Dundee Township Park District announces new executive director

Tim Howe, director of parks and recreation for Villa Park, has been named the new executive director of Dundee Township Park District.

Howe, with 20 years of park district experience, will succeed Dave Peterson, who is retiring after 19 years with the district.

“One of the most important things I have learned is that successful organizations are built around their people,” Howe said in a news release on his appointment. “I believe in being a collaborative leader, listening to staff, empowering employees, and creating an environment where people feel valued and have opportunities to grow.”

Howe has held a number of jobs over his career, including serving as director of parks and planning and supervisor of park operations for the Buffalo Grove Park District and as park manager for the Streamwood Park District.

His background includes leading parks and recreation operations, capital planning and improvement projects, facility management, parks maintenance, risk management and recreation administration, the release said

Howe said his family has participated in Dundee Township Park District programs and visited several local parks and facilities, including Huffman Park and Randall Oaks Zoo.

“What attracted me was the opportunity to lead an organization that my own family has enjoyed and benefited from,” he said in the release. “That makes this opportunity even more meaningful to me.”

As part of Howe’s transition to the position, Peterson will remain in an advisory capacity. Peterson called Howe a good fit for the district.

“Tim knows our park district and has enrolled his children in some of our programs,” Peterson said Monday. “He has been in the park district industry for many years and understands all facets of operations.”

The new job will bring its share of challenges, including the rising cost of health insurance, materials and supplies, he said. The district is also dealing with finding funding for capital improvement projects, with the park board recently completing a financial sustainability study to help address those needs.

“I am sharing the history and knowledge I have with this community and making sure Tim understands the processes and the intergovernmental agreements, ordinances and resolutions that are in place,” Peterson said.

“This park district has always had strong relationships with other local government agencies and community groups, so I need to ensure that Tim meets these individuals and continues to foster these strong relationships.”

Howe is joining the district as it celebrates its 75th anniversary.

“What excites me is the opportunity to take that 75-year legacy and help shape what the next 75 years look like,” Howe said in the release.

Gloria Casas is a freelance reporter for The (Elgin) Courier-News.