Frankfort Park District Meeting | October 28, 2025

The Frankfort Park District Board held a special meeting on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, where the primary focus was a decision to move forward with a voter referendum to fund a new $25-29 million indoor recreation center. The board also approved a contingent settlement with the Five Oaks Homeowners Association, which now requires a vote from the association’s members to be finalized.

Other significant discussions included the board’s consensus to renegotiate a 2018 agreement for the development of Crystal Brook Park, citing concerns over the park’s size and long-term maintenance. Updates were also provided on several ongoing projects, including the Fort Frankfort playground and a ComEd power line project. For more details on these topics, please see the full standalone articles.

News Briefs

Fort Frankfort Update:
The Fort Frankfort park project is approximately 70% complete, with the playground portion at 90% completion. However, progress has been hampered as new railings arrived on Friday without labels, creating difficulty in installation. Staff expressed concern about finishing the project by the grant’s deadline and expect to have more information next week.

ComEd Project Moving Along:
The ComEd project impacting the area is progressing, with towers currently being staged near Laraway Road and 80th Avenue. The project is scheduled for completion in the spring of 2026.

Historical Society Museum Proposal Not Currently Feasible:
The board considered a request from Commissioner Tom Barz to work with the Frankfort Area Historical Society (FAHS) to manage a museum, similar to a previous proposal for a children’s museum. The board concluded that while they would support the idea if it were within the financial realm, it is “not financially feasible at this time.” A referendum to levy a new tax, requiring 51% voter approval, would be necessary to fund such a project.

Capital Project Update:
Commissioners reviewed a list of capital projects, identifying the replacement of the roof by the elevator at the Founders Community Center as the next most urgent item. The project has already been funded in the budget. The board also noted that recently installed EAV charging stations at Fort Frankfort are not yet operational.

Frankfort Art Association Seeks Partnership:
The Frankfort Art Association has approached the park district about a potential partnership. The association, which wants to become more visible in the community, is looking for opportunities to exhibit art, possibly in a park during a district event. The board held a discussion, noting that options at the Founders Center are limited.

Disposal of Surplus Equipment Planned:
A list of surplus equipment to be sold or recycled is being compiled for the board’s approval. The item is expected to be placed on the November board meeting agenda. Executive Director Gina Hassett also has a proposal from Sourcewell for a new truck.