Jim Bonkoski

The meeting included a Truth in Taxation Public Hearing. The board discussed staff reports, including the announcement of a new Superintendent of Park Services. A golf update was presented, detailing rounds of play and green fee revenue. The board discussed the IPRA/IAPD Conference, an Aquatic Needs Assessment, and the cancellation of the December 18 board meeting. An update on Recreation Drive was presented, including discussions on safety measures and costs. The board approved a resolution for a lease with the Huntington National Bank for golf carts.

This document, a video transcript, outlines the core values of the Dundee Township Park District, which were derived from its strategic plan. These values, adopted by staff in 2022, include accountability, communication, being connected to the community, integrity, and being team-oriented. The district's mission is to enhance the quality of life through exceptional parks, facilities, and community-driven programming, with a vision to exceed community needs by pursuing excellence. These values are intended to guide employee conduct and are integrated into annual employee evaluations.

The meeting included discussion and presentation of preliminary concept designs and cost estimates for the Bonnie Dundee Golf Course Clubhouse by Wight & Company. Staff reports covered updates on golf operations through October 31 and the October budget report. The agenda also included a director's report with a recap of the Legal Symposium and the 2023 IPRA Conference, as well as discussion of personnel matters and potential real property purchase or lease in a closed session.

The board meeting included a review of the FY 2024/2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report by Sikich LLP, highlighting the Park District's financial position and fund performance. Staff reports covered a 5-year fiscal year history of golf course operations, noting increased revenue since COVID but also rising expenditures. An organizational chart draft was presented, outlining a structure to support all departments, with discussions on proposed new positions and changes to current roles. The board received an update on the Financial Sustainability Assessment process, including assigned team members and scheduled meetings. New business included consideration for approval of Ordinance No. 25-05 regarding General Obligation Limited Tax Park Bonds, and a review of the 2026 Health and Welfare Benefits Renewal, with staff recommendations accepted. The purchase of a 2025 Wiedenmann TerraspikeXF6 Aerator was tabled for further research. The board also went into a closed session to discuss personnel matters, real property, and potential litigation.

The board meeting focused on revisions to aquatic concept drawings and cost estimates for an outdoor pool at the Sleepy Hollow location and an indoor pool at the Randall Oaks Recreation Center. The architect presented revised concept designs based on feedback from the November 20, 2024 meeting. Discussions included a timeline for deciding on a location and type of aquatic facility, the possibility of pursuing a referendum, and the scope of the referendum. Additional conversations covered other locations to consider for building an aquatic facility and the consideration of one versus two aquatic facilities. A request was made to decrease the number of parking spaces at the Sleepy Hollow location and not relocate the tennis and basketball courts.