Meeting Summary and Briefs: Mokena Community Park District for Nov. 2025

Mokena Community Park District Meeting | Nov. 2025

The Mokena Community Park District Board of Commissioners met on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, to finalize the 2025 tax levy and review department progress as the year draws to a close. Board President Kathryn O’Connor called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

The meeting featured a presentation by recreation intern Dakoda Joachim from the University of St. Francis, who reflected on his learning experiences across various departments. The board voted 5-0 to approve the Consent Agenda, which included minutes from October and November meetings and financial reports through November 30, 2025.

IAPD Delegate Appointments:
The board voted 5-0 to approve Resolution 25-7, appointing Executive Director Greg Vitale as the delegate to the Annual Business Meeting of the Illinois Association of Park Districts on January 31, 2026. Superintendent of Finance Karen LaPointe was named the first alternate, and Board President Kathryn O’Connor was named the second alternate.

Holiday Lights at Yunker Farm:
Plans are being finalized to install festive holiday lights at Yunker Farm. According to the Executive Director’s report, visitors will see lights on the exterior of the Red Barn, the bandshell, the LaPorte Road fence, and the trees east of the barn. The display will remain up through the winter special event on January 17.

Community Drives:
The Oaks Recreation & Fitness Center reported that its recent food drive provided 10 boxes of food. Additionally, the facility announced a partnership with the American Red Cross for a televised blood drive scheduled for January.

Intern Presentation:
Dakoda Joachim, an intern from the University of St. Francis, gave a presentation to the board detailing what he learned during his rotation through the district’s departments. Commissioners praised his work, with Commissioner Rebekah Maurer stating, “Obviously he’s learned a lot, that’s awesome.”

New Maintenance Hires:
The district has hired two new maintenance assistants. The maintenance department is also interviewing for a second part-time employee to join the team.

Executive Session:
The board entered an executive session pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2 (C) to discuss potential litigation, real property, personnel, and closed meeting minutes. No action was taken on these items upon returning to the open session. The meeting adjourned at 6:59 p.m.