Jilted Vernon Hills park system has eye on new leader

Jan Buchs gushed about getting a chance to be the Vernon Hills Park District's executive director, saying the system offers lots of open space and opportunity.

But roughly two weeks after she was selected for the job, Buchs changed her mind and stayed as put the Wheeling Park District's executive director.

Vernon Hills park board President David Doerhoefer said no one sat still after Buchs backed out. He said officials quickly tabbed another candidate who also was in the hunt for the executive director post.

Doerhoefer said the new selection for executive director is expected to sign a contract today. He said he'd release the name if the individual signs on.

Buchs' contract was scheduled to be ratified at a Vernon Hills park board meeting April 23. However, Doerhoefer said, she called him about six hours before the meeting to say she no longer wanted the job.

"I guess it took me a little bit by surprise," Doerhoefer said.

Telephone messages left for Buchs weren't returned. In a recent news story, she said she was impressed with the amount of open space in Vernon Hills and how the park district offered plenty of opportunity to her.

Doerhoefer read from a written statement Buchs provided. She said her retreat had nothing to do with the Vernon Hills park board or staff.

"The commitments that I have made to the staff at the Wheeling Park District and the critical nature of the major projects that are in progress there have necessitated my change in position," Buchs stated in part. "I deeply regret that I am unable to assume the (Vernon Hills) position."

Vernon Hills park officials began a roughly six-week nationwide search for the new executive director in early March, when Larry DeGraaf retired after more than 12 years at the helm.

Doerhoefer said a search firm that was paid about $14,000 conducted interviews and narrowed the field to five candidates. The park board process included lengthy interviews, a lunch, park tour and casual dinner before the final two emerged, he said.

Buchs and the candidate now in line for the executive director post were considered "1-A and 1-B" by the park board members who interviewed them, Doerhoefer said. He said there are "no hard feelings" toward Buchs, in part because the other candidate was considered as good.

Doerhoefer said the individual who would be Vernon Hills' new park leader appears strong in customer service, facilities and programs.