda and consent agenda, which covered the payment of bills and payroll covering November 2025 through January 2026, and the approval of the IAPD Conference Travel & Training Summary. A resident expressed interest in a commissioner position, leading to the appointment of Greg Formica to fill a vacant position for the remainder of the 2023-2027 term. The Friends of the Park Award was presented to Jim Starwalt for his continuous support of the George Weinert Fishing Derby. The board approved a permit request from the Grayslake Lions Club to host a fundraiser with food trucks, bands, and alcohol sales in Central Park, contingent upon proper insurance and licensing. Approval was also granted for a five-year governmental lease-purchase agreement to finance the acquisition of a 2022 Morbark 1415 Brush Chipper for the Parks Department, replacing an aging unit. The district is awaiting feedback from the Village of Grayslake regarding whether to accept a land donation or cash in lieu for a proposed residential development. The board reviewed plans to conduct a community questionnaire in partnership with the University of St. Francis to assist in updating the 10-year Comprehensive Plan. Updates were provided on the Avon Baseball Complex modification and ongoing budget development. The Superintendent of Recreation reported on summer camp guides, upcoming events like the Daddy Daughter Dance and Easter Egg Hunts, and preschool registration timelines. The Superintendent of Parks confirmed the completion of the Tooterville Bridge and noted the positive experience with the demo Morbark Chipper.