Northbrook Park District earns state accolades
The Northbrook Park District was presented with two awards last fall by the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) - Best Green Practices and Best Friend of Illinois Parks for a partnership with Northbrook Bank & Trust Company NA - at the IAPD Best of the Best Awards Gala.
In addition, Commissioner Michael Ziering received recognition for his 15 years of service as a member of the Park Board of Commissioners.
Best Green Practices
Northbrook Park District achieved many significant environmental milestones in 2022, contributing to the award.
• A grant of $939,120.96 was received through the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program to replace light fixtures with new energy-efficient LED fixtures at multiple parks and facilities.
• Techny Prairie Activity Center received official Net Zero status from New Buildings Institute and PHIUS+ and Source Zero certifications from Passive House Institute. The facility was awarded this status because it produced more energy than it consumed in its first 12 month period of monitoring.
• Heritage Oaks Golf Club retained its designation as a "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary" through Audubon International while a multimillion-dollar shoreline stabilization and restoration project has improved access to Lake Shermerville, reducing erosion and increasing biodiversity with native areas along the shoreline for wildlife and pollinators.
• The roof replacement project at Northbrook Sports Center included improved insulation, a new reflective roof, exterior LED lights and fixtures, and highly efficient mechanicals.
• The park district celebrated Earth Month with 30 days of activities, contests and giveaways.
Northbrook Park District takes environmental stewardship seriously throughout its 13 facilities and over 500 acres of open space. Preservation of these assets, using strategic planning and creative solutions, is at the heart of what we do to provide the highest level of services in an environmental and fiscally responsible manner to our community.
Best Friend of Illinois Parks
As part of the annual budgeting and planning process, Northbrook Park District incorporates alternative revenue sources through strategic sponsorship and advertising opportunities.
A new partnership was the result of a brainstorm between Northbrook Bank & Trust Company Vice Chairman Rich Rushkewicz and former Northbrook Park District Board President Penelope Randel for a total of $150,000 in support over the course of five years. In 2022, the district worked closely with Northbrook Bank & Trust to expand upon the partnership.
The district's financial scholarship program is now fully funded by Northbrook Bank & Trust. Their support has also extended to several large community events, including races, free summer concerts and community festivals.
With similar service missions, Northbrook Bank & Trust Company is truly a friend of Northbrook Park District. We are grateful for the support provided this year and we look forward to the continuation of this mutually beneficial partnership in the years to come.