Tricia Dubiel

The meeting commenced with recognizing the accomplishments of several volunteers and community groups, including specific recognition for an Eagle Scout project completion, the Tata Consultancy Services group, and the Chao family for their long-term commitment to the Adopt a Park program. The Riverwalk Commission provided updates on the newly opened Naperville Jaycees Park, ongoing structural modeling for the Mozart structure, forthcoming development guidelines, and upcoming major events like the WGN Morning Show broadcast and the Healing Fields installation. The Parks Foundation reported an $8,000 donation to the scholarship fund and the launch of a new bike program for teenagers. The Parks and Recreation Committee discussed public input regarding improvements for Hobson's west ponds, the draft of the updated recreation and programming plan, and updates on the NOC Phase Two improvements, including collaboration with School District 203 on a $4.2 million multi-purpose field project. Golf capital plan priorities were shifted for improvements at Springbrook and Neighbor Brooke. Construction bids were reviewed for the 95th Street Community Plaza and the Wolf's Crossing Community Park projects. The financial report highlighted excellent performance, including zero audit adjustments for the latest report and receiving the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. The Legislative Committee reported on efforts to engage elected officials who attended Earth Day and the 95th Street community plaza groundbreaking. The President delivered a report reflecting on accomplishments from nine years prior, emphasizing the strategic plan structure, committee framework, and leadership development.

The meeting covered several committee updates and agenda items. The Riverwalk Commission update addressed slow progress on the 430 South Washington project, the upcoming City Council review for the Riverwalk South Extension, rapid progress on the Water Street Project, and the upcoming review of the Riverwalk Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA). The Parks and Recreation Committee update mentioned that the Trails Master Plan would be discussed on January 16th, followed by a public showcase on February 13th, with final document approval targeted for February 27th. Other discussions included a positive background check for the Think Global Arts Foundation regarding a 'Peace Poll' proposal, updates on the Riverwalk IGA, a forthcoming updated Strategic Plan, and a referral of a sculpture request from the Naperville Humane Society to the Riverwalk Commission. A staff member, Gary Foyles, was congratulated for achieving the NRPA's Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) certification. The meeting also noted the success of the Santa's Helpers program. The Golf Committee reported ending the year in the black, noting increased use of simulators. The Board President outlined seven main goals for 2014, including gathering feedback for a proposed activity center (with construction planned for 2015), opening the Knock Knolls Nature Center in Fall 2014, implementing the 2013 Technology Improvement Plan, developing customer service standards, continuing to build the future of golf, and proceeding with Phase Two remediation at Sportsman's Park. The Executive Director provided updates on the inaugural Naperville Winter Ale Fest, scheduled for February 22nd, and noted a rescheduling of the second monthly board meeting to January 16th to accommodate conference attendance. Financial matters included approval of the November 2013 Treasurer's Report and acceptance of the consent agenda items A through E.

The Neapville Park District is outlining a proposal for a potential March 2026 referendum to secure additional capital funding. This initiative aims to address the increasing demand for recreation opportunities by funding a new activity center at Frontier Sports Complex, which will include indoor fitness, aquatics, and community gathering spaces. Additionally, the plan encompasses significant upgrades to Nike Sports Complex, field and court renovations at Country Lakes Park, relocation of refrigerated outdoor ice rinks, and the development of new ball fields at Wolves Crossing Community Park. The proposed improvements seek to expand year-round programming, reduce waitlists, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents across the community.

The meeting included updates from the Parks Foundation regarding the Hobson Oak fundraising project logistics, wood drying, sponsorships, and furniture conversion. The Finance Committee discussed budget snapshots, healthcare/dental program changes, fund balance levels to maintain the triple-A bond rating, and the travel reimbursement policy slated for approval. The Parks and Recreation Committee reviewed presentations from the DuPage Monarch Project Resolution and Ride Assist Naperville regarding senior rides, and recommended naming requests for Sportsman's Park trapshooting fields and Knock Park baseball fields. The Board President noted the anticipated increase in youth baseball/softball participation following the Chicago Cubs World Series win and highlighted the ongoing partnership with KidsMatter, including their upcoming fundraiser. Updates were also provided on the Santa House event details, registration for the annual Turkey Shoot golf tournament, and the collection drives for Pennies for Pies and Toys for Tots. New business involved approving the resolution establishing the estimate of funds to be raised by taxation for the 2016 levy year and approving the notice of 2017 regular meeting schedules.

The meeting included reports from various commissions and committees. The Riverwalk Commission reported on repairs to Moser Tower and announced a public walk-on event in memory of Chuck Papanos. The Finance Committee discussed the first quarter investment performance results, noting an unrealized loss of $285,000 due to rising interest rates, while assuring that bonds are held to maturity. A process was discussed for purchasing vehicles and equipment due to ongoing supply chain issues causing delays into 2023 and 2024. Pension account status with the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund was reviewed, showing the district was 100.1 percent funded as of December 31, 2021, with decreasing contribution rates projected. The Legislative Committee reported a productive meeting with state representatives regarding green initiatives and grants. The Parks and Recreation Committee received updates on the Roy Horry Community Garden Plot Master Plan, information about a sensory garden development by Turning Point for Autism, and positive performance updates from the golf division. The Executive Director provided updates on summer camp registration, Centennial Beach memberships, and ongoing recruitment efforts, which include a $100 signing bonus for new summer staff hired by May 15th. The board approved Treasurer's reports and a consent agenda covering April 2022 disbursements, refunds, and various change orders for playground renovation projects. A contract was awarded for improvements at the Nike Sports Complex. The board also approved a resolution naming the Fort Hill Fitness Center the Ray McGurry Fitness Center. A significant discussion occurred regarding an amendment to the Naperville Salute agreement, where public commentary strongly urged the board to maintain the fireworks display location at Frontier Sports Complex instead of moving it to Noc Park due to concerns about obstructed views, scarce parking, and logistical difficulties associated with shuttle services, particularly for residents with mobility issues.