Commission adopts parks donation policy; parks bookings and events tick up

The Plan Commission voted unanimously to approve the 2026 Parks and Recreation donation and gift policy, which removes the term “memorial” to broaden the scope of bench, tree and picnic table donations and keeps pricing set to recover costs rather than generate profit.

George, presenting the parks report, said the policy wording was streamlined and that larger or atypical donations would continue to be routed through the Village Board. He said the policy remains priced to reflect actual cost (including concrete pads for some benches) rather than to generate revenue.

In a quarterly parks update, George reported increases in reservations and rentals: 33 facility reservations for Jan–Mar compared with 20 last year, and 62 park rentals year‑to‑date versus 42 at the same point last year (the change partly reflects differences in how tourism events are now being captured in the system). He said summer programming registration is trending but not yet at prior year levels for some youth leagues; one playground session is near capacity.

George noted the Dros Park construction kickoff with architects is scheduled for next week, the village is finalizing Pike River pathway signage (including dog and etiquette guidance), seasonal park staff positions have been posted, and special events such as a Packers tailgate fundraiser, Relay for Life and a late‑June beer garden are on the calendar. He said village staff have had exploratory conversations about cricket programming; some pro‑level facility needs suggested by organizers exceed current maintenance capacities, but staff are exploring instruction and multi‑use alternatives for the new pitch.

The commission approved the donation policy and accepted the parks update; staff will proceed with kickoff planning and program outreach.