Live reporting by
Pachina Fletcher
Despite the 2024 budget highlights, the Chicago Park District claims it faces budget challenges for 2025. Superintendent Escareño noted that as CPD adds new facilities and acreage, the district needs to look for cost savings and ways to generate revenue.
Pachina Fletcher
@FletcherPachina
Hi my name is Pachina Fletcher I'll be live tweeting Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners Public Budget Forum for #CHI documenters CHI documenters The meeting started at 6:07.
11:41 PM Oct 1, 2024 CDT
John Gallagher Acting Director of Budget and Management for Chicago Park District was monitored the meeting. Rosa Escareno the General Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Park District. Ms Escareno shared during the meeting the recap of the 2024 budget.
The Chicago Park District has been working to supporting families. By providing programming for all members.
Free public WiFi is offered at 44 parks. CPD had 3,000 seasonal employees this past summer. All beaches were opened this summer. 20,000 day campers were at the parks this summer.
In addition, in the 2024 budget 10 million dollars was used for restorations in several parks. 98 outdoor pickleball parks were installed. 10 million was accoladed for ADA improvements in our parks.
Tom Gallagher shared during the meeting the budget breakdown for the 2025 year..
After Mr. Gallagher there was public comment for anyone who wanted to ask questions or have a comment.
Several community members shared concerns about the conditions of their parks, field houses, and restrooms.
Brandy K who represented the Steel Workers Park said the walking paths are all cracked and difficult to use. The guard rails need to be fixed for safety concerns. Also she suggested a shade pavilion,grills public water fountain and a playground. They have many visitors.
Marcia Dellenbach is an avid tennis player. She is hoping that tennis is not being ignored by all the pickleball venues.
Ericka Thurman is a coach for the Special Olympics. Her concerns were for more resources and programs in the neighborhood for diverse learners and special needs. Many parents have to travel far for their children to participate in activities.
Logan Laurie is a member of the Logan Square Advisory committee working to get the skate park built. There are only 5 others in the city.
Tricia suggested Park clean up day, adopt a park, and gardening in the park.
Mr. Gallagher thanked everyone for their comments and questions. He also said all who registered would get an email regarding their concerns they expressed during the meeting. Also the meeting was recorded and all of their concerns were written down.
There were 109 people present. The next meeting will be in person on October 3, 2024 at 6pm. Chicago Park District Administration Building 4830 South Western.