Les Golden, a resident of northwest Oak Park, told trustees that neighborhood residents were surprised by a park district sign announcing renovations to Field Playground that would, he said, level a hill, remove large trees, alter the tot lot and change the historic Van Bergen Fieldhouse. Golden said neighbors organized a petition of about 300 signatures and submitted letters and other materials to the Park District but believe their concerns were largely ignored.

Golden described a small, impromptu meeting with Village President Skamman at Field Playground and said neighbors raised four primary concerns: removal of century‑old trees, loss of the tot lot, traffic and safety impacts on Berkshire Road, and the Park District competing with existing private dance studios in Oak Park. He said one attendee suggested using Mann School parking and gym space instead of rebuilding on the hill.

Golden asked the village to convene an intergovernmental meeting (iGov) with District 97 and the Park District "as soon as possible" because he said Park District crews might begin tree removal in a matter of weeks. He also urged exploring use of existing school facilities for after‑school dance classes.

Joyce Porter, another resident, said she felt the Park District was not listening to neighbors and was "imposing a project on them." Board members acknowledged receipt of letters Golden said he had sent to trustees and President Skamman told the audience she appreciated residents' concerns and would take note.

Ending: The presentation was made during non‑agenda public comment; no formal board action was taken. Residents asked the village to use intergovernmental coordination to seek alternatives and to notify the neighborhood if work is scheduled.