Lake Metroparks District

The board approved several financial and operational resolutions, including petty cash adjustments, the renewal of employee healthcare insurance, and a budget modification for drug law enforcement. Multiple paving improvement projects were authorized, including work at Farmpark, Pine Ridge Country Club, and Jordan Creek. Additionally, the board approved the purchase of new portable radios for the ranger department and the acquisition of two vehicles. The meeting also included an update from the Executive Director on park improvements, grant funding, and seasonal program performance, as well as an executive session regarding litigation.

The budget request includes a District-wide expenditure budget for 2026, reflecting an increase from 2025. The General Fund expenditure request also sees an increase, which includes a transfer to the Improvement Fund. The budget aims to continue providing clean and safe parks, along with programs and events. It also provides for the creation of new public amenities, such as the shoreline trail. The budget covers various funds, including the Health and Life Fund for self-insured hospitalization and prescription drug claims, and the Drug Enforcement Fund for court fines attributed to drug offenses. The budget also includes financial forecasts, revenue projections, and expenditure requests for various divisions, such as the Executive Division, Financial Services Division, Park Planning Division, Park Operations Division, and Park Services Division.

The meeting included discussions and approvals related to the Hemlock Ridge Park Service Drive Improvements, awarding the bid to Siteworx Unlimited, LLC. Also, the board discussed and approved the Janitorial Services contract to J.T. Dillard, LLC. Furthermore, the board approved the OWPA Vintage Ohio Event Agreement, CEI Electric Easement at Hemlock Ridge Park, Employee Handbook Revisions, and the OPBA Agreement pending legal counsel review. The Executive Director reported on spring activities and upcoming events.

The meeting included the election of officers, with Mrs. Skok DiSanto appointed as Board President and Mr. Frank Polivka and Mr. John C. Redmond as Vice Presidents. The Finance Report for December 2024 was approved. The board approved Resolution 2025-001 for Budget Modifications Ratification, Resolution 2025-002 authorizing the transfer of funds, Resolution 2025-003 for Health Insurance Renewal, Resolution 2025-004 for the 2025 Board Meeting Schedule, Resolution 2025-005 for Credo Consulting Services, Resolution 2025-006 for ODOT Final Legislation for Phase II Lakefront Path, and Resolution 2025-007 for the City of Willowick Lakefront Lodge Lease Extension. Additionally, the board approved equipment purchases from Middlefield Farm and Garden, John Deere, and Custom Truck One Source. The Executive Director recognized Jen Irwin and Scott Kayla from Pine Ridge Country Club for receiving the Quality Service Award.