Park district ‘snubs’ Wendell Jones

I can’t believe that our Palatine Park District would NOT support honoring Wendell Jones by adding his name to Towne Square. This is the epitome of cronyism, and contrary to the concept of historical legacies.

Mr. Jones did more to contribute to the quality of life in Palatine than either of the two cited park district examples combined. And isn’t the park district supported by our tax dollars? Towne Square likely wouldn’t exist if not for the efforts of the very individual being snubbed.

But the park is only a tangible representation of the generous efforts shown by Wendell Jones to our community. My question to Mr. Gbur is to ask (rhetorically) who created this rule that only park district notables be honored in this way? And they don’t even need to have died!

Considering the park district’s recent “land” acquisitions at above-market prices, $1 million flood control for Palatine Hills Golf Course and a $3 million water park, perhaps the community should take a closer look into the park district’s priorities.

The idea of finding a “loophole” to be able to circumvent the naming policy is insulting — to the positive legacy of Wendell Jones, and to the moral conscience of our community. We, the citizens shouldn’t have to ask, plead or petition for our park district to do the right thing.

Sally Schulewitz

Palatine