New park director takes the helm in Rolling Meadows

Nick Troy spent much of his childhood at the Rolling Meadows Park District — going to preschool, playing T-ball, attending summer camp and swimming at the Nelson Sports Complex pool, to name a few.

It’s where he worked jobs as a teenager and his got his first professional job in parks and recreation as an adult. Now, Troy returns as the agency’s executive director.

“Park districts have made such a positive impact on my life at all ages,” said Troy, a Rolling Meadows native who just completed his first week on the job.

The park board inked a three-year, $125,000-a-year employment agreement with him late last month.

The Rolling Meadows High School alumnus was hired as a recreation supervisor at the Rolling Meadows Park District in 2002. He later spent three years as athletic supervisor in Schaumburg, two years as manager of recreation services in Hinsdale, nearly nine years as superintendent of recreation in Rolling Meadows, two years as superintendent of recreation in Des Plaines, and five years as director of recreation in Mount Prospect, according to his LinkedIn profile.

Troy replaces Kevin Romejko, who left in May to become executive director of the Bartlett Park District.

Amy Charlesworth, who retired in 2020 after 39 years with the Rolling Meadows Park District, including 17 as executive director, served as interim executive director in recent months.

“His knowledge of Rolling Meadows, combined with the experience he has gained along the way will provide a seamless transition and be a great benefit to Rolling Meadows Park District and the community,” Charlesworth said.

Troy said he plans to focus on strategic planning, introducing new programs that cater to diverse age groups and interests, overseeing improvements to park facilities, and building strong relationships with the community.

“It’s a dream come true to work with our dedicated and committed employees, volunteers and park board to provide our community with opportunities to play, learn and grow,” Troy said. “I missed the camaraderie and teamwork and family-feel that this district provides.”

Troy moved back to Rolling Meadows with his wife and two sons in 2010.