Lake County Gazette

A recent Park Board meeting addressed several significant topics related to the Park District of Highland Park. A representative from Williams Architects presented the final design for renovations at the Park Fitness locker room shower area. Staff also discussed a proposed name change for a new recreational center at West Ridge Park, recommending "West Ridge Community Center." The board consented to wait sixty days before voting on this change.

A survey was released to gather community feedback on an updated master plan, representing diverse demographics. Additionally, the entire policy manual of the Park District was reviewed and updated for compliance with legal standards by Ancel Glink. Changes to chapters 1-2 were approved, and a review schedule for chapters 3-6 was presented.

Updates were provided on various construction projects including landscaping at Park Fitness, renovations at Port Clinton Playground and Sunset Woods Park, and improvements at Centennial Ice Arena among others. There is ongoing collaboration with Highland Park Police regarding regulations for e-bikes on park paths, along with new signage prohibiting bicycles, skateboards, and scooters on certain sidewalks.

Sikich LLP shared a draft of the district's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. A contract recommendation for Lincoln Park Renovation in 2025 was reviewed as well.

The Finance Committee may shift its meetings to every third Thursday of each month. Furthermore, July has been designated as Parks and Recreation Month following a proclamation by the board.

Several approvals were made including Ordinance 2025-08 regarding surplus property conveyance or sale, acceptance of Hacienda Landscaping Inc.'s bid for Lincoln Park Improvements with additional recommendations, and authorizations for architectural services by Holabird and Root concerning West Ridge Park site planning.

Community engagement continues with surveys tied to master plan updates being completed and further surveys planned. Lastly, staff presented reviews covering 2024 activities and current scholarship spending.