Glen Ellyn parks chief resigns

To Glen Ellyn parks Commissioner Ron Aubrey, losing Executive Director Cory Atwell will be both a great loss and a great opportunity. Atwell announced his resignation last month and will leave the district in January after 17 years heading up the agency.

The departure came as a surprise to commissioners, and Aubrey said Atwell's institutional memory will be missed.

“He's one of the best administrators I have ever had the pleasure to work with,” Aubrey said. “He gets things done and he tries to do the right thing.”

During Atwell's time with Glen Ellyn, the district has grown in size and scope, adding a long-awaited state-of-the-art recreation center early this year.

Commissioner Melissa Creech said Atwell's effect on the park district was big.

“During his time here, the park district has grown dramatically, increasing its lands, facilities and the kinds of resources we offer our residents,” she said. “I think that is a great thing.”

Calls to Atwell and board President Ed Hess were not returned Wednesday.

Aubrey, who has worked with Atwell since he was elected in 2003, said his cooperative work with other government entities has been a great asset to the parks.

“I have seen times when he might not agree with the board, but he listens and he gets things done,” Aubrey said.

Aubrey said the departure gives the park district a chance to reassess its priorities when it comes to community needs.

Atwell announced the resignation last month.

“He will be a hard guy to replace but this is an opportunity,” he said. “We are trying to think in terms of what we are trying to do to move forward and build this community.”

Nonetheless, Aubrey said it will be a great loss for the district.

“He will be sorely missed,” Aubrey said. “Anyone who chose to dedicate a portion of his career in one place had an opportunity to do so much. He had a great run and I enjoyed working with him. He did a lot for this community.”

The board will hold a special meeting Friday to hire a search firm. Aubrey said he expects to find a replacement by April or May.