Resident urges board to consider expanded funding for River Valley Special Recreation Association services
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Summary
A resident urged the Manteno board to examine funding and long-term support for River Valley Special Recreation Association, saying a high demand and limited slots leave local adults with disabilities underserved.
David Bergdahl, a Manteno resident and parent of adults with autism, told the Village Board on Oct. 20 that the community needs greater access to programs offered by the River Valley Special Recreation Association (SRA).
Bergdahl said he attended a River Valley SRA presentation earlier in the evening and described the organization as providing programs from toddlers through senior citizens. He said many adults who age out of school-based transition programs (age 20 or 22 per federal/state transition practices) still qualify for SRA services but often face long wait lists and are bumped by participants from neighboring towns such as Bourbonnais, Kankakee and Bradley.
Bergdahl suggested the board examine funding mechanisms used by park districts and said, historically, Manteno’s attempt to form a park district failed in a referendum. He recommended the board consider whether park-district-style funding or other dedicated revenue would better support local demand for special-recreation services.
No formal action was taken. Trustees acknowledged the presentation and public comment and said they would take the request under advisement.
