The Homewood-Flossmoor Park District Board marked the first full session for newly appointed commissioners Erika Schafer and Byron Walker during its meeting on Tuesday, June 18.
Walker won election April 1 to a six-year term, and Schafer was appointed to the board for a two-year term to fill a board vacancy. They are serving with fellow commissioners Debbie Dennison, Angie Coderre and Brent Bachus.
The first topic of discussion was the district’s crisis management plan, which dates back to 1997. Parks Executive Director Doug Boehm said the plan is “just staff’s way and the board’s way to prepare for if something really bad should happen, how we handle it.”
He said knowing what to do when faced with the unexpected is essential. He recalled a drowning at the Orland Park pool several years ago, adding, “it still bothers me til this day, and I hope we never have to go through that.”
Boehm said the district conducts annual training and coordinated drills with other local agencies, including villages, libraries and school districts.
The board approved financial claims totaling over $1.13 million, a higher amount due to the newly purchased district transportation bus and John Deere equipment.
“This was one of the larger claims reports we’ve had, it was all planned,” said Board President Bachus.
Boehm praised the district’s initiatives this summer season. The pool opened June 2 and day camps are in full swing.
“Everybody’s really on board and all in, excited,” Boehm said. “Water aerobics is awesome, the Zumba teacher is great, so kudos to them.” Programs like the dog-walking group and earth yoga have become a popular activity.
Park commissioners will tour the parks on July 1, following a committee meeting at 6 p.m.
Additionally, the board members are preparing for a fall evaluation as part of the district’s Distinguished Agency accreditation process. An upcoming development includes a renovation at Irons Oaks, with demolition set for winter and construction to begin in spring 2026.
Board members may also attend the National Recreation and Park Association conference in Orlando, Florida, in September.
