Meeting Briefs: Frankfort Square Park District for May 15, 2025

At its annual organizational meeting, the Frankfort Square Park District Board of Commissioners swore in four members, re-elected its leadership, and reviewed its strong end-of-year financial report. The district’s funds grew by $850,000 over the past fiscal year, closing with a balance of nearly $3.2 million. Craig Maksymiak and Denis Moore were re-elected as board President and Vice President, respectively.

The district also celebrated awarding $8,000 in college scholarships to eight Lincoln-Way East High School seniors. The scholarship recipients were Addison Blievernicht, Samantha Lewandowski, Olivia Meister, Ethan Philbin, Abigail Salgado, Clara Schutzius, Kayla Toman, and Kiera Wirth.

Golf Cart Use on Public Streets: Resident Greg Grant questioned the board about rules for operating golf carts in Frankfort Square. Executive Director Audrey Marcquenski clarified that while motorized vehicles are not allowed on park district paths, the district has no jurisdiction over public roads. She agreed to contact the Frankfort Township Road District for more information, which may be posted on the district’s website.

Path Extension to Old Plank Road Trail Proposed: Commissioner Ryan Holley suggested expanding the path system south from Union Creek Park to create a potential connection to the Old Plank Road Trail. Executive Director Audrey Marcquenski said she will present a map at the June board meeting to facilitate further discussion of the proposal.

Major Project Updates: The new dance studio buildout at The Square is nearing completion, with only ADA-compliant flooring transitions remaining. Meanwhile, the district has received approval to install fencing and erosion control at the Hunter Prairie Park site and is awaiting final permit approval from Will County, expected around May 15, to begin the full redevelopment project.

Pickleball Court Hours Under Review: The district is reviewing concerns from Summit Hill School District 161 staff regarding pickleball play at Champions Park, located next to Mary Drew School, during school hours. Park District officials will discuss the matter with the school superintendent, and temporarily closing the courts during school hours is a possible consideration.

LWSRA Awarded Grant for Sensory Bus: The Lincoln-Way Special Recreation Association (LWSRA), of which the park district is a member, has been awarded a Will County Mental Health Grant. The funds will support the development of a sensory bus, a mobile unit designed to provide sensory support for individuals at special events throughout member communities.

Board Releases Closed Session Minutes: The board approved a resolution to release the minutes from its closed executive session held on January 16, 2025. Following a bi-annual review, it was determined the minutes no longer required confidential treatment and could be made available for public inspection.