Palatine Park District Commissioners Tour Facilities
The Palatine Park District Board of Commissioners takes part in an annual tour of facilities. This year's tour took place on Saturday, July 20 and was facilitated by the District's management team. Per the Open Meetings Act, no business is conducted on these tours. The eight tour stops for 2013 were chosen based upon suggestions from the board members. According to Board President Jennifer Rogers, these tours are important “so the board can see the different projects that are getting done in the park district and the possibilities for future improvement or expansion opportunities.” The board's newest member, Terry Ruff, noted that he was “excited to get his first chance to see the facilities up close.”
The group began at Cutting Hall with a viewing of the bathroom renovations that are currently in progress. The men's bathroom is completed, and the women's bathroom will be done soon. The bathrooms are being renovated in keeping with the style of the 1920's – the period of the original theater construction. The group next visited Community Center to view the recently renovated locker rooms.
After boarding a bus borrowed from the Northwest Special Recreation Association, the group visited the neighborhood southeast of Birchwood to look at the potential of a bridge connection between the neighborhood and the park. Another potential bridge connection was viewed at Plum Grove Reservoir near Harper College.
The group next stopped at Cottonwood Park to view progress on the erosion control project that is currently in progress, along with looking at the potential location for another connection between the park and the nearby cemetery. The new roof and siding were viewed at Palatine Stables, followed by a visit to Meadowlark Park next door to see the demolition work that is in progress there. The final stop was to Wilke Marsh to view the property for potential future uses.
According to Executive Director Mike Clark, “These tours are important so the board can take items discussed in meetings and visualize the sites first hand.” The tours also “offer a chance to get out in the community and see sites the board members haven't seen in a while, and for staff to showcase their efforts.” For more information about board tours or the Palatine Park District, contact Mike Clark, Executive Director, at 847-496-6236 or mclark@palatineparks.org.
The mission of Palatine Park District is to provide a variety of safe, enjoyable and affordable parks and recreation facilities and activities that will enhance the quality of life by promoting good health and well-being for all residents and visitors of the Palatine Park District.