Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

June 8, 2026

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:33 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood, Wernikoff

Commissioners Absent

Shah

Staff Present

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The May 2026 minutes were reviewed.  Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Federer seconded the motion.  The May 2026 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No matters regarding State of IL/DOT, VHW, Ela Township.

FOIA Requests – Young/Frystak

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Frystak/Young/Underwood

The financial reports for May 2026 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Wernikoff moved to accept the May 2026 financial reports as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The financial reports for May 2026 were accepted unanimously.

Budget Process/Timeline FY26-27 – Frystak/Young/Underwood

Frystak provided board members a timeline for the FY26-27 budget; June to September.  Frystak asked that anyone who has upcoming projects, notes, issues with this process to send an email.  Frystak recommended changing the September board meeting to the 21st.  This will allow time to finalize the FY25-26 financials and to email board members with a final proposed FY26-27 budget the week prior to the meeting for review.  All were in agreement with the date change.                             

Impact Fees Recapture/LGOL, IGA - Frystak

Frystak met with the Village regarding the proposed IGA for impact fees collected and due LGPD.  After researching the Village Code and Illinois Municipal Code, Frystak suggested making revisions related to the use of funds for acquisition, development, preservation and related improvements to LGPD properties.  All were supportive to have Frystak move forward with changes and to continue to work with Village Manager Sparkman and Adam Simon to make changes the IGA. Southwell will also speak with Bill Jacob, VOLG President to seek alignment and support.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Summer/Fall Programs/Events

Summer Event: “Play & Stay” at Lemmon Hill, July 8th. MOO-V-Night Entertainment company is providing a screen and sound equipment at no cost.  Modern Woodmen of America has donated $250 for this event.  This event will include a family kickball game followed by “The Sandlot” movie by the barn.  Frystak will promote the event on the Park District website.  Registration will be required.  No fee for the event.

Community Engagement/Communications – Underwood/Frystak

An article written by Frystak was submitted for July Stroll Magazine highlighting volunteers, Greg Warren and Sarah Schultz, as well as others. 

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

No updates. 

Frystak added a sign-up page on the website for volunteers and noted five or six have signed up in the last month.  Discussed having a “Site Ambassador” for each property as a next step.  A board member would need to sponsor the site and coordinate/support the Ambassador, and be involved with the different LGPD properties.  Together they would work to put create a list of potential projects that would benefit the site and larger community – as well as budgeting, leading and managing.  Volunteer work days would then be scheduled, or work contracted - under Sponsor/Ambassador leadership, according to agreed scope, participation and funding availability.

Natural Properties Management – Healy/Southwell/Skillicorn

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Longview Meadow

Tallgrass visited LVM May 8th and herbicided the southern weedy areas and weed holes in northern portion.  Treated thistle, buckthorn and teasel, honeysuckle and reed canary grass.  The northwest corner is coming along quite well.

Gridley

Tallgrass treated all the teasel and an area of reed canary grass close to the road on May 15th.

Buffalo Creek Park

On June 1st, Tallgrass treated reed canary grass, dames rocket, moneywort, thistle. 

Reed Turner Woodland

Tallgrass made a second stewardship visit on June 1st.  TG told Healy they would like to have one more full day and one more person to complete work that needs to be completed.  Healy noted this is not in the LGPD budget.  Southwell asked Healy what the cost would be.  Healy will contact TG and will provide more information to board members.

Village Roadside Teasel Management

McGinty completed the first round of treating teasel along Long Grove roadsides

President’s Report – Southwell

Project Updates, Sponsorship, Planning, Leadership, Management

Progress is being made at LGPD properties without additional expense, through creative scheduling and the flexibility of our Contractor.  Southwell has been redirecting Del Rio’s to work on other projects instead of grass mowing when it has been too wet or dry.  The trail at Wehrenberg Woods has been worked, and is once-again completely open.  At Hayrake Trail, a few big trees came down - which Del Rio’s cleared out.  LVM trails will be high mowed by Del Rio’s.  In other re-direction: Southwell sent the Del Rio’s crew to BCP today to clean up the property, trim shrubs and pull weeds.  Additionally, they were sent to the Mitigation property to clear a portion of the woody invasive brush roadside and within the Savanna. 

Southwell noted he will be having a meeting with staff at IL State Senator Darby Hills’ office June 9th to discuss the mitigation site, prompt timely finalization of Deed, and LGPD obtaining the title to the property from IDOT. 

Operations Manager Report - Frystak

Updates, Issues, Opportunities

OSLAD Grant – Pickleball Court

Date for applying for OSLAD grant applications starts July 1st.  Frystak noted adjustments will be made to the original grant application to optimize our chance to receive funding.  Frystak will be submit our application in late July. 

Girls Softball/Gridley Field Opportunity

A proposal for an agreement between LGPD and the “Firecrackers” team for use of Gridley Field for practices and games was reviewed.  This will be a one-year agreement.  LGPD will provide mowing, property maintenance, port-a-potty, bases, benches and other items.  The team will pay $400 month and will be responsible for field prep, dragging the field and will participate in a volunteer service project at Gridley Field or another LGPD property once per season.  They will partner with LGPD to run one softball clinic per season. LGPD will handle registrations.  Frystak asked for the Board’s support and will work with Adam Simon to draft the final agreement.  Tryouts will be held at Lemmon Hill in June and the team will start using Gridley Field in August.

Verizon

Frystak has been researching the lease with Verizon and will share specific details via email to board members. 

Old Business

Lemmon-Hill Electrical Safety Project – Wernikoff

Wernikoff met with the electrician at LH and paint-marked the trench line.  Will schedule Del Rio’s to dig the trench, 16 inches deep.  The LG Village inspector will come by to approve the job.  Once approval has been given, the electrician can finish the job within 2 weeks.  M. Young contacted JULIE to mark underground utilities.

Gridley Ballfield Restoration - Southwell/Frystak

Southwell moved to approve expenditures not to exceed $7000 to restore the ball field (infield work).  Federer seconded the motion.  A discussion was held.  Healy asked if this money could be moved from a different account to cover this.  Southwell stated this would be a one-time capital improvement, and would essentially add another Park for Long Grove at relatively minimal expense.  Foreseen to be a significant improvement for the community.  Support voiced for the expenditure necessary to restore Gridley ball field.  Motion was approved unanimously.

T-Mobile Lease Extension Proposal - Frystak/Underwood/Southwell

No change since May meeting.  Southwell is waiting for a response from T Mobile.

New Business

Healy reported a homeowner near the prairie patch is draining water into the area which is under water. Healy would like to contact the homeowner.  Southwell suggested sending a friendly letter asking them to move the pipes away from RTW.

Funds will need to be transferred from Fidelity to PNC to cover budgeted/planned/foreseen expenses.  Frystak suggested transferring $35,000 to cover expenses for the rest of the fiscal year.  Southwell will handle the transfer.

Adjournment of Meeting

Wernikoff moved to adjourn the meeting.  Skillicorn seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:23 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

May 18, 2026

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:34 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Southwell, Underwood

Commissioners Absent

Skillicorn, Wernikoff

Staff Present

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

Greg Warren

Mr. Warren is a Long Grove resident who would like to volunteer to repair the boardwalk damage that occurred after a tree fell on it.  He provided an explanation on what steps he would take to repair the walkway and offered to purchase the materials needed.  LGPD will purchase the materials.  All board members were in favor and expressed their gratitude for his help.  

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The April 2026 minutes were reviewed.  Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The April 2026 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No matters regarding State of IL/DOT, VHW, Ela Township, VOLG.

Frystak reported the Village of Long Grove would like to enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Park District regarding impact fees.  There is approximately $80,000 in a separate account for LGPD.  Before the funds can be released, the Village is asking the Park District to sign the IGA stating the money would need to be used only for acquisition of new land.  Frystak will discuss this further at the meeting on the May 20th.  The Park District would like to use the funds for capital improvements, Park restoration and general improvements on existing unimproved properties so as to expand Parks, Trails and Open-Spaces for Long Grove Residents.  The Board, with assistance and support of Staff intends to discuss with Village Leadership. 

FOIA Requests – Young/Frystak

A FOIA request was received from Data Branch USA requesting all purchase order records between June 1, 2025, to present.  Frystak reached out to Adam Simon, Ancel & Glink, for guidance on how to respond to the FOIA request.  Frystak and Simon worked together on the response and it was sent within the required timeframe via email.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak/Underwood  

The financial reports for April 2026 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Healy moved to accept the April 2026 financial reports as presented.  Federer seconded the motion.  The financial reports for April 2026 were accepted unanimously.

Healy was notified by the UBS advisor that all signatures on the forms submitted to add Underwood to the UBS account must be dated on the same day.  Healy will gather signatures and resubmit the form to UBS.

Frystak reported the Verizon payment for May has not yet been received.  Frystak is working on resolving this issue and will also sign up for electronic deposits going forward.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Summer/Fall Programs/Events

Frystak reported the spring wildflower walk led by Sarah Schultz was very well attended.  The summer programs have been posted on the website.  Registrations have been coming in for the sports clinics.  Frystak suggested having a movie night at Lemmon Hill, using the side of the barn as a screen and possibly incorporating having a baseball game or kickball before the start of the movie. 

Community Engagement/Communications – Underwood/Frystak

Frystak submitted an article for the June issue of Stroll Magazine regarding the Grove Trotters, a walking club.  The first walk will be at Reed-Turner Woodlands on June 26th.   For the July issue, an article will be written about volunteerism for the Park District, highlighting Sarah Schultz, Greg Warren and others.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

Shah has organized a list of residents who have reached out to the Park District to volunteer.  Shah will coordinate with M. Young to schedule a workday to chip the trails at RTW.  Other workdays will focus on cleaning up Buffalo Creek Park and other properties. 

Southwell reported the for economies of spend, he asked Del Rio’s not to mow one week a month, especially when too wet or too dry.  Work on the off-week will instead be redirected to other properties ex. to maintain trails, clean up downed trees and similar.

Healy suggested finding volunteers who have the knowledge of weeds vs perennials – to support clean-up and garden maintenance at Buffalo Creek Park.  Frystak proposed having “Site Ambassadors.”  These volunteers would walk PD properties to inspect and report what work needs to be done.  Shah will give Frystak a map of PD properties to post on the website.

Natural Properties Management – Healy/Southwell/Skillicorn

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Healy reported Tallgrass made their first visits to Gridley, BCP, RTW and the mitigation site April. 

Gridley 

Tallgrass treated teasel. 

Buffalo Creek Park 

TG mowed garlic mustard and dames rocket and sprayed moneywort, reed canary grass, thistle, purple dead nettle and Hungarian brome.

Mitigation Site 

Tallgrass treated teasel two times in April.  They will be giving the PD back 12 hours for touchup.

Longview Meadow

Tallgrass treated honeysuckle, poison hemlock, reed canary grass, birdsfoot trefoil, garlic mustard, teasel and leafy spurge.

RTW 

Tallgrass treated thistle, reed canary grass, woodies and sprayed cow parsnip and water hemlock.  Crews were instructed to only treat invasives and provided the PD a map of where the invasives are located.

President’s Report – Southwell

Project Updates, Sponsorship, Planning, Leadership, Management

A very large tree fell onto the boardwalk at RTW during a recent windstorm damaging the walkway.  Southwell cut and cleared the limbs from the boardwalk.  Frystak and M. Young put up signage, cones and caution tape to block access until repairs could be made.

Operations Manager Report - Frystak

Updates, Issues, Opportunities

Frystak has been reviewing contracts for the cell tower; AT&T (Crown Castle), T Mobile and Verizon.  Verizon subleases from AT&T.  Frystak has the documentation and sublease contract but has not found a contract for the PD.  Frystak has been inquiring through the Verizon portal for more information and has reached out to Bryan Donley/Insite, Inc.  Updates will be provided at the next meeting.  

Ball fields:  Frystak was contacted by a coach for a girls softball team, ages 13 and under, who would like to use the ball fields for practices and games.  Frystak took her to Gridley to look at the field.  Work on the infield needs to be done before it can be used.  Discussed having practices/games at LH when LCS is not using the ball field and fees.  Frystak will provide more information at the next board meeting.  Benches would be needed at Gridley.  This could be an Eagle Scout project.

Southwell reported SaveALawn was contracted to treat the infield twice with weed kill.  Several trailer loads of baseball mix would need to be brought in to restore the infield, estimated one-time expense of $5000.

Old Business

Strategy, Update/Progress/Plans re JS/YS Founding “Long Grove Open Lands” - Southwell

Southwell noted great progress has been made on building out the 501c3 plan and is asking for LGPD admin support start-up efforts for the first 6 months, with much lighter follow-on support for an additional 24 months.  Underwood asked Frystak if she would have time to do the work for LGOL along with LGPD duties.  Frystak stated she does not anticipate any problems.  Southwell anticipates this would start approximately July 1st.   Southwell would like to use RTNC for board meetings, telecom. 

Formal Request for investment in admin support to LGOL, foreseen ROI to LGPD - Southwell

Federer moved to enter into a discussion and possible approval of the request for investment made by Southwell to use LGPD administrative staff support for LGOL’s startup and initial operation.  Shah seconded the motion.  Southwell recused himself from subsequent discussion and chairing the meeting while on this topic. Healy chaired the meeting until this matter was concluded.

A lengthy discussion was held regarding the use of RTNC building and phones, using LGPD staff to assist with the startup on a short-term basis, how this would affect the budget regarding salaries, concerns on how the PD and LGOL will be connected.  All questions and concerns were addressed.  

A roll call vote was taken to approve the request for LGPD investment in LGOL by using LGPD administrative staff to support LGOL’s startup and initial operation over a total run of 30 months.  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Underwood-aye.  Motion was unanimously approved. 

New Business

T-Mobile Lease Extension Proposal - Frystak/Underwood/Southwell

Southwell provided background information on the back and forth with T Mobile.  TM had proposed significant rate reductions and escalator reduction over a very long term agreement.  Southwell proposed three 5-year terms with no monthly rate or escalator reductions, with several 5-year terms certain, and adjustments on terms for additional footage.  T Mobile eventually agreed to Southwell’s counter on monthly and escalator, pushed-back on term-certain and would like to keep existing terms on additional footage.  Southwell pushed-back and it is now in TM’s court. Southwell and Frystak will work together on obtaining more comparative analysis.  Southwell will provide an update at the next meeting.

Adjournment of Meeting

Underwood moved to adjourn the meeting.  Healy seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

April 13, 2026

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:32 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell, Wernikoff

Commissioners Absent

Shah

Remote Participation Authorization

Healy moved to approve remote attendance by Underwood.  Wernikoff seconded the motion.  Motion was approved unanimously.

Commissioners Present via Zoom Connection

Underwood

Staff Present

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval – Young/Southwell

The March 2026 minutes were reviewed.  Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The March 2026 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No matters regarding State of IL/DOT, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

FOIA Requests – Young/Frystak

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak/Underwood

The financial reports for March 2026 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Underwood asked about an entry in the profit and loss report, a negative $400.  Frystak believed it was put into the wrong payroll category but will look into it and make adjustments accordingly.  Frystak will report back at the next board meeting.  Southwell asked if Commissioners were comfortable going forward with accepting the financial reports and all agreed to doing so.

Wernikoff moved to accept the March 2026 financial reports as presented with the understanding that the $400 entry will be investigated and recategorized as appropriate.  Federer seconded the motion.  The financial reports for March 2026 were accepted unanimously.

Underwood and Healy had a call with UBS on several matters.  A CD maturing was extended until October 2027.  Underwood (as Commissioner and Treasurer) was added to be a signer on the UBS account.  Healy shared that a form needs to be signed by Southwell (President) and Skillicorn (Secretary) authorizing UBS to add Underwood to the account.  UBS is also requesting the LGPD April minutes indicating approval of this change.

Southwell moved to approve the addition of Angie Underwood, LGPD Treasurer, as an additional signer on the UBS account.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The motion passed unanimously.

Healy noted that $5400 will need to be moved from UBS to PNC Bank for spring/summer RTW stewardship. 

Programs and Events - Frystak

Spring/Summer Programs/Events

The summer mini camps have been posted to the website.  A spring wildflower walk was led by Sarah Schultz on Saturday, April 11th.  Another walk is scheduled for May.

Southwell reported receiving an email from IAPD urging members to contact their State Senator/Representative asking them to vote no on IL House and Senate Bills requiring state licensure and regulation for most Park District recreational programs involving youth.  Southwell called and left messages for Senator Hills and Representative Syed urging them to vote no.

Community Engagement/Communications – Underwood/Frystak

An article was submitted for the April edition of Stroll Magazine, “Small by Design – How LGPD Programs Offer a Different Kind of Summer.”  For May, “Trails at Reed Turner Woodland” with information about spring wildflowers and the trails.  Frystak asked for suggestions for the June article.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell/Skillicorn

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Healy reported Tallgrass will be at Gridley and the mitigation site in the next few weeks to treat teasel, weather dependent.  General stewardship of RTW, BCP and LVM will start late April.  Southwell asked Healy to have Tallgrass go around RTNC to identify and treat poison ivy.  Skillicorn and Federer volunteered to do this.

There are large boulders along Old McHenry Road that were recently unearthed from LGPD property when IDOT was doing culvert work.   Southwell recommended placing them by the stream bank to help prevent further scouring and erosion.  Discussed options of how to move the boulders from the road down to the stream.  The Kubota could be used to transport them close to the stream but would be unable to go over the bridge.  They would need to be manually moved.  M. Young will mark what boulder, woodlands versus driveway, are to be used.  Southwell will contact Del Rio’s for help with this project.

Old Business

Updates, Opportunities re VOLG and Potential Pickleball Court - Frystak

Frystak met with Chris Sparkman and Jillyen Phelps, Village of Long Grove, to discuss the status of the OSLAD grant for the pickleball courts at Lemmon Hill.  It was a positive meeting and the Village is looking forward to partnering with the Park District.  The resumption of impact fees collected for new builds in Long Grove was discussed. The Village has been collecting impact fees on the Park District’s behalf and have put the money into a separate account.  Frystak will follow up on what the Village needs from LGPD to have the money released.  Last item was requesting the Village to waive permit fees if permit applications are submitted by LGPD. 

Electrical Supply Issue and proposal for Lemmon-Hill Barn and Garage - Wernikoff

There have been ongoing problems with the power going out, as well as surges damaging garage door openers and security at the LH garage and barn. Wernikoff met with Castillo Electric to identify what needs to be done to fix the issues.  Castillo proposed conversion from overhead to underground supply solution involving underground PVC piping from the garage to the barn and subpanel installation.  Castillo’s proposal was $4800 for their work.  Replacement of the above-ground service line will be handled by ComEd.  A trench will need to be dug from the garage to the barn for the underground electrical conduit.  This would need to be done by someone else, possibly Del Rio’s, at an additional cost.  Southwell asked for board support to have this work done, not to exceed $6000.  May need to re-allocate budgeted funds to cover this project. Board was fully supportive.

Updated Strategy. Drafting, JS/YS Founding “Long Grove Open Lands” - Southwell

Southwell outlined two potential strategies to improve LGPD financial sustainability through fundraising; one where Long Grove Open Lands would directly raise funds for restoration, conservation and preservation projects on LGPD land - and another in parallel, where funds raised by LGPD would actually be collected by LGOL as a 501c3, thus providing tax-deductibility benefits for the contributor.  Periodically, LGOL would then grant these funds to LGPD – provided funds raised for purposes/projects align with the LGOL charter.  Both approaches will help to put LGPD on path to financial sustainability.  Also discussed recent changes to tax law allowing individuals to claim charitable deductions up to $2000 without itemizing on tax returns.

Request for investment in admin support to LGOL, foreseen ROI to LGPD - Southwell

Southwell requested support from the Board to invest in LGOL by asking LGPD staff, Frystak and S. Young, help with set-up and start-up undertakings necessary to get LGOL up and running, over a 6-month period.  These are foreseen to include building out the website, setting up an accounting system with QuickBooks, social media and general administrative support.  Board generally indicated agreement, and that this investment by LGPD, in LGOL, that is likely to provide a significant return.

New Business

Replacement/Upgrade Gutters RTNC - Southwell

Southwell reported the gutters around RTNC need to be replaced.  Currently, water is overflowing and washing out new soil and new plants planted along the walkway.  The plan would be to install 5-inch gutters and new downspouts that would direct water away from the building.  Quotes will need to be obtained.  Board supported, upgrades to be undertaken.

Verizon Payment History - Frystak/Underwood/Southwell

Frystak reported reviewing all cell tower payments/revenue in QB and noted that Verizon has been paying the same amount since 2019.  Southwell contacted Adam Simon to locate and review contract terms and history.  Adam stated he does not have a copy of the current contract.   Southwell will reach out to Verizon and Crown-Castle/ATT to obtain current contract details.  Frystak offered to do the research on potential underpayment, escalator issues regarding the lease.

Volunteer Activities/Projects/S-USA Projects - Frystak/Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

Frystak added “Wish List Projects & Needs” to the “Get Involved” page on the PD website.  The new pages are dedicated to/list open projects, ways to volunteer, donate, sponsor a project.  “Wish List Projects & Needs” lists potential projects to be done with a brief description of projects as well as an estimate regarding the project scope and cost.  These are for Eagle Scout candidates, residents, students looking for Service-hours, local businesses and sponsors looking to get involved.  Frystak asked for more ideas to add to page. 

Healy:  Two Eagle Scout candidates recently contacted the PD.  Healy gave some project ideas for the scouts.  One scout got back to Healy stating he was going to do a project at another Park District.

Shah, Skillicorn and a volunteer expanded and repaired approximately 20 to 30 beaver-resistant “cages” (trunk protectors) around trees near to Salem Lake at RTW.

Midwest Beaver came out to RTW and removed the beaver dam causing stream flooding in the woodland and threatened under-cutting bridge foundations.  A new dam was created upstream to encourage beavers to build/inhabit less problematic locations.

President’s Report – Southwell

Project Updates, Sponsorship, Planning, Leadership, Management

Southwell reported planting daffodils on both sides of the walkway in front of RTNC.  Boulders were installed, and significant cleanup was accomplished around the entire perimeter of RTNC and adjacent garage.  Black-eyed Susan seeds were spread along the pathway also.

Adjournment of Meeting

Wernikoff moved to adjourn the meeting.  Healy seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:23 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

March 16, 2026

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:33 p.m. 

Remote Attendance

Healy moved to approve remote attendance by Underwood.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  Motion was approved unanimously.

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present:   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell

Commissioners Present via Zoom Connection:

Underwood

Commissioners Absent:

Wernikoff - excused

Staff Present:

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present:

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The February 2026 minutes were reviewed.  Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Underwood seconded the motion.  The February 2026 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No recent interaction with State of IL/DOT, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

FOIA Requests – Young/Frystak

None received.

FOIA protocol improvements have been made including creating a dedicated distribution list to help mitigate the undesired effects of spam filters, as well as updated response procedures.  These have been shared with board members and staff.  Frystak contacted Adam Simon/Ancel Glink who reviewed the FOIA information posted on the LGPD website and kiosk.  A few improvements were made and updates were posted.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak/Underwood

Frystak created an additional report for the financial packet to reflect removing $110,000 in previously/no longer expected  funding from the Village and OSLAD grant; “budget versus actual adjusted”. Intended to remove the challenges in accurately understanding current financial position in monthly reviews.

Financial reports for February 2026 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Underwood moved to accept the February 2026 financial reports as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The financial reports for February 2026 were accepted unanimously.

Underwood reported there is a CD maturing with UBS on March 18th for $125,000.  Healy and Underwood will contact UBS via conference call to check current rates and lock in a new CD for 1-1/2 to 2 years, following the laddering strategy.

Payroll and US/IL Withholding Accounting Service - Frystak/Underwood/Southwell

Frystak reported there has been a smooth transition from the previous accountant to QB payroll.  There have been no issues with the new system.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Summer Programs/Events

Frystak distributed an overview for summer programs.  The focus will be on youth athletics, skill-based 5-day camps running 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. starting mid to late June.  LGPD will be using only one vendor and will also be working with Hawthorn Woods Park District.

President’s Report – Southwell

Project Updates, Sponsorship, Planning, Leadership, Management

LGPD v Nearby Communities Parks and Land Preservation “Benchmarking” Review

Southwell presented a report on significant research he accomplished into demographics, scope and degree of government support of Parks and volunteer support of Open-Lands restoration, conservation and preservation.  He also presented considerable comparative background on several “Open Lands” organizations – each with vision, missions and undertakings similar to that of the Southwell-proposed “Long Grove Open Lands” (LGOL) organization.  Highlighting possibilities, as well as the range and degree of community active-engagement, voluntary support – in parallel to their municipally provided park-related services.  Take-aways indicating significant potential for the success of a future LGOL, and by extension, significant potential to improve the financial sustainability of LGPD.

Community Engagement/Communications – Underwood/Frystak

An article was submitted for the March Stroll Magazine, “Why the Long Grove Park District is Different…and Why That Difference Matters.”  The April article is “Small by Design, How Long Grove Park District Programs Offer a Different Kind of Summer.”

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

Shah has been looking for volunteers to help with the tree cages at RTW.  One volunteer is able to come during the week. Shah will schedule a day/time to meet with the volunteer.  Skillicorn said he could assist with the project if needed.

Two Eagle Scouts candidates have reached out recently asking about projects.  Healy responded to one asking them to walk LGPD properties to look for possible projects that they could do.  Ideas discussed included building new benches, bird feeders for RTW, better trail signage at Hayrake Trail, the observation deck at Covered Bridge Trail needs to be re-decked, railing restored, the stairway at RTW needs to be redone, the arbor and pergola at Buffalo Creek Park needs to be repaired and/or rebuilt.  Frystak will create a “Park District Wishlist” page for the website for volunteer/donation opportunities. Board members can send Frystak other suggestions to add.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell/Frystak

No updates.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

No updates.  Teasel control should be starting back up in April.

Southwell reported a large tree came down in the parking lot at RTW during a windstorm.  Del Rios was contacted and agreed to come out same day to cut up and chip the tree.  Logs were placed by the chip pile. 

Old Business

Updates: Electrical/Lighting/Security/Telecom - Wernikoff

No updates.

OSLAD Pickleball Grant App Learnings - Frystak 

Frystak reached out to the OSLAD contact inquiring as to reasons our grant application had been declined.  The inclusion of a dumpster shed and port-a-potty were the main points.  Frystak will follow up with the OSLAD contact with questions.  These can be taken out when the next application is submitted if needed.  Next date is July 1st.

T-Mobile Proposal, Negotiations - Southwell

Southwell provided confidential updates to commissioners regarding negotiations he has had with T Mobile on behalf of LGPD. 

Update on Strategizing, Drafting, JS/YS Founding “Long Grove Open Lands” - Southwell

Southwell shared his thoughts on how the two organizations will work together.  LGPD and LGOL have identical visions and values.  LGOL will have the potential to help LGPD toward financial sustainability.  Discussion was held on how the relationship might work, concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the need for clear guidelines between the two organizations were shared. Discussion will continue at next meeting. 

Recently, a Long Grove resident reached out to Healy and Frystak asking about the possibility of building a playground by Gridley field.  This could potentially be an LGOL supported project in the future.

Beavers @ RTW

Skillicorn talked to trapper recently.  He stated there was no evidence of any beavers at RTW.

New Business

Updated Attorney Engagement Letter:  Ancel Glink.  Consider execution.

Federer moved to adopt and support the execution of an engagement letter with attorneys at Ancel Glink at a rate of $270 per hour.  Healy seconded the motion.  Motion passed unanimously.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Skillicorn seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:23 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Presidents Report - March 2026

Team Accomplishments. Site/Project Updates, Status

Compliance Training, Federal and State requirements.  Mandated Training, Certification and documentation offering for all Board Members and Employees, w/expectation that all Commissioners and Employees participate and obtain certification.  Status:  Completed

ComEd Lease Renewal Application (Gridley Field/Cell Tower Access Road)

Status Unchanged.  No communication received.

Reed-Turner Nature Center – Progress made

LGOL/Southwell:  Boulder-feature installed.  Rudimentary grading accomplished.  Planting beds readied for planting.  LGOL has purchased/donated daffodil and other bulbs for front bed.  300+ Bulbs planted.  Southwell collected Rudbeckia Hirta seeds to be sewn in portions of front beds. 

Over-flowing Gutters.  Marty arranged to have service clean.

Southwell will propose necessary improvements at next meeting (replacement with 5 inch gutters and downspouts)

Reed-Turner Woodland – No Changes

Chipping Trails.  Consider further cold-weather work to preserve trails?

Bridge Reviews – Further review of considerations, options and potential means of leveraging Grant(s) deferred to mid-2026 to allow us to complete other projects.

Buffalo Creek Park – No Changes

Pergola:  Rebuild deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons. Plan was to work late Sept 2026 with Ramon and Team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Arbor:  Rebuild deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons. Plan was to work late Sept 2026 with Ramon and Team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Fencing:  Indefinitely deferred for budgetary reasons and to accommodate other work.

Long View Meadow – Progress made

Awaiting word about IL DOT Rt 83/22 widening construction plans.

IL22 Sign Board had been removed, damaged. Repaired, Southwell/Dzhorov reinstalled.

Beaver issues at lake discharge/Kildeer Creek:  Lake level still low. Recent Status of dams undetermined. 

Lemmon-Hill Farmstead and Ballfields – No changes

Fly-Dumping and Vandalism – Notice Signage: Continuing Problem. Southwell continues to clean-up. Statute and Citations to be created and implemented/Video Surveillance signage to be created and installed.   

Parking Lot:  Significant increase in non-permitted Truck and Bus parking.  Ordinances around Vehicle types not permitted, closing time, camping/sleeping in vehicles, trespassing should to be considered.

Dumpster Shed Replacement.  [Rough Design/Dim’s done, Deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons for 2025/26 Fiscal Year]. Was scoped-into OSLAD Pickleball Court Grant App.  Will need to consider alternative strategy?

Fire Pit.  Deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons for 2025/26 Fiscal Year. 

Pickleball Court(s):  OSLAD Grant Application declined.  Strategy discussed elsewhere in this meeting.

“Countryside FD” Field - No Change

Small Sign designed and produced acknowledging CFD’s kind permission for our use.  Installation to be scheduled weather and Del Rio’s availability-permitting.

Southwell pursuing construction (PVC pipe) of a single LAX net, and a single Soccer net to support informal use and practice.

Gridley Field – No Change

Infield Treatments will be required in Spring. Will need to purchase Base-set, install.

Strategy: Position field as ready for use in Spring 2026, encourage use (by Permit for access) subsequently. Southwell recommends: We should consider bringing in baseball mix for finishing infield if we can arrange for Girls Softball or similar rented use in Spring/Summer 2026. 

Hayrake Trail – No Change

Status:  Condition is Good. Fully restored and significantly extended.  Will walk/Breadcrumb to support map production, website posting.

Wehrenberg Woods Trail - No Change

Status:  Condition is Good. Fully restored and significantly extended.  Will walk/Breadcrumb to support map production, website posting.

Mitigation Property

No further communication re: Quit-Claim Deed for transfer of title of the property/parcels has been prepared and is in Springfield for signatures.

Southwell had sent emails to Regional Engineer, Regional Manager, and named IL Attorney on the matter - inquiring as to status, appeal for assistance in expediting completion of Deed/Title Transfer.

Telecom, Accessibility by Constituents

Steve to share completion and close-out at April meeting?

Respectfully Submitted March 16, 2026 - J. Southwell

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

February 9, 2026

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:30 p.m. 

Wernikoff moved to approve remote attendance by Underwood.  Healy seconded the motion.  Motion was approved unanimously.

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell, Wernikoff

Commissioners Present via Zoom Connection

Underwood

Commissioners Absent

Shah

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The January 2026 minutes were reviewed.  Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Underwood seconded the motion.  The January 2026 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates from State of IL/DOT, D96, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

FOIA Requests – Young

A FOIA request was received from Canon USA asking for information about copier and printer equipment leases, service contracts, current printer and copier invoices.  Healy responded to the request via email.  

Healy received a FOIA request via email from Judiciocracy on 01/22/26.  They were asking for copies of all bills from attorneys or law firms for 2024 through July 18, 2025, and any engagement agreements.  A notice was sent to Judiciocracy stating LGPD would be taking a five-day extension.  Southwell subsequently responded to the FOIA request within the additional five-day time frame.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak

Frystak provided a brief update on the November financial reports.  Payroll for November was not previously broken down by the payroll service  Payroll was subsequently updated and the November reports are now ready for acceptance by the Board. 

The financial reports for November 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Underwood moved to accept the November 2025 financial reports as presented.  Federer seconded the motion.  The financial reports for November 2025 were accepted unanimously.

The financial reports for December 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Healy moved to accept the December 2025 financial reports as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The financial reports for December 2025 were accepted unanimously.

The financial reports for January 2026 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Wernikoff moved to accept the January 2026 financial reports as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The financial reports for January 2026 were accepted unanimously.

Healy reported the Long Grove-Kildeer Garden Club made a $1200 donation to the Park District. 

Payroll and US/IL Withholding Accounting Service  - Frystak/Underwood/Southwell

Frystak reported that preparations have been made, and that we are positioned to successfully transition payroll services from the previous accounting service to QuickBooks.  Southwell will contact Karen Kenyon to inform her of the change.  Frystak and Underwood will be working together this week to go over procedures regarding payroll.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Winter/Spring Programs & Event. 

Frystak is looking into building non-athletic offerings.  There are two spring wildflower walks scheduled, led by Sarah Schultz.  Frystak is continuing to develop rental packages and is also looking into vendor information.  An update will be provided at the next meeting.

President’s Report – Southwell

Project Updates, Sponsorship, Planning, Leadership, Management

LGPD v Nearby Communities “Competitive” Review

Southwell distributed a report of analysis he had prepared that showed comparisons between LGPD, Lake Bluff PD and Lake Forest Open Lands.  Discussion focused on the potential for LGPD to move strategically/similarly, to match the fundraising capabilities, the amount of time it might take to achieve this.  Ideas on ways to engage wealthier residents as a potential source of donations were discussed.  

Community Engagement/Communications – Underwood/Frystak

An article was submitted to Stroll Magazine.  It was an overview of the Park District, how the PD is non-taxing and relies on donations and volunteers.  Healy, Underwood and Frystak met to discuss what the overall messaging for the PD should be.  The next article will be about the spring flower walks being led by Sarah Schultz, promoting the offering and highlighting Sarah as a steward/ambassador for Reed-Turner Woodland, volunteering her time for work at RTW.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

Shah is planning to schedule a work day for tree cages in the near future.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Brush clearing was done at RTW by Tallgrass in the prairie patch area, buckthorn and invasives, and brush piles were burned.  Additional areas of the prairie patch were cleared.  Tallgrass also went to the sedge meadow, bottom of the SM, and cleared out saplings.  McHenry Triangle area work was finished. 

Old Business

Updates: Electrical/Lighting/Security/Telecom - Wernikoff

The garage lighting was updated with LED lights.  A motion sensing light was installed.  Pathway/step lights are now WiFi remote-controlled.  Southwell thanked Wernikoff for all of his efforts.

OSLAD Pickleball/Related Grant App Update - Frystak     

Frystak received notice that the PD did not receive the OSLAD grant that was applied for.  Frystak and Healy will continue to look for more grant opportunities that the PD can pursue.

T-Mobile Correspondence, Request - Southwell

Southwell sent out an update to board members regarding extending the T-Mobile lease.  The existing contract runs through 2030.  Southwell asked for input and feedback and will contact the T-Mobile representative to continue negotiations.

Update on Strategizing, Drafting, JS/YS Founding “Long Grove Open Lands” - Southwell

Southwell has written the narrative and strategic plan for establishing the prospective Long Grove Open Lands (LGOL) 501c3 organization to support Park District properties, land maintenance, restoration projects.  This was sent out for review by board members.  The group discussed strategies for establishing a charitable foundation.  Federer noted there would be a need to focus on broad-based donations as well as larger contributions to qualify as a public charity.  Questions regarding what the relationship between the Park District and LGOL would be, duplication of efforts, what the two entities roles would be.  Clear communication and strategic planning will be key.  Southwell stated his proposed strategy would be to work very collaboratively with LGPD.  Southwell asked board members to consider potential individuals who would be a good fit to help launch and support the LGOL 501c3.  Board members were also asked to think of prospective future donors to approach in something of a “listening-tour” prior to actual founding and launch of the charitable organization.  Skillicorn thought a one-page document would be helpful to share with potential supporters, donors. 

New Business

Potential investment in/extension of admin support to LGOL, foreseen return on investment

Support staff will be needed to help with phone calls, emails, administrative help.  It was proposed that LGPD staff could fill these limited roles, for a limited amount of time, as a short-term investment by LGPD that would be intended to provide very substantial, long-term returns.  Healy raised a concern about salary expenses and budget.  Southwell shared LGOL would be an independent entity, as required by law, despite there likely being an overlap of interests between LGPD and LGOL.  An agreement will be needed between LGPD/LGOL – prior to LGOL to paying for restoration, conservation and preservation work done at LGPD properties (which is intended to lift that financial burden off of LGPD, ideally positioning LGPD for long-term financial sustainability).

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Federer seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at  8:36 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

January 12, 2026

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:32 p.m. 

Wernikoff moved to approve remote attendance by Underwood.  Healy seconded the motion.  Motion was approved unanimously.

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Wernikoff

Commissioners Present via Zoom Connection

Underwood

Commissioners Absent

None

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The December 2025 minutes were reviewed.   Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Shah seconded the motion.  The December 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates from State of IL/DOT, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township, D96.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak

The financial reports for November 2025 and December 2025 were not available for review.  Frystak noted she is waiting for information from the accounting firm regarding QuickBooks payroll updates, tax payments, notice received from the IRS.  As such, acceptance of the November and December financial reports will be deferred until the February meeting.

Payroll & US/IL Withholding Accounting Service – Frystak/Underwood/Southwell

Frystak handed out an outlined review and proposal of payroll and tax filing options to board members.  After discussion, Frystak recommended using QuickBooks Online premium plan.  Southwell asked if all were in favor to move forward with preparation to switch to the QB service.  Everyone was in agreement.  Frystak will confirm details of the plan; duration and requirements, and report back.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Winter Programs

No winter programs are running other than the boat safety class that was held at RTNC on January 9th.

Spring Programs/Event

Frystak noted there has been low enrollment, classes canceled and much time spent putting the programs together.  Question is to whether or not the Park District should offer spring programs.  Frystak has been working with sports companies and Hawthorn Woods, and LGPD could offer soccer,

t-ball, baseball, basketball, tennis, pickleball.  A decision would need to be made by early March whether or not to continue with spring programming.  Southwell asked Frystak to prepare a report regarding classes that may be offered before the next board meeting.

Federer stated he would like to shift the focus and move toward offering programs to an older group of participants and listed options that might be of interest.

Potential New Offering

Frystak shared an idea of growing facility rentals with Southwell prior to the meeting and presented it to board members.  The goal would be to expand rental offerings for small wedding ceremonies, higher end events, showers, milestone events; very specific offerings.  The goal is to generate unrestricted revenue to help offset declines in program income and deficit spending.  Frystak would develop a dedicated webpage for new event rentals and prepare for a soft launch; website only, no social media. After discussion, all were in favor of considering this pilot program.  Frystak will move forward with planning.  This will be discussed further at the next board meeting. 

President’s Report – Southwell

Project Sponsorship, Planning, Leadership, Management

Report/updates at end of minutes.

Community Engagement/Communications – Underwood/Frystak

Healy, Underwood and Frystak will be meeting to discuss topics for future articles. 

Underwood and Frystak will reach out to Sarah Schultz about having a spring walk at RTW.  

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

Shah suggested getting vests with the LGPD logo for PD employees to wear on workdays.  Shah has 3 to 4 people who would like to volunteer.  Skillicorn suggested releasing/removing/adding cages to trees at RTW to prevent damage from beavers.  Shah stated she had walked the woodlands in the fall and had marked trees that needed cages to be fixed or added.  Skillicorn and M. Young will go out and will look for anymore trees that may need to be caged and will let Shah know what they find.  Shah will schedule a volunteer workday when weather permits.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Tallgrass was at RTW today doing brush clearing by the prairie patch and burned brush piles.  Buckthorn, multiflora rose thorn and bramble were removed.  They will be working at RTW for a few more days.  Next area of work will be the sedge meadow and McHenry Triangle in the near future.

Healy reported the Village of Long Grove approved funding for teasel control in 2026.  McGinty will be doing the work again this year.

Old Business

Updates: Electrical/Lighting/Security Update at RTNC   Wernikoff

The electrician is scheduled to be at RTNC on January 16th to replace all fluorescent lights in the garage and install a motion sensor light.  Wernikoff will oversee installation of a wi-fi switch for the stair pathway lights and confirm remote control access of the lights.

Update: Telecom Project Update                                         Wernikoff

No update.

OSLAD Pickleball/Related Grant App Update                  Frystak     

No update.  Frystak reached out but has not received an answer yet.

Verizon Correspondence, Request                                       Southwell

No update.

Update on Research, Strategizing, Drafting, JS/YS Founding “Long Grove Open Lands”  Southwell

Southwell has continued researching and drafting an application for 501c3 status.  The intention is for applications to be ready to submit in late March.  A draft will be available for review at the March board meeting.  Southwell asked for support for the new nonprofit organization; suggestions for potential board members, administrative help, website development.  Discussion to be continued at the next meeting.

Beavers

Skillicorn reported the trapper had set traps and removed five beavers in November and December at RTW.

New Business

Staff Compensation 2025/2026

Moved to Closed Session

Southwell moved to go into closed session.  Stated purpose: Discuss Staff Compensation. Healy seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. The meeting was moved to closed session at 8:15 p.m.

Return to Open Session

 A Underwood moved to return to open session.   J Healy seconded the motion. The meeting returned to open session at 8:44p.m.

Further Consideration of Staff Compensation

Motion:

I move to recognize and reward the exceptional efforts contributed and results achieved, by our two part-time hourly employees and one salaried employee in 2025 with a combination of Merit-Increases and one-time cash bonuses.  Specifically, Merit increases of 4.0% for each, beginning with the next pay-cycle (approx.  Jan 15, 2026) on hourly rates for S. Young (to: $32.65), M. Young (to: $32.65) and A. Frystak (to new annual of $67,600) and Bonuses of:  $1,400.00 for S. Young, $1,400.00 for M. Young and $4,000.00 for A Frystak. (All amounts Gross) payable in February 2026.

Motion Made By:  Healy

Seconded By:  Shah

Roll-Call Ballot:

Wernikoff  Y   Federer  Y   Underwood  Y   Shah  Y   Skillicorn  Y

Healy  Y   Southwell  Y   Motion Passes Unanimously (Southwell)

Other New Business?   None raised.

Adjournment of Meeting

 moved to adjourn the meeting.   seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:47p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

President’s Report – January 2026

Team Accomplishments. Site/Project Updates, Status

Project Listing, Prioritization Completed. Will be distributed at meeting and appended to this report.

Compliance Training, Federal and State requirements.  Mandated Training, Certification and documentation offering for all Board Members and Employees, w/expectation that all Commissioners and Employees participate and obtain certification.  Status: Completed.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application (Gridley Field/Cell Tower Access Road) Lease ended 7/30/2024.

Status Unchanged.  No communication received.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Planting beds ready for planting.  Southwell has purchased/will donate daffodil and other bulbs for front bed, with Rudbeckia Hirta to be top seeded in portions.

Over-flowing Gutters

Southwell will ask M. Young to have the gutters cleaned out.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Chipping Trails

Consider further cold-weather work to preserve trails?

Bridge Reviews

Further review of considerations, options and potential means of leveraging Grant(s) deferred to mid-late 2026 to allow us to complete other projects.

Buffalo Creek Park

Pergola

Rebuild deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons. Plan is to work late Sept 2026 with Ramon and Team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Arbor

Rebuild deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons. Plan is to work late Sept 2026 with Ramon and Team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Fencing

Indefinitely deferred for budgetary reasons and to accommodate other work.

Long View Meadow

Awaiting word about IL DOT Rt 83/22 widening construction plans. 

IL22 Sign Board is down. To be investigated, repaired, re-hung if/as-is possible.

Beaver Issues at Lake discharge/Kildeer Creek:  Recent Status Undetermined. 

Lemmon-Hill Farmstead and Ballfields

Fly-Dumping and Vandalism – Notice Signage

Continuing Problem.  Southwell continues to clean-up. Statute Citations/Video Surveillance remain to be created and installed.    

Parking Lot 

Significant increase in non-permitted Truck and Bus parking.  Ordinances around Vehicle types not permitted, closing time, camping/sleeping in vehicles, trespassing should to be considered.

Dumpster Shed Replacement 

[Rough Design/Dim’s done, Deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons for 2025/26 Fiscal Year]. Scoped-into OSLAD Pickleball Court Grant App.

Fire Pit

Deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons for 2025/26 Fiscal Year. 

Pickleball Court(s)

OSLAD Grant Application update elsewhere, by Frystak.

“Countryside FD” Field

Small Sign designed and produced acknowledging CFD’s kind permission for our use.  Installation to be scheduled weather and Del Rio’s availability-permitting.

Southwell pursuing over-winter construction (PVC pipe) of a single LAX net, and a single Soccer net to support informal use and practice.

Gridley Field

Infield Treatments will be required in Spring. Will need to purchase Base-set, install.  Strategy: Position field as ready for use in Spring 2026, encourage use (by Permit for access) subsequently. Southwell recommends: We should consider bringing in baseball mix for finishing infield if we can arrange for Girls Softball or similar rented use in Spring/Summer 2026. 

Hayrake Trail

Status:  Condition is Good. Fully restored and significantly extended.  Will walk/Breadcrumb to support map production, website posting.

Wehrenberg Woods Trail

Status:  Condition is Good. Fully restored and significantly extended.  Will walk/Breadcrumb to support map production, website posting.

Mitigation Property

No further communication re Quit-Claim Deed for transfer of title of the property/parcels has been prepared and is in Springfield for signatures.  Southwell recently sent emails to Regional Engineer, Regional Manager, and named IL Attorney on the matter - inquiring as to status, appeal for assistance in expediting completion of Deed/Title Transfer.

Telecom, Accessibility by Constituents

Wernikoff to share findings, updates and status in Old Business.

Respectfully Submitted January 12, 2026 - J. Southwell

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

December 15, 2025

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:33 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood, Wernikoff

(Skillicorn had to depart at 7:33 p.m., quorum was maintained.)

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak – absent, excused.

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The November 2025 minutes were reviewed.  Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The November 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak

The November financial reports were sent out to board members prior to the meeting to review.  Southwell stated there was an error regarding payroll taxes being in-error.  Southwell discussed with Frystak prior to this meeting. She will look into the discrepancy, resolve and will update the reports. 

Underwood moved to defer consideration of the November 2025 financial reports until the January board meeting.  Shah seconded the motion.  All were in favor, motion passed unanimously.

Annual Financial Reporting: Review/Approval – Healy/Frystak/S. Young

The FY2025 Illinois Annual Financial Report prepared by Swarztrauber & Co. with assistance from Healy, Frystak and S. Young.  Notes provided by Frystak summarizing transactions and highlighted items were provided to board members prior to the meeting for review.

Healy provided an update regarding the reports.  Two minor adjustments were made that were recommended by the accounting firm.  Frystak will work with Karen Kenyon, who handles payroll and tax payments, every month moving forward.  Southwell asked if anyone had questions or concerns.  There were none.

Proposed Acceptance of and Approval to Submit LGPD Annual Financial Filing with the State of Illinois

I, Steve Wernikoff, move to accept the annual 2025 financial report prepared by Swarztrauber & Co. as arranged and presented by Janet Healy, as well as to authorize its timely submittal to the State of Illinois. 

Seconded by:  Skillicorn

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye,

Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion carried unanimously.

LGPD Insurance Review and Recommendations - Healy/Frystak

Healy distributed a breakdown of coverage limits/costs/savings developed by Frystak to board members to review.  The current invoice from IPARKS is $13,000 for 2026 coverage.  Southwell asked each Board Member for their thoughts on what an optimal coverage amount should be. 

Considerable, constructive discussion around alignment coverage with perceived risk followed.

Underwood moved to adjust the insurance coverage limit to $5,000,000.  Healy seconded motion. 

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye,

Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion carried unanimously.

UBS

Healy contacted UBS after the last board meeting to obtain new rates for CD’s.  The highest for the 12 to 24 month target was 3.75%.  Healy locked in the new $40,000 CD at this rate for 18 months. 

Programs and Events - Frystak

Sessions with Santa Event

The Sessions with Santa on December 7th was sold out.  Sponsors for this event were Club Pilates and Modern Woodmen. Reports from attending Board Members were exceptionally positive, sharing that the event was received well and very much appreciated by attendees.

Winter Programs

Frystak provided an update prior to the board meeting.  Youth programs are on hold for the time being in follow-on to previous Board direction (driven by lack of demand).  Upcoming focus will be on workshops and other offerings for Adult Constituents.  In follow-on to the very successful Fall and Winter events, Frystak is working on developing a spring event.

Boating Safety Offering

Wernikoff reported he will be running a boating safety class January 10th at Reed-Turner Nature Center.  There is no cost for the class.  Those who attend will be certified as a boater in State of Illinois.

Community Engagement/Communications – Underwood/Frystak

The “Year in Review” article, 4 pages, was in the December Stroll Magazine.  An article was submitted for the January edition covering the Barbara Turner Memorial dedication ceremony.  Frystak and Underwood will be working on a schedule of articles for the upcoming year.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

Shah met with two volunteers, Long Grove residents, at Hayrake Trail November 23rd.  Litter was picked up, raked wet leaves off the bridge.  The volunteer submitted a report with a few recommendations.  Also reporting that a tree that fell down on the trail needs to be removed as well as the preference for a few more signs on the trail.  They also went to BCP on November 25th to clean up litter.

There have been quite a few people signing up on the Park District website to volunteer.

The next volunteer day is scheduled for February 7, 2026.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell/Frystak

No updates.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

No updates.

Old Business

Update: Electrical Update at RTNC - Wernikoff

A breaker tripped that controls garage lights and septic pump.  A separate breaker may be needed.  With Board support, Wernikoff will contact the electrician to have one installed.

Updates: Lighting/Security Update at RTNC - Wernikoff

M. Young logged night time activity at RTW with parking lot lights on for 2 weeks, and then off for 2 weeks.  There were 12 visitors after dark when lights were on, 6 visitors when lights were off.  Board preference leaned to leaving Parking Lot lights off in the evenings when there were no organized events at RTNC. Southwell recommended leaving lights on the steps down the slope for safety and risk-management reasons.  A web-accessed timer will be added for the stair lights.  Wernikoff will contact the electrician for the sump pump, lift station breaker and a timer to be controlled remotely for stairs.  All were supportive.

Thoughts on keeping the port-a-potty accessible and under-service year-round were discussed.  This will be addressed in the spring.

Update: Telecom Project Update - Wernikoff

No updates.

VOLG Interest in Pickleball Court(s) at Lemmon-Hill - Healy

No updates.

OSLAD Pickleball/Related Grant App/Submittal Review and Update - Frystak

There has been no communication received from the State on the grant application status. 

New Business

Update on Research, Strategizing, Drafting, JS/YS Founding “Long Grove Open Lands” - Southwell

Southwell has been working on writing up a narrative and numerous other requirements for federal and state applications and is hoping to be done with the first-draft in the next month.  His intent would be to complete in February and submit applications for 501c3 status by late March.

T Mobile Correspondence, Request - Southwell

A brief discussion was held regarding correspondence received from a firm acting as an agent for T Mobile as well as information received from Adam Simon, lawyer for the Park District.  Further investigation will be accomplished in coming months. Matter will be discussed further at the next board meeting.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Wernikoff seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at  8:12 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Presidents Report - December 2025

Team Accomplishments. Site/Project Updates, Status

Project Listing, Prioritization Completed.  Will be distributed at meeting and appended to this report.

Compliance Training, Federal and State requirements. 

Mandated Training, Certification and documentation offering for all Board Members and Employees, w/expectation that all Commissioners and Employees participate and obtain certification.  Status:  S. Young reported all have completed their certification.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application (Gridley Field/Cell Tower Access Road) Lease ended 7/30/2024. Status unchanged.  No communication received.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

New planting beds at front of facility ready for planting.  Southwell has purchased/will donate Daffodil and crocus bulbs for front bed, with Rudbeckia Hirta to be top seeded in portions.

Over-flowing gutters

Southwell will ask M. Young to contact the company used before to have the gutters cleaned.

Southwell accomplished previously deferred clean-up of invasives from around Nature Center in late-November, Del Rio’s finished Fall clean-up around RTNC and around Parking Lot subsequently.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Chipping Trails

Consider further cold-weather work to preserve trails?

Beaver Dams, Subsequent Flooding over-topping banks, threatening to erode trail and potentially threaten bridge abutments forced decision to contract to remove beavers – later to arrange to have have dam breached to reduce water height sufficiently to buy us time (Early Spring?) to fully remove dam. 

Skillicorn reported there was a beaver dam underneath the north bridge, water is 3-4 inches from the bottom of the bridge and close to flooding the trail.  Midwest Beaver came out to inspect the dam.  Cost would be $500 to remove the dam and put a new dam upstream in Heron Creek Forest Preserve.  Sarah Schultz is working with Skillicorn and Lake County Forest Preserves on this.  Five beavers have been removed.  There is a new dam being built downstream from the current dam.  It is anticipated that more beavers will return in the spring.

Bridge Reviews

Further review of considerations, options and potential means of leveraging Grant(s) deferred to 2026 to allow us to complete other projects.

Buffalo Creek Park

Pergola

Rebuild deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons. Plan is to work late Summer 2026 with Ramon and team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Arbor 

Rebuild deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons. Plan is to work late Summer 2026 with Ramon and Team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Fencing

Indefinitely deferred for budgetary reasons and to accommodate other work.

Long View Meadow

Awaiting word about IL DOT Rt 83/22 widening construction plans.

Beaver Issues at Lake discharge/Kildeer Creek

Current status is undetermined. 

Lemmon-Hill Farmstead and Ballfields

Fly-Dumping and Vandalism

Notice Signage: Statute Citations/Video Surveillance remain to be created and installed.    

Parking Lot

Significant increase in non-permitted truck and bus parking.  Ordinances around vehicle types not permitted, closing time, camping/sleeping in vehicles, trespassing should likely be considered.

Dumpster Shed Replacement/Porta-Potty Screening

Rough Design/Dim’s done, Deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons for 2025/26 Fiscal Year]. Scoped-into OSLAD Pickleball Court Grant App.

Fire Pit

Installation of donated fire-pit is deferred indefinitely, for budgetary reasons of the 2025/26 Fiscal Year. 

Pickleball Court(s)

OSLAD Grant Application by Frystak.  Update to be provided by Frystak if/as information from the State is available.

“Countryside FD” Field

Small Sign designed and produced acknowledging CFD’s kind permission for our use.  Installation to be scheduled weather and Del Rio’s availability-permitting.

Southwell pursuing over-winter construction (PVC pipe) of a single LAX net, and a single soccer net to support informal use and practice.

Gridley Field

Infield Treatments will be required in Spring. Will need to purchase base-set, install.

Strategy: Position field as ready for use in Spring 2026, encourage use (by Permit for access) subsequently. Southwell recommends: We should consider bringing in baseball mix for finishing infield if we can arrange for Girls Softball or other similar rented use in Spring/Summer 2026. 

Hayrake Trail

Status:  Condition is good. Fully restored and significantly extended.  Will walk/breadcrumb to support map production, website posting.

Wehrenberg Woods Trail

Status:  Condition is good. Fully restored and significantly extended.  Will walk/breadcrumb to support map production, website posting.

Mitigation Property

No further communication regarding Quit-Claim Deed for transfer of title of the property/parcels has been prepared and is in Springfield for signatures.  Southwell recently sent emails to Regional Engineer, Regional Manager, and named IL Attorney on the matter - inquiring as to status, appeal for assistance in expediting completion of Deed/Title Transfer.

Telecom, Accessibility by Constituents

Steve to share findings, updates and status in Old Business.

Respectfully Submitted Dec 14, 2025 – J. Southwell

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

November 10, 2025

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:32 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell, Wernikoff

Commissioners Absent

Shah, Underwood

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

Lindsey White, Long Grove resident, with Modern Woodmen of America introduced herself to the Board and gave a brief presentation about the organization.  Modern Woodmen of America became a sponsor for the Wicked Woodland event in October and more recently for Sessions with Santa in December.  They would like to continue supporting the Park District and are looking forward to 2026.

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval – Young/Southwell

The October 2025 minutes were reviewed.  Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Wernikoff seconded the motion.  The October 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates from IL DOT, D96, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak/Underwood

The amended financial reports for September 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Wernikoff moved to accept the September 2025 financial reports as amended and presented.  Federer seconded the motion.  The financial reports for September 2025 were accepted unanimously.

The financial reports for October 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Healy moved to accept the October 2025 financial reports as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The financial reports for October 2025 were accepted unanimously.

UBS

Healy reported there is a CD that will mature early December, $46,000 at 4.4%.  The new rate for a 12-month CD is 3.8% as of now.  Southwell asked what the rate would be for a 24-month CD.  Healy will contact UBS and find out. 

On December 8th, when money from the matured CD actually hits the savings account, Healy will take out a new CD in the amount of $36,500 at either a 1-year or 2-year term, depending on rate difference, and $9,500.00 will be moved from UBS to PNC to cover the upcoming winter brush clearing work at Reed-Turner Woodland.  This will keep the UBS Core Savings whole at $21,000. 

Donation for Reed-Turner Woodland

Healy noted Sarah Schultz donated $2,000 to the Park District for RTW restoration work for 2026. This will be applied to brush clearing and invasive control at RTW In 2025-26.   

IPARKS

Healy spoke to Jason Johnston who is in charge of risk management for IPARKS.  He visited different properties to inspect physical structures and noted no changes seen from his previous visit.

Healy applied for a $1,000 grant that IPARKS offers for safety-oriented expenses.  An invoice for tree removal by the trails at RTW was provided.  There was also a $350 grant for fall prevention repairs that Healy applied for.  An invoice for the walkway in front of RTNC was provided for this grant.

IPARKS annual renewal is due January 1, 2026.  The premium will be approximately $15,000.  Healy and Frystak will schedule a meeting with Ryan Pnakovich, IPARKS, to discuss different levels of coverage, possible payment plan.  Frystak will provide information to commissioners regarding the current policy, certificate of insurance and open questions.  Commissioners need to review and send any questions that they have to Frystak.  Additionally, Frystak will look into alternative options for coverage. 

Illinois Annual Financial Report – FY25

Frystak and S. Young are working with Swarztrauber & Co. regarding the annual filing for the State of Illinois.  Information requested has been sent to Swarztrauber.  The goal is to have the final report ready to present at the December board meeting.  A vote will need to be taken by the Board before it can be submitted to the State.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Summer/Fall Programs - Frystak

Fall programs have ended for the season.  Frystak is working on small, non-athletic programs with Hawthorn Woods PD to have at RTNC and would like to provide programs for seniors, such as nature-based programs.  Question of how to reach out to the senior community was discussed.  Frystak will reach out to senior living facilities.

Wicked Woodlands

Sponsorships from Club Pilates, Modern Woodmen of America and Jawz Orthodontics helped cover costs for the WW event.  Approximately 54% of overall expenses were for the magician and for the face painter.   

Barbara Turner Memorial Event – Frystak/Healy/Underwood

Southwell stated the event was very well done, many pictures of Barbara Turner, very well-organized. Extended appreciation to the exceptional work of Allie, Stephanie and Marty.  Her family was very appreciative of all that was done to honor Barbara.

Sessions with Santa

This event will be Saturday, December 6th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at RTNC.  As of now there are only 3 openings left.  Families are being asked to bring an unwrapped gift to donate to Toys for Tots in memory of Walter Roth.

Boat safety class

Wernikoff would like to offer a boat safety class on January 10th at RTNC. Board was fully supportive and appreciative.

Community Engagement/Communications – Underwood/Frystak

The year in review article was submitted for the December issue of Stroll Magazine.  For the January issue, an article will be written regarding the Barbara Turner memorial event. 

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

No updates.  There are no volunteer days scheduled for November, December or January at this time.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell/Frystak

No updates.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

RTW

Tallgrass made one visit to RTW late October.  They sprayed thistle and cattails and deadheaded purple loosestrife.

Beavers

Skillicorn reported there is a new beaver dam that was built close to a bridge at RTW.  It has been taken down twice by Sarah Schultz and Tim Hein.  There is a real concern the dam may cause significant damage to the bridge.  Skillicorn has been in touch with Schultz who is contacting Lake County Forest Preserves to ask if they will help with the cost of removing the beavers as the dam could be rebuilt at Heron Creek.  Skillicorn will follow up with Schultz and will also contact the trapper. Cost for removal of beavers is $700 for initial visit and $250 per beaver.

Southwell moved to authorize spending funds for beaver removal at RTW, not to exceed $1500, if it is determined that the beaver activity is threatening the bridge.  This will need to be determined by a minimum of two board members.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The motion passed unanimously.  

Old Business

Updates: Lighting/Security Update at RTNC - Wernikoff

A motion sensor light will be installed by back door at RTNC.  One more solar camera was installed facing the parking lot at RTW.

There is a question of whether leaving the parking lot lights on or off at night is a deterrent to keep people out of the preserve during the night.  Southwell asked board members for their opinions.  It was decided to leave the lights on for 2 weeks, then off for 2 weeks, and watch for activity.  It will be logged and reported at the next meeting.  Wernikoff will contact M. Young to discuss.

OSLAD Pickleball/Related Grant App/Submittal Review and Update - Frystak

Frystak reported the grant application passed the first round.  Notification on the status of the application should be received by the end of the year.

New Business

Southwell provided a project plan outline on the creation and founding of 501c3 “Long Grove Openlands.”  Southwell suggested having a relationship with LGPD for administrative work.  More information will be shared at the next board meeting.

Adjournment of Meeting

Wernikoff moved to adjourn the meeting.  Healy seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:38 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Presidents Report - November 2025

Team Accomplishments. Site/Project Updates, Status

Project Listing, Prioritization Completed. Will be distributed at meeting and appended to this report.

Compliance Training, Federal and State requirements.  Mandated Training, Certification and documentation offering for all Board Members and Employees, w/expectation that all Commissioners and Employees participate and obtain certification.  Frystak noted there is one commissioner that needs to complete the training and will follow up with them.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application (Gridley Field/Cell Tower Access Road) Lease ended 7/30/2024.

Status Unchanged.  No communication received.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Planting beds ready for planting. 

Over-flowing gutters

NOTE: May be prudent to not defer replacement based on recent failures, subsequent wash-outs at new walkway, beds?  Will ask Marty to have service clean existing gutters shortly after Thanksgiving weekend.

Southwell continues to defer clean-up around Nature Center until late-November.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Chipping Trails

There are no planned volunteer days for the rest of 2025. 

Beaver Dams, Subsequent Flooding

Activity, need for action to be taken/reported elsewhere in Minutes.

Bridge Reviews

Further review of considerations, options and potential means of leveraging grant(s) deferred to 2026 to allow us to complete other projects.

BT Memorial Foundation

Monument installation completed 10/13/25. [Marty, Southwell]

Buffalo Creek Park

Pergola

Rebuild deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons. Plan was to work late Summer 2026 with Ramon and Team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Arbor

Rebuild deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons. Plan was to work late Summer 2026 with Ramon and Team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Fencing

Rebuild Indefinitely deferred for budgetary reasons and to accommodate other work.

Long View Meadow

Awaiting word about IL DOT Rt 83/22 widening construction plans.

Beaver Issues at Lake discharge/Kildeer Creek 

Recent status undetermined. 

Lemmon-Hill Farmstead and Ballfields

Fly-Dumping and Vandalism

Notice Signage: Statute Citations/Video Surveillance remain to be created and installed.    

Parking Lot

Significant non-permitted Truck and Bus parking.  Becoming a problem.

Stumps 

Del Rios leveled and seeded.  Excess soil and chips moved to location of former “Angry Oak” adjacent to L-H Farmstead sign on Gilmer.  Bed created for planting.

Dumpster Shed Replacement

 [Rough Design/Dim’s done, Deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons for 2025/26 Fiscal Year].

Scoped-into OSLAD Pickleball Court Grant App.

Fire Pit

Deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons for 2025/26 Fiscal Year. 

Pickleball Court(s)

OSLAD grant application by Frystak.

“Countryside FD” Field

Small sign designed and produced acknowledging CFD’s kind permission for our use.  Installation in next 6 weeks.

Southwell pursuing construction (PVC pipe?) of a single LAX net, and a single soccer net to support informal use and practice.

Gridley Field

Infield Treatments (requiring continuing treatment, have asked Ramon to spray), Field Turf Treatments. Turf in good condition. 

Strategy: Will need to purchase base-set, install.  Position field as ready for use in Spring 2026, encourage use (by permit for access) subsequently.

Hayrake Trail

Status:  Good. Fully restored and significantly extended.  Will walk/breadcrumb to support map production, website posting.

Wehrenberg Woods Trail

Status:  Good. Fully restored and significantly extended.  Will walk/breadcrumb to support map production, website posting.

Mitigation Property

No further communication regarding Quit-Claim Deed for transfer of title of the property/parcels has been prepared and is in Springfield for signatures.

Southwell recently sent emails to Regional Engineer, Regional Manager, and named IL Attorney on the matter - inquiring as to status, appeal for assistance in expediting completion of Deed/Title Transfer.

Respectfully Submitted Nov 10, 2025 - J. Southwell

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

October 13, 2025

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:31 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Southwell, Underwood, Wernikoff

Commissioners Absent

Skillicorn

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The September 2025 minutes were reviewed.   Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Underwood seconded the motion.  The September 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates from D96, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

FOIA Requests – Young

A FOIA request was received from The Data Branch requesting purchasing data.  Young worked with Healy on this request.  A PDF of the last 12 months of check register was submitted. 

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak

The September 2025 financial reports were sent out to board members prior to the meeting to review.

Southwell inquired regarding the amount listed as office supplies (was confirmed to be the new Name Tags for Board and Staff), “teledata” showing Comcast and T Mobile charges and asked what the $5 fee for payroll was for.  There is also a duplicate deposit showing in the check register.  Frystak will research these items and will report back to the board.  September financial reports will be re-submitted at the next meeting.  

Wernikoff moved to defer consideration of the September financial reports until the November meeting.  Healy seconded the motion.  All were in favor, motion passed unanimously.

Programs and Events – Frystak/Healy/Underwood

Wicked Woodlands Event - Frystak

Frystak reported 251 tickets were sold for the WW event.  All 3 timeslots were sold out.  There were additional, new sponsorships this year.  The weather was great and the event was enjoyed by all who attended.  Frystak posted pictures on social media.  

Barbara Turner Memorial Events – Frystak/Healy/Underwood

A planning meeting was held before the board meeting.  It was noted that everything is in order and ready to go for the Sunday event.

Community Engagement/Communications – Underwood/Frystak

Plans are in place for the end of 2025:  An article was submitted for the November issue of Stroll regarding Sessions with Santa.  December issue will have the year in review; events, new property signage, the opening of Wehrenberg Woods and Hayrake trails.  Underwood suggested writing an article about the Barbara Turner memorial event and sign in the woodlands.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

No updates. 

Healy suggested having someone walk the trails at RTW with garbage bags to clean up after the Wicked Woodland event and also at BCP.  Shah stated she will take care of this.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell/Healy

No updates.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

No updates.  Work is done for the season.  Healy noted less spending for 2026 and will work with contractors on lowering costs.  There will not be a burn for 2026.

Old Business

Update: Electrical Update at RTNC – Wernikoff 

Wernikoff report power had been lost to some cameras and lights at the end of the building.  A switch that was affecting power was re-wired which solved the problem.

Updates: Lighting/Security Update at RTNC - Wernikoff

Wernikoff intention to install one more motion light in the parking lot was universally supported.

Update: Telecom Project Update- Wernikoff

Comcast has been disconnected and everything has been switched over to T Mobile.  Southwell will follow up with Comcast to close the account.

VOLG Interest in Pickleball Court(s) at Lemmon-Hill - Healy            

No updates.

New Business

OSLAD Pickleball/Related Grant App/Submittal Review and Update – Frystak

Frystak submitted the OSLAD grant application.  Frystak went over all of the work that was accomplished to support an effective grant application.  A significant amount of time was spent on this starting in the summer, very extensive work-product, totaling 93 pages.  A master plan for Lemmon-Hill was created.  Frystak came up with the vision and overall plan.  Phase 1 for the Lemmon Hill development includes a pathway to the pickleball courts, PB courts, a dumpster enclosure, port a potty enclosure and landscaping.  All will be ADA compliant.  Estimated cost is $265,000 and the PD is asking for 50% reimbursement in the grant application.   

Lake County Stars:

Frystak sent out a 2025 season review regarding the PD/LCS partnership.  LCS spent approximately $10,000 maintaining Lemmon Hill in 2025.  Frystak would like to start negotiating for the 2026 season, renew the contract as is.  All were in agreement to renew the contract.

Adjournment of Meeting

Underwood moved to adjourn the meeting.  Healy seconded the motion.  The meeting was adjourned at  7:57 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Presidents Report - October 2025

Team Accomplishments. Site/Project Updates, Status

Project Listing, Prioritization Completed.

Will be distributed at meeting and appended to this report.

Compliance Training, Federal and State requirements. 

Mandated Training, Certification and documentation offering for all Board Members and Employees, w/expectation that all Commissioners and Employees participate and obtain certification.  Frystak will follow up with commissioners who still need to complete training and turn in certificates.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application (Gridley Field/Cell Tower Access Road) Lease ended 7/30/2024.

Status Unchanged.  No communication received.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Restoration necessitated by and following waste line replacement. 

Completed.

Walkway re-construction, extension, improvements and all related. 

Completed.

Excavation, Underground utilities protected and made-safe. 

Completed. (Scope extension)

Mouse-proofing of building perimeter completed, believed effective.

Completed.

Walkways rebuilt, extended. (Additional Compliance-driven work, as follows)

ADA issues (several steps, elevation changes previously required to access building) all resolved. Completed.  (Scope Extension)

Stormwater runoff into/under Nature Center resolved

By means of a significant French-drain/tile/gravel install.  Gutter downspout off-take, diverted away from building via flex-tile. 

Completed. (Scope extension).

Dry-Stack Lannon Stone pony-wall (collapsing) excavated, hillside stabilized, reinstalled.  Completed. (Scope extension).

Planting beds excavated, rejuvenated, ready for planting.

Completed. (Scope extension).

Over-flowing gutters.  

NOTE: May be prudent to not defer replacement of gutters and downspouts given recent failures, subsequent wash-outs at new walkway, beds?

Southwell plans to continue deferring clean-up of invasives and trash-trees threatening Parking Lot, Nature Center and Garage foundations until late-season 2025.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Chipping Trails

Healy to provide further updates and future plans (if any)?  Healy noted the trails need to be finished with chips.  Suggested having another volunteer day.  Shah will look into finding volunteers for another workday to complete the project.

Beaver Dams, Subsequent Flooding and threat to Woodland.

Del Rio’s reports no new activity.

Bridge Reviews

Further review of considerations, options and potential means of leveraging Grant(s) deferred to 2026 to allow us to complete other projects.

BT Memorial Foundation

Excavation, concrete forming/anchor bolt rig and concrete pouring completed 10/8. [Del Rio’s,

M. Young, Southwell].  Monument installation completed 10/13/25. [M. Young, Southwell]

Buffalo Creek Park

Pergola

Rebuild deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons. Previously determined that a rebuild of most of the overhead members was best path forward. Bill-of-Materials required were identified. Plan is to work in Sept/Oct with Ramon and Team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Arbor

Rebuild deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons. Previously identified, tentative plan was to restore and secure.  Cut-off at ground-level, shift 18 inches into Park, re-drill post holes and place new, partial-height posts, sistered-with and secured-to existing Arbor vertical structure.

Fencing

Indefinitely deferred for budgetary reasons and to accommodate other work. Previously identified plan was to proceed with complete replacement of split-rail fences along OMH Road, RPC Road, given irreparable condition. Will adjust layout to permit service vehicle entry, and potentially allow modification of trail to align with/promote completion of Covered Bridge Trail.

Long View Meadow

Awaiting word about IL DOT Rt 83/22 widening construction plans.

Beaver Issues at Lake discharge/Kildeer Creek 

Recent Status Undetermined.  Lake level has dropped significantly since unknown party removed large dam, destroyed LGPD’s Clemson Leveler. Status as of Monday Oct 13:  TBD  Engagement of beaver trapper terminated (Confirm w/Roy?)

Healy was contacted by a neighbor of LVM stating the south end of South end of LVM is overgrown and would be happy to volunteer to help clean up the path.  Southwell stated he would like to have Del Rio’s do the work and resolve the complaint, so as to remain a considerate and respectful neighbor.

Lemmon-Hill Farmstead and Ballfields

Fly-Dumping and Vandalism

Notice Signage: Statute Citations/Video Surveillance remain to be created and installed.    

Parking Lot 

Significant non-permitted truck and bus parking.  Becoming a problem.  Creation and Installation of appropriate signage communicating prohibited activities (LGPD Ordinances) is required/planned.

Stumps

All ground.  Del Rio’s will level and seed.

Dumpster Shed Replacement 

Rough Design/Dim’s done, deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons for 2025/26 Fiscal Year. Scoped-into OSLAD Pickleball Court Grant App.

Fire Pit 

Deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons for 2025/26 Fiscal Year.  Smokeless Pit Steel donated. Will put together a sketch, and bill-of-materials (brick) to stack and install. LGPD to source Belgard or similar block. 

Pickleball Court(s)

OSLAD Grant Application by Frystak.

“CountrysideFD” Field

Delayed plan to support/encourage casual and planned recreation programs/events in 2025 Season.  Small sign designed and produced acknowledging CFD’s kind permission for our use.  Installation in next several weeks would be the ideal.

Southwell pursuing donated-construction (PVC pipe?) of a single LAX net, and a single Soccer net to support informal use and practice.  Strategic:  Continuing, expanded use. Potentially/eventually consider/pursue acquisition of long-term gear via donation? 

Gridley Field

Infield Treatments, Field Turf Treatments

Turf in good condition.  Infield weed/grass growth an ongoing challenge.  May require a minimal investment to have infield in presentable condition.  Strategy: Will need to purchase Base-set, install. Position field as ready for use in Spring 2026, encourage use (by Permit for access) subsequently.

Hayrake Trail

Status:  Trail extended to Oakwood Road, very near Gridley Ball Field and Mitigation site. Del Rio’s trimmed it up last week, when Southwell deferred regular mowing of Parks turf. Beautiful trail, safe conditions. Walkable in 30-45 minutes, round-trip.

Wehrenberg Woods Trail

Trail was severely overgrown, with significant fallen trees. Essentially impassable previously.  A very substantial project to restore and significantly extend trails.  Status:  100% is fully-opened to final width.  Trail extensions roughly doubled original length, improved access.  Best estimate is that we added another mile-plus of Trails to the LGPD assets/offerings.  Completed.

Mitigation Property

No further communication regarding Quit-Claim Deed for transfer of title of the property/parcels has been prepared and is in Springfield for signatures.  Southwell awaiting response to his letter to our new State Senator (Ms. Darby Hills) seeking her assistance in determining status, and nudging IDOT to finalize execution and Title Transfer.

Respectfully Submitted Oct 13, 2025, J. Southwell

LGPD Project Docket.  DRAFT v.4, October 13, 2025

Strategic Projects

Committed to:

1.       Parks and Open-Land Signage.  [Southwell]

a.       Wehrenberg Woods.  Open Trail, clear area for signage. Del Rio’s with Southwell for Royal Melbourne access. Completed.

b.       Gridley Farm/Ballfield.  Both sign installs completed.

c.       B Creek (Southern, RPC Road). Previous sign post was removed, new Post and sign installed 75 feet West. Completed.

2.       Dumpster Shed Replacement at Lemmon-Hill Ballfields.  [Southwell, Frystak]

a.       Design and siting draft completed. Scope in OSLAD Grant App (Frystak)

3.       Fence Replacement (Both Southern and Eastern Runs) at B Creek Park.  [Southwell, M Young]

a.       Entrance openings to be adjusted at RPC to allow Dump Truck, Bobcat, Chipper entry. Locking Swing-Post to be installed to prohibit non-permitted vehicle entry.

b.       Consider fence design/layout to permit a trail extension from Bridge, and connect to existing Trail Uphill. Objective is to connect trail-fragments and complete Covered Bridge Trail.

c.       Status: deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons.

4.       “Countryside Field” Signage  [Southwell, Dragomir Dzhorov]

a.       Status:  Sign and signboard nearly completed.  Install of posts to be completed.

5.       Barbara Turner Memorial Installation  [Southwell, M Young]

a.       Foundation:  Completed.

b.       Install Memorial Monument, allow to weather and rust. Completed.

c.       Install Commemorative Plaque at Event(?)

6.       Hayrake Trail.   [Southwell]

a.       Status:  Completed.

7.       Wehrenberg Woods Trails.

a.       Status:  Completed

8.       Gridley Ballfield Reconstruction and Restoration

a.       Status:  Nearly completed.

b.       Remaining: Continue Treating/Dragging Infield, Purchase and Installation of Base-Sets.

9.       Countryside Open-Space Restoration

a.       Status:  Completed

Health and Safety

Essential

1.       LVM. HOLD: Potential Rebuild/Reinstallation of Clemson-Leveler at LVM Lake?

2.       RTNC. Mice Exclusion-RTNC, Lemmon Hill Garage – Status: Completed

3.       RTNC.  Waste-line and Septic – Status: Completed

4.       RTNC. French-Drain/Gutters/Downspout – stormwater diversion: Status: Completed.

5.       RTNC. Electrical Review and Remediation- Steve W. Status: Completed.

6.       RTNC. HVAC Mechanicals Replacement – Rich F.  Status: Completed.

7.       RTNC. Security lighting and cameras installation – Steve W. Status: Completed.

8.       RTNC. Office Security Door, Vision Pane, Lever-set, Deadbolts?  - TBD

Legal and Compliance

Essentials, Committed to:

                [Southwell to work with Healy, Frystak, Underwood to strategize/prioritize?]

1.       Compliance Training completed and documented for all Commissioners and Key Staff. (Statutory, Non-Negotiable)  [Southwell, Frystak]

2.       First-Amendment Audit Plan, Document Assembly. Response Decision-Tree for front-line personnel.  [Southwell, Frystak]

3.       Incident Documentation, Training.

4.       Contract Development and Execution – Key Contractors

5.       Public Comment Policy

6.       Social Media Policy

7.       Closed-Session. Compliant Approach, Entry by Roll-Call. Recording, Documentation.

8.       Note:  Quorum: 7/4. 4/3 required.

9.       Safety Training

10.   Tractor Training

11.   Budget, Allocation Ordinance (annual)

12.   Investment Policy. Dust-off, re authorize/memorialize.

13.   Annual Schedule of Meetings

14.   Remote Participation Policy

15.   Note: Vote to Approve only what is on the Agenda

16.   Salary/Wage Schedule.

17.   Ordinance Adoption around State Ethics Act.

a.       Gift-Ban, Conflict-of-Interest, Prohibited Political Activity, Social Media…

18.   Board Policy Packet Development

19.   Get Best-Practices from Ancel-Glink, Standards of Decorum and Conduct.

20.   Get Robbins/Schwartz Slide Deck

Nice-To-Do

Not-Yet on the docket

A.      BCP. Arbor Rebuild, Drill new holes, set new Uprights in concrete. Status: deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons.

B.      BCP. Pergola Rebuild. Status: deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons.

C.      BCP. Gazebo - Stain White? [Southwell]. Status: deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons.

D.      LH Farmstead. Firepit Assembly, Installation [Southwell, Marty?]. Status: deferred indefinitely for budgetary reasons.

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

September 15, 2025

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:33 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood, Wernikoff

Commissioners Absent

Shah

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The August 2025 minutes were reviewed.  Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The August 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates from State of IL/DOT, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

Healy and Underwood attended a VOLG Planning Commission & Zoning public forum meeting regarding Quentin Road Baptist Church restoration of property and buildings on Salem Lake Road in Long Grove.  Plans are to build a college/seminary and housing for students.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak/Underwood

The financial reports for August 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Southwell moved to accept the August 2025 financial reports as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The financial reports for August 2025 were accepted unanimously.

Frystak prepared a new executive summary, annual financial reports, for FY24-25, and will continue to provide going forward.

Healy moved to accept the FY24-25 annual financial reports.  Wernikoff seconded the motion.  The FY24-25 financial reports as presented were accepted unanimously.  

Programs and Events

Summer/Fall Programs - Frystak

Summer programs are over.  For Fall youth athletics classes, 2 of 9 programs offered will be running.

Wicked Woodlands & Barbara Turner Memorial Events – Frystak/Healy/Underwood

Frystak reported 43 families have signed up as of today, 179 tickets have been sold.  Sponsors signed up as of now:  Club Pilates of BG, Ma & Pa’s Candy, Sorelle, Modern Woodmen.

Paper invites created for the Barbara Turner memorial event were passed out for review.  Evites and/or mailings will be sent to approximately 70 people. 

Community Engagement/Communications – Frystak/Healy/Underwood

Articles were submitted to Stroll Magazine about the Wicked Woodlands event for the September issue, adult fall programs and Sessions with Santa for the November issue and a year in review will be submitted for the December issue.

Frystak suggested sending an article to the Daily Herald about the Barbara Turner event.  Underwood recommended submitting an article after the event with pictures.  Invites could be sent to press outlets; Daily Herald, etc.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

An Eagle Scout candidate reached out to the Park District wanting to share ideas for a project.  Skillicorn will contact the Eagle Scout to find out what he is looking to do for his project.   

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Buffalo Creek Park/Mitigation Site/Gridley

Tallgrass has finished invasive stewardship for the season. 

Reed Turner Woodland

Tallgrass was at RTW on July 30th.  They will be back late September, early October to treat reed canary grass.  Southwell asked that Tallgrass go around the building to look for poison ivy and treat if found.

Longview Meadow 

Tallgrass visited LVM on August 1st to treat golden rod. 

Healy received new proposals from Tallgrass for FY25-26 work.

Old Business

Update:  Electrical @ RTW – Wernikoff

All work has been completed.  Wernikoff would like to bury the service line from garage to barn at Lemmon Hill.

Updates:  Lighting/Security @ RTNC – Wernikoff

Wernikoff reported he has been fine tuning the cameras and wrapping up work.

Update: Telecom Project – Wernikoff

In President’s report.

FY2025-26 Draft Budget Review, Discussion, Adoption – All

A draft of the proposed FY25-26 budget was sent to all board members prior to the meeting for review. 

Planned projects that need to be completed in FY25-26 were included in the draft.  Southwell noted being conservative on modeling income. 

An extensive discussion was held.  Concerns were raised regarding deficit spending.  Underwood stated she would like a 5-year plan in place to show projections on how to make up deficits and that the Park District needs to be responsible in how money is spent.  Southwell noted expensive capital improvements have been made during FY24-25.  All projects will be completed by end of FY24-25. 

No new projects are pending.  Revenue needs to be increased; sponsorships, donations, etc.  

Southwell and Frystak presented 7 various budget models, A-F, ranging from conservative to ultra conservative.  These were reviewed and discussed at length. 

Southwell asked for input on which option board members would like to adopt.  All were in favor of option “E”; contingency spend taken out, 20% reduction in majority of expenses, payroll and taxes would not be affected.  If unexpected income comes in then the Board would decide on how to spend the money, on which projects.

Underwood moved to adopt the modified FY25-26 budget as presented.  Federer seconded the motion. 

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer – aye, Healy – aye, Skillicorn – aye, Southwell – aye,

Underwood – aye, Wernikoff – aye.

The motion to adopt the modified FY25-26 budget passed unanimously.

Underwood moved to form a task force/workshop to discuss income-producing ideas for FY25-26.  Skillicorn seconded motion.  All were in favor.  The motion to form a task force passed unanimously.

Southwell asked if anyone would like to volunteer to be on the task force/workshop.  All board members expressed interest in participating. 

Adjournment of Meeting

Wernikoff moved to adjourn the meeting.  Healy seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:38 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Presidents Report - September 2025

Team Accomplishments. Site/Project Updates, Status, Project Listing, Prioritization Completed.

Will be distributed at meeting, and appended to this report.

Compliance Training, Federal and State requirements. 

Mandated Training, Certification and documentation offering for all Board Members and Employees, w/expectation that all Commissioners and Employees participate and obtain certification.  Status:  Federer, Shah and Wernikoff need to complete training and turn in certificates.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application (Gridley Field/Cell Tower Access Road) Lease ended 7/30/2024. Status Unchanged.  No communication received.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Planned walkway re-construction, and extension

Lannon stone/drain tile dry-stack retaining wall (askew, fallen) has been removed, the slumped incline excavated, and the stone re-stacked reasonably restoring most of the wall. New French-drain across the entire front of RTNC: Soil hold-back structure (heavy steel edging) was constructed and installed to restrain bed from spilling into gravel and tile drainage (Southwell purchased, donated, installed with Del Rios).  Plantings (massed flowers) to be installed both sides of lateral walk (by others/Rich?) (who/how to accomplish?).  Federer will reach out the Garden Club to possibly obtain perennial plants.

Over-flowing gutters

Resolved with cleaning (Steve arranged), some repair and installation of flex drain tile to divert outflow away from building.  Portions of front and rear gutters need to be replaced.

Southwell plans to continue temporarily deferring cleanup around Nature Center until late season 2025.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Chipping Trails

Healy reported there was a volunteer day on Saturday, September 6th.  More chips were dropped on the trails and spread along the path by the south bridge, prairie patch and along the trail that will be used for Wicked Woodlands. 

Beaver Dams, Subsequent Floding and threat to Woodland

No apparent activity.

Bridge Reviews

Further review of considerations, options and potential means of leveraging Grant(s) deferred for several months to allow us to complete other projects.

BT Memorial Foundation

Excavation, concrete forming and pouring planned – deferred to late September again to accommodate other time-sensitive projects [Del Rio’s, Marty, Southwell]. Full installation will be completed well-prior to dedication weekend.

Buffalo Creek Park

Pergola 

Rebuild deferred indefinitely, for budgetary and time constraints.

Arbor

Rebuild deferred indefinitely, for budgetary and time constraints.

Fencing 

Rebuild deferred indefinitely, for budgetary and time constraints.

Long View Meadow

Awaiting word about IL DOT Rt 83/22 widening construction plans.

Beaver Issues at lake discharge/Kildeer Creek: 

Status Undetermined.  No recent communication or complaints.  Unusual given abrupt and severe swings in water level?  Engagement of beaver trapper terminated? (Roy?)

Lemmon-Hill Farmstead and Ballfields

Fly-Dumping and Vandalism

Notice Signage:  Statute Citations/Video Surveillance remain to be created and installed.    

Parking Lot

Significant recent Bus and heavy Truck parking.

Stumps

Ground down below turf, to prevent tripping in multiple locations. Del Rio’s to re-grade, seed.

Dumpster Shed Replacement 

Rebuild deferred indefinitely, for budgetary and time constraints.

Fire Pit 

Rebuild deferred indefinitely, for budgetary and time constraints.

Pickleball Court(s) 

On-hold.  Need to complete all other Strategic Commitments before undertaking. Siting and preliminary engineering visit to be scheduled. Volunteers sought, Allie to assist with project.  Allie is championing (and executing) creation of an OSLAD Grant Application for this and related projects.

Parks and Open-Land Signage

Buffalo Creek Park (Southern, RPC Road)

Problematic sign post cut-down/removed.  New hole drilled and new post, signboard installed 75 feet west.

Wehrenberg Woods 

Trails and sign site cleared, opened. Sign post hole drilled, shortened sign post assembly salvaged from BCP removal, extended, sistered, installed in concrete. New signboard installed.

Gridley Farm/Gridley Ballfield

Area cleared at Oakwood Road (completed). Hole drilled and new post, signboard installed at both entrance (“Farm”), as well as at Ballfield (“Ballfield”).

“Countryside FD” Field

Sign board designed and produced. Posts to be installed and sign mounted in next 30-45 days.

Strategic:  Continuing, expanded use. Potentially/eventually consider/pursue acquisition via donation? 

Gridley Field

Infield Treatments

Infield and outfield in good condition after significant work.

Strategy: Will need to purchase base-set, install. Position field as ready for use by mid-August, encourage use (by permit for access) subsequently.

Hayrake Trail

Status:  Trail extended to Oakwood Road, very near Gridley Ball Field and Mitigation site. Beautiful trail, safe conditions. Walkable in 30-45 minutes, round-trip.  Will soon breadcrumb and create trail maps from electronic file.

Wehrenberg Woods Trail

Update:  Southwell re-determined previous trail routing and blazed significant additional trails.  Better access now from multiple street locations.  Worked with Del Rio’s to open trails (three visits required).  Breadcrumbed entire trail system so as to capture digitally for website, signage purposes.

Status:  100% of greatly extended system is fully-opened to final width.  My best estimate is that we added another mile-plus of trails to the LGPD assets/offerings.

Mitigation Property

No further communication re Quit-Claim Deed for transfer of title of the property/parcels has been prepared and is in Springfield for signatures.  Southwell awaiting response to his letter to our new State Senator (Ms. Darby Hills) seeking her assistance in determining status, and nudging IDOT to finalize execution and Title Transfer.

Telecom, Accessibility by Constituents

Significant planning, sourcing, installation work by Steve Wernikoff (Thank You!).  Steve to share update and status.  Wernikoff reported working with T Mobile.  Everything has been running live and working fairly well.  Cameras are connected.  Internet is connected, much better coverage.

Respectfully Submitted September 15, 2025 - J. Southwell

LGPD Project Docket - Draft v.1 September 15, 2025

Strategic Projects

Committed to:

1.       Parks and Open-Land Signage.  [Southwell]

a.       B Creek Park (Southern, RPC Road). Problematic sign post cut-down/removed.  New hole drilled and new post, signboard installed 75 feet West. Completed.

b.       Wehrenberg Woods.  Trails and sign site cleared, opened. Sign post hole drilled, shortened sign post assembly salvaged from BCP removal, extended, sistered, installed in concrete. New signboard installed. Completed.

c.       Gridley Farm/Ballfield. Area cleared at Oakwood Road (completed). Hole drilled and new post, signboard installed at both entrance (“Farm”), as well as at Ballfield (“Ballfield”).  Completed.

2.       Dumpster Shed Replacement at Lemmon-Hill Ballfields.  [Southwell, Frystak]

a.       Design and siting draft completed.

3.       Fence Replacement (Both Southern and Eastern Runs) at B Creek Park.  [Southwell, M Young]

a.       Entrance openings to be adjusted at RPC to allow Dump Truck, Bobcat, Chipper entry. Locking Swing-Post to be installed to prohibit non-permitted vehicle entry.

b.       Consider fence design/layout to permit a trail extension from Bridge, and connect to existing Trail Uphill. Objective is to connect trail-fragments and complete Covered Bridge Trail.

4.       “Countryside Field” Signage [Southwell, Dragomir Dzhorov]

a.       Status:  Signboard completed. Post/Soccer/LAX Gear Rack installs to be scheduled with Del Rio’s.

5.       Barbara Turner Memorial Installation [Southwell, M Young]

a.       Excavate, pour with pre-set bolt/form.

b.       Install raw-steel Memorial Monument, allow to weather and rust.

c.       Install Commemorative Plaque at Event(?)

6.       Hayrake Trail Re-build and significant Expension.   [Southwell]

a.       Status:  Completed.

7.       Wehrenberg Woods Trails Rebuild and Significant Extensions.

a.       Status: Completed.

8.       Gridley Ballfield Reconstruction and Restoration

a.       Status:  Nearly completed.  Continue dragging infield weekly.

b.       Remaining:  Purchase and Installation of Base-Sets.

9.       Countryside Open-Space

a.       Status:  Remediation Completed. Open to Public Uses.

Health and Safety

Essential

1.       LVM. HOLD: Potential Rebuild/Reinstallation of Clemson-Leveler at LVM Lake to be abandoned as beaver dam impoundment is gone.

2.       RTNC. Mice Exclusion-RTNC.  Status: completed.  Lemmon Hill Garage – next?

3.       RTNC.  Waste-line and Septic restoration (Marty). Status: Completed.

4.       RTNC. Electrical Review and Remediation (Steve W).  Status: Completed.

5.       RTNC.  Security Lighting and Camera Systems (Steve W).  Status:  Completed.

6.       RTNC. HVAC Mechanicals Replacement (Rich F.).  Status: Completed.

7.       RTNC. Office Security Door, Vision Pane, Lever-set, Deadbolts?  - TBD, if Board supported?

Legal and Compliance

Essentials, Committed to:

                [Southwell to work with Healy, Frystak, Underwood to strategize/prioritize?]

1.       Compliance Training completed and documented for all Commissioners and Key Staff. (Statutory, Non-negotiable) [Southwell, Frystak]

2.       First-Amendment Audit Plan, Document Assembly. Response Decision-Tree for front-line personnel.  [Southwell, Frystak]

3.       Incident Documentation, Training.

4.       Contract Development and Execution – Key Contractors

5.       Public Comment Policy

6.       Social Media Policy

7.       Closed-Session. Compliant Approach, Entry by Roll-Call. Recording, Documentation.

8.       Note:  Quorum: 7/4. 4/3 required.

9.       Safety Training

10.   Tractor Training

11.   Budget, Allocation Ordinance (annual)

12.   Investment Policy. Dust-off, re authorize/memorialize.

13.   Annual Schedule of Meetings

14.   Remote Participation Policy

15.   Note: Vote to Approve only what is on the agenda

16.   Salary/Wage Schedule.

17.   Ordinance Adoption around State Ethics Act.

a.       Gift-Ban, Conflict-of-Interest, Prohibited Political Activity, Social Media…

18.   Board Policy Packet Development

19.   Get Best-Practices from Ancel-Glink, Standards of Decorum and Conduct.

20.   Get Robbins/Schwartz Slide Deck

Not-Yet on the docket.  Board Support required, TBD?

A.      BCP. Arbor Rebuild, Drill new holes, set new Uprights in concrete [TBD]

B.      BCP. Pergola Rebuild [TBD]

C.      BCP. Gazebo - Stain White? [Southwell]

D.      LH Farmstead. Firepit Assembly, Installation [Southwell, Marty?

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

August 11, 2025

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:32 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Southwell, Underwood, Wernikoff

Commissioners Absent

Skillcorn

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The July 2025 minutes were reviewed.  Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Federer seconded the motion.  The July 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates from D96, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak

The financial reports for July 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.   Underwood moved to accept the July 2025 financial reports as presented.  Wernikoff seconded the motion.  The financial reports for July 2025 were accepted unanimously.

Financial: FY2025-26 Budgeting Discussion, RFI – Frystak/Underwood/Healy/Southwell

Southwell passed out a first-draft proposed budget.  Southwell asked all board members to review and make any suggestions for changes/additions before the next meeting.  Southwell would like to be in a position to adopt the budget at the next board meeting.  Frystak suggested pushing back the September board meeting one week to allow for time to get end of month/end of fiscal year reporting finished and QuickBooks updated with actual numbers.  The meeting switched to September 15th.  Southwell asked for everyone to send comments, suggestions to Underwood and Frystak.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Summer/Fall Programs

Frystak handed out the tentative fall offerings schedule.  Fall 1 session programs will be outdoors.  Fall 2 programs will be inside at RTNC.  There are 4 new programs for adults/seniors; chair Pilates, Pilates for seniors, forest immersion and art classes.  The final Movie Under the Stars was held Wednesday, August 13th. 

Wicked Woodlands will be held at RTW Saturday, October 4th.  Frystak is looking for sponsors for the event. 

The Barbara Turner dedication ceremony will be held Sunday, October 19th, 1-3 p.m. at RTNC.  Frystak, Healy, Underwood and S. Young are working together on this.  Frystak asked if there will be a budget amount set for punch, water, snacks, etc.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy/Underwood

Frystak made a schedule for the rest of the year for articles to be submitted.  An article for the Wicked Woodlands event will be in the September Stroll Magazine.  The October issue will be about programs with a focus on seniors.  Sessions with Santa in November and the year in review for December.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

Healy reported 10 volunteers helped chip trails at RTW on Saturday, August 2nd.  A sponsor from the Movies Under the Stars event brought volunteers and also donated money for chips. There is quite a bit more work to do and another volunteer day is planned for September 6th.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell/Healy

Southwell, M. Young and Del Rios crew dug holes and poured concrete for the remaining 4 posts that needed to be installed at Wehrenberg Woods, Gridley Field and Buffalo Creek Park   The property signs will be hung in the next few days.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Buffalo Creek Park

Tallgrass was at BCP treating invasives in mid-July and should be done for the year. 

Reed-Turner Woodland

Tallgrass treated poison ivy along the trails, by the cabin and stairs leading in to RTW.  Healy would like Tallgrass to come back to RTW to treat reed canary grass and thistle in the fall.

Mitigation Site

A skim visit was done at the mitigation site spraying teasel. 

Longview Meadow

Tallgrass treated teasel at LVM over two days.  Healy noted work at LVM should be done for the season. 

McGinty has completed Village roadside teasel treatments for the season.  The final invoice was received.

Old Business

Update: Electrical Update at RTNC                            Wernikoff

Electrical work has been completed.  Wernikoff will identify/label breakers and will work with M. Young to do this.

Updates: Lighting/Security Update at RTNC          Wernikoff

Wernikoff mounted and installed 6 cameras.  One more solar powered camera needs to be mounted.  All are active and recording both audio and video.

Update: HVAC replacement at RTNC                        Federer

Federer reported the HVAC systems have been installed.  The A/C is working well.  Final payment was made. A year of free checkups was included with the installation for both units.

Update: Telecom:  findings, proposal                       Wernikoff

Wernikoff reported testing the new cellular router at RTNC, same as the one being used at Lemmon-Hill.

There is the ability to switch all phone lines and internet to T Mobile using Dialpad.  When people call the main number, they will be directed to the appropriate person.  This can run on phones, tablets, computers.  The cost will be less than what the Park District is paying Comcast/Xfinity currently. 

T Mobile is giving LGPD credits to test the new system.

Reed Pond/Salem Lake algae control proposal by neighbors   Healy

On hold for the time being. 

Adjournment of Meeting

Underwood moved to adjourn the meeting.  Healy seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 7:57 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Presidents Report - August 2025

Team Accomplishments. Site/Project Updates, Status Project Listing, Prioritization Completed

Will be distributed at meeting and appended to this report.

Compliance Training, Federal and State requirements 

Mandated Training, Certification and documentation offering for all Board Members and Employees.  Expectation that all Commissioners and Employees participate and obtain certification.  Frystak will follow up with Federer, Skillicorn and Wernikoff to provide information on how to log into the system for training.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application (Gridley Field/Cell Tower Access Road)

Status Unchanged.  No communication received.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Planned walkway re-construction, and extension

Lannon stone/drain tile dry-stack retaining wall remains to be rebuilt, extended (who/how to accomplish?). Soil hold-back structure (Steel Edging) needs to be constructed and installed to restrain bed from spilling into newly created French-drain around front foundation (Southwell purchased, donated, ready to install).  Plantings (massed flowers) to be installed both sides of lateral walk (by others/Rich?) (who/how to accomplish?).

Over-flowing Gutters

Cleaning arranged by Steve.  Southwell arranged with Del Rio’s to source, deliver, connect 100-ft drain tile to overflowing downspout adjacent to office (SE Corner) to route around structure, discharge on back lawn.

Southwell plans to continue temporarily deferring cleanup around Nature Center until late-season 2025.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Beaver Dams, Subsequent Flooding and threat to Woodland.

Del Rio’s reports no new activity. 

Bridge Reviews

Further review of considerations, options and potential means of leveraging Grant(s) deferred for several months to allow us to complete other projects.

BT Memorial Foundation

Excavation, concrete forming and pouring planned – deferred to late August/early September again to accommodate other time-sensitive projects [DelRio’s, Marty, Southwell]

Buffalo Creek Park

Pergola

Rebuild deferred indefinitely. Determined that a rebuild of most of the overhead members was best path forward.  Bill-of-materials required were identified.  Plan is to work in Sept/Oct with Ramon and Team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Arbor

Rebuild deferred indefinitely. Tentative plan is to restore and secure, to cut off at ground level, shift 18 inches into park, re-drill post holes and place new, partial-height posts sistered-with and secured to existing arbor vertical structure.

Fencing Replacement

Temporarily deferred to accommodate other work. Plan is to proceed with complete replacement of split-rail fences along OMH Road, RPC Road, given irreparable condition. Will adjust layout to permit service vehicle entry, and potentially allow modification of trail to align with/promote completion of Covered Bridge Trail.  Marty will be securing adjusted proposals.

Long View Meadow

Awaiting word about IL DOT Rt 83/22 widening construction plans.

Beaver Issues at Lake discharge/Kildeer Creek

Recent Status Undetermined.  Lake level has dropped significantly since unknown party removed large dam, destroyed Clemson Leveler.  Status as of Sunday Aug 10:  Suggested:  Terminate engagement of beaver trapper (Roy?)

Lemmon-Hill Farmstead and Ballfields

Fly-Dumping and Vandalism

Notice Signage: Statute Citations/Video Surveillance remain to be created and installed.    

Parking Lot

Southwell arranged with Del Rio’s to bring in another three tons of gravel to fill pot holes and maintain portion that has been severely degraded by bus and heavy truck parking.

Stumps

On hold temporarily.  Southwell has asked Del Rio’s to arrange to have about five stumps ground, at Farmstead and adjacent, to prevent visitors from tripping and to allow us to install a wildflower bed around new roadside sign off Gilmer, where the “Angry Oak” fell.

Dumpster Shed Replacement 

[Rough Design/Dim’s done, budgeted for 2024/25 Fiscal Year].  Current plan is to seek proposals in August and ideally permits in early September.  Allie to assist.

Fire Pit

On hold temporarily.  Smokeless fire pit steel donated.  Will put together a sketch and bill-of-materials (brick) to stack and install.  LGPD to source Belgard or similar block.  Pit to be assembled Oct 2025. Volunteer sought to assist.

Pickleball Court(s)

On hold.  Need to complete all other strategic commitments before undertaking.  Southwell investigated options for locating/building pickleball courts (a pair), particular concern is appropriate siting. Volunteers sought.  Allie to assist with project. 

“Countryside FD” Field

Delayed plan to support/encourage casual and planned recreation programs/events in 2025 Season.  Will design, construct, install small sign acknowledging CFD’s kind permission for our use. Southwell pursuing construction (PVC pipe?) of a single LAX net, and a single Soccer net to support informal use and practice.

Strategic: Continuing, expanded use. Potentially/eventually consider/pursue acquisition? 

Gridley Field

Infield Treatments, Field Turf Treatments

Turf in good condition.  Infield has been sprayed again (fourth time), roto-tilled and debris raked out.  We will begin dragging infield every week when cut.

Strategy:  Will need to purchase base-set, install. Position field as ready for use by mid-August, encourage use (by permit for access) subsequently.

Hayrake Trail

Del Rio’s has been contracted to use line-trimmers to cut grass on open-field portion/North end termination under ComEd lines.

Status:  Trail extended to Oakwood Road, very near Gridley Ball Field and Mitigation site. Beautiful trail, safe conditions. Walkable in 30-45 minutes, round-trip.

Wehrenberg Woods Trail

Plan has been to promptly invest in re-construction, so as to clear area to allow sign post installation. Project similar to Hayrake Trail.  Trail is severely overgrown, with significant fallen trees. A very substantial project.

Update:  Southwell re-determined previous trail routing last Monday and Wednesday.  Blazed significant additional trails to allow better access from multiple street locations.  Worked with Del Rio’s to open trails (chainsaws, brush cutters, loppers, line trimmers) on Monday and Wednesday.

Status:  About 25% is fully-opened to final width.  Another 50% is partially opened (very narrow, not detailed) so as to make trails readily visible should Southwell’s on-ground blazing be washed-out, blown away. Final 25% needs to be initialized/attacked.  Detail work and widening to be accomplished as help is available.  My best estimate is that we added another mile-plus of trails to the LGPD assets/offerings.

Mitigation Property

No further communication re Quit-Claim Deed for transfer of title of the property/parcels has been prepared and is in Springfield for signatures.  Southwell awaiting response to his letter to our new State Senator seeking her assistance in determining status, and nudging IDOT to finalize execution and Title Transfer.

Telecom, Accessibility by Constituents

Will continue to pursue assessments of shortcomings of current set-up, review needs, investigate potential improvements with Steve’s significant assistance and advice.  Wernikoff to share update and initial findings.  Working with T Mobile Business. 

Respectfully Submitted Aug 11, 2025, J. Southwell

LGPD Project Docket - Draft August 11, 2025

Strategic Projects

Committed to:

1.       Parks and Open-Land Signage.  [Southwell]

a.       Wehrenberg Woods.  Open Trail, clear area for signage. Del Rio’s with Southwell for Royal Melbourne access.

b.       Gridley Farm/Ballfield. Area cleared at Oakwood Road (completed). Soil excavated from RTNC Projects to be placed there to adjust grade, this week.

c.       B Creek (Southern, RPC Road). Current sign post to be removed, new Post to be installed 75 feet West.

d.       JULIE Marking, and LGPD Scanning.  Ramon Drills Post Holes. Ramon and LGPD personnel install Posts, complete Cement work.  LGPD personnel hang signboards 5-7 days following.

2.       Dumpster Shed Replacement at Lemmon-Hill Ballfields.  [Southwell, Frystak]

a.       Design and siting draft completed.

3.       Fence Replacement (Both Southern and Eastern Runs) at B Creek Park.  [Southwell, M Young]

a.       Entrance openings to be adjusted at RPC to allow Dump Truck, Bobcat, Chipper entry. Locking Swing-Post to be installed to prohibit non-permitted vehicle entry.

b.       Consider fence design/layout to permit a trail extension from Bridge, and connect to existing Trail Uphill. Objective is to connect trail-fragments and complete Covered Bridge Trail.

4.       “Countryside Field” Signage [Southwell, Dragomir Dzhorov]

a.       Status:  Initial Artwork Concepts completed.

5.       Barbara Turner Memorial Installation [Southwell, M Young]

a.       Excavate, pour with pre-set bolt/form

b.       Install Memorial Monument, allow to rust.

c.       Install Commemorative Plaque at Event(?)

6.       Hayrake Trail.   [Southwell]

a.       Status:  Completed.

7.       Wehrenberg Woods Trails.

a.       Status: In-process.

Health and Safety

Essential

1.       LVM. HOLD: Potential Rebuild/Reinstallation of Clemson-Leveler at LVM Lake?

2.       RTNC. Mice Exclusion-RTNC, Lemmon Hill Garage – Roy/Marty Y.

3.       RTNC.  Waste-line and Septic-Marty Y.

4.       RTNC. Electrical Review and Remediation- Steve W.

5.       RTNC. HVAC Mechanicals Replacement – Rich

6.       RTNC. Office Security Door, Vision Pane, Lever-set, Deadbolts?  - TBD

Other

Not-Yet on the docket

A.      BCP. Arbor Rebuild, Drill new holes, set new Uprights in concrete [TBD]

B.      BCP. Pergola Rebuild  (Safety as driver, as overhead elements are falling) [TBD]

C.      BCP. Gazebo - Stain White? [Southwell]

D.      LH Farmstead. Firepit Assembly, Installation [Southwell, Marty?]

Legal and Compliance

Essentials, Committed to:

                [Southwell to work with Healy, Frystak, Underwood to strategize/prioritize?]

1.       Compliance Training completed and documented for all Commissioners and Key Staff. (Statutory, Non-Negotiable)  [Southwell, Frystak]

2.       First-Amendment Audit Plan, Document Assembly. Response Decision-Tree for front-line personnel.  [Southwell, Frystak]

3.       Incident Documentation, Training.

4.       Contract Development and Execution – Key Contractors

5.       Public Comment Policy

6.       Social Media Policy

7.       Closed-Session. Compliant Approach, Entry by Roll-Call. Recording, Documentation.

8.       Note:  Quorum: 7/4. 4/3 required.

9.       Safety Training

10.   Tractor Training

11.   Budget, Allocation Ordinance (annual)

12.   Investment Policy. Dust-off, re authorize/memorialize.

13.   Annual Schedule of Meetings

14.   Remote Participation Policy

15.   Note: Vote to Approve only what is on the Agenda

16.   Salary/Wage Schedule.

17.   Ordinance Adoption around State Ethics Act.

a.       Gift-Ban, Conflict-of-Interest, Prohibited Political Activity, Social Media…

18.   Board Policy Packet Development

19.   Get Best-Practices from Ancel-Glink, Standards of Decorum and Conduct.

20.   Get Robbins/Schwartz Slide Deck

Long Grove Park District Board of Commissioner’s Meeting Minutes

July 14, 2025

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:32 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood

Commissioners Absent

Shah, Wernikoff

Skillicorn left at 7:30 due to a prior commitment.

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

Tori Trauscht

Ms. Trauscht presented a poster, map of RTW that Barbara Turner had designed with an artist, Lynda Wallis.   There are 100 signed maps.  Barbara wanted these to be used for a fundraiser or as a gift for larger donations.  Trauscht requested having a memorial service/celebration of life in the fall, Barbara’s favorite season of the year, to acknowledge all of Barbara’s contributions to Reed-Turner Woodlands.  The commemorative memorial that will be placed in the woodlands was shared with everyone. 

All board members were in agreement to have a dedication ceremony in the fall.  Frystak will coordinate with Healy, Underwood and S. Young to plan the event.

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The June 2025 minutes were reviewed.  Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The June 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates from State of IL/DOT, D96, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak/Underwood

The financial reports for June 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Healy moved to accept the June 2025 financial reports as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The financial reports for June 2025 were accepted unanimously.

Financial – QuickBooks, Mgt/Reporting – Frystak

Southwell noted planning for the FY25-26 budget is coming up soon.  He asked everyone to start thinking about ideas, thoughts, suggestions for the new budget.

Southwell stated he is very happy with the new financial reporting as it provides a much greater perspective of the Park District’s financial position.

Programs and Events

Summer/Fall Programs - Frystak

Frystak handed out an update/overview of summer programs.  The majority of the classes were canceled in session 1.  Session 2 is scheduled to start soon.  Frystak reported good turnout for Movies Under the Starts events in June and July.  Everyone who attended had a great time.  Frystak is working with Hawthorn Woods on fall programs.  LGPD will not be using District 96 school facilities going forward.  Primary focus of program offerings will be on those with demonstrated uptake and new adult/senior programs.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy/Underwood

Frystak provided a schedule for submitting articles, due dates and frequency.  Upcoming articles will be submitted for the Wicked Woodlands event, adult/senior programs, the Barbara Turner dedication ceremony and Sessions with Santa.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Federer/Shah/Skillicorn

The scout project to replace the walkway in front of RTNC is ongoing.  See President’s report.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Reed-Turner Woodland

Healy reported the trails are becoming overgrown.  Healy is working with M. Young and a landscaper to clean up the weeds and then the trails will be chipped.  

Healy is coordinating with Frystak and M. Young to schedule work days to chips trails at RTW.  Possible dates are July 19th and/or August 2nd.

Woody’s Tree Service completed a full day of work cutting down/dropping/removing 12 problematic trees near the trails.  More recently, there is another tree at risk by the lake, close to the trail that should be removed.  M. Young will contact Woody’s to schedule another work day.  Southwell noted there is also a tree very close to, and overhanging RTNC that needs to be trimmed back.

Buffalo Creek Park

Stewardship continues at Buffalo Creek Park.  Thistle, yellow iris and reed canary were treated. 

Roadside teasel

McGinty did a second round of treatment on the teasel and will finish up work on July 15th.  The invoice will be submitted to the Village of Long Grove.

Old Business

Security at RTNC

Southwell would like to consider putting in a new, better-functioning and more secure office door with a window and deadbolt.

Review and Consider for Approval – HVAC replacement at RTNC - Federer

Federer provided an update with HVAC options/bids that he and M. Young obtained.  Discount Heating & Cooling came in with the lowest bid for a Weathermaker AC and furnace, approximately $7200.  They can install the units in 2 weeks.  Southwell asked board members for support in moving forward with purchasing the AC and furnace.

Southwell moved to authorize Federer to purchase the Weathermaker units, total not to exceed $8000.  Underwood seconded the motion.

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye.  Motion passed unanimously.

New Business

VOLG Interest in Pickleball Court(s) at Lemmon Hill

Underwood was contacted by a Long Grove resident for the second time who was very enthusiastic about installing pickleball courts in Long Grove and offered to give feedback if needed. 

Reed Pond/Salem Lake algae control

Healy has spent quite a bit of time researching how to prevent algal spread from the larger main body of Reed Lake going into the smaller portion of the pond.  The entire body of water would need to be treated to help mitigate excess phosphorus and algae from growing.  The water would have to be tested to determine how much product would be needed.  Two applications per summer would need to be done.   The approximate cost would be $30,000 for entire lake.  Healy will keep researching and asked Lake County Management to test lake.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Federer seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at  8:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

President’s Report July 2025 – Southwell

Team Accomplishments. Site/Project Updates, Status

Project Listing, Prioritization Completed.

Will be distributed at meeting, and appended to this report.

Compliance Training, Federal and State requirements. 

Mandated Training, Certification and documentation offering for all Board Members and Employees likely to be offered online and on-demand, with expectation that all Commissioners and Employees participate and obtain certification.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application (Gridley Field/Cell Tower Access Road)

Lease ended 7/30/2024.  Status Unchanged.  No communication received.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Planned walkway re-construction, and extension

Substantially completed, with details provided in earlier, prior, periodic reporting.  Lannon stone dry-stack retaining wall remains to be rebuilt, extended (who/how to accomplish?). Soil hold-back structure needs to be constructed and installed to restrain bed from spilling into newly created French-drain around front foundation (who/how to accomplish?).  Plantings (massed flowers) to be installed both sides of lateral walk (by others) (who/how to accomplish?).

HVAC 

Rich and Marty tasked, have sourced and provided proposals for combination Furnace and A/C condenser replacement. Timing and appropriation to be considered.  Southwell plans to continue temporarily deferring clean-up around Nature Center until late-season 2025.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Chipping Trails 

Gear to enable Chip-Hauling, Trail-Chipping.  Marty purchased self-dumping trailer previously selected. Some assembly/functionality problems.

Beaver Dams, Subsequent Flooding and threat to Woodland

Del Rio’s reports no new activity.

Bridge Reviews

Further review of considerations, options and potential means of leveraging Grant(s) deferred for several months to allow us to complete other projects.

BT Memorial Foundation

Excavation, concrete forming and pouring planned, deferred again to accommodate other time-sensitive projects [DelRio’s, Marty, Southwell]

Buffalo Creek Park

Pergola

Rebuild deferred indefinitely.  Determined that a re-build of most of the overhead members was best path forward.  Bill-of-Materials required were identified. Plan is to work in Sept/Oct with Ramon and team to execute the partial rebuild required.

Arbor

Re-build deferred indefinitely.  Tentative plan is restore and secure, to cut off at ground-level, shift 18 inches into Park, re-drill post holes and place new, partial-height posts sistered with and secured to existing Arbor vertical structure.

Fencing

Temporarily deferred to accommodate other work.  Plan is to proceed with complete replacement of split-rail fences along OMH Road, RPC Road given irreparable condition.  Will adjust layout to permit service vehicle entry and potentially allow modification of trail to align with/promote completion of Covered Bridge Trail.  Marty will be securing adjusted proposals.

Long View Meadow

Awaiting word about IL DOT Rt 83/22 widening construction plans.

Beaver Issues at Lake discharge/Kildeer Creek 

Recent status undetermined.  Lake level has dropped significantly since unknown party removed large dam and destroyed our Clemson Leveler.  Previous:  Steve secured necessary permit to remove beavers, remove dams/lodge. Trapper arranged by Roy.  No results yet(?).  Of important note, some other party accomplished removal of the original, long-existing, lengthy dam that was originally holding back the lake.  The lake subsequently drained significantly.  Southwell hiked in through the brush on Sunday the 8th to determine current situation.  The beavers have constructed a new additional dam in a narrower channel midway between original and this year’s additional much smaller dam downstream.  These two dams are holding back the lake and levels continue to rise (likely even more following the rain later on the 8th).  We may wish to further prioritize removal of beavers and likely removal of the two smaller dams.

Lemmon-Hill Farmstead and Ballfields

Fly-Dumping and Vandalism – Notice Signage

Statute Citations/Video Surveillance remain to be created and installed.    

Parking Lot 

Southwell has arranged with Del Rio’s to sweep gravel back in large potholes, as well will bring in another three tons of gravel to maintain portion that has been severely degraded by buses and heavy truck parking.

Stumps 

On hold temporarily.  Southwell has asked Del Rio’s to arrange to have about five stumps ground at Farmstead and adjacent to prevent visitors from tripping and to allow us to install a wildflower bed around new roadside sign off Gilmer, where the “Angry Oak” fell.

Dumpster Shed Replacement [Rough Design/Dim’s done, Budgeted for 2024/25 Fiscal Year].

Current plan is to seek proposals in August and ideally permits in early September.  Volunteer sought to assist.

Fire Pit 

Steel Smokeless Pit insert donated.  Build on hold.  Will put together a sketch and bill-of-materials (brick) to stack and install.  LGPD to source Belgard or similar block.  Pit to be assembled Sept 2025. Volunteer sought to assist.

Pickleball Court(s) 

On hold until all other strategic commitments are accomplished. Southwell plans to investigate options for locating/building Pickleball courts (a pair).  Particular concern is appropriate siting.  Volunteers sought to assist.

“Countryside FD” Field

Delayed plan to support/encourage casual and planned recreation programs/events in 2025 season.  Will design, construct, install small sign acknowledging CFD’s kind permission for our use.  Southwell pursuing construction (PVC pipe?) of a single LAX net, and a single soccer net to support informal use and practice.

Strategic

Continuing expanded use. Potentially/eventually consider/pursue acquisition? 

Gridley Field

Infield Treatments, Field Turf Treatments

Turf now in good condition.  Infield has been sprayed for weeds/grass three times, then roto-tilled and debris raked out.  We will retreat all re-growth, then drag infield every week.

Strategy

Will need to purchase base set, install.  Position filed as ready for use by mid-August, encourage use (by permit for access) subsequently.

Hayrake Trail

Del Rio’s has been contracted to use line-trimmers to cut grass on open field portion of northern trail extension, as well as southern entrance area twice each month throughout season.  Will also spread a truck load of chips at southern entrance and for 100 feet on the southern-most portion of the trail to improve curb appeal, access and encourage use.  Recent storm damage and resulting deadfalls were cleared, brush trimmed back, debris removed for entire length of trail by Del Rios 7/12-13.  Trail extended to Oakwood Road, very near Gridley Ball Field and Mitigation Site. Beautiful trail, safe conditions. Walkable in 30-45 minutes, round-trip.

Wehrenberg Woods Trail

Plan is to promptly invest in re-construction so as to allow sign post installation very soon.  Similar to Hayrake Trail.  Trail is severely overgrown with significant fallen trees. Will be a substantial project. Southwell will arrange with Del Rio’s to begin in next several weeks.

Mitigation Property

No further communication regarding Quit-Claim Deed for transfer of title of the property/parcels has been prepared and is in Springfield for signatures.  Southwell awaiting response to his letter to our new State Senator seeking her assistance in determining status and nudging IDOT to finalize execution and title transfer.

Telecom, Accessibility by Constituents

Will pursue assessment of shortcomings of current setup, review needs, investigate potential improvements with Steve’s assistance and advice.  Likely in August.

Respectfully Submitted July 14, 2025 - JSouthwell

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:30 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners and Staff Present   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood, Wernikoff

Shah departed for a commitment at 7:37 p.m.

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval – Young/Southwell

The April 2025 minutes were reviewed.  Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The April 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No activity re State of IL/IDOT, D96, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak/Underwood

The financial reports for April 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Wernikoff moved to accept the April 2025 financial reports as presented.  Shah seconded the motion.  The financial reports for 2025 were accepted unanimously.

Financial: Quickbooks/Mgt/Reporting – Frystak

Frystak reported the migration from Quickbooks Desktop to QB Online is going well. 

Programs and Events - Frystak

Spring/Summer Programs

Spring programs are ending this month.  Summer programs will be posted on the website in the next week or two.  Approximately 10 to 15 programs have been loaded.  Signage will be put up for Movies Under the Stars.  The event is planned for the second Wednesday each month during the summer; June 11, July 9, August 13.  Movies will begin at dusk.

Healy reported the Lions Club had reached out to her regarding Vintage Days.  For their fundraiser, they would like to drop small plastic ducks off the bridge.  They would collect all of the ducks afterwards.  Healy asked board members for thoughts.  All were supportive of allowing the Lions Club to do this.

President’s Report – Southwell

Compliance Training/Federal & State Requirements

Southwell requested everyone review the Tutorial that he handed out at the last board meeting.  Southwell will schedule a meeting with Adam Simon to have him explain requirements and document compliance.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application.

No updates.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Federer met with M. Young to obtain another bid to replace the HVAC for the main room.  Federer noted the furnaces at RTNC are more than 25 years old and stated it may make sense to replace furnace and AC at the same time.  Federer/Young will have to go back to contractors that bid last fall to re-bid with updated refrigerants.  Federer will send out recommendations prior to the next board meeting.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Southwell will connect with M. Young to discuss chipping trails at RTW.  The new self-dumping trailer has been assembled and may be ready for use.

Barbara Turner Memorial

Plan to pour foundation in June.

Buffalo Creek Park

Southwell will ask M. Young to work with Del Rio’s to repair the pergola and arbor at BCP.

The split-rail fences along both Old McHenry Road and Robert Park Coffin Road are falling down in a number of places and will need to be replaced.  

Long View Meadow

No communication from IL DOT regarding widening construction plans.

Beaver Activity and Issues - LVM

A second beaver dam has raised the water level to a point that the Clemson Leveler is not working.  Southwell reached out to Lake County Storm Management Commission who stated any on-site management is outside their scope and available resources.  Southwell also reached out to Adam Simon for legal advice on rules, regulations and laws.  This information was forwarded to board members. To be discussed further in Old Business.

Lemmon Hill

There has been no recent fly dumping or vandalism.  Will seek proposals for a new dumpster enclosure/porta-potty screen in July.

Countryside Fields

Southwell noted younger kids have been using the LH ball fields during classes and asked that they only use the Countryside FD field, per our agreement with LCS.  Frystak will notify coaches.

Gridley 

SavALawn will treat weeds in the infield and will apply weed and feed on the outfield two times this Spring/Summer.

Hayrake/Wehrenberg Trails

Del Rios will-line trim the new trail to cut grass on northern trail extension and southern entrance area.  They will also bring in chips to spread at the Trailhead/southern entrance.

Mitigation Property

No word from IL DOT or the State regarding their execution of the quit-claim deed for title-transfer of the property.  Southwell will reach out to our State Senator in hopes of moving this along.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy/Underwood

Healy submitted an article and pictures about the controlled burns on LGPD properties for the June issue.  Underwood wrote an article for the July issue about wildlife and observing nature at RTW.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

Federer spoke to Eagle Candidate Matthew ---- and they will be meeting this week to coordinate dates for the project.  Southwell noted he would like to have mice screen barrier installed around the remaining perimeter of RTNC while excavating, and before the flagstone walk is installed.  Federer noted the plants along path might be damaged if not moved.    Healy and Underwood will reach out to the Garden Club to ask if they would be interested in any plants for the upcoming plant sale.

Shah noted not being successful in recruiting volunteers to help with repairing/replacing beaver cages on trees by lake.  Southwell suggested reaching out to Scout troops to help in the fall, or Del Rios.  Healy reported there are trees caged along the creek, in addition to alongside the lake.  Shah will walk the creek and mark trees that need to be fixed.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell/Frystak

Southwell and Frystak met with the Long Grove Village Manager with primary objective of introducing Allie to him, as our new Operations Manager.  Fortuitously he brought-up the topic of the halted LGPD roadside signage project.  The Village Manager is willing to work with LGPD to get the signage approved.  Southwell and Frystak will submit a robust, persuasive letter and packet of supporting information to accompany the Building/Sign Permit application they will create.  Southwell shared that it was a very positive meeting.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Site, Gridley, Roadside Teasel

Gridley Farm

Only a couple of teasel hot spots; the roadside and short stretches on the northeastern and northwestern most boundaries.

Mitigation Site

The majority of Route 83 was in pretty good shape, with just a couple of teasel hot spots.  Roadside along Oakwood Drive as well as a couple of corridors in between the marshy areas were fairly dense with teasel.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Tallgrass spent considerable time in the McHenry Triangle, largely treating thistle and RCG. Treated all units along the creek, as well as the woodland adjacent to the McHenry Triangle.  Treated teasel, thistle, reed canary grass, celandine, garlic mustard, birdsfoot trefoil, buckthorn and small honeysuckle.

Buffalo Creek Park

Tallgrass made a second stewardship visit.  Moneywort dying well from last visit.  Treated lots of reed canary grass in southern unit.  Sprayed thistle, reed canary grass, Kentucky blue grass, mullein and garlic mustard.

Roadside Teasel

McGinty started roadside teasel treatment last week.  Southwell noted there was a large patch off of Route 83 north of Lemmon Hill that needs to be treated.  Providing progress updates to the Village. 

Old Business

Beaver Construction & Impact at Long View Meadow

Southwell provided further information on beaver activity at LVM.  Water has been backing up and beginning to flood a neighbor’s property.  The long-existing dam constructed at the eastern end of the lake, where the Clemson Leveler is located has been, has been increased in height.  A second dam downstream about 150 feet was recently built, raising the level behind the Leveler and rendering it ineffective. There is nowhere for water to be diverted.  The lake level is currently very high, and of concern as rain is expected.   

Adam Simon advised that if beavers are causing flooding and/or property damage, the beavers can be declared a health and safety hazard.  The Park District would need to obtain a permit to capture and remove the beavers. 

Motion seeking approval to support single-bid beaver management activity

Given the current flooding driven by beaver activity, the rainfall expected and the potential for more significant flooding at and near Long View Meadow Lake and Kildeer Creek, I, Roy Skillicorn, move to authorize James Southwell and any Board Member or Employee delegated to, to solicit as few as a single bid to trap, remove or take (under permit) beavers believed responsible, and/or to remove all or portions of beaver dams and lodge(s) - and to accept any such bid deemed appropriate to need and urgency so-deemed in their judgement. 

Federer seconded the motion.  Southwell asked if anyone had questions or concerns.  There were none.

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion to approve a single-bid for beaver management was approved unanimously.

Skillicorn will follow up with the beaver trapper used previously at RTW.  Wernikoff will contact DNR regarding processes and need for a permit.

Electrical @ RTNC: Updated

Wernikoff reported progress has been made with the electrical repairs.  Trenching has been done for pipes and circuits going to the garages.  Lights have been mounted inside and out.  The electricians will be back in the next week to finish the job.

Mitigation Property: Title Transfer

No updates.

New Business

VOLG Interest in Pickleball Court(s) at Lemmon-Hill

At a recent meeting with the VOLG, the Village Manager mentioned there is a board interest in building pickleball courts in Long Grove and is particularly interested in having one at Lemmon Hill.  The Village has set aside $50,000 for pickleball courts.  This could be a potential future project for the Park District.  Frystak noted that it is possible that grants could help offset the cost for the PD.  Southwell asked everyone to think about this.  To be discussed further at a later date.

Reed Pond (part of Salem Lake) - RTW

Healy reported to the board ongoing problems with the water quality at Reed Pond.  Every year when warm weather approaches, the water turns green with algae, including the toxic blue/green algae which is harmful to wildlife, pets and humans.  The sight and smell of the lake in the summer months is dreadful.   

In 2021, Healy proposed installing aerators which would increase oxygen levels.  The Park District approved this and six were installed.  The cost of $8,000 was split between LGPD, Healy and another homeowner on the pond.   At her own expense, Healy also installed an electrical line from her house to the compressor at the shoreline, and is paying the yearly electrical costs as well as the annual aerator maintenance.  

Healy is continually researching and talking to lake management companies about natural solutions to unhealthy lakes.   This spring, two lake management companies brought up a new breakthrough for improving water quality, namely mitigating excess phosphorus.   An old Salem Lake report from the Lake County Health Department Lake Management Unit reported Reed Pond/Salem Lake has 2-1/2 times more phosphorus than average ponds/lakes.  There is a new product designed to mitigate excess phosphorus.  Cost for this is approximately $8,000 for a year which includes five treatments.  Healy asked for support from the Park District.  Questions and discussion followed.  Southwell asked Frystak to research and identify which LGPD properties have water frontage, lakes/ponds, acreage.  To be reviewed in the near future.

501c3 Non-Profit/Charitable Organization. 

Federer volunteered to reach out to other Park Districts to gather information on setting up a 501c3, if it would be beneficial for LGPD to pursue.  Southwell has raised this several times prior - as a potential strategy to improve long-term financial stability, and has been researching in the background.  He will share notes from the IAPD conference he participated in on this topic.  Underwood noted getting the designation requires a large amount of time/work.  Frystak stated she had started researching 501c3’s and will share information with the board at a later date.

The Park District received a $500 donation from a Long Grove resident.  Frystak recently updated the donation page on the PD website.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Wernikoff seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at  8:19 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:30 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners and Staff Present   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood, Wernikoff

Shah departed for a commitment at 7:37 p.m.

Operations Manager:  Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator:  Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval – Young/Southwell

The April 2025 minutes were reviewed.  Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The April 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No activity re State of IL/IDOT, D96, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak/Underwood

The financial reports for April 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Wernikoff moved to accept the April 2025 financial reports as presented.  Shah seconded the motion.  The financial reports for 2025 were accepted unanimously.

Financial: Quickbooks/Mgt/Reporting – Frystak

Frystak reported the migration from Quickbooks Desktop to QB Online is going well. 

Programs and Events - Frystak

Spring/Summer Programs

Spring programs are ending this month.  Summer programs will be posted on the website in the next week or two.  Approximately 10 to 15 programs have been loaded.  Signage will be put up for Movies Under the Stars.  The event is planned for the second Wednesday each month during the summer; June 11, July 9, August 13.  Movies will begin at dusk.

Healy reported the Lions Club had reached out to her regarding Vintage Days.  For their fundraiser, they would like to drop small plastic ducks off the bridge.  They would collect all of the ducks afterwards.  Healy asked board members for thoughts.  All were supportive of allowing the Lions Club to do this.

President’s Report – Southwell

Compliance Training/Federal & State Requirements

Southwell requested everyone review the Tutorial that he handed out at the last board meeting.  Southwell will schedule a meeting with Adam Simon to have him explain requirements and document compliance.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application.

No updates.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Federer met with M. Young to obtain another bid to replace the HVAC for the main room.  Federer noted the furnaces at RTNC are more than 25 years old and stated it may make sense to replace furnace and AC at the same time.  Federer/Young will have to go back to contractors that bid last fall to re-bid with updated refrigerants.  Federer will send out recommendations prior to the next board meeting.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Southwell will connect with M. Young to discuss chipping trails at RTW.  The new self-dumping trailer has been assembled and may be ready for use.

Barbara Turner Memorial

Plan to pour foundation in June.

Buffalo Creek Park

Southwell will ask M. Young to work with Del Rio’s to repair the pergola and arbor at BCP.

The split-rail fences along both Old McHenry Road and Robert Park Coffin Road are falling down in a number of places and will need to be replaced.  

Long View Meadow

No communication from IL DOT regarding widening construction plans.

Beaver Activity and Issues - LVM

A second beaver dam has raised the water level to a point that the Clemson Leveler is not working.  Southwell reached out to Lake County Storm Management Commission who stated any on-site management is outside their scope and available resources.  Southwell also reached out to Adam Simon for legal advice on rules, regulations and laws.  This information was forwarded to board members. To be discussed further in Old Business.

Lemmon Hill

There has been no recent fly dumping or vandalism.  Will seek proposals for a new dumpster enclosure/porta-potty screen in July.

Countryside Fields

Southwell noted younger kids have been using the LH ball fields during classes and asked that they only use the Countryside FD field, per our agreement with LCS.  Frystak will notify coaches.

Gridley 

SavALawn will treat weeds in the infield and will apply weed and feed on the outfield two times this Spring/Summer.

Hayrake/Wehrenberg Trails

Del Rios will-line trim the new trail to cut grass on northern trail extension and southern entrance area.  They will also bring in chips to spread at the Trailhead/southern entrance.

Mitigation Property

No word from IL DOT or the State regarding their execution of the quit-claim deed for title-transfer of the property.  Southwell will reach out to our State Senator in hopes of moving this along.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy/Underwood

Healy submitted an article and pictures about the controlled burns on LGPD properties for the June issue.  Underwood wrote an article for the July issue about wildlife and observing nature at RTW.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Skillicorn/Federer

Federer spoke to Eagle Candidate Matthew ---- and they will be meeting this week to coordinate dates for the project.  Southwell noted he would like to have mice screen barrier installed around the remaining perimeter of RTNC while excavating, and before the flagstone walk is installed.  Federer noted the plants along path might be damaged if not moved.    Healy and Underwood will reach out to the Garden Club to ask if they would be interested in any plants for the upcoming plant sale.

Shah noted not being successful in recruiting volunteers to help with repairing/replacing beaver cages on trees by lake.  Southwell suggested reaching out to Scout troops to help in the fall, or Del Rios.  Healy reported there are trees caged along the creek, in addition to alongside the lake.  Shah will walk the creek and mark trees that need to be fixed.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell/Frystak

Southwell and Frystak met with the Long Grove Village Manager with primary objective of introducing Allie to him, as our new Operations Manager.  Fortuitously he brought-up the topic of the halted LGPD roadside signage project.  The Village Manager is willing to work with LGPD to get the signage approved.  Southwell and Frystak will submit a robust, persuasive letter and packet of supporting information to accompany the Building/Sign Permit application they will create.  Southwell shared that it was a very positive meeting.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Site, Gridley, Roadside Teasel

Gridley Farm

Only a couple of teasel hot spots; the roadside and short stretches on the northeastern and northwestern most boundaries.

Mitigation Site

The majority of Route 83 was in pretty good shape, with just a couple of teasel hot spots.  Roadside along Oakwood Drive as well as a couple of corridors in between the marshy areas were fairly dense with teasel.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Tallgrass spent considerable time in the McHenry Triangle, largely treating thistle and RCG. Treated all units along the creek, as well as the woodland adjacent to the McHenry Triangle.  Treated teasel, thistle, reed canary grass, celandine, garlic mustard, birdsfoot trefoil, buckthorn and small honeysuckle.

Buffalo Creek Park

Tallgrass made a second stewardship visit.  Moneywort dying well from last visit.  Treated lots of reed canary grass in southern unit.  Sprayed thistle, reed canary grass, Kentucky blue grass, mullein and garlic mustard.

Roadside Teasel

McGinty started roadside teasel treatment last week.  Southwell noted there was a large patch off of Route 83 north of Lemmon Hill that needs to be treated.  Providing progress updates to the Village. 

Old Business

Beaver Construction & Impact at Long View Meadow

Southwell provided further information on beaver activity at LVM.  Water has been backing up and beginning to flood a neighbor’s property.  The long-existing dam constructed at the eastern end of the lake, where the Clemson Leveler is located has been, has been increased in height.  A second dam downstream about 150 feet was recently built, raising the level behind the Leveler and rendering it ineffective. There is nowhere for water to be diverted.  The lake level is currently very high, and of concern as rain is expected.   

Adam Simon advised that if beavers are causing flooding and/or property damage, the beavers can be declared a health and safety hazard.  The Park District would need to obtain a permit to capture and remove the beavers. 

Motion seeking approval to support single-bid beaver management activity

Given the current flooding driven by beaver activity, the rainfall expected and the potential for more significant flooding at and near Long View Meadow Lake and Kildeer Creek, I, Roy Skillicorn, move to authorize James Southwell and any Board Member or Employee delegated to, to solicit as few as a single bid to trap, remove or take (under permit) beavers believed responsible, and/or to remove all or portions of beaver dams and lodge(s) - and to accept any such bid deemed appropriate to need and urgency so-deemed in their judgement. 

Federer seconded the motion.  Southwell asked if anyone had questions or concerns.  There were none.

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion to approve a single-bid for beaver management was approved unanimously.

Skillicorn will follow up with the beaver trapper used previously at RTW.  Wernikoff will contact DNR regarding processes and need for a permit.

Electrical @ RTNC: Updated

Wernikoff reported progress has been made with the electrical repairs.  Trenching has been done for pipes and circuits going to the garages.  Lights have been mounted inside and out.  The electricians will be back in the next week to finish the job.

Mitigation Property: Title Transfer

No updates.

New Business

VOLG Interest in Pickleball Court(s) at Lemmon-Hill

At a recent meeting with the VOLG, the Village Manager mentioned there is a board interest in building pickleball courts in Long Grove and is particularly interested in having one at Lemmon Hill.  The Village has set aside $50,000 for pickleball courts.  This could be a potential future project for the Park District.  Frystak noted that it is possible that grants could help offset the cost for the PD.  Southwell asked everyone to think about this.  To be discussed further at a later date.

Reed Pond (part of Salem Lake) - RTW

Healy reported to the board ongoing problems with the water quality at Reed Pond.  Every year when warm weather approaches, the water turns green with algae, including the toxic blue/green algae which is harmful to wildlife, pets and humans.  The sight and smell of the lake in the summer months is dreadful.   

In 2021, Healy proposed installing aerators which would increase oxygen levels.  The Park District approved this and six were installed.  The cost of $8,000 was split between LGPD, Healy and another homeowner on the pond.   At her own expense, Healy also installed an electrical line from her house to the compressor at the shoreline, and is paying the yearly electrical costs as well as the annual aerator maintenance.  

Healy is continually researching and talking to lake management companies about natural solutions to unhealthy lakes.   This spring, two lake management companies brought up a new breakthrough for improving water quality, namely mitigating excess phosphorus.   An old Salem Lake report from the Lake County Health Department Lake Management Unit reported Reed Pond/Salem Lake has 2-1/2 times more phosphorus than average ponds/lakes.  There is a new product designed to mitigate excess phosphorus.  Cost for this is approximately $8,000 for a year which includes five treatments.  Healy asked for support from the Park District.  Questions and discussion followed.  Southwell asked Frystak to research and identify which LGPD properties have water frontage, lakes/ponds, acreage.  To be reviewed in the near future.

501c3 Non-Profit/Charitable Organization. 

Federer volunteered to reach out to other Park Districts to gather information on setting up a 501c3, if it would be beneficial for LGPD to pursue.  Southwell has raised this several times prior - as a potential strategy to improve long-term financial stability, and has been researching in the background.  He will share notes from the IAPD conference he participated in on this topic.  Underwood noted getting the designation requires a large amount of time/work.  Frystak stated she had started researching 501c3’s and will share information with the board at a later date.

The Park District received a $500 donation from a Long Grove resident.  Frystak recently updated the donation page on the PD website.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Wernikoff seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at  8:19 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

April 21, 2025

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:33 p.m. 

Consideration of Remote Participation

Healy moved to approve remote attendance by Federer and Underwood.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  Motion was approved unanimously.

Roll Call

Commissioners Physically Present   

Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Wernikoff

Commissioners Present via Zoom Connection:

Federer, Underwood

Operations Manager: Allie Frystak

Administrative Coordinator: Stephanie Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Installation of Elected Board Members

All commissioners who ran for their position were re-elected.  Federer, Healy, Shah, Southwell and Wernikoff were sworn in.

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The March 2025 minutes were reviewed.  Wernikoff moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The March 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates re. State of IL, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

District 96 

Frystak received the IGA back from D96.  All revisions that LGPD requested were rejected by D96.  Frystak is communicating with Sam Miranda at the District.  Their expectations re frequency/primary background checks and cleaning the facilities are still being discussed.  Frystak will reach out to the LGPD-retained Attorney to discuss further.  Wernikoff will review the agreement and work with Frystak to resolve open issues.  Frystak noted October to April classes are held indoors and would be affected if an agreement is not reached.  An updated certificate of insurance is in place for 2025-2026. 

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports/February & March 2025 – Young/Frystak

The financial reports for February 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Healy moved to accept the February 2025 financial reports as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The financial reports for February 2025 were accepted unanimously.

The financial reports for March 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Healy had requested more information from Frystak and S. Young prior to the board meeting regarding property sites that were trending over budget.  Frystak noted that some expenses had been entered into the wrong category and were corrected.

Underwood moved to accept the March 2025 financial reports as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The financial reports for March 2025 were accepted unanimously.

Financial: Quickbooks/Mgt/Reporting – Frystak/Young/Healy

Frystak reported that the transition to Quickbooks Online has been completed.  Frystak and S. Young will be training in the next week or two.  More information to follow.

Healy received an invoice from Tallgrass for a prescribed burn at RTW for approximately $7000.  Healy suggested moving $7000 from UBS RTW Designated-Fund to PNC Operations Account to pay the expense.  All were in agreement to move the funds, as per RTW Designated Fund policy and provisions. 

Insurance

An invoice from IAPD was sent for coverage for March 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026, at a prorated premium.  Frystak noted the amount was higher than expected and contacted IAPD.  An error had been made and IAPD revised the invoice for a lower amount.  This has been paid.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Winter/Spring Programs

Frystak reported approximately 50% of classes offered for winter/spring ran.  The partnership with the Village of Hawthorn Woods has been working out very well. 

2025 Summer Programs Strategy Discussion - Frystak/Healy/Southwell

There will be smaller class offerings for athletics for the summer.  Frystak intends to create more programs for adults/seniors and will focus more on non-athletic classes.

President’s Report – Southwell

Compliance training, Federal and State Requirements

Single, On-site compliance training is being considered for all board members and employees.  Southwell will contact Adam Simon asking that he come in for a few hours to step through specific requirements and document compliance. 

SAM (Federal Grant Management System)

This has been updated for 2025/26 and will need to be renewed yearly.

ComEd Lease Renewal application.

No updates.  No communication has been received from ComEd.

State of IL/Parking Lot Grant

The parking lot grant is now closed.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Eagle Scout project

Federer noted the Eagle Scout candidate will complete the project in May.  Federer will coordinate with Del Rio’s to do the excavation and place the subsurface gravel base.  Flagstone placement will be done by the Eagle Scout and team.  Federer will reach out to Schwake Stone for pricing information.

AC Condenser Replacement at RTNC

Federer will follow up with M. Young to get proposals for the AC condenser replacement and discuss options.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Foundation for memorial be poured, likely in June.

Clean up around RTNC continues.  A self-dumping trailer was purchased and M. Young is assembling it.  This will be used to haul chips to trails at RTW.

Bridge Review

Bridges at RTW were mapped, dimensioned and photographed.  A meeting with M. Young, Frystak, Southwell and Geoff Perry/GHA was organized to review and assess construction, current situations and options.  Potential grant(s) to replace one or more existing bridges with wider, higher-capacity installations to support woodland management on far-side of creek will be considered in the future.

Longview Meadow

Southwell reported the trails are in good condition.  A large prescribed burn was done recently.  Southwell asked Del Rio’s to trim standing weeds around the perimeter and at the corner of Routes 22 & 83.

Beaver Issues

A complaint was made to the Village of Long Grove by a resident living by the lake at LVM regarding beaver issues.  He had concerns about potential flooding on his property.  The beaver dams have been raised and an additional dam was built downstream.  Southwell reviewed GIS to evaluate whether this was on LGPD property or possibly ComEd/IDOT or Private property. Southwell will research options for managing the situation with Lake County Stormwater Management Commission.

Lemmon Hill

Groot delivered a dumpster to LH.  Waste Management has picked up their dumpster. 

Dumpster shed replacement

A rough design has been done.  Bids and permit will be obtained when ready to move forward with the project (following VOLG approval of Roadside Signage).  This has been budgeted for 2024-25 fiscal year.

Gridley 

Southwell reported ballfield restoration needs to be completed.  Infield treatments, rototill, spot treat re-growth on infield as needed. Deferred until there is demand for the field.

Hayrake/Wehrenberg Trails

Southwell walked and surveyed the trail earlier in the month.  There was a lot of timber downed over winter. Southwell had made a list for Del Rio’s of work that needed to be completed, including considerable trimming to widen the trail.  Southwell blazed additional “spurs” off the legacy trail, and as well blazed an extension.  Del Rio’s completed the work. The trail now runs uninterrupted from Port Clinton Road to Oakwood Road (near both Mitigation and Gridley Farm Properties.  All work has been completed.   

Clean up and widening of Wehrenberg Woods Trail (in Royal Melbourne) will be addressed in the fall.

Buffalo Creek Park

Wernikoff walked and surveyed BCP and created a considerable list of items in need of repair or replacement.  The arbor needs to be reinforced and stabilized as it is leaning approximately 20 degrees.  The trellis over the picnic table needs to be fixed.  Southwell will ask M. Young and Del Rio’s to do the work.  The split rail fence along Old McHenry Road and Robert Parker Coffin Road will be replaced once we have VOLG approval of our Roadside Signage project. 

Countryside FD Field

Southwell intends to install a small sign to acknowledge CSFD for allowing the LGPD to use the field.  Southwell is also looking into costs of soccer/lacrosse nets.

Mitigation Property

There has been no communication from the State regarding the quit-claim deed for transfer of title of the property.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy/Underwood

Frystak submitted an article for the May Stroll Magazine; “Summer Fun Awaits with the Long Grove Park District.”  Healy asked for ideas for June.  Shah suggested a map of LGPD properties.  Frystak will write an article regarding the prescribed burn done at LVM.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Healy/Skillicorn

Shah reported surveying the trees along the lake that have cages to prevent damage from beavers and marked the trees that need to have the cages expanded or replaced.  Shah noted there were trees being chewed up by beavers that did not have cages along the lake.  Skillicorn offered to meet with M. Young to survey.

Frystak added volunteer days to the “Take Action” page on the website.  Anyone interested in volunteering can fill out the form and submit it to the PD.  Volunteer days will be held on the first Saturday of each month.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Longview Meadow.

A substantial prescribed burn was completed recently. 

Reed-Turner Woodland.

Healy reported a prescribed burn was done at RTW on March 13th and April 1st and provided a map indicating where the burns were done.

Buffalo Creek Park.

Routine, seasonal stewardship was accomplished last week.  Invasives were treated.

Mitigation property/Gridley.

Tallgrass will be doing teasel control in the next week or two at both locations.

Leading VOLG Roadside teasel Control.

Healy will be meeting with McGinty to go over expectations, provide a teasel map and answer any questions.  First visit will be done in May.

Old Business

Electrical at RTNC:  Updates

Wernikoff reported the electrician has not been available recently but notified Wernikoff that they will be able to finish the job in one day.  Repair work is scheduled to be done the first week of May.

Substantive Revisions to “Programs and Events Manager” Position and Accountabilities

Southwell and Healy met with Frystak to discuss the responsibilities and revisions to the position.  Frystak accepted the promotion and new title.  The goal is to put LGPD in a financially-sustainable position.

New Business

Election of Officers, Certification Resolution

Nomination and Election of Officers:

Skillicorn moved to nominate Southwell for the Office of President.  Wernikoff seconded the motion. 

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion to elect Southwell for Office of President was approved unanimously.

Underwood moved to nominate Healy for the Office of Vice President.  Skillicorn seconded the motion. 

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion to elect Healy for Office of Vice President was approved unanimously.

Southwell moved to nominate Underwood for the Office of Treasurer.  Healy seconded the motion.

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion to elect Underwood for Office of Treasurer was approved unanimously.

Wernikoff moved to nominate Skillicorn for the Office of Secretary.  Shah seconded the motion. 

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion to elect Skillicorn for Office of Secretary was approved unanimously.

A.      Resolution Confirming and Documenting Election of Officers for 2025/26:

I, James Southwell, offer a resolution to acknowledge and confirm the election of Officers of the Board of Commissioners for the Long Grove Park District for the period of April 21, 2025, until the latter of the April 2026 Commissioners Meeting or until which time New Officers are elected.

Resolution:

By The Board of the Long Grove Park District, April 21, 2025.

Be it Resolved and Acknowledged that The Duly elected Commissioners of the Long Grove Park District have elected the following as Officers of the District, this day, the 21st day of April 2025:

James Southwell, Commissioner, as President,

Janet Healy, Commissioner, as Vice President,

Angela Underwood, Commissioner, as Treasurer, and

Roy Skillicorn, Commissioner, as Secretary.

Stephanie Young, as Recording Secretary.

Signed by:  James Southwell, Janet Healy, Angela Underwood, Roy Skillicorn, Rich Federer, Steve Wernikoff and Nadia Shah

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion carried unanimously.

Ela soccer fields

Wernikoff noted the 12-year lease for the soccer fields is expiring soon.  It might be in the interest of the PD to collaborate with the Village of Long Grove.  Southwell asked Frystak if it would be advantageous to use one of the fields.  The PD might express interest for future use.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Wernikoff seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:42 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

March 3, 2025

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:32 p.m. Note that the previously scheduled meeting for February was cancelled due to inability schedule/achieve a quorum. The date for the March meeting was moved earlier in the month to best consider and transact all business from February and March.

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell, Wernikoff

Underwood joined the meeting via Zoom.

Commissioners Absent

Shah

Stewards & Staff Present 

Frystak, Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The January 2025 minutes were reviewed.   Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The January 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates on State of IL/DOT, VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

Frystak reported receiving the IGA from District 96.  This was sent to Adam Simon to review and discuss.  This should be resolved in the next week or two.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak

The financial reports for January 2025 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Healy moved to accept the January 2025 financial reports as presented.  Wernikoff seconded the motion.  The financial reports for January 2025 were accepted unanimously.

The financial reports for February 2025 were not available at the time of the meeting.

Financial Mgt/Reporting – Frystak/Young/Healy

Frystak noted looking into switching to Quickbooks Online, researching information on pricing, how to transfer from the desktop version to online.

Healy reported the $125,000 CD at UBS is maturing March 12th, rate of 5.15%.  The new rate will be in the low 4’s.   Healy spoke to the UBS advisor regarding laddering the CDs and suggested reinvesting the $125k in a new CD for 1 year at 4.25%.    All were in favor of extending the CD for 1 year.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Winter/Spring Programs

Winter programs are running, mostly core programs, e.g. basketball.  The brand-new programs are not generating enough interest.  The partnership with Hawthorn Woods is going very well for both LGPD and HW.  Spring programs have been posted on the website.  Frystak is working with District 96 to promote classes.

Frystak presented a review of programs and registrations from 2023 to present.  Entry level classes do well, programs for older kids were not as good, but will try to build out more programs for older age groups.  Frystak recommended to keep offering programs but focus more on top performing classes such as basketball, soccer, tennis, pickleball, t-ball/baseball clinic and would like to work with adults/seniors in the future. 

Frystak proposed focusing only on core programs for the summer with a limited number of classes.  All were in favor of doing this.

The Lemmon Hill baseball field usage agreement with Lake County Stars for the 2025 season has been completed.  Changes were made regarding site safety and maintenance, LCS to cover costs if any damage is incurred when using the park and removal of LCS’s use of the shed and bunker area.

Frystak would like to build out sponsorship opportunities and asked commissioners to promote the LGPD website.  Frystak noted help is needed for events and asked for bigger ideas. 

Frystak has been looking into grants for larger Park District projects.  Southwell stated there must be active support from the Board to consider pursuit.  Help is needed with building out projects and meeting the needs of the Board and Park District mission.

President’s Report – Southwell

ComEd Lease Renewal application.

No updates.  No communication from ComEd.

State of IL/Parking Lot Grant

Grant payment has been received from the State of Illinois.  The parking lot project is completed and closed out.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Walkway reconstruction in front of RTNC. 

Federer is working with the Eagle Scout candidate on plans for and execution of the project.  Del Rio’s will do the initial excavation and gravel base placement.  Oversized pavers will be used.  LGPD will cover Del Rio’s and pavers expenses.  Federer noted Martin & Associates may be willing to help with designs.

AC Condenser Replacement. 

Federer will follow up with M. Young.

Longview Meadow

Trails are in good condition.  Southwell is waiting to hear from IL DOT regarding Routes 22/83 construction.

Lemmon Hill

The fire pit that was donated to be assembled and placed in late Spring.

Gridley 

Continued treatment of turf.  SavaLawn will be contracted for two treatments in the spring. 

Hayrake/Wehrenberg Trails

Del Rio’s will be clearing and widening trails in April.  Southwell volunteered to re-blaze the existing, over-grown trail, as well as blaze a potential extension.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Del Rio’s is scheduled to do spring cleanup around RTNC and parking lot in early April. 

A dumping trailer for the Kubota was researched.  Plan to purchase for approximately $400.

Bridge review:  

Southwell will ask M. Young to map and photograph bridges at RTW.  To be discussed at next meeting.

Buffalo Creek Park: 

Assistance is needed in determining what needs to be cleaned and fixed at BCP, create a to-do list.  Healy asked for volunteers to walk the park and make lists of what needs to be repaired, cleaned up, etc.  Wernikoff offered to take the lead on this.  The east and south split-rail fences at BCP will need to be replaced in the near future.

Countryside FD Field

Plans are to continue using the field for summer/fall programs.  Signage will be designed and installed to acknowledge CFD allowing LGPD to use the field.

Mitigation Property

Del Rio’s will be asked to pull flags, remove trash and any election signage along the IL83 and Oakwood Road frontages.  Buckthorn and other invasives may be cut during off-season.

Telecom/Accessibility by Constituents

Southwell noted shortcomings of the current set-up and would like to investigate potential improvements.  Wernikoff will work with Frystak and S. Young on connecting voicemail to the proper person/department, etc.  Wernikoff looked into T Mobile for internet, phone plans to reduce costs.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy/Underwood

Underwood submitted a word search, “Reasons to Love the Long Grove Park District” for the February Stroll magazine.  For March, Underwood wrote an article on spring wildflowers at RTW.   Healy submitted “Spring is the time to pull garlic mustard” for April.  Frystak will submit an article on summer events and programs.

Roadside Signage

Healy received a call from the Long Grove Village Manager regarding ComEd wishing to cut down dead trees on Park District/Village properties.  The Village Manager also inquired about the status of the LGPD property signs and would like to meet and move the project forward.  Southwell and Healy will meet with the Village Manager on Thursday, March 6th.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Burn plans have been signed off for RTW and LVM.  Waiting for the right conditions to burn, hopefully in the next month, before April 1st. 

Healy reported the VOLG voted to approve roadside teasel control for 2025.  McGinty will bill VOLG directly.  The VOLG will keep Healy in the loop.  Healy will work with McGinty to review plans.

Southwell and Frystak went to the IAPD conference in January and attended multiple presentations.  Healy also attended; walked exhibits and met with Bluestem, a company that provides stewardship maintenance, prescribed burns, invasives treatment.  Healy will put together a summary of the scope of work that would be needed for FY 2025-2026 and will meet with Bluestem to discuss and will walk the properties with them.  A quote has been requested.  

Southwell will circulate his notes from all conference sessions to board members.  He also provided a hard-copy of the presentation to each Board Member, for their review, from a session he attended; “So You Want to Stay out of Jail.” 

Old Business

Security LH & RTNC: Update and Discussion Signage, Potential Lighting

Wernikoff reported electrical upgrades and safety concerns have been completed.  A WiFi timer has been installed and everything is working outside.  A security light was placed on the garage which is working well.  The lighting timer is set for sunset to 10:30 p.m.  Lights will be set at low but will turn to bright for 10 minutes when triggered by motion. 

Extension of Contract:  Lake County Stars – LH ballfields

Frystak reported having received a fully executed contract with Lake County Stars.  The end date is October 31st but this could be extended until December 1st.

Mitigation Property:  IL DOT Provision of Doc Set for Title Transfer

Southwell is waiting for the title transfer from the State of IL.

Moved to Closed Session

Healy moved to enter closed session for purposes of discussing Personnel Strategy.  Wernikoff seconded the motion. The meeting was moved to closed session at 8:08 p.m.

Return to Open Session

Wernikoff moved to return to open session.  Federer seconded the motion. The meeting returned to open session at 8:37 p.m.

Motion Regarding Personnel Strategy

Healy moved:

Recognizing the significant needs of the LGPD - in operating today, becoming financially sustainable and in strategically preparing to fulfill our mission/achieve our Vision.

Also recognizing the significant contributions to-date, as well as the capability and potential of Allie Frystak to help achieve our ambitions for the LGPD.

To charge Janet Healy (VP) and James Southwell (President) to finalize a Position Description and Comp level for an Operations Manager for LGPD – further discussing with Allie, and potentially to offer the Promotion accordingly, without further need for approval from this Board of Commissioners.

Motion was Seconded by Underwood.

A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion carried unanimously; 5 Ayes, 2 Absent

Adjournment of Meeting

Wernikoff moved to adjourn the meeting.   Federer seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:42 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

January 13, 2025

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:58 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Southwell, Wernikoff

Underwood joined via Zoom.

Commissioners Absent

Skillicorn, excused.

Stewards & Staff Present 

Frystak, Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The December 2024 minutes were reviewed.  Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Wernikoff seconded the motion.  The December 2024 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

RTW Parking Lot Grant

Southwell was contacted by the Grant Manager January 13th with an update, notification that all hurdles had been cleared.  Southwell immediately completed a closing document, with State of Illinois to make matching-funds payment to LGPD for the project.

No activity/updates regarding VHW, VOLG, Ela Township.

Healy reported reaching out to K. Tinucci/VOLG with questions regarding roadside teasel; who will handle scheduling work in 2025, will LGPD continue working with McGinty, will invoices be sent to the VOLG rather than LGPD.  Healy will follow up with Tinucci.

District 96 

Frystak received a draft Intergovernmental Agreement from D96.  The agreement covers 01-01-25 – 06-30-29.  It states LGPD will pay 75% of normal space fees.  Clarification is needed as there was no mention of value in kind.  Southwell/Frystak will have Adam Simon review the IGA.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak

The financial reports for December 2024 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Federer moved to accept the 2024 financial reports as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The financial reports for December 2024 were accepted unanimously.

Financial Mgt/Reporting – Frystak/Young/Healy

Frystak noted the Quickbooks desktop version is up for renewal in February and would like to revisit switching to the online version.  Frystak and S. Young will get more information from a QB webinar and will report back.

IPARKS Insurances renewal

The annual membership renewal date will be March 31st.  This policy will be in effect until January 1, 2026.  The renewal will be lower than normal this year.  Going forward it will be at a higher rate, January 1 through January 1. 

Historic Long Grove Business Association (HLGBA) license fee for Covered Bridge Trail

An invoice was sent to HLGBA in December to cover 2 years of the license fee, 2023-2024, $750 per year. 

Payment was received in January.  The next, annual invoice will be sent in late Fall 2025.

Lemmon Hill shed vandalism

Healy noted S. Young sent a claim to IPARKS for costs associated with repairing the shed doors that were vandalized/damaged in June.  Payment of $2720 was received.

Funds in the PNC Bank operations account are low.  $6000 will be moved from UBS to PNC to cover an invoice for brush clearing at RTW. 

Programs and Events - Frystak

Winter/Spring Programs

Winter programs are up and running.  Wernikoff also taught a boating safety class at RTNC on January 11th.  There were 22 people registered, 18 attended.  This was an all-day program.  Wernikoff reported this was the only winter offering for boating safety class in northern Illinois.  The program may be offered again in April or May before the boating season starts. 

Frystak has received inquiries for rentals and/or partnerships from different organizations to use RTNC and LH fields. 

Frystak and Southwell will attend the IAPD conference later in January, with Healy reviewing the exhibits.

President’s Report – Southwell

ComEd Lease Renewal application.

No updates.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Southwell and Federer will meet to mark where the flagstone walkway reconstruction will be.  Del Rio’s will do the initial excavation and gravel placement.  Federer will be meeting with the Eagle Scout candidate in the next week or two to discuss the project. 

Continued cleanup around RTNC will be done during the off-season.

AC condenser replacement to be reviewed in the near future.

Longview Meadow

No update.

Lemmon Hill

The oak tree was removed and cut up.  Del Rio’s worked with M. Young to split logs we have accumulated from tree work over the past 18 month.  Six face-cords were loaded in log racks set up by Young. 

Gridley Field       

No activity/update.

Hayrake Trail/Wehrenberg Trails

Widening of trails and cleanup will be deferred until February.  Del Rio’s will do the work.

Reed-Turner Woodland

No activity/update.

Buffalo Creek Park

No activity/update.

Countryside FD Field

Southwell reported that the Chief is supportive of LGPD utilizing the field for programs during the spring and summer.  We agreed to place a small sign acknowledging and appreciating the Fire District having made it available to us.

Mitigation Property

There is a significant amount of litter/trash along Route 83, some of which has blown into the mitigation property, that needs to be cleaned up.   This could possibly be a community service project.  Shah will look into getting volunteers to help with clean up.  Southwell stated that given close proximity to substantial, fast-moving traffic, we may wish to have Del Rio’s do the cleanup rather than volunteers.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy/Underwood

Angie submitted a word search puzzle related to LGPD, to Stroll for February.  Need something for March.  Possible ideas:  Spring ephemerals, pictures.  LG newsletters, social media looking for articles/information to promote.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Healy/Skillicorn

Reviewed in the President’s report.  Federer is working with Matthew Sirota on the flagstone/walkway project.

Shah will look into getting volunteers to clean up the mitigation property and/or other workday projects.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Tallgrass was at RTW recently clearing the McHenry Triangle; including buckthorn, invasives, overgrown brush.  They were contracted for two days.  Healy had wanted TG to do work at the prairie patch also but there was not enough time.  Cost for one day’s work would be $2600.  This will be delayed until later in the year.

Old Business

RTW:  Beaver Dam/Flooding, Tree Loss Concerns, Stream Bank Scouring, Bridges

No updates.

Security LH & RTNC: Update and Discussion Signage, Potential Security Lighting enhancements

No updates.

Potential Extension of Contract:  Lake County Stars – LH ballfields

Southwell will work with Frystak on the 2025 contract.

Mitigation Property:  IL DOT Provision of Doc Set for Title Transfer

A quit-claim deed for transfer of title of the property has been prepared and sent to the State of IL for the Governor’s approval.

Potential Revisions to “Programs & Events Manager” Accountabilities

Southwell, Healy and Frystak will continue discussions. 

New Business

Resolution Approval, Execution of IDOT Temporary Easement (IL Route 22/Stonehaven HOA)

IDOT is requesting a temporary easement from LGPD for the upcoming improvements to IL Route 22 near Stonehaven HOA.  This will allow construction vehicles to use a small parcel of land owned by LGPD. 

Discussion was held.  Underwood and Federer questioned if vehicles would be parked on the property, if there is any damage who would be responsible for cost of repairs.  Federer asked if this would need to be documented/added into the easement agreement.  Southwell noted this would be temporary, 5 years or completion of project, whichever is sooner.

Southwell moved adopt and to certify the resolution.  Healy seconded the motion.

CERTIFIED RESOLUTION

(Governmental Entity)

I, James Southwell, President and Commissioner of Long Grove Park District, a governmental entity organized and existing under the laws of the State of Illinois, including without limitation, city, village, incorporated town, county, park district, or township, I, Stephanie Young, Secretary of Long Grove Park District hereby certify that the following is a true and correct copy of a resolution adopted by the Council or Board of said governmental entity, a quorum of its members, trustees, or commissioners being present at a meeting held of the 13th day of January, 2025, at Reed-Turner Nature Center in Long Grove IL.  And that the resolution has not been amended or revoked and is in full force and effect.

Resolved that James Southwell, the President and Janet Healy, the Vice-President of the Council or Board of the above-referenced governmental entity are hereby authorized and directed to convey the governmental entity’s interest in the following described real estate in Lake County, Illinois to the People of the State of Illinois, Department of Transportation for highway purposes for the sum of $1,400.00:

See attached legal description.

Further resolved that they are authorized and directed to execute and deliver such instruments as may be necessary or convenient to consummate such sale.

Further resolved that the members, aldermen, trustees or commissioners of the Council or Board of the governmental entity or electors of the governmental entity, pursuant to 70 ILCS 1205/10-7 voted for the adoption of this resolution as follows: AYE 6; NAY 0; ABSENT
 1.

[A roll call vote was taken:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Six for, none against, one absent].  Motion carried and Resolution Adopted unanimously.

Signed/Certified this      day of           , 2025 [on Board Approval of Meeting Minutes].

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

December 10, 2024

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:33 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood, Wernikoff

Commissioners Absent

Federer - excused

Stewards & Staff Present 

S Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The November 2024 minutes were reviewed.  Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The November 2024 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

Frystak reported District 96 contacted her and should have an IG agreement drafted regarding use of space at the schools for programs in the next week or two. 

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Southwell

The financial reports for November 2024 were reviewed.  Underwood moved to accept the November financial reports as presented.  Wernikoff seconded the motion.  The financial reports for November 2024 were accepted unanimously.

Annual Financial Reporting: Review/Approval – Healy/Young/Frystak

The FY2024 Illinois Annual Financial Report that was prepared by Swarztrauber & Co. with assistance from Healy, Frystak and S. Young, along with a report summarizing transactions and highlighted items was provided to board members prior to the meeting for review.

Proposed Acceptance of and Approval to Submit LGPD Annual Financial Filing with the State of Illinois

I, Angela Underwood, move to accept the annual 2024 financial report prepared by Swarztrauber & Co. as arranged and presented by Janet Healy, as well as to authorize its timely submittal to the State of Illinois. 

Seconded by:  Skillicorn

A roll call vote was taken:  Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion carried unanimously.

UBS Account

Healy reported a $50,000 CD matured two weeks ago; $46,000 was put into a 12-month CD at 4.4%, and the balance was put into a core savings account.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Winter/Spring Programs, Santa Event

“Sessions with Santa” December 7th was a success.  Frystak received many emails from families who participated thanking the Park District for holding the event.  A video of the event was posted on social media.

Fall programs are ending soon.  Winter programs have been posted on the website and signups are coming in.

President’s Report – Southwell

ComEd Lease Renewal

No word has been received from ComEd regarding the application.

Parking Lot Grant/State of Illinois

The grant manager confirmed with Southwell that everything required from LGPD has been submitted and received.  Waiting for payment from the State.  Southwell will continue to follow up with the grant manager regarding payment and close-out.

Reed-Turner Nature Center/Woodlands

Del Rio’s accomplished a fall cleanup in front of, and around the Nature Center. 

The water heater in the basement developed a substantial leak.  M. Young cleaned up the mess and a new water heater was ordered and installed.

Longview Meadow

The trails are in good condition.

Lemmon Hill

Fly-dumping continues by the dumpster.

A very large, old oak tree along Gilmer Road fell down during a wind storm.  Del Rio’s cut up the tree and moved logs behind the barn.  Plan is to split and store logs, racked in the barn, for future use at LH and/or RTW fire pits.

Gridley Ballfield

No updates.

Countryside FD Field

Southwell is working with Chief Smith on extending the agreement, to permit LGPD to use the field, no charge, for 2025 programs.  The Chief will present this to the CSFD board and will report back.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy/Underwood

A two-page article appeared in the December issue of Stroll Magazine; “What a Year at the Long Grove Park District.”  A similar article, “2024 Highlights from the Long Grove Park District” will be in the December issue of The Bridge. 

Healy asked for ideas for spring articles.  

Volunteer Activities & Projects, S-USA Projects – Shah/Healy/Skillicorn

Skillicorn has not heard from the scout he has been working with on a new project.

There are trees by the lake that need to have the Poultry Wire that was placed around them loosened.   Healy suggested having volunteers place colored tape on the trees that need to have this done.  Shah will survey the area and set up a work day.

Shah reported walking through Buffalo Creek Park to inspect the area.  There is quite a bit of trash that needs to be cleaned up.  Also, there is a slat missing on a footbridge that needs replaced.  Healy will contact M. Young and ask that he make the repairs needed.  

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

No updates.

Old Business

RTW: Beaver Dam/Flooding Tree-loss Concerns, Stream Bank Scouring

Skillicorn stated the water is down and no further bank-scouring noted.

Security LH and RTNC:  Update and Discussion - Signage, Potential Lighting

Wernikoff installed a new WiFi gateway at Lemmon Hill to support security cameras.  A business account was opened at T-Mobile.

Wernikoff and Federer will walk the property at RTW/RTNC and make recommendations for where to place motion-controlled lighting in the parking lot and close to RTNC.

Potential Extension of Contract:  Lake County Stars – L Hill Ballfields

Southwell plans to negotiate a new contract with LCS for 2025 to include an extended season for the port-a-potty and an agreement to split or otherwise manage costs for any damages/vandalism that may occur to buildings and/or property.

Mitigation Property - IL DOT Provision of Doc Set for Title Transfer

Prior to the board meeting, Southwell sent board members documents regarding the transfer (IL IDOT to LGPD) of the property title for review.  This includes three parcels totaling approximately 45+ acres at IL83 and Gilmer/Oakwood Roads.  Discussion followed. 

All questions were answered.  Southwell asked if all Commissioners remained supportive of the property transfer or if anyone had concerns.  All were in favor of moving forward. 

A Certified Resolution is required to authorize Southwell to execute necessary documents, have them witnessed/notarized and returned back to the State of IL. 

CERTIFIED RESOLUTION 

(Governmental Entity)

Be it Resolved that the Board of the Long Grove Park District finds it is necessary or convenient for it to use, occupy or improve the real estate herein described for Park purposes.

Be it Further Resolved, Jim Southwell, the President, Stephanie Young, Secretary, and Adam Simon, Attorney of the Board of the above-referenced governmental entity are hereby authorized and directed to express the Park District’s interest in acquiring the following described real estate in Lake County, Illinois from the People of the State of Illinois, Department of Transportation:

Parcel No.:  1WY1202
P.I.N. No.:   15-07-401-006, 15-18-200-018 and 15-07-400-010

See attached legal description.

Be it Further Resolved that they are authorized and directed to execute and deliver such agreements and instruments as may be necessary or convenient to consummate such acquisition.

Be It Further Resolved that the Commissioners of the or Board of the governmental entity, pursuant to 70 ILCS 1205/8-1(b) voted for the adoption of this resolution as follows:

AYE 6; NAY 0; ABSENT 1

A roll call vote was taken:  Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  6 for, none against, 1 absent.  Motion carried unanimously.

Potential Revisions to “Programs and Events Manager” Accountabilities

To be revisited in January.

New Business

Wernikoff reviewed the most recent Comcast bill which includes one phone line and internet and compared rates with what T Mobile offers.  A gateway could be added at RTNC along with a phone line, cost would be approximately $90 per month.  Southwell would like to discuss further before making any changes.

Moved to Closed Session

Underwood moved to go into closed session to discuss HR topics.  Healy seconded the motion. The meeting was moved to closed session at 7:42 p.m.

Return to Open Session

Healy moved to return to open session.  Skillicorn seconded the motion. The meeting was moved to open session at 7:44 p.m.

Motion Regarding Merit Increases and Bonuses for LGPD Staff 2024

I, James Southwell, move to recognize and reward the exceptional efforts contributed and results achieved by our three part-time, hourly employees in 2024 with a combination of merit increases and one-time cash bonuses.  Specifically, merit increases of 3% beginning January 1, 2025, on hourly rates for S. Young (to: $31.40), M. Young (to: $31.40) and bonuses of 8% of each employee’s gross/base December 10, 2023, to December 10, 2024 (“2024”) wages (dollar amounts calculated by multiplying each employee’s “2024” gross wages x 0.08).  Bonuses thus amounting to:  $1,244 for S. Young, $1,140 for M. Young and $3,237 for A. Frystak.  (All amounts gross) payable in January 2025.

Seconded by:  Underwood

A roll call vote was taken:  Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye, Wernikoff-aye.  Motion carried unanimously.

Adjournment of Meeting

Wernikoff moved to adjourn the meeting.  Skillicorn seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 7:54 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

November 11, 2024

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:34 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Southwell, Wernikoff

Commissioners Absent

Skillicorn excused, Underwood excused

Stewards & Staff Present 

Frystak, Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The October 2024 minutes were reviewed.   Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Wernikoff seconded the motion.  The October 2024 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates from State of IL/DOT, D96, VHW, Ela Township.

Healy received an email from the Village of Long Grove regarding PD property that had been damaged in December 2021 at a construction site in Glenstone Park.  The Village was following up to confirm everything had been repaired and cleaned up by the contractor.  The deadline was April 2022 to finish the work. 

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Bookkeeping/Financial Reporting Improvements – Frystak/Young/Healy

Financial Reports – Young/Frystak/Southwell

The financial reports for October 2024 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.   Healy moved to accept the October 2024 financial reports as presented.   Federer seconded the motion.  The financial reports for October 2024 were accepted unanimously.

Healy noted a UBS CD, $50,000, was maturing November 22nd.  Southwell suggested putting $25,000 in a new CD and $25,000 in a cash account so as to maintain a small, liquid cash-position.  All were in agreement, Healy will arrange.

Financial Mgt/Reporting (Move to Accrual?) – Frystak/Young/Healy

Discussion was held regarding changing reporting from cash to accrual in the middle of the fiscal year.  Federer stated the reporting should be kept as cash basis.  It would be easier to compare current expenses and income to prior years. Board will continue to evaluate and discuss at subsequent meetings.

Annual Financial Reporting to the State of IL – Healy/Young/Frystak

All of the information that the accounting firm had requested to support report development has been provided.  Firm continues work on the report.  Young and Frystak will follow up on the progress, with an objective of completion, review and presentation for consideration of acceptance at December meeting. 

Healy reported that a donation of $1,200 was received from the Long Grove-Kildeer Garden Club.  Frystak reported a donation of $100 was made on the website from a Long Grove resident.  Thank you letters will be sent out.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Fall/Winter/Spring Programs

Winter/spring programs have been posted on the website. 

Sessions with Santa

Frystak sent an email in-advance to Long Grove residents on our email list to promote the Santa event.  Subsequently also sent to all-other past participants in our Programs and Events. A flyer was sent to District 96 to be included in the virtual backpack.  All but 4 slots have been booked.  This event will sell out.  A photographer was booked.  Frystak is looking for a live reindeer for the event.

President’s Report – Southwell

ComEd Lease Renewal Application.

No updates.

State of IL/Parking Lot Grant

No updates.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Federer and M. Young have been sourcing HVAC options.  Young obtained quotes from three companies.  Prices for the AC unit range from $4500 to $6000.  Federer and Young will discuss further and Federer will provide an update at the next meeting.

Longview Meadow

The trails are in good condition.

Lemmon Hill

Dumpster Shed Replacement

A rough design has been drawn up.  This is budgeted for the 2024-2025 fiscal year.  More information will be provided in the next few months.

Gridley 

Southwell reported the grass field is now restored and in good condition.  Plan to contract SavALawn for treatments in the spring and also will plan to spot treat re-growth on the infield as needed in the spring.

Hayrake/Wehrenberg Trails

Work on extending the Hayrake Trail has been deferred until January.   Clean up and widening the trails will also be deferred until December or January.   

Buffalo Creek Park

Southwell asked Del Rio’s to do a fall cleanup in late November; weed management, shrub and tree trimming, general bed cleanup, deadwood/sucker removal.

Healy is going to walk through BCP with M. Young and inspect the bridge. 

Reed-Turner Woodland

Del Rio’s will continue to cleanup around RTNC and the outside perimeter of the parking lot through late-season.

Bagster Concept for hauling Wood Chips for Trail Maintenance

Wernikoff and Federer will put the bagster together.  This will be used to move larger amounts of chips to the trails.

Beaver Dams

Del Rio’s reported no new activity.

Tractor

Southwell provided M. Young with instructions on the use of the tractor and will train in the near future.  There are serious safety concerns to bear in mind, train for and while using the tractor.

Countryside FD Field

Turf conditions are much improved.  Frystak reported using the field for summer programs.  There were no complaints about the field condition.  Del Rio’s was asked to fill in holes and low spots.

Southwell sent a thank you letter to Chief Smith.  Discussion for using the field, no fee, in 2025 is ongoing.  The Chief will bring the request to the CSFD Board.

Mitigation Property

Southwell asked Del Rio’s to clean up along Route 83; pull flags, election signage adjacent to the roadways.  They will also be asked to cut buckthorn and other invasives during the off-season.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

An article was submitted for the December issue of Stroll Magazine and The Bridge; “What a Year at the Long Grove Park District!”.

Frystak submitted an article about winter programs for Stroll.  They will try to add to the December issue.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Healy/Skillicorn

Shah will walk through BCP and RTW to see if any cleanup needs to be done and will schedule a workday if necessary.

Healy noted there are benches at RTW that need to be replaced.  This would be a good scout project.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Roadside Property Signage

No updates.  Frystak will be working with Southwell on this.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mitigation Area

Healy noted stewardship work is done for the year. 

A burn will be scheduled at RTW when weather permits.  Plan to burn on the east side; McHenry Triangle, sedge meadow and prairie patch.  Post cards will be sent to notify neighbors prior to the burn.

Old Business

Security LH & RTNC:  Update and Discussion – Signage, Potential Lighting

Wernikoff sent information to board members prior to the meeting regarding new motion-controlled lighting for RTW parking lot.  An electrician will be needed to install a WiFi switch.  Southwell asked Wernikoff to provide a diagram of where he recommends installing the lighting for the next meeting.  Wernikoff and Federer will work on this.

Potential Extension of Contract:  Lake County Stars – Lemmon Hill Ballfields

Frystak reached out to Cynthia Zarkowsky at LCS regarding extending the contract for the 2025 season.   Southwell noted he would like to have a port-a-potty available at LH from April to November and to limit access to the shed. 

New Business

Potential Revisions to “Programs & Events Manager” position.

Moved to Closed Session

Wernikoff moved to go into closed session.  Federer seconded the motion. The meeting was moved to closed session at 7:44 p.m.

Return to Open Session

Federer moved to return to open session.   Shah seconded the motion. The meeting was returned to open session at 8:08 p.m.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Wernikoff seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:09 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

September 23, 2024

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:03 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell

Commissioners Absent

Shah, Underwood, Wernikoff

Stewards & Staff Present 

Frystak, S. Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The August 2024 minutes were reviewed.  Healy and Young noted one change that was made under “Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance” regarding the UBS CD that matured on August 16th.  The correct amount is $123,000, not $125,000. 

Healy moved to approve the minutes as corrected.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The August 2024 minutes were approved unanimously as corrected.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Bookkeeping/Chart-of-Accounts Update – Frystak/Young/Healy

No updates.

Financial Reports –Frystak/Young/Southwell

The financial reports for August 2024 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting. Healy moved to accept the August 2024 financial reports as presented.  Federer seconded the motion.  The financial reports for August 2024 were accepted unanimously.

Budget 2024-25 Review and Adoption - Frystak/Young/Southwell

Frystak circulated an Excel format of the budget with an explanation of budgeted numbers prior to the meeting for all to review.

Skillicorn moved to adopt the FY24-25 budget as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The motion to adopt the budget passed unanimously.

Southwell prepared and presented a fiscal year explainer with budget approach, strategy and perspective for accompany the budget to provide perspective and insight for any interested party.

UBS Account

Southwell proposed keeping $50,000 liquid when the next CD comes due.  All were in agreement.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Ongoing Programs, Event Program Updates

Fall programs are running.  Registration numbers are up from summer programs.  LGPD is partnering with Village of Hawthorn Woods; more facilities to be used and more programs that are being offered.

The Wicked Woodlands event is sold out!  Over 200 tickets were sold, 20 orders for each of the 3 time slots.  New this year is a face painter and magician.  Pumpkins and treat bags will be given to each child.  A group of girl scouts have offered to help with games.  Frystak noted more volunteers are needed.

Web Content Accessibility, Interim Report - Southwell/Frystak

Frystak has continued to research guidelines and statutes.  We deem the LGPD website to currently be in substantial compliance with ADA requirements around accessibility.  No new updates.

President’s Report – Southwell

ComEd Lease Renewal application.

There has been no response from ComEd regarding the lease application that was sent in June.  An invoice was received from MacMunnis for 2021 taxes.  No invoice as been received from ComEd for the lease.

IL Grant for RTW Parking Lot

Southwell sent a reminder email to the grant manager but has not received a response as of yet.  An invoice was sent for reimbursement of the parking lot project.

Barbara Turner Memorial

Southwell, Del Rio’s and M. Young will meet in October to do the excavation and pour the foundation for the small monument, followed by installation of the steel element.  In the spring, the commemorative plaque will be placed.  A dedication ceremony will be held in the spring/summer of 2025. 

Updates:  Property Management, Numerous Projects

Reed-Turner Nature Center

Two storm doors have been installed.

Federer and M. Young will meet 09/24 to discuss options for replacing the air conditioner for the main room.  Federer noted a heat pump might be an option and this will be explored further.

Longview Meadow

No updates.  Southwell will discuss with Healy ideas to supplement parking discretely at LVM.

Lemmon Hill

Warning signs have been installed.  Wernikoff is to research trespassing/dumping statutes for signage.

Gridley Field

Spot treatment of growth on the infields was not successful.  Will treat again and may rototill in the spring.

Hayrake/Wehrenberg trails 

Work deferred.

Reed-Turner Woodlands

M. Young will be researching trailer options ideally with self-dumping and high box.  Wood chips from the trees/limbs that were removed after the storm were dumped at RTW to be used on the trails.

Approximately $10-11k was spent on tree work due to the many trees and limbs that had fallen adjacent to residents’ properties and at Lemmon Hill during the storm. 

Buffalo Creek Park

Southwell asked Del Rio’s to not mow properties for the time being due to lack of rain.  The crew focused on BCP; tree and shrub trimming, dead wood removed, cleaning up beds and trails treated for weeds.

Beaver dams

Skillicorn reported Del Rio’s took down 5 dams, removed the wood and burned the debris.  These were in addition to the dams that Skillicorn and 2 volunteers had removed.  By the bridge by Old McHenry Road, there was a 3-foot dam that Del Rio’s took out.  Once it was removed, the water went down about 4 feet.  The beavers are rebuilding the dams that were removed.  A contractor will be coming in the next few days to live-trap and remove the beavers.  He suggested not taking down anymore dams until the beavers are removed.  More levelers may need to be installed.

IAPD Seminar/Conference

IAPD is offering a legal symposium November 7th.  This seminar will be covering background screening parameters, hiring new employees, complying with FOIA requests, website posting rules and more.  Southwell will make recommendations on who should attend.

The IAPD annual conference will be held in January/February of 2025.  Southwell would like Frystak to participate as well as himself. 

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

There was a 4-page article in the September issue of Stroll Magazine about the Wicked Woodlands Event.  An article about the Eagle Scout project, painting/staining the back garage, will be submitted along with photos for the October issue.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Healy/Skillicorn

Brandon Matthys, Eagle Scout candidate, completed his project of painting and staining the back garage and garage door.  Skillicorn will provide photos for the website.

Federer is working with an Eagle Scout candidate.  They will meet to walk the woodlands to discuss opportunities for projects. 

Another candidate contacted the office expressing interest in doing their project at RTW.  Skillicorn is in contact with them. 

Ideas for projects include loosening tree-cages by the lake, fixing the walkway in front of RTNC, removing stepping stones, level out the area, add gravel and flagstones.  Southwell asked for more ideas for projects.  A list of projects should be compiled and circulated to commissioners and also possibly post on the website.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell/Healy

Roadside Property Signage

No updates.

Open Lands Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mit. Area

RTW 

Tallgrass visited RTW August 30th.  The water level in the stream was too high, not much work could be done.  They will come back in a week to treat cattails and canary grass if the water has gone down.  If not, they will have to wait until next spring.

Healy will meet with Sarah Schultz and Mary Zander to discuss what section to burn next.  They have a map where past burns have occurred.  Once the map is updated to show where work and burns need to be done, it will be given to Tallgrass.

LVM

A final stewardship visit was completed.

Healy shared with Southwell plans for work with Tallgrass in 2025; stewardship, burns and clearings.

Old Business

Discussion around updating Rules-of-Use for LGPD Parks and Facilities

Deferred.

Security RTNC/LH

Wernikoff is researching statutes for warning signage, as well as how to economically assure better security and vandalism prevention.  More security cameras will likely be placed in the future.

Grants - Gauging Board Interest in, Ability to Support, Applications and Management of Potential Projects

Southwell and Frystak have been discussing programs and events.  There has been limited demand for programs.  Quite a bit of time and effort goes into planning programs but often-times insufficent signups to actually run them.  This will be revisited in 6 months.  Special events have drawn more interest/signups.    Frystak has expressed interest in supporting grant applications and will start researching grants and processes.  Southwell stated Frystak could bring considerable value to grant applications.  Focus should be on strategic needs first.  All were supportive of this.

New Business

Skillicorn noted he attended the Storm Water Management HOA Vendor Expo September 12th. 

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Skillicorn seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

July 15, 2024

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:02 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell, Wernikoff

Shah arrived at 6:24 p.m., Underwood arrived at 6:53 p.m.

Stewards & Staff Present 

Frystak, S. Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The June 2024 minutes were reviewed.  Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Wernikoff seconded the motion.  The June 2024 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No new updates on State of IL/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Bookkeeping/Financial Reporting Improvements – Frystak/Young/Healy

Commissioners like the new reporting that was presented, much improved.  It gives greater visibility, helpful as far as the budget versus actual spending.

Financial Reports – Frystak/Young/Southwell

The financial reports for July 2024 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Healy moved to accept the July 2024 financial reports as presented.  Federer seconded the motion.  The financial reports for July 2024 were accepted unanimously.

Healy reported a CD at UBS for $123,000 is coming due in August and $11,000 will be moved to the PNC account.  Healy will compare rates; 6 months versus 12 months or possibly 2 years and will report back at the next board meeting.  The next CD coming due will be in November.

Southwell noted the need to start working on the FY24-25 budget and asked for everyone’s input for needs.

President’s Report – Southwell

ComEd Lease Renewal application.

The application and all supporting documents were submitted along with payment that was sent on June 17th.  Southwell is waiting for a response from ComEd.  The lease ends 07/30/24.

IL Grant, LGPD “SAM” Registration, Reporting and related

The System for Award Management (SAM) re-registration is complete and active.  Southwell, Healy and Underwood are in the system.  Additional reporting and self-audits have been completed and submitted.  The payment holds have been lifted.  An invoice was created and submitted for matching funds and will be anticipating a response/payment within the next month.

Reed-Turner Nature Center

The garage has been cleaned out and organized.  The Waste Management dumpster was removed and the port-a-potty is in place by the back garage. 

The A/C unit for the offices needs to be serviced, cost will be approximately $500.  This will be done in the next few weeks.  Markgraf noted the primary A/C is quite old and failing and will need to be replaced soon.

Storm doors have been purchased and will be installed in the next month or so. Will need to find someone to help with installation.

The flagstone walkway in front of the building will need to be reconstructed once everything has settled.  This is planned for September.

Longview Meadow

Del Rio’s cut the trails and are in good condition.

Lemmon Hill

No trespassing and no dumping signs have been purchased and will be installed.

There is water pooling by the dumpster.  Del Rio’s will cut a swale towards a nearby drain to direct parking lot run-off water towards the grassy area.  Work was being done on July 15th.

Gridley Field

The gate was replaced and is working well.

The turf condition is improved and now useable for sports programs.  Del Rio’s removed vegetation early July and will spot treat re-growth on the infield as needed.  Bases are ready to be set.  Baseball mix will be brought in.

Southwell asked if anyone has received requests from groups looking to use the baseball field.  None have been received recently. 

Hayrake/Wehrenberg Trails

Work to cleanup, widening of the trails has been temporarily deferred.

Reed-Turner Woodland

The Barbara Turner memorial foundation/construction will be deferred until September or October.

Tractor maintenance has been completed.  Southwell drove the tractor from the LH barn to RTW.  Signage was placed on the tractor and M. Young followed with Southwell’s truck.  The tractor was put into the garage. 

Skillicorn reported the water is almost over the bank, up 2 feet at least, near the bridge by the yellow trail.  The whole area is flooded due to an excessive amount of rain.  Skillicorn and Federer will take pictures and will report at the next board meeting and make recommendations on what work needs to be done.  Southwell suggested looking at the bridge at LVM as an example of potential replacement to enable larger, heavier vehicles to cross for maintenance purposes.  We may wish to consider lookinto  into grants for a bridge at RTW.

Southwell asked if anyone might know of a neighbor who has a Kubota/Gator or trailer that could be used to haul chips for volunteer days.   Training will need to be done on the use of the tractor to enable others to be qualified to use Tractor, Front-Loader to load chips into our trailer for trail maintenance work.

Buffalo Creek Park

Del Rio’s will spot-treat weeds and grass on the trails July 15th.

Countryside FD Field

Del Rio’s has been mowing the field at lower settings.  The turf conditions have improved.  Del Rio’s was asked to fill in holes, level out lower spots.

Programs and Events – Frystak

Ongoing Programs, Summer Program Updates – Frystak

Frystak reported the first session of summer programs had low enrollment and many of the programs were canceled.  Session two is starting the week of July 15th.  Days/times of classes were changed.    Frystak will be putting up banners to advertise upcoming programs.

Frystak has started planning for the Wicked Woodlands event that will be held October 5th.  Volunteers are needed.  An article will be submitted for the Stroll Magazine and posts on social media will be done.  Frystak will be reaching out to local businesses for sponsorships for the event.   

Web Content Accessibility, Initial Scoping – Southwell/Frystak

ADA website compliance:  Web content needs to be accessible for hearing/visually challenged individuals.  There was a brief discussion on compliance.  Frystak stated she was asked and completed preliminary research that she compiled via PowerPoint and would share with the group following the meeting.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

Healy submitted an article for the August Stroll magazine; “Prescribed burns bring out wildflowers at RTW.”  Frystak will submit an article for the September issues about the Wicked Woodlands event.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Healy/Skillicorn

Skillicorn is working with an Eagle Scout who is willing to paint the back garage at RTW for their project.  The garage door needs to be replaced before it can be painted.  Paint/stain will need to be matched to the color on the RTNC building.

Shah would like to schedule a volunteer day to put chips on the trails at RTW.  Southwell will work with M. Young to train on the tractor first.  Other board members expressed an interest in doing training also. 

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Roadside Property Signage Update

Southwell has been going through old surveys of the Park District properties.  Property lines and Right-of-ways are being researched.  Southwell will work with S. Young to locate maps, surveys, etc..  Subsequently will work with the Village of LG to obtain permits for signage completion. 

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mit. Area

Village roadside teasel 

McGinty will do a second round of treating teasel.  They are billing the Village directly for the work being done.

Gridley

A second teasel treatment was done.  The budget is almost depleted for this site.

Mitigation Site

A second teasel treatment was done.  The entire budget has been spent.

Longview Meadow

A third stewardship visit was done.  Cattails, phragmites, thistle, purple loosestrife were treated.  The weedy patch was mowed.  Healy will put letters in neighbor’s mailboxes asking if it would be okay if the Park District treated phragmites on their properties.

Tallgrass would like to mow all Canadian Goldenrod at LVM which is the most dominant weed.  Healy will need to make sure there is money left in the budget before approving the work.

Reed-Turner Woodland

A third stewardship visit was completed.  Poison ivy, thistle, etc., were treated.  There is money left in the budget for RTW.

Buffalo Creek Park

A third stewardship visit was completed.   Purple loosestrife, cattails, water hemlock were treated.

Old Business

Discussion around updating Rules-of-Use for LGPD Parks and Facilities

Deferred.

Potential Inter-governmental Agreement with D96

Frystak is still waiting for information from District 96 regarding the potential IGA.

Lemmon Hill:  Fly-Dumping and Vandalism/Damage Repair options; Shed, Barn, Garage.

Southwell shared pictures of the damage that was done to the baseball shed at LH. [This following the fly-dumping incident in same area.]

Barn: The barn has exposed plywood - with gaps and holes in addition to rot - above the overhead door.  Birds and mice are getting into the barn.  Southwell would like to close it up to preserve the integrity of the building.  Baseball Shed: Southwell had asked M. Young to explore options to replace doors.  Additional framing and patching of the floor inside will be required.  Pedestrian Doors: The pedestrian doors at the barn and garage need to be replaced to secure the facilities. 

M. Young received a proposal from a contractor who can do all of the work for $5200 to $5500.  Southwell asked for support from the board to approve and move forward with the repairs.

Motion Made: In the interest of remedying recent vandalism, and in better securing structures and assets at the Lemmon-Hill site,  I, James Southwell, move to contract for: purchase and installation of new steel doors for the baseball field shed, purchase and installation of a new steel entry door for the garage, repairs to entry door for the barn, purchase and installation of new door latches, locksets and deadbolts as appropriate to each location, installation of new T111 plywood siding or similar above Barn door and any/all related carpentry to support with an expenditure not to exceed $6,500.00. 

Underwood seconded the motion. 

Southwell asked for discussion.  Wernikoff and Federer suggested having one steel door rather than two that could slide open with possibly less points of failure.  Federer also suggested adding skylights as there is no electricity in the shed.  After discussion, it was agreed that two swing-doors will be installed to accomplish repair and security objectives at manageable expense.

Motion carried unanimously.

Lemmon Hill:  Discussion around Security Signage, Potential Lighting and Security System additions.

Southwell spoke with Wernikoff briefly before the meeting asking for recommendations to prevent future vandalism with lighting and a security system.  Wernikoff proposed installing Wyze cameras that are solar powered, battery operated, and will record motion.  They do not require Wi-Fi.  These could be installed at the Lemmon Hill barn and garage as well as the Reed-Turner parking lot.  Wernikoff will do research and send a quote to the board members. 

Southwell moved to approve purchase of surveillance equipment as described by Wernikoff, not to exceed $1,000.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  Motion passed unanimously.

L-H:  Dumpster Shed Replacement

Deferred

New Business

Grants. Gauging Board Interest in, Ability to Support, Applications and Management of Potential Projects

Southwell sent an email regarding grants, would like to have a discussion about pursuing grants.  Initial thoughts are the Park District is now prepared and set-up with regard to federal requirements.  There is a fair amount of work that would be involved.  Underwood stated many constituents have expressed an interest in pickleball fields, dog runs.  Frystak suggested a nature-related playground at RTW.  Southwell asked all to give this more thought and it will be discussed at the next meeting.  Healy noted she knows someone who does grant writing and will be sending a proposal/report out

Adjournment of Meeting

Wernikoff moved to adjourn the meeting.  Healy seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

June 17, 2024

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:37 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Healy, Shah, Southwell, Underwood, Wernikoff

Commissioners Absent

Federer, Skillicorn

Stewards & Staff Present 

Frystak, S. Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The May 2024 minutes were reviewed.  Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented.   Healy seconded the motion.  The May 2024 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No updates from State of IL/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

Frystak is waiting for a draft IGA from District 96.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Bookkeeping/Chart-of-Accounts Update – Frystak/Young/Healy

Southwell asked Frystak, S. Young, to begin analysis of the FY23-24 budget versus Quickbooks; monthly, YTD.  It would be ideal to report budget updates to the board members monthly.  Healy noted that the new reporting has been very helpful, easier to read and provides better visibility into spend and current status.  All agreed.  Southwell asked for input from the Board regarding reports that they would like to see going forward.

Financial Reports –Frystak/Young/Southwell

The financial reports for May 2024 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Healy moved to accept the May 2024 financial reports as presented.  Shah seconded the motion.  The financial reports for May 2024 were accepted unanimously.

President’s Report – Southwell

ComEd Lease Renewal application; Proposal re Lease Application.

Southwell provided photos of the access drive traversing property leased from ComEd into Gridley for review.  The renewal application packet has been received earlier.  The lease expires July 30, 2024.  In response, Southwell provided a written letter of application to ComEd, along with the extensive questionnaires and documentation require along a check for the $1500 review-fee  was sent via FedEx on June 17th with the application.  Aerial and ground-level photos were emailed also as requested. 

IL Grant for RTW Parking Lot, LGPD “SAM” Registration, Reporting and related.

Southwell reported he was finally successful (on the 6th attempt) to change the SAM entity manager to himself.  The registration was then able to be accessed, re-built and submitted.  The State will now be able to work with LGPD toward reimbursement.  Periodic reporting has completed and is up-to-date, as well as an overdue self-audit.  The FEIN “payment hold” was resolved on June 17th.  Next step will be to complete remaining reporting now accessible and request funds for reimbursement of the grant for the parking lot rehab.

Update: Vision/Numerous New/Potential Projects, Offerings 2024 and beyond.

Reed-Turner Nature Center (RTNC)

M. Young has been cleaning out the back garage.  The plan is to bring the tractor over from Lemmon Hill to RTW and will be stored in one of the garages.

A port-a-potty has been installed behind the garage. Will be in-place seasonally, and for the convenience of Visitors to RTW.

The potable water pressure tank was replaced in the wellhouse. Safety and clarity of water provided to RTNC has been much improved.

Replacement of the flagstone walkway in front of RTNC needs to be completed, now that waste-line replacement has been completed.  Work will be undertaken when the ground settles. 

Two storm doors have been purchased and will be installed (as replacements) in the back room at RTNC.

Longview Meadow (LVM)

Del Rio’s cut and widened the trails.

Lemmon Hill (LH)

Del Rio’s filled in the parking lot potholes with crushed stone.

There has been more fly-dumping by the dumpster, as well as by the barn.  The shed behind the barn was broken into, doors were damaged.  M. Young called Lake County Sheriff’s office to report the vandalism and met with an officer who filed the report.  Southwell contacted Lake County Stars to notify them of the break-in. No Trespassing/No Dumping Signage will be installed. The Board will likely be asked to consider funding/installation of security lighting and video surveillance in attempts to prevent further break-ins, vandalism and dumping.

Countryside Fire Department field at (immediately adjacent/west-of) LH

An agreement is now in place for the Park District to use this field (recently used to grow hay).   The hay has been cut and baled.  Del Rio’s has high-mowed the field two times.  Frystak should be able to use the field for sports programs shortly.

Gridley Ball Field

The turf has been treated and is in good condition.  The infield has vegetation growing in it.  Sava-lawn will re-treat the infield, followed by rake-out by Del Rio’s.  Frystak should be able to use the ball-field for summer programs as needed. 

The gate was replaced by M. Young and Del Rio’s.  There is new signage on the gate and it has been re-secured.  New LGPD locks/combinations have been installed and daisy-chained with Wireless Carrier locks.

Hayrake/Wehrenberg Woods/RTW Trails

Widening and cleanup of the trails has been temporarily deferred. Anticipated to be undertaken in Late July.

Reed-Turner Woodland

The Barbara Turner Memorial foundation construction has been deferred.  Southwell, M. Young and Del Rio’s will schedule a date to construct the foundation and later install the memorial.

The tractor has been serviced and needs a new battery.  It will be ready to move over to the garage at RT if needed in coming weeks.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Ongoing Programs, --- Program Updates

Summer programs have started.  Frystak will be sending out email blasts to promote upcoming classes and will post on social media.  Healy suggested reaching out the Village of LG PR person.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

There is a 4-page spread about summer programs in the Stroll magazine.  For the July issue, an article was submitted; “Living with Geese.”  Healy will submit an article for the August issue about prescribed burns.

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Healy/Skillicorn

Shah asked for ideas for volunteer days.  Waiting for the tractor to be moved over and then the trails can be chipped.  Healy suggested weeding the pollinator garden at BCP, pulling weeds along the paths at BCP and weed whacking paths at Hayrake Trail.  Southwell stated he may have Del Rio’s go through to kill weeds/grass on the BCP paths.  Volunteers can keep it cleaned up.

Healy signed off on Elizabeth Abraham’s project although was underwhelmed with the work.   Frystak spent quite a lot of time setting up the QR codes and having them work correctly.  Frystak also set up a Reed-Turner walking tour on the website showing the locations of the different signs.  Underwood will write and submit an article about this.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Deferred.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mit. Area

Mitigation Site

Healy has been tracking Tallgrass spending versus budget.  Hours for the mitigation site have been maxed out.  Tallgrass treated teasel in April and June.

Buffalo Creek Park

There were two stewardship visits by Tallgrass.

Longview Meadow

Tallgrass cleared brush in the south area and will continue stewardship in the north through the summer.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Tallgrass made two visits to RTW.  Poison ivy was sprayed.  M. Young trimmed back overgrown trails.

Gridley

Teasel was treated two times at Gridley.

Roadside Teasel

No grant money was received from the Village of Long Grove. Healy reported that the Village has a new policy regarding grants.  They had asked the Park District to pay McGinty directly for roadside teasel treatments and then the Village would reimburse LGPD.   After speaking to a board trustee, it was agreed at the last VOLG board meeting that the Village would pay McGinty directly.

Old Business

Discussion around updating Rules-of-Use for LGPD Parks and Facilities

Deferred.

New Business

RTW Stream Bank Scouring

Southwell provided maps showing the location of the stream bank being scoured near the central bridge on the yellow trail.  The outside bend is threatening the trail, undercutting it.  It was noted that a similar problem had occurred at Longview Meadow by the steel bridge.  Southwell asked for volunteers to look at the stream/trail and asked for ideas.  There may be a need to reinforce the streambank or move the trail.  This will be discussed further at the next board meeting

Lemmon Hill Fly Dumping and Vandalism

Signs have been ordered and will be placed by the garage, barn and dumpster.  Southwell will contact Adam Simon about the need for a new ordinance.  There is a need to improve security at Lemmon Hill. 

Lemmon Hill Dumpster Shed Replacement

Fly dumping is still occurring.  Southwell is inclined to rebuild and relocate the dumpster shed.  The seasonal port-a-potty (LC Stars) would then be placed by/visually-screened the new shed.  Another possibility would be to eliminate the dumpster and put out garbage cans.  Lake County Stars would have to remove their trash.  Southwell asked for ideas/suggestions.  Southwell inclined to install motion-activated lighting up by the barn which could encourage Sherrif’s Patrols to investigate. Video surveillance may also be a advantageous.  This will be discussed at the next board meeting.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Wernikoff seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 7:54 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:30 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Federer, Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood, Wernikoff

Stewards & Staff Present 

Frystak, Young

Members of the Public Present

None

New, Appointed Commissioner/Board Member

Steve Wernikoff was appointed at the May 2024 meeting to fill the vacancy left by Priya Abraham.  Wernikoff took the oath of office and was sworn in as commissioner.  He was welcomed to the Board by all.

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The April 2024 minutes were reviewed.  Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented.   Healy seconded the motion.  The April 2024 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

No activity regarding State of IL/DOT, Ela, VHW.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Bookkeeping/Chart-of-Accounts Update – Frystak/Young/Healy

Assistance is needed when categorizing certain expenses in the chart of accounts.  Southwell asked that Frystak & S. Young reach out with any questions. 

Financial Reports –Frystak/Young/Southwell

The financial reports for April 2024 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting.  Healy moved to accept the April 2024 financial reports as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The financial reports for April 2024 were accepted unanimously.

Southwell also asked that Reed-Turner Woodland (RTW) and Reed-Turner Nature Center (RTNC) expenses be broken down into different classes.  All agreed this would be beneficial.  Board members liked the new classes report that was presented in the April financial reports.

President’s Report – Southwell

ComEd Lease Renewal application. Proposal re: Lease Application.

Southwell is working on the application.  There is a $1500 fee to apply.  Lease fee has not yet been proposed by ComEd. Provided fee is successfully negotiated, and our application is approved this will extend the lease on the road to Gridley Ballfield and Cell Tower for another 5 years.

IL Grant, LGPD “SAM” Registration, Reporting and related

Southwell has made multiple attempts to update the “SAM” registration and is looking for the correct physical address for LGPD that is in the SAM system.  First hurdle will be in attaining FSD/SAM approval of Southwell as Entity Administrator.  Second, subsequent hurdles will be to Re-activate our SAM registration which will require re-building it, and getting it through a gauntlet of approvals by a range of Federal Agencies.  Subsequently, a request will be made for matching-reimbursement of the IL grant to LGPD.

IL D.O.T. Seeking our agreement to an extended lease/Construction R.O.W. along s side of IL Rt22, w of IL83

IL DOT is no longer seeking support from the Park District.  With a change in scope, their plans have been amended.  Their work will no longer require an easement or a statement of non-objection from LGPD.  Plans for the east side of Route 83 has been terminated.  Work on the south side of Route 22 from Route 83 east will move forward.

IL D.O.T. Deed-Over of “Mitigation Property” to LGPD

Southwell will reach out to Adam Simon and Vic Filippini to ask for support from our State Representative in helping move along transferring the title of the mitigation site over to LGPD.

Update: Vision/Numerous New/Potential Projects, Offerings 2024 and beyond.

Reed-Turner Woodland

M. Young is working with Peter Snelton & Sons investigating moving the pressure tank that is in the well house to inside RTNC. Should doing so require substantially more than amount previously approved by this Board, the tank will be replaced in it’s current position. 

The RTNC waste line has been replaced and the ground that was excavated will need to settle before flagstones are reset. 

Two storm doors at RTNC will be replaced, in scope and on-budget previously approved.  M. Young will purchase and have them installed. 

A seasonal port-a-potty for RTW Visitor use will be installed.  Placement location will be behind the garage at RTW.  M. Young is arranging for delivery from Waste Management.

Southwell will be working in June with Del Rio’s Landscaping to excavate, mix and pour cement for a foundation and then place the Barbara Turner Memorial in the woodlands. 

Discussion regarding the need for additional equipment to move wood chips onto the trails.  Skillicorn and Federer suggested purchasing a dump trailer or front loader.  It was decided to investigate moving the tractor at the Lemmon Hill barn to one of the garages at RTW.  It has a front loader which may be appropriate for loading chips into Kubota Trailer – for chipping the trails. 

Longview Meadow

Trails at LVM will be cut wider by Del Rio’s Landscaping.

Lemmon Hill

Del Rio’s will bring in crushed limestone to fill potholes in the parking lot. 

Southwell/M. Young are working on plans for a new dumpster shed and will get proposals for rebuilding the shed in late Summer.

The field west of the baseball diamond at LH is owned by Countryside Fire Department.  Southwell would like to work with CFD to use, and will work toward an agreement to allow use of the field for Park District programs.  It would need to be mowed to make sure it is suitable for classes. 

Gridley Field

The gate at Gridley needs to be replaced.  M. Young will look into options for a new gate.  The infield needs to be raked.  Baseball mix will be brought in for the field, likely in late Summer.

Southwell will scope, Del Rio’s will widen trails at Hayrake Trail and Wehrenberg Woods by mid-July.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Ongoing Programs, --- Program Updates

The Earth Day event was very successful.  Ticket sales surpassed expectations; 110 tickets were sold.  Frystak received a $500 sponsorship from Club Pilates. 

The summer program guide has been posted on the website.  It will also be sent to District 96 to post on the virtual backpack.  Frystak noted problems with securing space from District 96 at the schools due to building and parking lot construction being done over the summer.  Frystak will look into other options.

Wernikoff contacted Chuck Smith, Chief of the Countryside Fire Department, regarding the field west of the Lemmon Hill ball field.  Chief Smith was very interested in working with the Park District.  He noted that B. Weidner maintains the land, 5 acres.  If Mr. Weidner has no objections, then the Fire Department would approve LGPD’s use of the field.  Wernikoff offered to have the PD maintain the field.  He will follow up with Chief Smith and will report back to Southwell, Frystak and the Board. 

The Village of Long Grove owns the property behind Menards where there are soccer fields.  Frystak will follow up with the Village to get more information.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

An article on phragmites was submitted for May’s Stroll Magazine.  Frystak wrote an article for the June issue of Stroll about summer programs and events.  Healy needs content for July articles and asked for ideas. 

Volunteer Activities & Projects; S-USA Projects – Shah/Healy/Skillicorn

Shah reported having a volunteer day at Buffalo Creek Park on May 11th to clean up the park.  Shah noted there are weeds that need to be pulled by the entry to BCP and by the pollinator garden.

The trails at RTW need more wood chips.  Shah will schedule work days in the next few weeks.  There is still the need to find a way to get the chips to the trails in a timely manner when volunteers are working (reference earlier investigation of potential Tractor use/relocation and potential sourcing of additional Trailer to support moving and placing chips in necessary quantities).

Federer and Skillicorn will be working with college student volunteer, Eleni, to expand the cages on trees along the lake.

Eagle Scout project:  Elizabeth Abraham contacted Healy at the eleventh hour of her time as a Scout regarding quickly finishing her tree ID project which has been on the docket for over a year.  Abraham would like to install the signs as soon as possible as she is aging out of Scouts.  She is yet to identify and mark where the tree i.d. signs go in the Woodland, so Healy is giving her extra support by reaching out to Sarah Schultz to show her where to put the tree i.d. signs near the appropriate trees, and by reaching out to Frystak to help her put the QR-code documents on our Park District platform.   She has yet to spec and show the post (with sign) she is using for the signs.  

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Roadside Property Signage Update

Deferred.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mit. Area

Stewardship has started at RTW, BCP and LVM.  Invasives were treated.  There was poison hemlock at LVM.

Teasel at the mitigation site and Gridley was treated two weeks ago.  Treatment of Village roadside teasel will start this week.  The $10,000 grant check from the Village of Long Grove has not been received yet.  Healy will follow up on this.

Old Business

Discussion around updating Rules-of-Use for LGPD Parks and Facilities

Deferred.  Southwell asked all board members to review the document that was sent out previously.  To be discussed at the next meeting.

Potential Inter-governmental Agreement with D96

Frystak is still waiting to receive information from District 96 regarding the IGA and will follow up with S. Miranda/D96.

New Business

Skillicorn reported a portion of the yellow trail in between the two bridges is scouring.  The water from the creek is pulling dirt away from the side which is undermining the trail. 

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Shah seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:02 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

April 15, 2024

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:30 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Healy, Federer, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood

Commissioners Absent

Shah

Stewards & Staff Present 

Frystak, S. Young

Members of the Public Present

Tobin Fraley

Mr. Fraley previously requested having a photography show at Reed-Turner Nature Center (RTNC) in June which was approved.  He came to the meeting to thank the board members.  He is working on an invitation and asked that it be posted in the kiosk.  He will work with Frystak and S. Young for any questions going forward.

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval – Southwell

The March 2024 minutes were reviewed.  Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Underwood seconded the motion.  The March 2024 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No updates/activity with Ela Township, Village of Hawthorn Woods, Village of Long Grove.

Frystak followed up with District 96 regarding the pending intergovernmental agreement.  D96 is suggesting in lieu of rental fees for classes held at the schools that the Park District will spend a percentage of fees to be determined at the end of the school year on improvements at the schools.  

FOIA Requests – S. Young

No FOIA requests were received.

State Financial Reporting 2023 Update – Healy/S. Young

The finalized FY2023 IL annual financial report was electronically filed with the State by Swarztrauber & Co.  A signed copy was sent to the Lake County Clerk’s office to be filed.   

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Bookkeeping/Chart of Accounts Update – Frystak/Healy/ S. Young

Frystak & S. Young have been working on updating the chart of accounts.  Frystak will be re-sending the micro group the email with the chart of accounts and budget to review and make any changes necessary before finalizing.  This will be done before the next board meeting.

Financial Reports – S. Young/Frystak/Southwell

The financial reports for March 2024 were reviewed and discussed.  Healy and Underwood questioned an entry in “Dues, Memberships, Conferences” in the amount of $13,369.88.  S. Young noted an invoice for $12,981 was mistakenly attributed to this account and will be re-posted appropriately.  The amount/expenditure was for LGPD’s annual insurance payment.

Underwood moved to accept the March financial reports as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The financial reports for March 2024 were accepted unanimously.

Update:  RTW/UBS dedicated funds. Transfer to Operations Account funding work accomplished/planned 2020-2024.

Southwell noted funds were moved from the UBS account to PNC Bank to cover Reed-Turner Woodland (RTW) expenses that were paid out of the Operations account over the last 10 years (as approved by the Board of Commissioners earlier).  Plan is to move $27, 256.18 from UBS to PNC accounts; $16,000 was moved very recently.  The balance of $11,256.18, was pulled from the Fidelity General account temporarily with the intention of reimbursing the Fidelity account from UBS in August when UBS CDs mature.  

President’s Report – Southwell

Update:  Vision/Potential New Projects, Offerings 2024 and beyond.  Focus on Health/Safety

The water supply to RTNC comes from a well/pump system which has suffered from deferred-maintenance.  The pressure tank is corroded and needs to be replaced.  The plan is to replace the pressure tank and accomplish any maintenance needed to the well house.  Southwell would like to move forward with the proposal received.  Federer and Skillicorn suggested moving the water tank into the building (RTNC) to prevent need for frost-proofing.  Cost and scope of work will be researched, and most-appropriate plan will be executed. 

Proposed/Prospective Motion – Further Health and Safety Improvements RTNC 2024, April 15.

I, James Southwell, move to:

1.       Authorize the replacement of our fresh/drinking water wellhouse pressure tank, and related work in an amount not to exceed $3,000.

2.       Authorize any plumbing, electrical, weatherproofing and freeze-protection repairs and related deemed necessary or appropriate in an amount not to exceed $3,000

Seconded By: Skillicorn

Motion passed unanimously.

Lemmon Hill Dumpster Shed

The dumpster shed needs to be replaced.  Southwell stated cost could be $10,000-$15,000.

Gridley Farm

The gate at Gridley Farm needs to be replaced.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application

No updates.  Southwell asked for assistance with working on the lease paperwork.  The lease expires July 31st.

IL Grant, LGPD “SAM” Registration and related

Southwell reported he made a fifth attempt to change the entity administrator contact to himself with no resolution.  The Federal Service Desk replied stating the legal business address does not match what is recorded in SAM.gov.  He will continue to work on updating the registration.

IL D.O.T. Request for our determination of De Minimis impact regarding plans for “improvements” at IL22/83.  IL D.O.T. Deed-Over of “Mitigation Property” to LGPD

IL D.O.T. recently sent a lease agreement to LGPD.  An easement is needed along Route 22 near Stonehaven temporarily for construction purposes.  Southwell will contact Adam Simon asking that he reach out to Vic Filippini to concurrently resolve issues with IL DOT improvements as well as title transfer for the mitigation property.  Senator McConchie has expressed an interest in helping the Village of Long Grove to resolve the title transfer as well. 

Programs and Events - Frystak

Ongoing programs update/Spring 2024 Event

The Earth Day Celebration is Saturday, April 20th, at RTW.  Ticket sales are going well, 70 have been sold so far.  There will be a craft fair, guided nature hikes, a birding station in the woodlands, owl presentation and much more.   Frystak noted that Club Pilates donated $1500 for sponsorship of upcoming events.

The summer programs are being finalized and will be posted on the website by the end of the month.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

An article on teasel was submitted for the April Stroll magazine.  The May magazine will have an article about phragmites.  Healy asked for suggestions on new content for future write-ups.  Frystak will write an article about summer programs and events to submit to June Stroll ad VOLG e-newsletter.

BSA Projects/Volunteer Activities – Healy/Shah/Skillicorn

BSA Projects

Elizabeth Abraham reported to Healy that she is waiting on a few of the tree documents from scouts.  Healy told her to make sure that any photos used are copyright free, and to make sure that the documents are written in the scout’s word versus copying.  Elizabeth will go to Home Depot or another store to look into stakes for the tree ID signs.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Roadside Property Signage

No updates.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates:  RTW, BCP, LVM, LH, Gridley, Mitigation area

All Key Properties
Healy noted that strategic special work of prescribed burns, high mows and brush clearing was completed at RTW, BCP, LVM and Gridley.  First stewardship visit is scheduled for this week for RTW, BCP, LVM, Gridley and Mitigation.

Hayrake Trail

Healy noted that a plan is needed for path maintenance.  Southwell said he would handle.

Reed-Turner Woodland

The trails at RTW need to have chips put down to prevent erosion.  Discussion followed on how to move large quantities of chips to the trails.  Healy, Federer and Skillicorn will look into options. 

Roadside Teasel

Healy met with McGinty Bros. to go over expectations.  First roadside treatment will be the first week of May.

Old Business

Discussion around updating Rules-Of-Use for LGPD parks and facilities

Southwell sent out a spreadsheet listing all of the properties/facilities with prospective rules for use.  He asked that all review and get back to him with any thoughts or suggestions.  To be discussed at next board meeting.

Proposed Seasonal Rental/Installation of Porta-Potty at RTW

Southwell will touch base with M. Young on where to place the porta-potty.

New Business

There is an open seat on the Park District board after Priya Abraham’s resignation.  There was a brief discussion on a candidate being considered for nomination.

Nomination of New LGPD Board Member

Recognizing the earlier resignation of Priya Abraham, by her correspondence informing the Officers of the Long Grove Park District that she is no longer able to serve, and the subsequent Open Commissioner Position, I, Angela Underwood, move to nominate Steve Wernikoff of 1531 Sumter Lane, Long Grove, Illinois, to the Office of Commissioner of the Long Grove Park District for either the balance of the unserved Term, or until the next scheduled election of Commissioners, whichever occurs first.

Seconded By:  Skillicorn

Roll Call Vote:  Federer-aye, Healy-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye.

Motion carried unanimously. 

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Underwood seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:03 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

March 14, 2024

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:34 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell

Shah and Underwood joined the meeting via Zoom.

Commissioners Absent

Federer, Excused.

Stewards & Staff Present 

Frystak, S. Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval – Southwell

The February 2024 minutes were reviewed.  Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Healy seconded the motion.  The February 2024 minutes were approved unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No updates/activity on IL/DOT, Ela Township, Village of Hawthorn Woods, Village of Long Grove, IGA with District 96.

FOIA Requests – S. Young

No FOIA requests were received.

State Financial Reporting 2023 Approval Vote – Healy/S. Young

Healy presented the FY2023 IL annual financial report that was prepared by Swarztrauber & Co. with significant assistance from Staff and J Healy, along with a report summarizing transactions and highlighted items.  Discussion followed, with all questions addressed. 

Proposed Acceptance of and Approval to Submit LGPD Annual Financial Filing with the State of Illinois

I, Roy Skillicorn, move to accept the annual 2023 financial report prepared by Swartztrauber & Co. as arranged and presented by Janet Healy, as well as to authorize its timely submittal to the State of Illinois. 

Seconded by:  Underwood

A roll call vote was taken:  Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye.  Motion carried unanimously.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Bookkeeping/Chart of Accounts Update – Frystak/S. Young/Healy

Frystak presented a review of Quickbooks and chart of accounts.  The chart of accounts has been cleaned up, organized and is now aligned with the LGPD Budget Outline, and with the FY23-24 budget specifically.  Going forward, financial reporting will be more efficient to produce and easier to understand - month over month and year over year.  The operations account and recreation account have been merged into one account in QB.  Underwood and Shah noted the reports were easier to read and understand.  Shah reported meeting with a volunteer QB expert a few weeks ago with S. Young to provide advice on updating QB.  If more help is needed in the future the volunteer would be willing to advise.

Financial Reports – S. Young/Frystak/Southwell

The financial reports for December 2023 were reviewed and discussed.  Healy moved to accept the December financial reports as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The financial reports for December 2023 were accepted unanimously.

The financial reports for January 2024 were reviewed and discussed.  Healy moved to accept the January financial reports as presented.  Underwood seconded the motion.  The financial reports for January 2024 were accepted unanimously.

The financial reports for February 2024 were reviewed and discussed.  Healy moved to accept the February financial reports as presented.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  The financial reports for February 2024 were accepted unanimously.

Proposal:  RTW/UBS dedicated funds. Transfer to Operations Account funding work accomplished/planned 2020-2024.

Southwell noted the purpose of funds in the UBS account were provided by Barbara Turner for Reed-Turner Woodland conservation, preservation and management.  Amounts generally aligned with interest income produced, were to have been drawn yearly to assist in defraying maintenance expenses, but this has not been done in many years.  Expenses have been paid exclusively from the LGPD operations account for nearly a decade (perhaps longer). Southwell proposed transferring money from the UBS account to PNC Bank to replenish funds and to use for 2024 work at RTW.  He suggested to draw the greater of $3000 or total interest paid in each of the past five years, to partially reimburse the operations account for maintenance expenses paid.  Southwell asked for input from commissioners.  Discussion was held.  All agreed and were supportive of the proposal.

Proposed/Prospective Motion – RTW and Funds Transfer

I, James Southwell, move that:

Whereas,

1.       The funds currently residing in the LGPD UBS Account are dedicated to financially support and maintain Reed-Turner Woodland (RTW), and that

2.       The LGPD has invested significantly in maintenance, conservation and preservation efforts over the past five years to do so, primarily spending from our Operations Account, rather than the UBS Account, and that

3.       It would be beneficial to the ongoing financial position of LGPD to replenish the Operations Account by way of transferring a significant fraction of expenses for work accomplished at RTW in the past four fiscal years and to support work planned in the current Fiscal Year,

An amount totaling: the greater of ($3,000 or total Interest Earned), in each of 19/20, 20/21, 21/22, 22/23and 23/24 Fiscal Years be withdrawn from the UBS Account and Deposited in the LGPD Operations/Current Checking Account. 

Seconded By:  Skillicorn 

A roll call vote was taken:  Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye.  Motion carried unanimously.

UBS account - Healy

Healy reported a UBS CD came due 3/6/24.  Purchased new $125,000 CD that matures on 3/12/25.  Rate is 5.15%.  We now have CDs coming due in August 2024, November 2024 and March 2025. 

President’s Report – Southwell

Vision/Potential New Projects, Offerings 2024 and beyond.  Proposal re: Health/Safety

There are a number of fallen trees, at multiple properties after the recent tornado that passed-over Long Grove and the surrounding area.  Residents from Herons Creek, Wehrenberg Woods and Royal Melbourne contacted the Park District office to report fallen trees/branches.  M. Young is working with Woody’s Tree Service to remove trees and clear paths at RTW.

Lemmon Hill Dumpster Shed

The dumpster shed needs to be replaced before the baseball season starts.

Sewage line at RTW

The sewage line in front of the building at RTW was scoped and damage was found.  The line is collapsing.  Cost to repair this will likely be $6,000.  M. Young has gotten quotes for the work.  Flagstones will need to be pulled out while the work is being done. 

Wood storm doors at RTNC

One pane of plate glass on the front door was broken.  M. Young obtained several quotes to replace the 8 plate glass sections with tempered glass.  Cost will be approximately $550.  The plan is to maintain the historic look while making the door safer.  There are 2 other doors that will need to be completely replaced as well.

Proposed/Prospective Motion – Health and Safety Improvements RTNC 2024

I, James Southwell, move to:

1.       Authorize the replacement of panes currently in the Front Entrance Storm Door with Safety Glass, and related work in an amount NTE $1,000.

2.       Authorize the replacement of Two Exterior Doors with appropriate closers, latches and related in an amount NTE $2,000

3.       Authorize the removal and replacement of the failed waste line from the RTNC to Septic Tank, and any related work in an amount NTE $8,000.

Seconded By:  Healy

A roll call vote was taken:  Healy-aye, Shah-aye, Skillicorn-aye, Southwell-aye, Underwood-aye.  Motion carried unanimously.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application

No progress has been made as of the time of the meeting.

IL Grant, LGPD “SAM” Registration and related

Southwell reported he has been going back and forth with the SAM registration and will need to submit another authorization to take over Administrative Responsibility of the account from Kent Tinnuci and get it reactivated.  An approval should be received in the next 2 weeks.

IL D.O.T. Request for our determination of De Minimis impact regarding plans for “improvements” at IL22/83.

No updates.

IL D.O.T. Deed-Over of “Mitigation Property” to LGPD

No updates. 

Programs and Events - Frystak

Ongoing programs update/Spring 2024 Event

Frystak reported programs are going well.  The Long Grove Explorers class started today.  Frystak is working with 5 Star Sports, Hot Shots and Hawthorn Woods on summer programs. 

Earth Day Celebration:  The vendor application process has been closed.  There are 21 artisans signed up to participate at the event.  A group of volunteers from Chicago Botanic Gardens will set up a birding station in the woodlands.  Another group will lead hikes on the trails.   There is a need to help spread the word about the event.  Frystak and S. Young will hand out flyers to Long Grove businesses in early April. 

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

The March Stroll magazine and Long Grove Bridge will have articles about the Earth Day Celebration event.  Underwood will submit an article about spring wildflowers at RTW for the April Stroll issue.  "Eliminate Teasel on Your Property" will run in the April Stroll Long Grove.  A trustee at the Long Grove Village board meeting suggested writing an educational article about phragmites.  Healy will look into this. 

BSA Projects/Volunteer Activities – Healy/Shah/Skillicorn

BSA Projects

Healy has not received any updates from Elizabeth Abraham on the tree ID signs project.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Roadside Property Signage

No updates.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates:  RTW, BCP, LVM, LH, Mitigation area

Reed-Turner Woodland

Tallgrass did a prescribed burn at RTW on March 13th.

Buffalo Creek Park

Tallgrass did a prescribed burned at Buffalo Creek Park a few weeks ago.

Longview Meadow

Tallgrass spent one day clearing overgrown brush and weedy trees in the South section before and after the bridge, and they burned the brush piles.  They mowed the prairie upland in the North section.

Gridley Field

Tallgrass mowed under the power lines.  They will hit the teasel in mid-spring. 

The Village of Long Grove approved the $10,000 grant for teasel treatment.  Healy will be meeting with McGinty Bros., Inc. to go over the plans. 

Old Business

Discussion around updating Rules-Of-Use for LGPD parks and facilities

Deferred.

Proposed Seasonal Rental/Installation of Porta-Potty at RTW

Deferred

Potential Intergovernmental Agreement with D96

Deferred

Tobin Fraley contacted Underwood again regarding the possibility of using RTNC for an exhibit of photographs that he has taken at RTW.  He would like to have the show in May or June.  S. Young will check the calendar for open dates.  Mr. Fraley offered to give the Park District a portion of the sales.  Underwood will follow up with dates, information.

New Business

None.

Adjournment of Meeting

Skillicorn moved to adjourn the meeting.  Healy seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 7:54 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

February 7, 2024

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:31 p.m. 

Roll Call

Commissioners Present   

Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell

Federer and Underwood joined the meeting via Zoom.

Stewards & Staff Present 

S. Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval – Southwell

The January 2024 minutes were reviewed.  Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented.  Underwood seconded the motion.  The January 2024 minutes were approved unanimously.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Southwell

The financial reports for December 2023 were reviewed and discussed.  Healy had questions regarding the profit and loss statement and expenses under property maintenance land account.  After discussion, it was decided that an expert in Quickbooks/accounting was needed to review the current chart of accounts and day-to-day processes with the thought that updates to our processes would be beneficial.  Southwell emphasized that the Park District must be able to provide easily understandable Financial Reports and be confident in explaining all financial transactions.

Healy moved to Table review of the December financial reports until the next board meeting.  Skillicorn seconded the motion.  Motion passed unanimously.

The financial reports for January 2024 were reviewed and discussed.  Healy had questions about payments made from the UBS account that were not listed in the check register. (These were added as general journal entries).  Healy stated she would like the UBS account added to QB as another bank account.  All were in favor of moving recording and reporting of all transactions, regardless of fund locations, within Quickbooks.  A thorough review of the potential to utilize the full capabilities of Quickbooks (for bookkeeping, accounting and Financial Reporting) will be undertaken by Staff and Board Members. Proposed approach and improvements will be forwarded to the full Board for review and subsequently discussed further with the accountant.

Skillicorn moved to table review of the January financial reports until the next board meeting.  Shah seconded the motion.  Motion passed unanimously.

UBS account - Healy

Healy contacted UBS to access the account online and will provide S. Young end of the month statements. 

There are two CDs coming due in March.  Healy will discuss laddering approach with UBS and will send information to board members.  It was agreed that the CDs should be 6 months to 24 months duration and no more.

Illinois 2023 Annual Financial Report

Healy is working with Swarztrauber & Co. to prepare this report.  It is due at the end of February.  S. Young will provide information requested by the accounting firm.

Chart of Accounts Draft/Proposal - Southwell

Southwell previously provided an initial draft of an improved chart of accounts, built off the budget planner.  He noted that he would like to see a breakdown and separation of accounts; operations and recreation.  Shah stated she may have a volunteer who could come in and review how QB is set up.  She will follow up with S. Young and Frystak to schedule a meeting.  

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No updates on IL/DOT, Ela Township, Village of Hawthorn Woods, Village of Long Grove, IGA with District 96.

FOIA Requests – Young

No FOIA requests were received.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Ongoing programs update/Spring 2024 Event

Frystak provided a report on the Earth Day Celebration event scheduled Saturday, April 20th.  She is securing partners and sponsors for the event and would like approval on a budget for the event, $750.  Any suggestions and ideas would be appreciated.

Frystak attended the IAPD/IPRA conference January 25-26 and participated in six sessions. 

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

The February Long Grove e-newsletter will run an article Frystak wrote regarding a new loyalty program for recreation programs.  The March Stroll magazine will feature an article on the Earth Day Celebration event.  Articles are needed for April issues.  Underwood will submit an article about spring wildflowers.    

BSA Projects/Volunteer Activities – Healy/Shah/Skillicorn

BSA Projects

Elizabeth Abraham provided Healy with a sample of the sign she will be using for the tree ID project at RTW.  She is developing content and photos for the QR code on the signs.  Healy will review before finalizing the project and placing throughout RTW.

Volunteer Activities

Shah would like to schedule a work day for placing chips on the trails at RTW and cleanup at LGPD properties.  These will be scheduled in late March, early April.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Roadside Property Signage Update

No update on signage.

President’s Report – Southwell

“SAM” Number and related Governmental Registrations

Southwell reported he has made several attempts and considerable time trying to get a new SAM registration.  An extension of grant reimbursement timing has been requested by the Park District.

IL D.O.T. Request for our determination of De Minimis impact regarding plans for “improvements” at IL22/83.

No update.  No response has been received from IL D.O.T.

IL D.O.T. Deed-Over of “Mitigation Property” to LGPD

No update.  As previously mentioned at the last board meeting, Bill Jacobs, Village of Long Grove, suggested VOLG/LGPD contact the State Representative in coming months to help move this along.

ComEd Lease Renewal Application

The lease application will need to be completed as soon as possible.   This is to extend the right to utilize the road on ComEd property for access to the Gridley ball field and cell tower site. 

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Healy noted contracts for 2024 have been signed. 

Longview Meadow

Healy met with Tallgrass to discuss work that needs to be done.  Tallgrass will do clearing by the southern-entrance.  There are a lot of invasives and buckthorn that need to be removed, approximately 20 feet on either side of the path.  There is also considerable growth past the bridge that needs to be cleaned up.  TG will cut and either burn or pull out invasives.  Healy suggested burning as it will be less expensive.

Reed-Turner Woodland

Volunteers had a work day at RTW to clean up the east woods.

Buffalo Creek Park

A burn plan was signed with Tallgrass for BCP.

Roadside Teasel

Healy submitted a grant application for teasel treatment to the Village of Long Grove for 2024 in the amount of $10,000. LGPD understanding with VOLG is that they will also pay to cover expenses exceeding the $10,000 Grant, not to exceed the $18,000 quote.  LGPD will contract with McGinty Brothers for teasel treatment. 

Old Business

Discussion around updating strategy for public use of facilities

Southwell sent out a draft outline of site use considerations for LGPD properties.  Discussion of what would and would not be acceptable; alcohol, glass containers, smoking as several examples. Southwell will update the draft and will forward for review prior to the next meeting.  An ordinance will be needed to post signs at properties with items that are not allowed.

Discussion around potential support for/participation in, Parking Lot rebuild/expansion adjacent to Buffalo Creek Park

No updates. 

Potential Intergovernmental Agreement with D96

Southwell and Frystak will develop an IGA to present to District 96.

New Business

Underwood was contacted by Tobin Fraley recently.  He would like to hold an exhibit of photographs he has taken at RTW.  Mr. Fraley noted he would be willing to donate a portion of the sales to the Park District.  Discussion was held.  No one was opposed.  Underwood will reach out to Mr. Fraley to let him know LGPD may be interested provided agreement can be reached around details of the event.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting.  Skillicorn seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

January 8, 2024

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:34 p.m.

Roll Call

Commissioners Present

Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell

Federer and Underwood joined the meeting via Zoom.

Commissioners Absent

Abraham, Shah

Stewards & Staff Present

Frystak, S. Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The December 2023 minutes were reviewed. Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented. Skillicorn seconded the motion. The December 2023 minutes were approved unanimously.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Southwell

The financial reports for December 2023 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting. Healy questioned the ending balance for the UBS account. Young noted it was incorrect as stated due to conflicts in how the UBS website displays account position. The financial reports will be updated with accurate numbers. Healy will contact UBS to resolve and reconcile.

Healy moved to postpone any acceptance of the December financial reports until the next board meeting. Skillicorn seconded the motion.

Chart of Accounts Draft/Proposal - Southwell

Southwell circulated his initial thoughts regarding the chart of accounts, built off the budget planner. Visibility into where and how money is spent is very important. Southwell will work with Healy, Frystak and Young to continue the project. Southwell asked if there were any concerns, there were none.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No activity with IGA, State of IL, Ela Township, Hawthorn Woods.

FOIA Requests – Young

No FOIA requests were received.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Ongoing programs update

Frystak presented the final results for Fall 2023. Registrations have been going up. Surveys are being sent out at the end of each program session for feedback. The Session with Santa was a great success. Pictures of the event were provided. Winter programs are starting within the next week or two. New programs added; Family Fun Night, Men’s Basketball league, 4v4 soccer.

Frystak will be working on a spring event and will present ideas at the February meeting.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

The January Stroll magazine will feature: “Fun and Games with the Park District in 2024.” For February’s Stroll, Underwood submitted an article: “Hidden History Behind Open Spaces”, about Lemmon Hill and Longview Meadow and what happened decades ago before the properties became open spaces. Frystak submitted photos from the Sessions with Santa event for a holiday collage.

BSA Projects/Volunteer Activities – Healy/Shah/Skillicorn

Elizabeth Abraham contacted Healy regarding her scout project. She sent a picture of the QR code/tree ID example for the project. There are 15 trees that will be identified at Reed-Turner Woodland. Healy stated it should be green or brown. This was discussed and all were in favor of having it be brown. Healy will follow up with Abraham.

A college student contacted the Park District about wanting to volunteer for the PD during the summer break. Healy reached out to the student to discuss ideas; trimming back trails at Hayrake Trail or Reed Turner, working on the beaver cages around trees, etc. Skillicorn offered to work with this volunteer when the time comes.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Roadside Property Signage Update

Healy and Southwell attended the Village Architectural meeting to discuss permitting, setbacks and appearance of the signs. The members of the committee approved the design and were very complimentary. The chair person asked to resolve the constituent’s complaints at the meeting. Mr. Finch asked that the sign near Buffalo Creek Park be moved 3 to 4 feet west of the trail and offered to pay for the expenses involved with moving the sign. After the meeting, Finch contacted Southwell, saying he would lift his objection to the placement of the sign. An update on placement approval will be given at the next board meeting.

President’s Report – Southwell

“SAM” Number and related Governmental Registrations

The grant for the parking lot renovation expires at the end of December. Southwell asked for an extension to finalize the grant and receive payment.

IL D.O.T. Request for our determination of De Minimis impact regarding plans for “improvements” at IL22/83.

No response has been received from IL D.O.T.

IL D.O.T. Deed-Over of “Mitigation Property” to LGPD

Bill Jacobs, Village of Long Grove, suggested VOLG/LGPD contact the State Representative to help motivate the IDOT deed-over of the mitigation property.

Vision/potential new projects, offerings 2024 and beyond

Southwell presented a working draft of potential projects, vision for the Park District in 2024; fire pit at Lemmon Hill, port-a-potty at RTW and LH, small courts for pickleball at LH, extend Hayrake trail, acquisition of IDOT mitigation property and more. Healy suggested adding a playground due to the younger demographic of new citizens moving to Long Grove. These will be discussed at the next meeting.

Potential attendance at IAPD/IPRA Annual Conference, January 25-27, in Chicago.

Information regarding the upcoming IAPD/IPRA annual conference and meetings listing potential sessions of interest was provided. Southwell is planning on attending and suggested Frystak might also attend. All were in favor of the Park District paying for fees of seminars.

Re-up Lease with ComEd

The lease with ComEd is expiring at the end of July. The lease is for the right to utilize the road into the ball field at Gridley and Cell Tower site. Significant documentation will need to be filled out and returned. There is a $1500 review fee which is non-negotiable.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Reed-Turner Woodlands

Tallgrass cleared brush on the green trail and was either burned by the trail or moved to the burn site by the butterfly garden.

Roadside Teasel

Tallgrass will not be treating teasel along the roadsides going forward. Lake County Forest Preserves gave Healy a list of providers who would do roadside work. Bids were received. Healy recommended working with McGinty Brothers in Long Grove. Healy submitted a grant request for teasel removal to the Village of Long Grove for 2024 in the amount of $13,500 and is awaiting a response.

Old Business

Discussion around updating strategy for public use of facilities

Southwell is working on finalizing the plan and will circulate a draft to be reviewed and then will bring it before the Board to approve.

Proposed Seasonal Rental/Installation of Porta-Potty at RTW (discussion for consideration only)

Southwell will ask M. Young to look for potential locations at RTW that would be somewhat out of sight and easily accessible for maintenance.

Discussion around potential support for/participation in, Parking Lot rebuild/expansion adjacent to B. C. Park

No further updates. Bill Jacob/Village of LG was notified that the Park District is agreeable to the plans as currently understood from the Business Group, with certain conditions.

Potential Intergovernmental Agreement with D96

Southwell will work with Frystak to develop a plan to present to District 96.

New Business

None.

Motion to Enter Closed Session

By: Healy

Seconded: Skillicorn

Closed Session entered at 7:49 p.m.

Returned to Open-Session at 7:53 p.m.

Motion

I move to recognize and reward the exceptional efforts contributed and results achieved by our three part-time, hourly employees in 2023 with a combination of Merit-Increases and one-time, cash bonuses. Specifically, Merit increases of 5.0% on hourly rates for S. Young, M. Young and A. Frystak in 2024, and Bonuses of 8% of each employee’s gross/base 2023 wages (dollar amounts calculated by multiplying each employee’s 2023 hourly rate x hours worked in 2023 x 0.08). Bonuses thus amounting to: $1,141.14 for S. Young, $973.46 for M. Young and $2,095.54 for A Frystak. (All amounts Gross). Further recognizing exceptional results in planning, marketing and start-up of our Programs and Events offerings, awarding an additional bonus of $1,000 (Gross) to A. Frystak.

Motion Made By: Healy

Seconded By: Skillicorn

Roll-Call Ballot:

Abraham: Absent

Federer: Yes

Healy: Yes

Shah: Absent

Skillicorn: Yes

Southwell: Yes

Underwood: Yes

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting. Skillicorn seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

December 11, 2023

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:32 p.m.

Roll Call

Commissioners Present

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood (Skillicorn left at 7:15)

Commissioners Absent

Abraham, Shah

Stewards & Staff Present

S. Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The November 2023 minutes were reviewed. Healy moved to approve the minutes with one minor

change made. Skillicorn seconded the motion. The November 2023 minutes were approved

unanimously.

Treasury/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Southwell

The financial reports for November 2023 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting. Underwood

moved to accept the November financial reports as presented. Skillicorn seconded the motion. The

financial reports for November 2023 were accepted unanimously.

Accounting, Bookkeeping/Quickbooks strategy - Healy/Young/Frystak

Frystak was not at the meeting to discuss. Southwell asked if there were any immediate concerns to

discuss. There were none. An update will be provided at the January meeting.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No updates. There has been no activity regarding the mitigation property transfer. The contact at IL

DOT is no longer there. Southwell will reach out to Bill Jacob/Village of Long Grove to make him aware

that the Park District is not holding up work at Route 22/83 and to provide an update on

communications between the Park District and IL DOT.

Southwell and Frystak will meet to develop an Intergovernmental Agreement for District 96 regarding

use of spaces at the schools for Park District programs.

FOIA Requests – Young

None received.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Frystak provided an update prior to the meeting. Healy presented the information to the board

members. The “Sessions with Santa” on December 2 nd was sold out. There were 24 families who

participated. This was held at the gazebo in Buffalo Creek Park.

Fall programs will be completed by mid-December. Winter/early spring programs have been posted and

registrations are being accepted. Fall financials will be provided at the next board meeting.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

Articles were submitted to Stroll and The Bridge; “Fun & Games with the Park District in 2024” and “Fun

Facts about Long Grove Park District.” Healy asked for ideas for the February Stroll magazine.

BSA Projects/Volunteer Activities – Healy/Skillicorn/Shah

Healy spoke to Rick Boardman, scout leader, regarding replacing trail signs that were stolen or damaged.

They are working towards having them done by the spring. Tamper-proof signs would be ideal.

Healy has not had any further contact with E. Abraham regarding her Eagle Scout project.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Healy has been working with the Village of Long Grove to get more information on permits, architectural

review, distances from property lines and will ask for requirements to possibly be waived. Healy and

Southwell will attend the December 18 th VOLG Architectural Commission meeting to provide information

about the new Park District’s property signage.

President’s Report – Southwell

“SAM” Number and related Governmental Registrations

Southwell will be making phone calls this week to follow up on the submission made almost a year ago.

Reporting has been updated and sent to the State. The grant expires at the end of December. An

extension may be needed to finalize the grant and receive payment.

IL D.O.T. Request for our determination of De Minimis impact re their plans for “improvements” at

IL83/22

No recent contact from IL DOT. The Park District’s concerns and suggestions were submitted in

September.

IL D.O.T. Deed-Over of “Mitigation Property” to LGPD

No updates.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

M. Young has completed winterizing the Lemmon Hill pump. The septic tank and well house were

serviced at Reed-Turner. The line to the septic tank may need to be replaced. Quotes will be obtained.

Work to be done in the spring if required. Scoping the line will be done prior.

Healy reported Tallgrass was clearing brush by the pump house down to the creek at RTW. They are

watching for good weather to do a burn in the next week or two.

Healy reviewed the management plan for 2024 with Southwell. Plans include a burn at Buffalo Creek

Park, last burn there was 3 years ago, and high mowing at Longview Meadow by Tallgrass in the north

section. Southwell suggested brush clearing from the road at Oak Grove Rd to allow residents to hike in

LVM. Tallgrass will clear a path and will provide a quote. Work at Gridley Field to include high mowing

under the power lines, trails to be improved. At RTW, burning and brush clearing. Healy stated this all

should be under the amount budgeted for FY23/24; $45,000. Healy will apply for another grant from

the Village of Long Grove for teasel removal along Village, County, State roadsides as in past years.

Old Business

Discussion around updating strategy for Public-Use of Facilities

The draft rental agreement was briefly discussed at the meeting. Southwell will be in contact with

Frystak to discuss further and make changes. The updated agreement will be presented at the next

board meeting.

Proposed Replacement of failing fence, Trail re-alignment, related clean-up at BCP (along RPC Road, W

of Bridge)

The fence at BCP along Robert Parker Coffin Rd is rotted out, falling down and needs to be replaced.

Southwell would like to line up the trails from BCP, over the bridge, close to the Historical Society

building. The fence will need to be redesigned. Healy stated she would like to have an arbor installed.

Plan will be to replace the fence in the spring/summer of 2024.

Proposed Seasonal Rental/Installation of Porta-Potty at RTW (initial discussion for consideration only

Briefly discussed. All were in favor of placing a porta-potty at RTW, more than likely by the garage. It

will need to be accessible for service.

New Business

Discussion around potential support for/participation in, Parking Lot rebuild/expansion adjacent to B. C.

Park:

Southwell and Underwood met with Ryan Messner to review plans for the prospective parking lot

project behind neighboring businesses and adjacent to BCP, making it a municipal parking lot.

Messner’s current vision is that VOLG would undertake engineering and provide substantial financial

support for the project. Public toilets would be installed. The Park District would negotiate and seek to

have dedicated parking, and formal/deeded service-vehicle access to BCP. More information to follow.

Adjournment of Meeting

Underwood moved to adjourn the meeting. Federer seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned

at 8:02 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

November 13, 2023

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:33 p.m.

Roll Call

Commissioners Present

Federer, Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood

Commissioners Absent

Abraham

Stewards & Staff Present

Frystak, S. Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The September 2023 minutes were reviewed. Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented. Healy seconded the motion. The September 2023 minutes were approved unanimously.

Treasury/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Southwell

The financial reports for September 2023 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting. All questions were answered. Healy moved to accept the September financial reports as presented. Underwood seconded the motion. The financial reports for September 2023 were accepted unanimously.

The financial reports for October 2023 were reviewed and discussed. Underwood moved to accept the October financial reports as presented. Skillicorn seconded the motion. The financial reports for October 2023 were accepted unanimously.

Accounting, Bookkeeping/Quickbooks strategy - Healy/Young/Southwell

Southwell will meet with Frystak and S. Young to discuss chart of accounts and reporting. Discussion regarding having the budget tied to Quickbooks. Federer and Healy stated they would like to attend the meeting.

UBS

Healy reported that a $70,000 CD came due on 11/9/23. Put $20,000 in core savings account paying 4.5%; $50,000 in a 12 month CD paying 5.5%. UMass 5 College Fed Credit Union. NCUA Insured. Same security as FDIC insured. Matures 11/22/24.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

Southwell reported he has had no contact with the IL DOT representative regarding the mitigation property and Route 22 & 83 improvements after contacting them with the Park District’s concerns and requests.

Frystak met with the director of facilities at District 96 to discuss having an intergovernmental agreement between the Park District and District 96 for use of the school gyms and fields. Frystak was told that without an IGA the Park District will not be able to rent their facilities. Frystak will follow up and report back at the next meeting with more information.

FOIA Requests – Young

No FOIA requests received.

Programs and Events - Frystak

“Wicked Woodlands” Event Outcomes, Results

The event was a great success. Approximately $2,000 gross was raised. A final total of expenses was not available yet but many of the items purchased for the event will be used next year. There were 34 volunteers.

Holiday 2023 Santa Event

“Sessions with Santa” will be held on December 2nd from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the gazebo in Buffalo Creek Park. There will be 10-minute sessions for each family. The event is almost sold out, only 3 spots are available.

Ongoing Programs Update

Frystak provided final results for summer programs. All fall programs are running and the winter program guide has been posted on the website. New registrations are coming in.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

Articles were submitted for the November issue of Stroll; “Kids Having a Blast at LGPD programs, “Scout Renews Boardwalk at Reed-Turner Woodland.”

Healy and Frystak met with the new communications firm that the Village of Long Grove uses to talk about opportunities to provide news about the Park District. Healy sent them an article for the December issue of the Bridge; “Fun Facts about Long Grove Park District.”

BSA Projects/Volunteer Activities – Shah/Healy/Skillicorn

Healy asked Elizabeth Abraham for an update on the Tree I.D. Project. She came back and said she wanted to start fundraising but wanted to know how much the Park District would be willing to contribute. Healy told her to get the quotes for the 15 Tree I.D. Tags, 15 metal poles, 2 trailhead signs and 2 wooden stakes., and then they could talk about it. Southwell stated it should not exceed 50%.

Healy reported that trail signs are disappearing at RTW, due to theft. She contacted Rick Boardman of the Scouts, asking if he had a scout who would make trail signs. He said it wouldn’t qualify for an Eagle Scout project, but they would do it as a service project. Healy provided a list of trail signs needed plus extras.

Shah noted the trails at RTW are covered with leaves. It is not a good time to put wood chips down. Shah asked for other ideas for volunteer days.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Roadside Property Signage Update

Holes were drilled and sign posts were installed at 11 of 13 properties. Vinyl Graphics are being produced and will be installed on Sign Boards once completed.

Prior to drilling, JULIE came out to mark spots at each location. Southwell worked with Geoff and GHA Engineering (VOLG and LGPD Retained Engineers) who provided recommended set-backs for sign post installations. Sign posts were installed either in Legacy locations and/or according to set-backs recommended.

Subsequent to installations, Southwell received an email from Art Osten, interim Village Manager, notifying LGPD that approvals and permits are required and that work must stop until an application is submitted. A resident had contacted the Village to make a complaint about the signage under construction at Buffalo Creek Park. Healy and Underwood will respond to the email and will look into the application. Southwell stated he would like this expedited.

President’s Report – Southwell

“SAM” Number and related Governmental Registrations

No update.

Discussion around updating strategy for Public-Use of Facilities - Defer to December 2023

Southwell will send out a matrix before the next board meeting to be reviewed and discussed.

IL D.O.T. Request for our determination of De Minimis impact re their plans for “improvements” at IL83/22

No contact from IL DOT. Representative has been gone for the past 30 days.

IL D.O.T. Deed-Over of “Mitigation Property” to LGPD

No contact from IL DOT. Representative has been gone for the past 30 days.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Work has been done at RTW, BCP, LVM and Gridley the past 2 months and is mostly done for the fall. A burn at RTW will be scheduled. This will be done at the sedge meadow and McHenry Triangle.

Healy is obtaining proposals for work to be done in 2024. A grant will be needed for work that needs to be done at Longview Meadow. Healy will meet with Southwell to discuss and will make recommendations at the December meeting.

M. Young has been working with Del Rio’s and Woody’s Tree Service at BCP and RTW. Dead trees were taken down due to safety concerns, trees trimmed and general cleanup.

New Business

Proposed Replacement of failing fence, related clean-up at BCP (along RPC Road, W of Bridge)

The fence along Robert Parker Coffin Road west of the bridge is rotting and has fallen down multiple times. It needs to be replaced. M. Young has obtained quotes/proposals. All agreed that the work needs to be done. ???? made a motion to support replacement of the split fence by BCP along RPC Road not to exceed $10,000. Skillicorn seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.

Proposed Seasonal Rental/Installation of Porta-Potty at RTW (initial discussion for consideration only)

Southwell asked all board members to think about where to put a porta-potty, if needed. To be discussed at the next meeting.

Potential Reconstruction and Formalization of Additional Village Parking adjacent to Buffalo Creek Park. Underwood was contacted by Ryan Messner, owner of the State Farm Insurance agency in downtown Long Grove. He and another Historic Downtown LGBA member have purchased empty buildings along the Northside of RPC Road, east of the Bridge and are planning to renovate the structures. They will be asking the Village of LG to turn the space behind the buildings into a municipal parking lot, combining the existing parking lots (various ownership). The owners of the Village Tavern, Country House and Visitor Center are all open to the idea. Messner wanted to reach out to the Park District for initial indications of support also. An easement, or land contribution may be needed from the Park District for the parking lot expansion and renovation. Messner would like to meet with Underwood and Southwell in the future to discuss. Underwood asked board members if there would be any interest in this. No one is against the project at this time but more information is needed as far as the scope of the project, design, etc. Underwood and Southwell will meet with Messner to learn more, discuss and report-back.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting. Skillicorn seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Call to order, Roll Call: Southwell

Items from Audience: Guest (s)

(Limited to maximum 3 minutes per guest, maximum is 10 minutes total).

Meeting Minutes review/approval: Southwell

• Sept 2023

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance:

• Financial Reports: Sept 2023 Young/Southwell

• Accounting/Quickbooks strategy Healy/Young/Southwell

Legal/Intergovernmental: Southwell et al

• Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG, D96

• F.O.I.A. Requests/Responses Young

Programs and Events:

• “Wicked Woodlands” Outcomes, Results Frystak

• Holiday-2023 Prospective Event?

• Ongoing Programs Update

Community Engagement, Communications: Healy

BSA Projects/Volunteer Activities: Shah/Healy/Skillicorn

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness: Southwell

President’s Report: Southwell

• “SAM” Number and related Governmental Registrations – Defer to Oct23

• Discussion around updating strategy for Public-Use of Facilities

• IL D.O.T. Request for our determination of De Minimis impact re their plans for “improvements” at IL83/22

• IL D.O.T. Deed-Over of “Mitigation Property” to LGPD

• Roadside Signage Update

• Proposed Seasonal Rental/Installation of Porta-Potty at RTW

Parks, Open-Lands Property Management:

● Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, L-H, Mit. Area Healy/Southwell/et al

Old Business:

• Discussion around updating strategy for Public-Use of Facilities

New Business:

Move to Closed-Session

Return to Open Session

Adjournment

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

September 11, 2023

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:37 p.m.

Roll Call

Commissioners Present

Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood

Federer joined the meeting via Zoom.

Commissioners Absent

Abraham

Stewards & Staff Present

Frystak, Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The August 2023 minutes were reviewed. Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented. Underwood seconded the motion. The August 2023 minutes were approved unanimously.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Southwell

The operations account financial reports for July and August 2023 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting. Healy moved to accept the July and August operations account financial reports as presented. Skillicorn seconded the motion. The financial reports for July and August 2023 were accepted unanimously.

Accounting, Bookkeeping/Quickbooks strategy - Healy/Young/Southwell

Frystak reported that one of the issues with the recreation account and Stripe has been identified. Frystak contacted the accountant asking for advice. A meeting will be scheduled with the accountant, Frystak and Young in the near future to resolve the matter.

Financial Plan Development FY23-24 – Southwell

The draft budget tracker was sent out prior to the board meeting for commissioners to review. New line items were added to breakdown costs. These will be added to the chart of accounts. The draft budget was reviewed and discussed.

Approval of FY23-24 Budget

I, Janet Healy, move to adopt the proposed Long Grove Park District financial plan and budget as presented for the upcoming 2023-2024 fiscal year. Shah seconded the motion. Motion to approve the FY23-24 budget passed unanimously.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No updates regarding VHW, Ela Township, Village of Long Grove

Frystak was contacted by Sam Miranda, Director of Facilities, at District 96. He stated he would like to have an Intergovernmental Agreement with LGPD for use of the school district facilities. Frystak will schedule a meeting to discuss further.

FOIA Requests – Young

No requests received.

Southwell reported a subpoena had been received requesting financial information for an ongoing legal case with a Park District vendor. All information was sent to the lawyer and this has been resolved.

Programs and Events – Frystak

An update on fall programs was reviewed. Programs have started or will be starting in the next week. For the Wicked Woodlands event October 7th, 80 tickets have been sold as of now. Volunteers and sponsors are needed.

Frystak will provide a breakdown of summer programs at the next board meeting.

Old Business

LGPD Policy-Set periodic-review, draft new ethics policy, training – consideration of adoption

An updated draft of the code of conduct and ethics policy was sent out prior to the meeting for all to review. Southwell contacted Adam Simon, LGPD lawyer, to confirm this is in compliance with the State of IL. The Video Surveillance Policy document was also incorporated into the draft. This was reviewed and discussed.

Adoption of the Long Grove Park District Ethics Policy and Code of Conduct

I, Angie Underwood, move to immediately replace the current policy and adopt the proposed, updated and revised LGPD Ethics Policy and Code of Conduct as presented. Healy seconded the motion. Motion to adopt the 2023 updated LGPD Ethics Policy and Code of Conduct passed unanimously.

IL D.O.T. request for our determination of De Minimis impact regarding their plans for improvements at IL 83/22.

Communications between Southwell, state representatives and IL DOT were reviewed and discussed. Southwell presented the Park District’s concerns and ideas regarding the improvements at 83/22 and also the deed-over of the mitigation site. Bill Jacobs from the Village of Long Grove contacted Southwell. The Village would like to move forward with the improvements as soon as possible and asked if the Park District did not want to move forward. Southwell asked for help with finalizing the mitigation site deed over to the Park District from the State. Just prior to the board meeting, Southwell was contacted by T. Pelletier/IL D.O.T. with their response. This was reviewed and discussed. Healy and Underwood stated the Park District should continue to engage and negotiate with IDOT regarding improvements at IL 83/22.

Approval to authorize LGPD Board President to negotiate with IL D.O.T.

I, Angie Underwood, move to extend and expand the authorization of the LGPD Board President for up to 180 days to further negotiate, resolve remaining issues and successfully conclude an agreement with the IL D.O.T. regarding “improvements” at IL 83/22 with the objective of minimizing impact to Longview Meadow, timing essentially concurrent with successful conveyance of the IDOT “Mitigation Properties” (IL 83 and Oakwood) to the Long Grove Park District. Healy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

Frystak submitted an article about the Wicked Woodlands event for the September issue of Stroll. Underwood submitted an article about rare birds spotted in Long Grove and at Longview Meadow for the October issue. Save the Date for the holiday event will be submitted for the November issue by Frystak.

BSA Projects/Volunteer Activities – Healy/Skillicorn/Shah

Healy reported Elizabeth Abraham is waiting for scout masters to sign off on her proposed project at RTW.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Del Rio’s will drill post holes for the new LGPD property signs. Plan is for sign posts to be installed in late October.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Updates: RTW, BCP, LVM, LH, Mitigation Area

RTW:

Healy and M. Young inspected the trails at RTW. Wood chips need to be placed on the trails. Shah will plan a volunteer day on September 23rd to chip trails.

Buffalo Creek Park

Tallgrass treated invasives at BCP. Healy noted work needs to be done; cleanup, remove dead limbs, plants by the bridge need to be trimmed back. Healy will contact Del Rio’s to have this done, as well as Woody’s Tree Service to take down dead trees.

Longview Meadow

The trails have not been well maintained and have grown in. Southwell will work with M. Young to blaze the trails, and Del Rio’s will cut them back and maintain going forward. Hayrake Trail also requires grown-in brush to be trimmed.

Oak Hills

The Park District was contacted by the Oak Hills HOA President regarding trees on the PD property they believe needed to be trimmed. Given the continuing nature of their periodic requests and expense in addressing, Southwell determined best plan would be to completely remove the offending and slowly dying Willows along the street. The trees were taken out by Woody’s Tree Service. To fully close-out, Del Rio’s has been asked to make turf repairs when time permits.

New Business

None

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting. Shah seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at

8:07 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:36 p.m.

Roll Call

Commissioners Present

Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood

Commissioners Absent

Abraham, Federer

Stewards & Staff Present

Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The draft Minutes of the July 2023 meeting were reviewed. Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented. Healy seconded the motion. The Minutes of the July 2023 meeting were approved unanimously, as presented.

Treasury/Budgeting/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Southwell

The financial reports for July 2023 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting. Skillicorn moved to defer consideration of the July financial reports until the next board meeting. Healy seconded the motion. All were in favor, Motion passed.

Accounting, Bookkeeping/Quickbooks strategy - Healy/Young/Southwell

Healy, Federer, Frystak and Young had a second meeting with the retained accounting firm at RTNC to go over day-to-day procedures, discussed updating the chart of accounts, switching to online Quickbooks, quarterly budget reports and payroll. Work to investigate and recommend enhancements will continue.

Healy contacted UBS regarding the CDs that have matured and are in a cash account. These will be moved to CDs with rates of 5.25 – 5.3%. Half will go into a 5 to 7-month CD and half into a 12-month CD.

Shah offered to work with Young on the chart of accounts.

Financial Plan Development FY23/24

Southwell asked for assistance with developing the new budget. Underwood volunteered to help with budget review. Will need to contact contractors to determine FY23-24 costs. Young will run reports for actual spending in FY22-23 by category/contractors.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No activity to report.

Underwood is researching impact fees that are due from the Village of Long Grove.

FOIA Requests – Young

No requests have been received.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Frystak sent out an update prior to the meeting. Fall programs are now live on the website and registrations are being accepted. There are 24 programs being offered. A webpage was created for the Wicked Woodlands event. Frystak will be reaching out to local businesses for sponsorships and promotion. A recap of summer programs will be provided at the next meeting.

Old Business

LGPD Policy Set Review, Draft New Ethics Policy, Training

Southwell provided a draft ethics policy written by Adam Simon prior to the meeting for board members to review. Items included in the draft are those that are required for all commissioners and officers to be trained on. This is to ensure that the Park District is in full compliance with all statutes and regulations that apply to governmental entities by the State of IL. Southwell requested everyone be prepared to discuss and vote on the ethics policy at the next meeting.

Fly-dumping prevention, LH dumpster shed, video monitoring

There has been considerable fly-dumping at Lemmon-Hill recently, and unpermitted access along with campfires at Gridley ball field. One lock at Gridley had been removed by a Contractor/lessee and replaced with a zip-tie. M. Young will purchase and place new locks at Gridley to secure the gate, additional signage will be posted stating that access is only by Permit, any other will be considered Trespassing.

“SAM” number and related Governmental Registrations

Southwell received information through the State to help with obtaining a SAM number for reimbursement of the parking lot renovation at RTW.

Discussion regarding updating strategy for Public-Use of Facilities

Frystak sent out a draft policy with rules and regulations prior to the meeting. Southwell asked for input on types of groups/classes that would be a good fit for renting out RTNC. Scope: Teaching, educational, youth-oriented community groups, scouts, Long Grove residents. Southwell will work with Frystak and Young to finalize over next several months.

IL D.O.T. request for determination of De Minimis impact regarding plans for “improvements” at IL83/22.

Southwell spoke with Adam Simon. He reached out to the IDOT representative but has not heard back from them yet. There are no significant legal questions that need to be addressed. The Park District would like to bring closure to previously contracted-for deed-over of the IDOT mitigation property to LGPD concurrently with agreement around the IDOT proposed improvements at IL 83/22 impacting Long View Meadow. The Board of Commissioners developed a consensus around negotiating strategy and authorized Southwell to negotiate on behalf of LGPD, with the State of Illinois, toward a successful resolution of both matters.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

Frystak wrote a press release for the Wicked Woodlands event for the September issue of Stroll. Underwood will write an article on birds for the October issue. Healy suggested an article about what Longview Meadow offers; refuge for birds, endangered species.

Healy stated there is a need to offer support to Frystak for the Wicked Woodlands event; volunteers for the event, promotion, flyers.

BSA Projects/Volunteer Activities – Healy/Skillicorn/Shah

Healy is working with Elizabeth Abraham on a scout project. Healy gave Abraham a comprehensive list of expectations and is waiting for a response.

Shah will be scheduling work days in the coming weeks.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Installation of the new property signs is scheduled to be accomplished between late September and mid-October.

President’s Report – Southwell

Lemmon Hill

Parking lot asphalt at LH needs repair, pot holes need to be filled in.

Longview Meadow

The paths at LVM have grown in unintentionally. M. Young and Southwell will work with Del Rio’s to blaze the trails that need to be opened-up.

Gridley ball field

Turf was cut and removed to expand the infield to appropriate size. The infields were hit twice with Groundclear and Roundup. Baseball mix will be installed and bases will be put in. Plan is to have restoration completed for Spring 2024, and will be for organized/permit-use only.

Mitigation Site/Gridley Farm

High mowing of areas adjacent to entrance and Ball-fields will be sought for late Sept-early Oct 2023. Brushy growth by the power lines at Gridley will be removed.

Turner Memorial

Southwell will work with M. Young on putting in a concrete base for the stand and sign. Proposal to put a bench by the memorial was discussed.

Video Surveillance Policy

A draft video surveillance policy document prior to the meeting for review. Southwell asked for input from the board regarding video monitoring at the barn and garage at LH and also for the parking lot and garage at RTW. Signs would need to be placed. Discussion was held. Skillicorn suggested motion sensor lights be used at RTW parking lot. This will be discussed further at the next meeting.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Reed-Turner Woodland

Dead trees close to and overhanging the trails were taken down by Woody’s Tree Service. They were hauled out and chipped. Smaller, spindly trees in the oak grove were removed to allow sun to be let in to the preserve.

Longview Meadow

Tallgrass treated invasives at LVM.

Teasel

Tallgrass treated teasel at the mitigation site. Contracted work on Long Grove roadsides should be complete.

Buffalo Creek Park

Del Rio’s asked if they could limb up trees at BCP. It is difficult to mow in some areas. Southwell will meet with them before any work is to be done.

Tallgrass treated invasives on July 31st.

Adjournment of Meeting

Underwood moved to adjourn the meeting. Healy seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:37 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

July 14, 2023

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:38 p.m.

Roll Call

Commissioners Present

Federer, Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell

Shah & Underwood joined the meeting via Zoom.

Commissioners Absent

Abraham

Stewards & Staff Present

Frystak, Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The June 2023 minutes were reviewed. Healy moved to approve the minutes as presented. Skillicorn seconded the motion. The June 2023 minutes were approved unanimously.

Treasury/Banking/Insurance

Financial Reports – Young/Southwell

The financial reports for June 2023 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting. Skillicorn moved to accept the June financial reports as presented. Healy seconded the motion. The financial reports for June 2023 were accepted unanimously.

Accounting, Bookkeeping/Quickbooks strategy -Healy/Young/Southwell

Healy, Underwood and Frystak met with an accounting firm to discuss the Park District’s accounting needs, ideas on how to streamline and simplify, upgrade bookkeeping and accounting practices and payroll. Another meeting will be held at LGPD to discuss day-to-day accounting procedures and to go over recommendations. Southwell and Federer stated they would like to attend the meeting.

Healy has been in contact with a UBS advisor. Purpose being to discuss making changes in order to attain a better return on Park District funds. Southwell asked that Healy to discuss with them further and to inquire about 6 and 12 month CDs, with intent and authorization to create a short to mid-term ladder. All agreed. Healy will call and will report findings at the next board meeting.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

No activity, other than: 1. continuing attempts by Ancel-Glink to reach IDOT on the matter of the previously agreed transfer of the Mitigation Property, 2. Inquiry by and discussion with IDOT, at their request, regarding expansion of build-out at 22/83 and potential impacts on Longview Meadow, details later in Minutes.

FOIA Requests – Young

A FOIA request was received on 06-26-23 from NBC Chicago/Katy Smyser asking for information regarding all settlement agreements resolving FOIA lawsuits, judgments or other court orders requiring payment for attorney fees, claims made to an insurance company for coverage following a FOIA action. Healy responded to Ms. Smyser on June 29th stating that there were none/none of these items applies to LGPD. Ms. Smyser responded confirming receipt of the email.

Programs and Events – Frystak

Frystak reported all summer programs that were offered are running. Frystak is working on the fall programs and will present at the next meeting. Oak Leaf Cooperative School notified Frystak that they will not be holding nature classes after the current session is over. Frystak will look into a new company and/or instructor to run these classes.

No financial updates. Frystak proposed presenting the financials on a quarterly basis going forward.

Frystak is working on a fall event, “Wicked Woodlands”, to be held on October 7th at Reed-Turner Woodland. This will include games, crafts, snacks, a haunted hike, pumpkin painting and movie indoors. Volunteers and donations will be needed. It will be promoted in the Stroll magazine, social media, Daily Herald. Money will be needed for signage, food, etc. Federer moved to support Frystak with a budget not to exceed $750. Healy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

Old Business – Southwell

“Efficiency Committee” required by IL Statute – Applicability (?)

A bill was passed and went into effect recently. Southwell did not believe it applied to LGPD, but spoke with Adam Simon/Ancel-Glink about the requirements. He/we were assured that it did not apply to LGPD as the Park District is a non-taxing governmental entity.

Fly-dumping prevention, LH Dumpster Shed relo and re-construction?

There is an ongoing problem with refuse being dropped off at the Lemmon-Hill dumpster; car parts, paint, tires, organ. Southwell spoke to Adam Simon for advice on how to prevent this from occurring in the future; motion-activated video, lighting, signage, etc. Southwell will report on this at the next meeting.

“SAM” Number and related Governmental Registrations

A federal number is required, unique identifier, when applying for Federal and State grants. LGPD had one but it lapsed in the previous leadership transition. Southwell has reapplied for the number, but has not received a response for 7-8 months. A. Simon suggested asking an accountant or hiring an expert to help expedite the request.

Website Re-development, Uptake, Future Plans: Frystak

No update.

Discussion around updating strategy for Public-Use of Facilities

Southwell asked all commissioners to review and share opinions on the draft that Frystak had provided in the past. This will be discussed at the next meeting.

IL D.O.T. Request for our determination of De Minimis impact re their plans for “improvements” at IL83/22

Southwell met with IDOT to discuss proposed improvements they would like to make at Route 22 & 83. These include the addition or extension of turn lanes at the intersection, bicycle and pedestrian trails/sidewalks along the east side of northbound 83 and the south side of eastbound 22. A map was handed out with the proposed improvements. Concerns were discussed. More information is needed before making a decision, including design drawings. Southwell asked for support from the board members to move forward with contacting IDOT to go over questions, concerns and requests for more information. All were in favor.

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

An article was submitted by Underwood for the August Stroll addition on walking paths in Long Grove. Frystak will submit an article for the September issue about the fall event.

BSA Projects/Volunteer Activities – Healy/Skillicorn/Shah

Healy is working with Elizabeth Abraham on a possible scout project; small signage with a QR code throughout RTW that would provide information on trees in the woodlands. Healy presented a mockup of the sign.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

No update.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Healy and M. Young will be meeting with a tree service at RTW to get a quote on taking down dead trees near the paths and also trees around one oak grove. The trees will be laid down in the preserve or chipped.

Tallgrass treated teasel along Village roads and at the mitigation site.

New Business

Southwell will send an updated draft of policy set to board members regarding LGPD property, employees, officers and a commissioner handbook. He asked that everyone review and be ready to discuss at the next board meeting.

Adjournment of Meeting

Healy moved to adjourn the meeting. Skillicorn seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:31 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

June 12, 2023

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:32 p.m.

Roll Call

Commissioners Present

Healy, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood

Skillicorn left at 8:06 p.m.

Commissioners Absent

Abraham, Federer, Shah

Stewards & Staff Present

Frystak, S. Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The May 2023 minutes were reviewed. Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented. Healy seconded the motion. The May 2023 minutes were approved unanimously.

Treasury/Banking/Insurance-Southwell/Healy/Young

Financial Reports

The financial reports for April 2023 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting. All questions were answered. Skillicorn moved to accept the April 2023 financial reports as presented. Underwood seconded the motion. The financial reports for April 2023 were accepted unanimously.

The financial reports for May 2023 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting. Underwood moved to accept the May 2023 financial reports as presented. Healy seconded the motion. The financial reports for May 2023 were accepted unanimously.

Accounting, Bookkeeping/Quickbooks strategy

Healy met with Frystak and S. Young to discuss the need for hiring an accounting service or consulting service with more expertise regarding Quickbooks, setting up the chart of accounts properly, etc. Healy has received a few recommendations and will follow up with the companies. Southwell noted he would prefer an efficient, user-friendly system and structure that will support more a robust and graphical reporting system. Ideally also supporting efficient compliance reporting and auditing. All were in favor of moving forward.

Legal/Intergovernmental – Southwell

Intergovernmental Agreements, activity – State of Il/DOT, VHW, Ela, VOLG

Adam Simon reached out to the State of IL regarding the transfer of the mitigation property. He has not received a response.

FOIA Requests – S. Young

A FOIA request was received from the Better Government Association requesting information relating to the Park District’s payroll in 2021. Healy worked with Young to gather information and sent a response within the timeframe given.

Website Re-development, Uptake, Future Plans - Frystak

No update.

Programs and Events - Frystak

Frystak provided a handout with a breakdown of programs that were offered in the spring, current summer programs and classes that will be offered in the fall. Frystak also provided a breakdown of the number of participants in each class. Proposed special events for the fall and winter include “Wicked Woodlands” and “Santa Visit/Workshop.”

Community Engagement/Communications – Healy

Healy submitted an article about the Garden Club plant sale and asked for ideas for August issues. Underwood will submit an article before the June 25th deadline about walking trails and pathways in Long Grove along with photographs. If Frystak has any timely program/event news to report for this issue that hits mid-August, she will write an article as well, i.e. latest Explorer of the Month, with photos.

BSA Projects – Healy/Skillicorn

Skillicorn reported that Sebastian Cole completed his boardwalk project at RTW, and noted that Troop 140 will have 3 more scouts in the coming months who will want to do projects for the Park District.

Healy noted Elizabeth Abraham is working on an idea for her project which would be small signage with a QR code throughout RTW that would provide information on trees in the woodlands. Healy provided her a list of trees in RTW and will work with Sarah Schultz to identify them.

Volunteer Activities – Shah

No report.

Strategy/Branding/Constituent Awareness – Southwell

Signage

The sign posts and sign boards have been primed, painted and stained. Gewalt Hamilton provided a report with information on property lines, easements, distances from roadways for where the signs can be placed.

President’s Report – Southwell

RTW Parking Lot

Reporting for February, March and April has been completed and submitted. Southwell is still waiting for the Federal/SAM Entity Administrator request to be approved. Reimbursement from the State is on hold. Southwell will contact Adam Simon regarding a service who could assist us in being appropriately set-up to apply for, and to manage awarded Grants easily and in a compliant manner.

Lemmon-Hill

Asphalt spot repairs were made to the parking lot. M. Young is researching providers and proposals for replacing the dumpster enclosure. Recently, an organ, mattresses and tires were dumped in the parking lot at LH. M. Young will contact Waste Management to make a special pickup for these items.

Southwell will contact Adam Simon for recommendations on how to prevent this in the future; no trespassing signs, video surveillance.

Longview Meadow

Southwell was contacted by IL DOT in response to his letter that was sent months ago regarding the proposed vehicular, Bicycle and pedestrian “improvements” at 83 & 22 requesting to meet to review their improvement plans. He will arrange to meet with the IDOT team and view their presentation and proposals.

Gridley Field

Restoration is moving along. Starter fertilizer was applied by Del Rios, early in season. SavALawn treated weeds twice, in mid-Spring and early Summer 2023. We will be expanding the skinned-area of the infield to specified dimensions. To be followed by continued infield weed treatment and purchase/placement of four trailer loads of baseball-mix. Plan is to ask Ela Township to high-mow teasel and weeds under powerlines on leased portions in the fall so as to manage small woody brush, and enable Tallgrass to treat Teasel Rosettes in Spring 2024.

Turner Memorial

The steel monument was fabricated by JayR’s and the plaque was received. Southwell asked for input from board members as far as placement of the memorial sign and also for dates for the dedication.

Strategic – Rental Strategy

Frystak provided Healy and Young an initial draft of the proposed rental agreement to review. Frystak will send to all board members for input. Southwell stated he would like to focus on review and subsequent determination of the scope of offerings, by property, first.

Human Resource Policies

The HR policies adopted in 2022 should be re-reviewed. Southwell will ask all to review and have notes ready for the July board meeting. After the meeting, Southwell will ask Adam Simon to review for assurance of compliance and completeness. Once it is complete, the board will vote on approval at a future meeting.

Parks, Open Lands Property Management – Healy/Southwell

Tallgrass treated invasives at RTW, Buffalo Creek Park and the mitigation site. They also treated roadside teasel. They will treat Longview Meadow the week of June 12th.

Healy was contacted by Sarah Schultz regarding the stream leveler at RTW. She asked if the level could be lowered due to the water level being over sedge meadow plants. Skillicorn will contact Midwest Beaver to ask for their recommendations and report back.

Old Business

Impact fees are being researched and will be discussed at the next meeting.

New Business

Efficiency Committee

Update Only, as Quorum was lost at 8:06pm. Meeting became one-way, informational-only work-shop at this point.

A new statute by the State of Illinois requires Park Districts among other entities to form an “efficiency committee”. Southwell will contact A. Simon about the requirements, if any, given that our Park District is a non-taxing Governmental Entity.

Adjournment of Meeting

Underwood moved to adjourn the meeting. Healy seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:13 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Stephanie Young, Recording Secretary

Long Grove Park District – Meeting Minutes

May 8, 2023

The meeting was called to order by James Southwell, President, at 6:36 p.m.

Roll Call

Commissioners Present

Federer, Healy, Shah, Skillicorn, Southwell, Underwood

Commissioners Absent

Abraham

Stewards & Staff Present

Frystak, Young

Members of the Public Present

None

Meeting Minutes Review/Approval - Southwell

The April 2023 minutes were reviewed. Underwood moved to approve the minutes as presented. Healy seconded the motion. The April 2023 minutes were approved unanimously.

Treasury/Banking/Insurance – Southwell/Young

Financial Reports

The financial reports for March 2023 were reviewed and discussed at the meeting. At the last meeting, Underwood asked about the $118,000 YOY difference on the statement of equity. Healy sent an explanation prior to the board meeting that this difference was mainly due to the parking lot renovation expenses of $97,541, a payroll increase of $18,000 and there was quite a bit of tree work done, approximately $10,000. The Park District is expecting to be reimbursed by the State of IL for approximately half of what was spent on the parking lot.

Underwood moved to accept the March 2023 financial reports as presented. Healy seconded the motion. The financial reports for March 2023 were accepted unanimously.

The financial reports for April 2023 were not completed. Frystak reported the recreation financials were off due to an issue with importing the Stripe deposits incorrectly. Frystak and Young are working to correct the error and new financial reports will be sent out once this is done. It was decided to postpone voting to accept the March financial reports until the next board meeting.

AP, Bookkeeping/Quickbooks Process Review – Shah/Young/Southwell