Meeting Summary and Briefs: New Lenox Community Park District for October 15, 2025

New Lenox Community Park District Meeting | October 15, 2025

The New Lenox Community Park District Board of Commissioners on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, discussed plans for a future indoor sports facility, approved a 9% increase in employee health insurance costs, and celebrated the success of community events like the “Empty Bowls” fundraiser. The board received updates on several ongoing park improvement projects, including progress at Sharon’s Bay Park and the challenge of finding a new turf vendor for the Crossroads Sports Complex after the previous company went out of business. For more details, see the full stories on these topics.

The board also approved the lease-purchase of a new Ford F-250 truck, accepted the annual audit, and heard reports of strong revenue at the district’s golf course. All votes taken during the meeting passed unanimously.

News Briefs

Caleb Gorecki Promoted to Food & Beverage Manager:
The park district has promoted Caleb Gorecki to the position of full-time Food & Beverage Manager at the Crossroads Sports Complex. According to Commissioner Ott, Gorecki was first hired in June 2025 as a coordinator and has now been elevated to the management role.

Golf Course Revenue Remains Strong, EV Chargers Coming:
Commissioner Kraemer reported that the golf course’s September revenue outperformed the previous year and that the Golf and Fish event was a “huge success.” Director of Golf Bob Schulz has secured major tournaments for the 2026 season, including the MAJGT, IJGA, and a State AM Qualifier. The district has also secured a vendor to install electric vehicle chargers and applied for a ComEd grant to offset 20% of the cost.

Lightning Strike Damages Golf Course Pump:
An irrigation pump on the 14th hole of the golf course was recently discovered to be malfunctioning. While initially thought to be a warranty issue, it was determined that the new pump had been struck by lightning. Commissioner Kraemer reported that the replacement will be covered by insurance.

District to Collect $42,000 in Out-of-District Fees:
As fall athletic seasons conclude, Commissioner Larson reported that the park district will be collecting approximately $42,000 in out-of-district fees. These funds will be put towards equipment costs for the various sports programs.

Upcoming Halloween Events Announced:
The park district announced its annual Big Bad Pumpkin Party will take place on Sunday, October 16, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Walker Country Estates Park. The event will feature a costume party, bounce house, face painting, and hayrack rides. Additionally, the Village of New Lenox annual Scarecrow Stroll will be on display in the Village Commons from October 20 to November 1.

Routine Approvals:
The board unanimously approved the Treasurer’s Report for September 30, 2025, the payment of bills, and the minutes from the September 17, 2025 meeting. They also approved the annual renewal of general liability insurance and a credentials certificate for delegates to the IAPD Business Meeting.