The Mokena Park District Board of Commissioners met on July 25 to discuss upcoming events, review new policies, and approve the tentative budget for the new fiscal year.

The board has tentatively approved a $7.9 million budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year. The new budget prioritizes significant investments in park infrastructure, such as new playground equipment at three parks, fencing replacement at Hecht Park’s ballfields, and new lighting for the park’s popular pickleball courts. A final vote on the budget is scheduled for August 22.

In an effort to enhance safety and security, the board approved a series of new and updated personnel policies. The new policies establish a formal plan for responding to cyber attacks, a requirement of the district’s insurance provider. Other policies clarify rules for staff conduct with minors and vulnerable adults and update mandated reporter training requirements.

The district recently completed several facility upgrades, including the installation of a new, high-efficiency HVAC system at its Administration Center, new bleachers at The Oaks fieldhouse, and a new multi-color lighting system at the Yunker Park Bandshell. Bids are being prepared for future path and parking lot repairs at two parks.

After 12 years of service, Rachel Bauer, the Manager of Fitness Center Operations at The Oaks, is leaving the district for a new role as Superintendent of Recreation in Palos Heights. Board members and staff praised her contributions and wished her well. The search for her replacement is currently underway.

Upcoming Community Events: The Mokena Park District will host National Night Out at Yunker Farm on August 1 from 6-8 p.m. The annual Farm and Barn Fest, featuring a flea market, food, a petting zoo, and live music, will also be held at Yunker Farm on August 12.

WoofStock Event Draws Larger Crowd: The 23rd annual WoofStock pet fair was a success, with 13 businesses participating—an increase of six from last year. The event’s social media star contest received over 75 submissions and more than 1,100 votes from residents, according to the Recreation Department report.

Summer Camp Enrollment Surpasses Last Year: The district’s summer camp programs are seeing high participation, with 223 campers enrolled in the Sunshine Camp for July, beating last year’s total of 198. The Kiddie Camp and Adventure Camp programs are also experiencing strong attendance this summer.

Partnership with LWSRA: The Lincolnway Special Recreation Association (LWSRA) is set to host the Wheelchair Softball World Series from July 27-29. LWSRA also recently received a $10,000 grant for inclusion services from the Aileen S. Andrew Foundation, and the Mokena Park District led member districts with five new participant admissions last month.