P R O J E C T

U P D A T E S

Project Phases:

Our project work moves through a process that's divided into four phases: Defining, Planning, Execution and Completion. For detailed definitions of each project phase, go here

DEFINING PHASE

Big Tree Lane – Feasibility Study

Wilmette Park District issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Comprehensive Recreation Feasibility Study focused on evaluating current high-use facilities as well as the potential of the Big Tree Lane site. Proposals were received in late April, and staff are currently reviewing submissions.

Finalist interviews are anticipated in May, with a recommendation for a professional services contract expected to follow. This study will help guide future planning, investment priorities, and long-term use of our facilities.

A D D I T I O N A L

U P D A T E S

SPRING & SUMMER PREPARATIONS - The District has transitioned from winter to spring operations, with crews focusing on field and facility preparation, site cleanup, and landscaping throughout April.

Looking ahead to May, staff will continue beach setup and pool preparation, including filling operations. The District has also added two new chlorine tanks to support aquatics operations this summer.

FINANCE UPDATE - Electricity expenses are currently running below projections, with usage down approximately 23% compared to the same period last year. This reduction reflects a combination of factors, including improved operational efficiency, seasonal usage patterns, and the District’s ongoing investments in energy-conscious practices. Additionally, some variance is tied to timing (including delayed billing for certain facilities), and expenses are expected to normalize as those costs are realized.


RECREATION UPDATE - Spring programming has seen high registration and participation levels across a variety of offerings. Seasonal events such as the Egg Hunt and Bunny Brunch drove strong community engagement and attendance.

Focus has shifted toward the summer season, with active hiring underway across camps, aquatics and lakefront operations to ensure appropriate staffing levels and a high-quality participant experience.

Racquet Sports provided an update on the state of the department, highlighting strong program performance following the 2025 revamp of youth tennis to better align with USTA standards. As a result, Wilmette Tennis experienced 22.2% growth compared to 2024, reflecting increased participation and the success of the updated program structure.

SUSTAINABILITY - Anti-Idling Campaign, engaging the community through a student design contest.

Earth Month featured strong participation across events including Earth Day at Keay, a beach cleanup with Go Green Wilmette, and an Arbor Day seedling giveaway. Additional programs like gardening workshops and youth activities provided hands-on sustainability education for all ages.

A C C E S S

To view Agendas and Minutes from past Board meetings, click here. Minutes are posted after they are approved.



REGULAR MONTHLY BOARD MEETING:

Monday, May 11 - at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall at 1200 Wilmette Avenue.

FINANCE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING:

Monday, May 11 - at 6:30 p.m. (Prior to Regular Board Meeting) in Village Hall at 1200 Wilmette Avenue.


ANNUAL MEETING:

Monday, May 11 - at 7:30 p.m. (Prior to Regular Board Meeting) in Village Hall at 1200 Wilmette Avenue.


COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING: 
Monday, May 18 - at 6:30 p.m. in the Mallinckrodt Center, 1041A Ridge Road.


NOTE: Wilmette Park District no longer prints full meeting packets. A QR code and link to an online packet will be made available. To request a printed packet for an upcoming meeting, please contact mparson@wilpark.org a minimum of two hours prior to the meeting start time.

All meetings are open to the public. Details are posted on the Upcoming Meetings page on our website.

Regular Monthly Board Meetings are available to view live on Channel 6 locally for Comcast subscribers. View a live meeting online here, or view previous meeting recordings here (scroll down to "Wilmette Park District"). Please check our website often for updates.