The Homewood-Flossmoor Park District commissioners approved the $13.89 million 2021-22 budget at its June 15 meeting.
Superintendent of Finance and Administration Sharon Dangles said the district’s total appropriation was $12.7 million and reflects a 10% increase per line item. The budget is divided into funds – corporate, recreation, racquet club, ice arena, golf course, museum (Irons Oaks), audit, bond and interest, Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund, FICA Fund, liability insurance, workers’ compensation, improvement, outdoor pool and working cash.
Dangles said the initial budget she presented in April had a $67,000 deficit, but she applauded staff for reviewing their funds to help close the gap. The budget shows a net fund balance of $135,000.
”The most significant change was the Rotary Foundation donation of $70,000” to help with expenses for the redesign of the Homewood Estates Park, Dangles said.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the park district was forced to lay off employees. Dangles said fortunately 50% of those unemployment expenses were covered by the federal government’s American Rescue Plan, saving the district $261,255.
Dangles also reported that the Lions Pool expenses were increased nearly $20,000 for pool repairs. The summer camp line item was listed at $42,900 but Dangles said it is hoped the program will generate more revenue. Work at the Irwin Center, including remodeling the bathrooms, was approximated at $34,500. And an electrical panel at the H-F Ice Arena will be replaced at an estimated cost of nearly $6,000.