Recreational activities dominated the Vernon Hills Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting at 7:22 p.m. Feb. 16 with golf, outdoor carnival fun and playground equipment on the agenda.
In attendance were spokespersons for Kemper Sports Management of Northbrook who presented a budget and discussed upgrades for the Vernon Hills golf course totaling $65,000. Improvements range from landscaping, surface and fencing repairs to equipment replacement.
Representing Fantasy Amusement Company, William Johnson spoke on behalf of Hawthorn Mall for approval of this year’s outdoor carnival from June 2 to June 5, with details on location, hours, parking and license requirements. The company would be required to hire off-duty local police officers, provide a complete employee list and provide for sanitation. The COW opted to have staff draft an approval subject to stated conditions.
Three Park District officers requested a donation to support construction and associated expenses for the “Kids Castle” playground due to the older original equipment being out of compliance with safety laws as well as showing signs of long-term wear and tear. The project is estimated to cost $600,000, with $75,000 raised thus far through fundraising efforts. After discussion, the committee approved a $200,000 payment over the next two fiscal years.
A community survey rounded out the evening’s agenda, with discussion about a National Citizen Survey intended to measure general community livability. Village Manager John Kalmar reported that Vernon Hills was attempting to find ways to shorten the survey’s length while staff keeps the focus on the community. Kalmar added that the village board specified seven areas to relate questions to, focusing on communication, programs and shopping issues.
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