John F. Cutrera

This document provides information regarding the Glencoe Park District's referendum. The referendum aims to secure funding to address a $22 million backlog of capital improvement projects projected over the next 10 years, ensuring the continued maintenance of quality services and property values. The proposed funding strategy involves layering in additional debt without increasing the debt service levy, made possible by a bond maturing in 2025. Community feedback was incorporated, and the district highlights the importance of the referendum for funding crucial projects.

The board discussed a non-resident fee policy exemption for Village of Glencoe homeowners, the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Budget, the selection of a construction management firm for the maintenance center and ballfield project, racket court configuration at Shelton Park, the 2025 apparel bid, and the biannual review of executive session minutes. Additionally, the meeting included reports from the Executive Director and updates on financial matters and various upcoming projects.

The meeting agenda included discussions concerning the Interior Finishes of the Safran Beach House, where a review and presentation on planning updates, interior design, and material selections suitable for the beach environment were scheduled. Another key topic was the West Park Bid Discussion, following the opening of four bids on February 19, 2026, with due diligence currently underway. The committee was also scheduled to address 'Other Business' and hold an Executive Session.

The meeting included the approval of several consent agenda items, excluding previous minutes. The Financial Report indicated strong recreation programming revenue, up approximately 18% year over year, with expenses affected by the Shelton Path repaving project. The Board received presentations on the Kids Club and Day Off School Programs, noting their operational success and enrollment figures. A detailed discussion and presentation occurred regarding the 2026 Capital Projects Plan, covering Fund 65 (Operating Capital), Fund 68 (Referendum Capital), and Fund 69 (Master Plan Capital), which includes projects like the Maintenance Center, beach structures, and West Park construction. The Executive Director provided a year-in-review highlighting national recognition, operational improvements, and program success. The Board also reached a consensus on employee compensation, approving a total 4% wage increase pool consisting of a 2.9% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) and a 1.1% merit pool for full-time employees, after discussing concerns about market competitiveness.

Key discussions and actions during the meeting included the consent agenda, which covered approval of minutes from a prior meeting and expenses for the Facility Manager to attend an aquatic professionals conference, and the approval of bills. Action items centered on the first reading of an Ordinance providing for the issue of not to exceed $14,700,000 General Obligation Park Bonds, Series 2025, based on the November 5, 2024, voter-approved ballot proposition. Other business included a discussion on the proposed percentage for employee merit raises, and a preliminary discussion regarding a potential six-figure anonymous donation to honor a former employee. There was also a detailed presentation and discussion on proposed capital projects for Fiscal Year 2025/26 across Fund 65 (operating capital), Fund 68 (referendum capital), and Fund 69 (master plan capital). Final action items involved approving the updated Purchasing and Debt Policy, the Agreement with Hitchcock Design Group for West Park Design, Agreements with Wight and Company for Maintenance Center/Ballfield and Greenhouse Design Services, approval of the Lakefront Advisory Committee Membership Slate, and approval of the Whistleblower (SAFE-T Act) Policy Update. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters.