As Naperville’s population continues to grow and change, the District is challenged to meet increasing demand for recreation in an affordable, sustainable way. A community survey to be launched in late 2025 will gather resident input on the proposed projects and potential referendum and help inform the Park Board’s decision on next steps. Looking beyond the referendum, 2025 was also a year of accomplishment and progress. Many initiatives focused on strategic operations, partnerships, and community connection, all of which directly benefit residents and reinforce the District’s long-standing mission to promote healthy lives, minds, and community. In addition to planning for the future, the District continued to connect with its community through a variety of projects and partnerships. Two new parks—Polo Club Park (#139) and Fairlane Farms Park (#140) —were officially added to the new Naperville Polo Club subdivision located in the southwest area of the city, offering residents a fun, new playground and multi-purpose fields that encourage recreation and foster neighborhood connections. Also in 2025, several neighborhood playgrounds were officially opened to the public following renovations, including Arbor Way, Meadow Glens, Rose Hill Farms Park, Spring-Field Park, White Eagle Park, and Willowgate Square. Funding for several of these projects was supported by Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) grants championed by Illinois State Representatives Janet Yang Rohr and Anne Stava, whose advocacy underscores the importance of accessible recreation. As part of these renovations, surrounding residents were invited to provide input through questionnaires,
giving them a direct voice in shaping their neighborhood parks. While the Park District is an independently governed body and separate from the City of Naperville, community partnerships play a vital role in enhancing operations and expanding opportunities for residents. At the Rothermel Family Skate Facility, located just west of Centennial Beach, four vibrant murals were added through a partnership with Max’s Mission, a local nonprofit advocating for mental health awareness in memory of local youth skater Max Wijangco. The project was funded by several partners, including Max’s Mission, the City of Naperville’s SECA Grant Fund and others. In November, the District helped host the 2025 Naperville Healing Field of Honor, in collaboration with Operation Support Our Troops–America, Naperville Responds for Veterans, and other partners and volunteers. The large display of American flags across Rotary Hill honored veterans, active service members, and their families, thereby demonstrating how community collaboration strengthens our shared sense of purpose. Lastly, also during November, the District finalized its reaccreditation submission for the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) through the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), which ensures that best-in-class operational practices across the agency are in place. Throughout 2025, the District also continued to build support and trust through encouraging community engagement, including increased staff participation in local events – led by its new Inclusivity and Engagement Team – several open house events to share information regarding the proposed referendum, and marching in Naperville
parades with the newly formed Park District Parade Crew, comprised of the Park Board of Commissioners, staff, and family members. These visible, positive connections keep residents informed and reinforce the transparency, accessibility, and spirit that are hallmarks of the organization. Looking ahead, the 2026 budget and goals build on the progress and partnerships of 2025, reflecting a continued focus on efficiency, trust, and responsiveness. The District remains in a positive financial position while preparing for potential new investments that address community needs, particularly additional indoor recreation space to help reduce program waitlists. Despite uncertainties in the economic landscape, the District remains steadfast in its commitment to responsible stewardship, continuous improvement, partnerships with local organizations and transparent engagement with the community it serves.
2026 BUDGET 4
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