Michael R. Kies

This document reviews the Norris Recreation Center's performance in 2025 and outlines its priorities for 2026, with an overarching goal to enrich the quality of life for Park District residents through excellence in programs, facilities, and services. Key highlights from 2025 include significant membership growth and retention, successful marketing and social media engagement, facility upgrades such as new cardio equipment, and expanded programming in pickleball, aquatics, tennis, and group fitness. Looking ahead to 2026, the center plans to expand and enhance racquet sports, review professional pay structures, conduct annual membership surveys, purchase new exercise equipment, research facility enhancements and renovations, explore collaborations for expanding fitness services, and optimize program schedules to better serve its members and the community.

The primary focus of the proceedings was a public hearing concerning the proposal to sell not to exceed $7,950,000 in General Obligation Limited Tax Park Bonds. These bonds are intended to finance the acquisition (condemned or purchased) and development (building, maintaining, improving, and protecting) of park land and existing facilities, along with associated expenses. The discussion involved explaining the reasons for the bond issuance, soliciting comments, and the subsequent adjournment of the public hearing. The document also includes an Exhibit B, which is a Notice of Public Hearing regarding the same bond proposal, dated December 15, 2025.

Key discussion items for the meeting include a presentation on the 2026 General Obligation Limited Tax Park Bonds rollover bonds process and preliminary financing model. Board approval is sought for the renewal of membership in the Illinois Association of Park Districts for a fee of $7,757.93, and for the three-year renewal of Microsoft Office 365 licensing for $95,918.43. Furthermore, the Board is requested to take action on leasing two new enterprise fleet vehicles, a Ford Transit 350 and a Ford F450, through Enterprise Fleet Management. Facility use requests include events hosted by St. Charles Pride, St. Charles Democrats, KCDW Celebrates America, LAGC, and the Mrs. Illinois America Pageant at various park locations and the community center. An executive session is scheduled to discuss the purchase or lease of real property and personnel matters related to appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees.

This document outlines the Operational and Capital Budget for the St. Charles Park District for Fiscal Year 2026 (January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026). It details budgeted revenues and appropriations across the General Fund, Recreation Fund, and Revenue Facilities, with breakdowns for various departments and programs. The document also articulates specific 2026 goals for committees such as IDEA, Green Team, Safety, Recognition, and Wellness, as well as for individual departments including Marketing, Parks Administration, Primrose Farm, Natural Areas, Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, and all Recreation and Revenue Facilities, highlighting key operational and strategic initiatives for the year.

This document outlines the St. Charles Park District's priority goals for the 2025-2030 period, guiding facility, program, and park improvements. The strategic pillars include maintaining existing infrastructure, engaging the district community, ensuring fiscal responsibility, championing a resilient and supportive district culture, and providing impactful services. The plan aims to enhance operational efficiency, community satisfaction, financial health, staff development, and service delivery.