Northbrook Park District board welcomes new commissioners, recognizes outgoing ones

The Northbrook Park District’s board recently welcomed two new commissioners while thanking two longtime members for their service.

Commissioner Hamzah Mirza and Commissioner Jason Risdon were elected in April and sworn into their roles in May. Additionally, the board chose Commissioner Michael Goodman to serve as board president and Commissioner Edward Chao to serve as vice president.

The new commissioners shared their thoughts about their desire to serve on the board.

Calling the park district “the heart of Northbrook,” Mirza said its offerings — from sports and camps to community events and open green spaces — shape how families grow, connect and thrive here.

“I joined the board to do my part for our community and to ensure these spaces remain inclusive, innovative, and inspiring for the next generation, including my own kids,” said Mirza, who has lived in Northbrook since 1999.

Risdon, who has lived in Northbrook since 1984, said the park district plays a vital role in the community.

“My family has participated in various park district programs for over two decades, and I want to ensure everyone can continue to have access to the incomparable array of activities and programming that our park district offers,” Risdon said.

The two outgoing commissioners were Lisa Chalem, who served nine years, including the last three as board president, and Michael Schyman, who served 16 years including two as president. Both opted not to seek reelection.

Board President Goodman thanked Chalem and Schyman for their dedication to serving the park district.

“You leave behind a legacy that will be felt for years to come. Your leadership, thoughtful decision-making, and commitment to Northbrook have made a lasting and meaningful impact.”

Goodman praised Chalem for leading “with a steady hand and a remarkable ability to build consensus,” and Schyman for his financial expertise and ability to identify “the right leadership moment to say the right thing, in exactly the right way.”

“Over the last four years, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for just how much time, energy, and heart you’ve each invested,” Goodman said. “Not just in board meetings, but in the many behind-the-scenes ways you’ve supported and strengthened this district.”

Commissioner Mary Ann Chambers also applauded the outgoing commissioners for their contributions.

“Michael (Schyman) has provided admirable, very valuable service and had a positive impact on the Northbrook Park District. Our hometown is better for his time, energy and consistent commitment to the park district,” she said, praising his dedication to safety and sustainability.

Chalem “jumped in with both feet” when she was first appointed in 2016, Chambers said.

“She quickly became a respected, reliable voice of reason and calm,” she said.

Serving as president of the board she came full circle by leading the search for a new executive director. Her calm, reasoned, compassionate approach to difficult situations is most admirable.”

The outgoing commissioners reflected on the highlights of their years of service.

Schyman said he was proud about many park district accomplishments over the years, including the building of Techny Prairie Activity Center, and the renovations of Heritage Oaks Golf Club and the Sports Center pool.

“We have the best park district in the state of Illinois, and we have our great staff of strategic and experienced leaders to thank,” he said. “I loved contributing and giving back to the community, but after 16 years, I felt it was time for other residents to bring new ideas to the board.”

Chalem said she decided not to run for reelection due to work and family commitments.

“When we were building TPAC and the golf course, our tagline was, ‘New places to play,’” she said. “I always loved that, because that’s what the park district is all about: giving Northbrook opportunities to relax, exercise, enjoy the outdoors and have fun, and it has been an honor to be part of it.”

For more information on the board of commissioners including meeting calendars, agendas and minutes, visit nbparks.org/board.

Established in 1927, the mission of the Northbrook Park District is to enhance the community by providing outstanding services, parks and facilities through environmental, social and financial stewardship.