Benjamin Rea hired as new executive director of Palatine Park District

The Palatine Park District Board of Commissioners hired Benjamin Rea as the new executive director of Palatine Park District. Rea begins his new position on Friday, Dec. 1.

Rea succeeds Mike Clark, who is retiring after serving the district for 12 years.

Rea comes to Palatine with 24 years of experience in the parks & recreation field, most recently as the director of parks and planning for the Arlington Heights Park District. Rea holds a master's degree in public administration and is a graduate of the Illinois Park and Recreation Leadership Academy and Illinois Professional Development - Administration and Finance Section.

"Ben's vision, enthusiasm, transparency and lead by example style will be a great asset to Palatine Park District," said Board of Commissioners President Greg Sammons.

Rea was awarded a three-year contract with a salary of $175,000.

Clark retires after an award-winning career in parks and recreation. In 2022, he was honored with the Illinois Park and Recreation Association's Robert Artz Lifetime Achievement Award for his commitment and lifetime of service to parks, recreation, and conservation in Illinois. Clark's last day is Thursday, Nov. 30.

The mission of Palatine Park District is to provide a variety of safe, enjoyable, and affordable parks, programs, and recreational facilities that will enhance the quality of life by promoting good health and well-being for all residents and visitors while being fiscally responsible stewards of community assets and tax dollars.