Summer 2020 | Page 4

Mundelein Park & Recreation District Board of Commissioners Farewell message from Margaret Resnick, outgoing Executive Director Jesus (Jesse) Ortega President Wallace Frasier Vice President Pat McGrath Treasurer Time flies ….. For the past 13 years I have had the honor and pleasure of serving the Mundelein Community as Executive Director of the Mundelein Park & Recreation District. There have been many changes in what feels like a very brief period of time. While we’ve seen our operating expenses grow by nearly $1.2 million, our dependency on property taxes declined from 51% to 47%. Over the last 13 years, participation in recreation programs and special events has increased 65%! In this same time, we developed and opened Holcomb Park, purchased 17 acres to expand Clearbrook Park, and built the Dunbar Recreation Center. There are several reasons the Park District has grown so much. First, there is the support of our residents. We are so fortunate to have a community that values parks and recreation and continues to ask for additional services. Second, there is our amazing staff. These committed professionals live our mission every day by “connecting the community with quality recreation through diverse programs, facilities and open space”. We listen to our residents and do our best to offer programs and facilities that meet their needs. And finally, there is the support of the Park District Board of Commissioner. These five individuals serve without compensation and truly have the best interest of the community in mind when making decisions. You may be wondering why I’m getting so nostalgic. Last December, I decided to retire effective May 31, 2020. While this was a hard decision to make, my second grandchild recently arrived and I find being a grandma is a much more fun job! During this very difficult time as we face a world wide pandemic, the Mundelein Park & Recreation District is fortunate to have hired Ron Salski as our new Executive Director. Ron's many years of experience will help guide us through this crisis. Thank you for 13 wonderful years. I can leave knowing the Park District is well supported and valued in Mundelein! Kevin Dolan Commissioner Bob Knudson Commissioner 4 847.566.0650