Wilmette Park District Board (Vote for 4 of 5)
Chad Chastain (Candidate Information not available)
Cecilia Clarke
Julia Goebel
Michael Murdock
Todd Shissler
Cecilia Clarke
Julia Goebel
Michael Murdock
Todd Shissler
Cecilia Clarke
Biography
As a Wilmette resident since 1992, Cecilia has a long history of community volunteer involvement. She has managed several District 39 school PTA/PTO programs including Grocery Dollar fundraising, Membership Directory and the After School Club programs for Central School, Highcrest and Wilmette Junior High. She is also on the Board of the Friends of the Wilmette Library and is an Assistant Adviser for Wilmette Venturing Crew 5. After receiving her J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, Cecilia practiced law for 13 years, primarily excess insurance coverage litigation with the Chicago law firms Peterson & Ross and Fedota Childers & May. Cecilia has raised four children since moving to Wilmette and she and her family have been active users of the Park District’s facilities.
Voter Guide Responses
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected as a Park Board Commissioner? Please explain why these goals are priorities for you.
Since my family moved to Wilmette in 1992, we have been active users of our parks and other Park District facilities. The Park District has maintained a high level of excellence in the operations of our parks and in providing recreational opportunities. My goal is to continue this excellence, first and foremost by ensuring that the Park District’s financial position remains strong and secondly by encouraging the continued development of and access to program offerings for all Wilmette residents.
The Village’s stormwater improvement project calls for neighborhood storage tanks in three different Wilmette parks, which will have long term implications for the use of these facilities. What is the role of the Park Board as this project moves forward?
The remediation of household flooding during heavy storms is of great importance to Wilmette residents. At its February 4 Board meeting, Village Trustees confirmed the Community Playfields, Thornwood Park and Hibbard Park as the locations for underground stormwater storage tanks that will be key to reducing flooding. Each of these three parks provide significant recreational options for their neighbors as well as the greater Wilmette community. As trustees of Wilmette’s public park land, the Park District needs to partner with the Village of Wilmette to ensure that the installation of the stormwater infrastructure and its long term maintenance will not be detrimental to the neighborhoods surrounding these parks or to the use and character of the parks involved.
How would you approach the next budget and tax levy cycles given the current financial picture of the Park District and its short-term and long-term needs?
Thanks to the tradition of strong financial leadership by previous Park Boards, the Park District is in an excellent financial position. More than two-thirds of the Park District’s annual operating budget is provided by user fees with less than a third of its annual budget coming from property taxes. The debt that was incurred by the Centennial Pool construction and the Mallinkrodt purchase will be substantially paid off in the next two years and subsequently Wilmette residents will see the Park District portion of their property tax bill drop from the current 5.4 % to just about 4%. While it is to be expected that there will be necessary capitol expenditures over the next several years, it is anticipated that those expenditures would be covered by surplus revenue from the District’s operational fees.
What if any changes in Park District programming would you strongly support?
The Park District does an excellent job of providing programming and facilities that provide recreational options for nearly everyone in our community. Over the 26 years my family has lived in Wilmette, we have taken advantage of Park District events at every stage of our life, from being a family with toddlers, then young children and teens and now almost empty nesters. One of the ways the Park District can continue its positive impact on our community is through increased programming for younger teens. Once children start high school, there are fewer programming options for them, especially during the summer months. Another change that I would support is additional programming that would promote social gathering options. This might include facilitating ways for residents who have an interest in group running, walking or biking to meet up, open gym time or even an open mike night at the CRC.
Describe the top environmental priorities for the Park District as you see them.
The Park District is facing the same environmental challenges as Wilmette residents. Moreover, as trustee of Wilmette’s public land, the Park District is tasked with preserving that land for future generations of Wilmette residents. This puts the Park District in the unique position of adopting a forward thinking leadership role in addressing environmental issues. The stormwater issue facing Wilmette is certainly one of the top priorities for the Park District and an area where the Park District can play a role in educating the community on ways to reduce water run-off by utilizing rain barrels and native plants in rain gardens. In addition, the Park District can be a leader in promoting waste reducing policies at its facilities.
As a Wilmette resident since 1992, Cecilia has a long history of community volunteer involvement. She has managed several District 39 school PTA/PTO programs including Grocery Dollar fundraising, Membership Directory and the After School Club programs for Central School, Highcrest and Wilmette Junior High. She is also on the Board of the Friends of the Wilmette Library and is an Assistant Adviser for Wilmette Venturing Crew 5. After receiving her J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, Cecilia practiced law for 13 years, primarily excess insurance coverage litigation with the Chicago law firms Peterson & Ross and Fedota Childers & May. Cecilia has raised four children since moving to Wilmette and she and her family have been active users of the Park District’s facilities.
Voter Guide Responses
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected as a Park Board Commissioner? Please explain why these goals are priorities for you.
Since my family moved to Wilmette in 1992, we have been active users of our parks and other Park District facilities. The Park District has maintained a high level of excellence in the operations of our parks and in providing recreational opportunities. My goal is to continue this excellence, first and foremost by ensuring that the Park District’s financial position remains strong and secondly by encouraging the continued development of and access to program offerings for all Wilmette residents.
The Village’s stormwater improvement project calls for neighborhood storage tanks in three different Wilmette parks, which will have long term implications for the use of these facilities. What is the role of the Park Board as this project moves forward?
The remediation of household flooding during heavy storms is of great importance to Wilmette residents. At its February 4 Board meeting, Village Trustees confirmed the Community Playfields, Thornwood Park and Hibbard Park as the locations for underground stormwater storage tanks that will be key to reducing flooding. Each of these three parks provide significant recreational options for their neighbors as well as the greater Wilmette community. As trustees of Wilmette’s public park land, the Park District needs to partner with the Village of Wilmette to ensure that the installation of the stormwater infrastructure and its long term maintenance will not be detrimental to the neighborhoods surrounding these parks or to the use and character of the parks involved.
How would you approach the next budget and tax levy cycles given the current financial picture of the Park District and its short-term and long-term needs?
Thanks to the tradition of strong financial leadership by previous Park Boards, the Park District is in an excellent financial position. More than two-thirds of the Park District’s annual operating budget is provided by user fees with less than a third of its annual budget coming from property taxes. The debt that was incurred by the Centennial Pool construction and the Mallinkrodt purchase will be substantially paid off in the next two years and subsequently Wilmette residents will see the Park District portion of their property tax bill drop from the current 5.4 % to just about 4%. While it is to be expected that there will be necessary capitol expenditures over the next several years, it is anticipated that those expenditures would be covered by surplus revenue from the District’s operational fees.
What if any changes in Park District programming would you strongly support?
The Park District does an excellent job of providing programming and facilities that provide recreational options for nearly everyone in our community. Over the 26 years my family has lived in Wilmette, we have taken advantage of Park District events at every stage of our life, from being a family with toddlers, then young children and teens and now almost empty nesters. One of the ways the Park District can continue its positive impact on our community is through increased programming for younger teens. Once children start high school, there are fewer programming options for them, especially during the summer months. Another change that I would support is additional programming that would promote social gathering options. This might include facilitating ways for residents who have an interest in group running, walking or biking to meet up, open gym time or even an open mike night at the CRC.
Describe the top environmental priorities for the Park District as you see them.
The Park District is facing the same environmental challenges as Wilmette residents. Moreover, as trustee of Wilmette’s public land, the Park District is tasked with preserving that land for future generations of Wilmette residents. This puts the Park District in the unique position of adopting a forward thinking leadership role in addressing environmental issues. The stormwater issue facing Wilmette is certainly one of the top priorities for the Park District and an area where the Park District can play a role in educating the community on ways to reduce water run-off by utilizing rain barrels and native plants in rain gardens. In addition, the Park District can be a leader in promoting waste reducing policies at its facilities.
Julia Goebel
Biography
Julia Goebel is a Wilmette resident, wife and mother of two children in District 39 schools. Professionally, she is employed with a technology company as Chief Marketing Officer and specializes in building high-performing teams.
As a candidate for Commissioner of Wilmette Park District, her goals are to focus on input and communication between residents and the Park District on key issues such as the Stormwater project the Lakefront’s facilities and changing environment programming for residents of all ages, and sound financial management to ensure the improvement and maintenance of our beautiful parks.
Originally born in New York, she is proud to call Wilmette her home and never misses a chance to do something active.
Voter Guide Responses
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected as a Park Board Commissioner? Please explain why these goals are priorities for you.
Broadly speaking, my priorities are to contribute to maintaining our beautiful parks, to partner with the Village on key projects such as the stormwater program, and ensure the Park District continues to provide healthy indoor and outdoor recreation options.
Commissioners represent the community in governing Park District matters - and if elected, I plan to focus my practice specifically on community input and communication.
Input - so that the Board decisions made about future programming and facility investment reflect the needs and wants of the community today, as well as its changing needs.
Next, communication - so that the public understands the roles, responsibilities and decisions made by the Park Board. As a marketing communication professional, I believe we need to meet the community “where they are” in their busy lives - and increase engagement via communication in the community’s channel of choice - whether print, email, social media, or other methods.
The Village’s stormwater improvement project calls for neighborhood storage tanks in three different Wilmette parks, which will have long term implications for use of these facilities. What is the role of the Park Board as this project moves forward?
The Park Board will play a key influencer role in the Village’s stormwater improvement project since the locations of the proposed neighborhood storage solution and hybrid solution are in Park District parks. In the case of Community Playfields, the proposed storage unit will be in a low-lying area which floods and is sometimes unusable, near Highcrest Middle School.
All three project scenarios are expected to include funds earmarked for reconstruction and landscaping of the parks. With modest investment of Park District resources in landscape architecture and planning, this becomes an opportunity for the Park Board to improve upon the impacted parks using the stormwater program funds, at no additional cost to the Village or the taxpayers - to improve the parks beyond their original state - like the low-lying area of Community Playfields.
Ultimately, an intergovernmental agreement is expected between the Village and the Park District, reflecting the priorities of both governing bodies, and the input from upcoming community listening sessions.
How would you approach the next budget and tax levy cycles given the current financial picture of the Park District and its short-term and long-term needs?
In next budget cycle, I would first consider safety and non-compliance issues, for risk management and minimization of liabilities. Next, I would look at opportunities for improvement and advancement of programs, followed by facilities maintenance and upgrades.
As for tax levy cycles, the existing budget and the tax amount should be considered relative to the priorities set. Fiscal responsibility is key - so levies should be only to the level required to meet the goals - not more.
What if any changes in Park District programming would you strongly support?
Additional programming for early morning and after-school recreation, and more kindergarten enrichment options until full-day kindergarten is available in District 39.
Increase in pre-teen and teen programming and camps to keep kids engaged in healthy activity beyond elementary years and into adulthood.
Further capacity planning, so that the Park District can opportunistically respond to growing and emerging sports programs for all ages - such as paddle and pickleball.
Describe the top environmental priorities for the park district as you see them.
Near term, I see the top environmental priorities for the Park District include assessing and responding to the changing beachfront conditions at Langdon Park, as well as determining a course of action for Keay Nature Center.
Julia Goebel is a Wilmette resident, wife and mother of two children in District 39 schools. Professionally, she is employed with a technology company as Chief Marketing Officer and specializes in building high-performing teams.
As a candidate for Commissioner of Wilmette Park District, her goals are to focus on input and communication between residents and the Park District on key issues such as the Stormwater project the Lakefront’s facilities and changing environment programming for residents of all ages, and sound financial management to ensure the improvement and maintenance of our beautiful parks.
Originally born in New York, she is proud to call Wilmette her home and never misses a chance to do something active.
Voter Guide Responses
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected as a Park Board Commissioner? Please explain why these goals are priorities for you.
Broadly speaking, my priorities are to contribute to maintaining our beautiful parks, to partner with the Village on key projects such as the stormwater program, and ensure the Park District continues to provide healthy indoor and outdoor recreation options.
Commissioners represent the community in governing Park District matters - and if elected, I plan to focus my practice specifically on community input and communication.
Input - so that the Board decisions made about future programming and facility investment reflect the needs and wants of the community today, as well as its changing needs.
Next, communication - so that the public understands the roles, responsibilities and decisions made by the Park Board. As a marketing communication professional, I believe we need to meet the community “where they are” in their busy lives - and increase engagement via communication in the community’s channel of choice - whether print, email, social media, or other methods.
The Village’s stormwater improvement project calls for neighborhood storage tanks in three different Wilmette parks, which will have long term implications for use of these facilities. What is the role of the Park Board as this project moves forward?
The Park Board will play a key influencer role in the Village’s stormwater improvement project since the locations of the proposed neighborhood storage solution and hybrid solution are in Park District parks. In the case of Community Playfields, the proposed storage unit will be in a low-lying area which floods and is sometimes unusable, near Highcrest Middle School.
All three project scenarios are expected to include funds earmarked for reconstruction and landscaping of the parks. With modest investment of Park District resources in landscape architecture and planning, this becomes an opportunity for the Park Board to improve upon the impacted parks using the stormwater program funds, at no additional cost to the Village or the taxpayers - to improve the parks beyond their original state - like the low-lying area of Community Playfields.
Ultimately, an intergovernmental agreement is expected between the Village and the Park District, reflecting the priorities of both governing bodies, and the input from upcoming community listening sessions.
How would you approach the next budget and tax levy cycles given the current financial picture of the Park District and its short-term and long-term needs?
In next budget cycle, I would first consider safety and non-compliance issues, for risk management and minimization of liabilities. Next, I would look at opportunities for improvement and advancement of programs, followed by facilities maintenance and upgrades.
As for tax levy cycles, the existing budget and the tax amount should be considered relative to the priorities set. Fiscal responsibility is key - so levies should be only to the level required to meet the goals - not more.
What if any changes in Park District programming would you strongly support?
Additional programming for early morning and after-school recreation, and more kindergarten enrichment options until full-day kindergarten is available in District 39.
Increase in pre-teen and teen programming and camps to keep kids engaged in healthy activity beyond elementary years and into adulthood.
Further capacity planning, so that the Park District can opportunistically respond to growing and emerging sports programs for all ages - such as paddle and pickleball.
Describe the top environmental priorities for the park district as you see them.
Near term, I see the top environmental priorities for the Park District include assessing and responding to the changing beachfront conditions at Langdon Park, as well as determining a course of action for Keay Nature Center.
Michael Murdock
Biography
Michael Murdock has been a Wilmette resident since 1998; my wife Eileen and I have raised four children here. Professionally, I am a real estate investor and developer but my passion has been supporting and growing local institutions—I oversaw the reconstruction of Ronald Knox Montessori School which both created a dramatically better learning environment while also solving long-standing neighborhood traffic issues. I have helped over 50 Wilmette residents remain in their homes through my work with Rebuilding Together (formerly Christmas in April) and I oversaw the renovations of the Michigan Shores Club which restored its vitality while also partnering with local institutions such as the Wilmette Park District and Go Green Wilmette on their programs. I have also served on a number of other local boards and non-profit institutions, including the WPD Board of Commissioners from 2009 to 2013
Voter Guide Responses
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected a Park Board Commissioner? Please explain why these goals are priorities for you.
First and foremost, I hope to offer experience and perspective as a Commissioner. While we should always seek new vitality/new energy brought by new participants, we should also value those who have already served. When I was elected in 2009, the average tenure on the WPD board was 15+ years. That is too long. But in 2021, the average tenure could be one year. That is too short. None of the current/future Commissioners has served during a recession or has addressed recession-related issues. I believe my experience and historical perspective will be invaluable wrt this and other issues.
The Village’s stormwater improvement project calls for neighborhood storage tanks in three different Wilmette parks, which will have long term implications for the use of these facilities. What is the role of the park board as this project moves forward?
Effective stormwater management is critical for our village and can positively impact our community. I applaud village leadership for their efforts to create the greatest impact at the lowest cost. I do, however, have some concerns about the project including (1) how/when the village engaged the WPD (2) how the plan will impact residents near the parks and (3) how the plan will impact WPD programming/facilities long term.
(1) I believe the village should have involved the WPD sooner, and the initial plan had some obvious flaws. But I am pleased by recent changes, including the vault relocation from Centennial to Community Playfields. This may create new issues for residents near the Playfields, but it may also create opportunities for new/better WPD uses if drainage improves significantly.
(2) I am concerned that residents surrounding the parks will bear the brunt of the construction and feel the impact wrt property values and safety. I remember when many Thornwood Park residents objected to ice rink lighting. In that case, I listened to those residents and their objections. In the end, I supported that plan because I believed that a private landowner would have been permitted to install the lights under the same set of facts. But I also worked with our facilities team to make improvements to the plan, including additional drainage which fixed longtime outfield issues in the two baseball diamonds.
This situation is different because of the larger impact to surrounding residents and whether that impact is reasonable in the context of the overall community benefit. One specific concern is resident safety as trucks enter and leave the site, especially if those trucks are travelling on residential streets. While I believe the community benefits probably justify the project, I want to hear resident input on this complicated issue, and, as I did with every controversial issue we addressed in my previous term, I will listen to the experts and to the residents before making a decision.
(3) The WPD needs a strong intergovernmental agreement to address ST/LT impact of the construction project if it proceeds. The WPD should not bear any cost of the project, including costs related to the storage facilities at the end of their useful life. And an environmental impact study should be done. While the WPD and village serve the same constituents, I hope any plan would include improvements to WPD facilities. Improved drainage in the Community Playfields would be one obvious benefit.
How would you approach the next budget and tax levy cycles given the current financial picture of the Park District and its short-term and long-term needs?
The WPD is strong financially. While FY18 revenues were down, the operating surplus and net surplus were both up significantly (some capital spending was deferred before the large FY19 lakefront expenditures). This demonstrates the impact of strong WPD management. Management will be tested over the next few years as major capital projects (Gillson infrastructure) need to be addressed. And the golf course continues to negatively impact WPD financials, as it did when I previously served. At that time, we developed a plan to improve drainage to decrease lost rounds and we shared those costs between users and taxpayers.
Previously, I voted against increasing the levy three times. The fourth year, I voted for an increase because it was clearly justified. The situation will be more challenging in the future because of the way the current board chose to fund Lakefront construction. But, as I did in the past, I will review reserves, anticipated operating surpluses and short-term capital needs and then vote for the appropriate levy.
What if any changes in Park District programming would you strongly support?
When I ran in 2009, we were active users of WPD programming including sports, classes and camps- I coached over 20 different WPD teams. My family is no longer involved to that degree, but during my tenure, I hope to strengthen and expand WPD offerings, finding ways to reach all of our residents in each stage of their lives.
Our sports/camp offerings are sought out by non-residents who pay a premium to participate, thereby reducing costs for our residents. But usage patterns ebb and flow (soccer), so we need to continually offer new opportunities to keep our residents engaged.
Our senior programming has greatly improved since Mallinckrodt Center opened; this programming serves our residents on the south/west sides of town, but we could do more to reach our seniors in east Wilmette.
Our passive parks, including Mallinckrodt, (parts of) Gillson and the Keay Nature Park are wonderful community resources but the lake at Keay is leaking and this park needs further attention.
Longer term, I hope we can add more indoor facilities. We currently have one indoor court and rely almost entirely on D39 for our winter sports programming. Community-wide there is a shortage of indoor court/field spaces. Given the demand, there may be significant revenue opportunities for these types of facilities and, although I do not see any short-term path to fund major projects such as this, I would like to investigate these possibilities for the future.
Describe the top environmental priorities of the Park District as you see them.
The WPD has improved wildlife sanctuaries in east (Gillson) and west (Keay) Wilmette, but we can make similar improvements elsewhere. New lakefront parking uses permeable pavers-- we should employ similar systems in other lots as we replace them to reduce the volume of water entering the stormsewer system. The Gillson road/sewer project should focus more on sidewalks and bike paths and less on parking spaces to encourage residents to visit the park on foot or bike. When the RecCenter roof is replaced, we should consider adding solar panels. We should always strive to be environmentally sensitive, even if the payoff will take years to realize. But these decisions still need to be made in the context of the cost considerations.
Michael Murdock has been a Wilmette resident since 1998; my wife Eileen and I have raised four children here. Professionally, I am a real estate investor and developer but my passion has been supporting and growing local institutions—I oversaw the reconstruction of Ronald Knox Montessori School which both created a dramatically better learning environment while also solving long-standing neighborhood traffic issues. I have helped over 50 Wilmette residents remain in their homes through my work with Rebuilding Together (formerly Christmas in April) and I oversaw the renovations of the Michigan Shores Club which restored its vitality while also partnering with local institutions such as the Wilmette Park District and Go Green Wilmette on their programs. I have also served on a number of other local boards and non-profit institutions, including the WPD Board of Commissioners from 2009 to 2013
Voter Guide Responses
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected a Park Board Commissioner? Please explain why these goals are priorities for you.
First and foremost, I hope to offer experience and perspective as a Commissioner. While we should always seek new vitality/new energy brought by new participants, we should also value those who have already served. When I was elected in 2009, the average tenure on the WPD board was 15+ years. That is too long. But in 2021, the average tenure could be one year. That is too short. None of the current/future Commissioners has served during a recession or has addressed recession-related issues. I believe my experience and historical perspective will be invaluable wrt this and other issues.
The Village’s stormwater improvement project calls for neighborhood storage tanks in three different Wilmette parks, which will have long term implications for the use of these facilities. What is the role of the park board as this project moves forward?
Effective stormwater management is critical for our village and can positively impact our community. I applaud village leadership for their efforts to create the greatest impact at the lowest cost. I do, however, have some concerns about the project including (1) how/when the village engaged the WPD (2) how the plan will impact residents near the parks and (3) how the plan will impact WPD programming/facilities long term.
(1) I believe the village should have involved the WPD sooner, and the initial plan had some obvious flaws. But I am pleased by recent changes, including the vault relocation from Centennial to Community Playfields. This may create new issues for residents near the Playfields, but it may also create opportunities for new/better WPD uses if drainage improves significantly.
(2) I am concerned that residents surrounding the parks will bear the brunt of the construction and feel the impact wrt property values and safety. I remember when many Thornwood Park residents objected to ice rink lighting. In that case, I listened to those residents and their objections. In the end, I supported that plan because I believed that a private landowner would have been permitted to install the lights under the same set of facts. But I also worked with our facilities team to make improvements to the plan, including additional drainage which fixed longtime outfield issues in the two baseball diamonds.
This situation is different because of the larger impact to surrounding residents and whether that impact is reasonable in the context of the overall community benefit. One specific concern is resident safety as trucks enter and leave the site, especially if those trucks are travelling on residential streets. While I believe the community benefits probably justify the project, I want to hear resident input on this complicated issue, and, as I did with every controversial issue we addressed in my previous term, I will listen to the experts and to the residents before making a decision.
(3) The WPD needs a strong intergovernmental agreement to address ST/LT impact of the construction project if it proceeds. The WPD should not bear any cost of the project, including costs related to the storage facilities at the end of their useful life. And an environmental impact study should be done. While the WPD and village serve the same constituents, I hope any plan would include improvements to WPD facilities. Improved drainage in the Community Playfields would be one obvious benefit.
How would you approach the next budget and tax levy cycles given the current financial picture of the Park District and its short-term and long-term needs?
The WPD is strong financially. While FY18 revenues were down, the operating surplus and net surplus were both up significantly (some capital spending was deferred before the large FY19 lakefront expenditures). This demonstrates the impact of strong WPD management. Management will be tested over the next few years as major capital projects (Gillson infrastructure) need to be addressed. And the golf course continues to negatively impact WPD financials, as it did when I previously served. At that time, we developed a plan to improve drainage to decrease lost rounds and we shared those costs between users and taxpayers.
Previously, I voted against increasing the levy three times. The fourth year, I voted for an increase because it was clearly justified. The situation will be more challenging in the future because of the way the current board chose to fund Lakefront construction. But, as I did in the past, I will review reserves, anticipated operating surpluses and short-term capital needs and then vote for the appropriate levy.
What if any changes in Park District programming would you strongly support?
When I ran in 2009, we were active users of WPD programming including sports, classes and camps- I coached over 20 different WPD teams. My family is no longer involved to that degree, but during my tenure, I hope to strengthen and expand WPD offerings, finding ways to reach all of our residents in each stage of their lives.
Our sports/camp offerings are sought out by non-residents who pay a premium to participate, thereby reducing costs for our residents. But usage patterns ebb and flow (soccer), so we need to continually offer new opportunities to keep our residents engaged.
Our senior programming has greatly improved since Mallinckrodt Center opened; this programming serves our residents on the south/west sides of town, but we could do more to reach our seniors in east Wilmette.
Our passive parks, including Mallinckrodt, (parts of) Gillson and the Keay Nature Park are wonderful community resources but the lake at Keay is leaking and this park needs further attention.
Longer term, I hope we can add more indoor facilities. We currently have one indoor court and rely almost entirely on D39 for our winter sports programming. Community-wide there is a shortage of indoor court/field spaces. Given the demand, there may be significant revenue opportunities for these types of facilities and, although I do not see any short-term path to fund major projects such as this, I would like to investigate these possibilities for the future.
Describe the top environmental priorities of the Park District as you see them.
The WPD has improved wildlife sanctuaries in east (Gillson) and west (Keay) Wilmette, but we can make similar improvements elsewhere. New lakefront parking uses permeable pavers-- we should employ similar systems in other lots as we replace them to reduce the volume of water entering the stormsewer system. The Gillson road/sewer project should focus more on sidewalks and bike paths and less on parking spaces to encourage residents to visit the park on foot or bike. When the RecCenter roof is replaced, we should consider adding solar panels. We should always strive to be environmentally sensitive, even if the payoff will take years to realize. But these decisions still need to be made in the context of the cost considerations.
Todd Shissler
Biography
Todd Shissler, a resident of Wilmette, is a candidate to be a member of the Board of Park Commissioners of Wilmette. Todd has lived in Wilmette since August 2015 with his wife and two daughters who both attend Central Elementary School. Todd is frequently a parent volunteer at Central, and has served as enrichment coordinator for the PTA at Central Elementary for the last two years and is the assistant Girl Scout troop leader for his older daughter’s troop. Todd has also been active in raising money for the Special Olympics and the New Trier Food Pantry. Todd and his family have truly enjoyed building relationships and being a part of the community through their involvement with New Trier Aquatics, the local swim club where both of his daughters swim. Todd and his family are also active in a local church, Grace Presbyterian Church of the North Shore.
Voter Guide Responses
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected as a Park Board Commissioner? Please explain why these goals are priorities for you.
The Wilmette Park District has amazing facilities and very robust programing. Its offerings and facilities are the envy of many of the North Shore communities. From the camps and kid-programming to the sports offerings, we have an amazing Park District. I want to keep it that way. Having young children that take advantage of a number of the District’s programs, this goal is very important to me. The robust programming directly impacts our families, our neighbors, and ultimately, our community. Overall, I have been very pleased with the quality and extensiveness of the District’s offerings and it is my hope that I can work to make the facilities and programs even more accessible to more people. I hope to make it easier for members of our community to know about the District’s offerings and register for them. I believe that this goal can be furthered by streamlining the District’s website and making it more user-friendly and less “clunky.”
I would also seek to make the District’s golf course self-sufficient. Presently, as it has been the case for some time, the golf course is subsidized by several of the other District’s programs. The golf course is a beautiful facility, although I do not believe that Wilmette residents are aware that this is the case. I would like the restaurant at the golf course to draw more people to the facility.
The Village’s stormwater improvement project calls for neighborhood storage tanks in three different Wilmette parks, which will have long term implications for the use of these facilities. What is the role of the Park Board as this project moves forward?
If these storage tanks are in fact put into our parks, I would hope to work with the Village to insure that they are installed in a manner that does not detract from the community’s enjoyment and use of such parks. I believe that it is absolutely necessary to consider the families who live in the neighborhoods where the parks are located and to balance their needs with those of the community as a whole. This project will in fact have long term-implications for the Village and underscores the importance of making sure that it is done properly and thoughtfully while keeping in mind the needs of the community. I look forward to working with the Village so that the stormwater issue can be resolved in a way that benefits all those involved in the matter.
How would you approach the next budget and tax levy cycles given the current financial picture of the Park District and its short-term and long-term needs?
I think that one advantage that the Park District has in the coming years is that its financial obligations will diminish as it pays off the financial obligations related to the Centennial facility and Mallinckrodt Center. Nevertheless, even after paying off the obligations in connection with these facilities, there are other financial issues to consider. For example, with the recent passage of the state minimum wage, the District needs to make sure that it is still able to attract top talent and pay their wages, which may require the Park District to be creative in the way that it recruits its employees.
With respect to the District’s level of compensation for its employees, I am satisfied that the District has begun a compensation and benefits study to insure that the district’s employees are being compensated appropriately, and hope that the study will lead to thoughtful decisions regarding employee compensation by the District.
I am also satisfied that a majority of the funds for the Park District are derived from fees from its programs and not property taxes. Keeping this in mind, I think that it is important to make sure that the programs that the District offers meet the needs of the community and have high levels of participation. To that end, I would like to see that Wilmette’s golf course has a higher level of utilization and does not have to be subsidized by other Park District programs.
What if any changes in Park District programming would you strongly support?
In general, the Park District offers very robust programming in a wide range of areas. Instead of changing the programming, I want to focus on making the public more aware of the programming that is available and making it more accessible. To that end, I would like to make the Park District website more user-friendly and easier to navigate. One of the complaints that I have heard from many residents is that it is difficult to register for programming and I would like to change that feeling for the user.
Describe the top environmental priorities for the Park District as you see them.
The environmental priorities for the Park District are almost too numerous to discuss them all. Almost everything that the Park District does has some sort of environmental impact. From building new facilities to the kind of sprinkler systems that are installed. It is important to make the District’s environmental impact a priority when making decisions. An issue that has recently become important to our community is the proposal to pave over the 10th hole at Canal Shores. I am opposed to this proposal and would work to see that the 10th hole will remain as it is today. I also think that from an environmental perspective, I would like to get the website working effectively so that perhaps the District would not have to print the catalogs that go to all residents that outline the different offerings of the Park District.
Todd Shissler, a resident of Wilmette, is a candidate to be a member of the Board of Park Commissioners of Wilmette. Todd has lived in Wilmette since August 2015 with his wife and two daughters who both attend Central Elementary School. Todd is frequently a parent volunteer at Central, and has served as enrichment coordinator for the PTA at Central Elementary for the last two years and is the assistant Girl Scout troop leader for his older daughter’s troop. Todd has also been active in raising money for the Special Olympics and the New Trier Food Pantry. Todd and his family have truly enjoyed building relationships and being a part of the community through their involvement with New Trier Aquatics, the local swim club where both of his daughters swim. Todd and his family are also active in a local church, Grace Presbyterian Church of the North Shore.
Voter Guide Responses
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected as a Park Board Commissioner? Please explain why these goals are priorities for you.
The Wilmette Park District has amazing facilities and very robust programing. Its offerings and facilities are the envy of many of the North Shore communities. From the camps and kid-programming to the sports offerings, we have an amazing Park District. I want to keep it that way. Having young children that take advantage of a number of the District’s programs, this goal is very important to me. The robust programming directly impacts our families, our neighbors, and ultimately, our community. Overall, I have been very pleased with the quality and extensiveness of the District’s offerings and it is my hope that I can work to make the facilities and programs even more accessible to more people. I hope to make it easier for members of our community to know about the District’s offerings and register for them. I believe that this goal can be furthered by streamlining the District’s website and making it more user-friendly and less “clunky.”
I would also seek to make the District’s golf course self-sufficient. Presently, as it has been the case for some time, the golf course is subsidized by several of the other District’s programs. The golf course is a beautiful facility, although I do not believe that Wilmette residents are aware that this is the case. I would like the restaurant at the golf course to draw more people to the facility.
The Village’s stormwater improvement project calls for neighborhood storage tanks in three different Wilmette parks, which will have long term implications for the use of these facilities. What is the role of the Park Board as this project moves forward?
If these storage tanks are in fact put into our parks, I would hope to work with the Village to insure that they are installed in a manner that does not detract from the community’s enjoyment and use of such parks. I believe that it is absolutely necessary to consider the families who live in the neighborhoods where the parks are located and to balance their needs with those of the community as a whole. This project will in fact have long term-implications for the Village and underscores the importance of making sure that it is done properly and thoughtfully while keeping in mind the needs of the community. I look forward to working with the Village so that the stormwater issue can be resolved in a way that benefits all those involved in the matter.
How would you approach the next budget and tax levy cycles given the current financial picture of the Park District and its short-term and long-term needs?
I think that one advantage that the Park District has in the coming years is that its financial obligations will diminish as it pays off the financial obligations related to the Centennial facility and Mallinckrodt Center. Nevertheless, even after paying off the obligations in connection with these facilities, there are other financial issues to consider. For example, with the recent passage of the state minimum wage, the District needs to make sure that it is still able to attract top talent and pay their wages, which may require the Park District to be creative in the way that it recruits its employees.
With respect to the District’s level of compensation for its employees, I am satisfied that the District has begun a compensation and benefits study to insure that the district’s employees are being compensated appropriately, and hope that the study will lead to thoughtful decisions regarding employee compensation by the District.
I am also satisfied that a majority of the funds for the Park District are derived from fees from its programs and not property taxes. Keeping this in mind, I think that it is important to make sure that the programs that the District offers meet the needs of the community and have high levels of participation. To that end, I would like to see that Wilmette’s golf course has a higher level of utilization and does not have to be subsidized by other Park District programs.
What if any changes in Park District programming would you strongly support?
In general, the Park District offers very robust programming in a wide range of areas. Instead of changing the programming, I want to focus on making the public more aware of the programming that is available and making it more accessible. To that end, I would like to make the Park District website more user-friendly and easier to navigate. One of the complaints that I have heard from many residents is that it is difficult to register for programming and I would like to change that feeling for the user.
Describe the top environmental priorities for the Park District as you see them.
The environmental priorities for the Park District are almost too numerous to discuss them all. Almost everything that the Park District does has some sort of environmental impact. From building new facilities to the kind of sprinkler systems that are installed. It is important to make the District’s environmental impact a priority when making decisions. An issue that has recently become important to our community is the proposal to pave over the 10th hole at Canal Shores. I am opposed to this proposal and would work to see that the 10th hole will remain as it is today. I also think that from an environmental perspective, I would like to get the website working effectively so that perhaps the District would not have to print the catalogs that go to all residents that outline the different offerings of the Park District.
Biography
Jeff is a former software engineer turned household renaissance man and activist who is the dad to Zoe, 17, Evan, 8, and husband to local OB-GYN Cheryl. His passions include pinball, bike advocacy, craft beer, affordable housing, gourmet food preparation and fair wages.
Voter Guide Responses
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected as a Village Trustee? Please explain why these goals are priorities for you.
Our village board’s values need to more closely align with those of our community, and I hope to help. For instance, almost 80% of Wilmette consistently supported abiding by our county’s minimum wage and earned sick time benefits, however our existing board followed their own agenda and circumvented the laws. We need representation from progressive leaders who will better support each of our families, including the underserved. We need more leaders dedicated to environmental stewardship, and who are committed to reinvestment in our roads, services, and other infrastructure to keep Wilmette the same great place we chose to take root.
I hope to introduce ethics reform and better transparency in our village government. I support stronger disclosure from elected officials, detailing local business relationships that might raise concerns about conflicts of interest. I aim to stop former elected officials appearing to benefit from their past service by conducting village-related business that might appear conflictual.
For example, there’s the appearance of a revolving door with a former official who appointed commission members, then later represented clients requesting special accommodations from those very commissioners. He also then publicly endorsed favorite future village board candidates. We need independence.
I have a solid record of not being afraid to do and say what’s right to represent the will of the residents of Wilmette. I’m not afraid to hold officials accountable when necessary, standing up to the chamber lobby who pushed the board to go not only against the will of almost all of our residents, but also the majority of business owners.
I will continue to work with the chamber and other groups to invest in and promote sustainable business health. To help further strengthen Wilmette’s economy, I would like to reinstate our cancelled membership in the North Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau; we’re the only North Shore non-member community.
I’d also like to re-establish Wilmette health and human services that have been eliminated or weakened, including our restaurant health inspector who protects us and our visitors from foodborne illness, the village housing assistance program for Wilmette residents, our human relations and housing commissions. Our transportation commission is responsible for our children’s crossing guards, ensuring our community is safely walkable, and that we can get around town smoothly. I want this commission to fulfil its legal requirements meeting six times per year instead of meeting twice annually, despite there being much to discuss.
This all underlines how important it is that our village government reflect the welcoming, safe, and generous community that we are. Local government matters now more than ever. We need your help; it really does take a village. Please join us at axelrodforwilmette.com.
What financial challenges do you see for our Village and how would you address them?
Sales tax revenues are somewhat reduced because of Carson’s, Treasure Island, and other struggling retailers. However, as online sales are increasing, Wilmette shares in this tax revenue to offset local losses. Our community development department and chamber of commerce are strong, and I expect new retailers to fill in the voids. If necessary, I support creative solutions such as an additional food and beverage tax as other neighboring suburbs have done, or even vacancy taxes to discourage less motivated landlords from letting valuable retail space remain empty and creating retail blight, like we’ve seen in the Linden business district.
Our village has been lowering its tax levy increase consecutively for the past decade, sparked by the 2007 housing crisis. I’m concerned that we’ve been cutting staff and service levels while our economy is at its strongest, leaving us little buffer to propel us through future hardships.
The Village has recently signed onto the Greenest Region Compact 2 (GRC2), which is an environmental sustainability blueprint for Chicago-region communities. As Village Trustee, what environmental priorities from the GRC2 strike you as most important, and why?
I organized residents to encourage President Bielinski sign onto voluntary climate agreements back when Trump withdrew from the Paris Accord. While our national leadership seeks to move us backward, local governments need to step up combat climate change. I was thrilled last August when our village signed on and joined Climate Mayors. The compact is wide ranging and holistic, and I feel remiss answering a question narrowing priorities. However, areas of special interest to me are enhancing and preserving our parks, trees, and natural ecosystems as well as the mobility goals. I am already helping Wilmette improve in this area; for instance, I secured a National Parks Service grant on behalf of Canal Shores to bolster their ecological master plan and help the park develop a multi-use trail. I was at the forefront advocating against Cullerton’s plans to pave the Canal Shores tenth hole. I support making Wilmette even more walkable and promoting other healthy activities that get us moving safely.
Should the Village play a role in expanding affordable housing and/or housing assistance programs in Wilmette and, if so, what role should the Village Board take?
It’s important that we provide and maintain safety nets for our residents, whether seniors or disabled residents struggling to afford rising property taxes or to help support someone going through a life transition like divorce, or a surprise medical condition. This can happen to any of us or our loved ones, and it’s delusional to think otherwise. It’s also important that we make available affordable housing for our police officers, school teachers, and other important members of our community. Within the past few years, Wilmette defunded and privatized our housing assistance program. I also support our village president fulfilling his duties and making the required appointments to fill the long-vacant housing commission seats.
What issues remain in the Village's plans to improve stormwater management and how would you address them?
I’m pleased by the very recent unanimous support for a plan that better protects virtually every family’s home. One issue that remains is that in comparison to the conveyance option, which would have cost us about $50 more annually, is that the proposed system will at times become overwhelmed causing flooding. During sustained rainfall, storage tanks will reach capacity and stop providing relief. Despite these limitations, I fully support the current plans being implemented as quickly as possible serve the residents who will be helped by storage tanks. I’m now optimistic about working out an intergovernmental agreement with the park district, but felt discussions could have been more public. I will work to foster better intergovernmental cooperation to address the issues that came up during this process.
Jeff is a former software engineer turned household renaissance man and activist who is the dad to Zoe, 17, Evan, 8, and husband to local OB-GYN Cheryl. His passions include pinball, bike advocacy, craft beer, affordable housing, gourmet food preparation and fair wages.
Voter Guide Responses
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected as a Village Trustee? Please explain why these goals are priorities for you.
Our village board’s values need to more closely align with those of our community, and I hope to help. For instance, almost 80% of Wilmette consistently supported abiding by our county’s minimum wage and earned sick time benefits, however our existing board followed their own agenda and circumvented the laws. We need representation from progressive leaders who will better support each of our families, including the underserved. We need more leaders dedicated to environmental stewardship, and who are committed to reinvestment in our roads, services, and other infrastructure to keep Wilmette the same great place we chose to take root.
I hope to introduce ethics reform and better transparency in our village government. I support stronger disclosure from elected officials, detailing local business relationships that might raise concerns about conflicts of interest. I aim to stop former elected officials appearing to benefit from their past service by conducting village-related business that might appear conflictual.
For example, there’s the appearance of a revolving door with a former official who appointed commission members, then later represented clients requesting special accommodations from those very commissioners. He also then publicly endorsed favorite future village board candidates. We need independence.
I have a solid record of not being afraid to do and say what’s right to represent the will of the residents of Wilmette. I’m not afraid to hold officials accountable when necessary, standing up to the chamber lobby who pushed the board to go not only against the will of almost all of our residents, but also the majority of business owners.
I will continue to work with the chamber and other groups to invest in and promote sustainable business health. To help further strengthen Wilmette’s economy, I would like to reinstate our cancelled membership in the North Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau; we’re the only North Shore non-member community.
I’d also like to re-establish Wilmette health and human services that have been eliminated or weakened, including our restaurant health inspector who protects us and our visitors from foodborne illness, the village housing assistance program for Wilmette residents, our human relations and housing commissions. Our transportation commission is responsible for our children’s crossing guards, ensuring our community is safely walkable, and that we can get around town smoothly. I want this commission to fulfil its legal requirements meeting six times per year instead of meeting twice annually, despite there being much to discuss.
This all underlines how important it is that our village government reflect the welcoming, safe, and generous community that we are. Local government matters now more than ever. We need your help; it really does take a village. Please join us at axelrodforwilmette.com.
What financial challenges do you see for our Village and how would you address them?
Sales tax revenues are somewhat reduced because of Carson’s, Treasure Island, and other struggling retailers. However, as online sales are increasing, Wilmette shares in this tax revenue to offset local losses. Our community development department and chamber of commerce are strong, and I expect new retailers to fill in the voids. If necessary, I support creative solutions such as an additional food and beverage tax as other neighboring suburbs have done, or even vacancy taxes to discourage less motivated landlords from letting valuable retail space remain empty and creating retail blight, like we’ve seen in the Linden business district.
Our village has been lowering its tax levy increase consecutively for the past decade, sparked by the 2007 housing crisis. I’m concerned that we’ve been cutting staff and service levels while our economy is at its strongest, leaving us little buffer to propel us through future hardships.
The Village has recently signed onto the Greenest Region Compact 2 (GRC2), which is an environmental sustainability blueprint for Chicago-region communities. As Village Trustee, what environmental priorities from the GRC2 strike you as most important, and why?
I organized residents to encourage President Bielinski sign onto voluntary climate agreements back when Trump withdrew from the Paris Accord. While our national leadership seeks to move us backward, local governments need to step up combat climate change. I was thrilled last August when our village signed on and joined Climate Mayors. The compact is wide ranging and holistic, and I feel remiss answering a question narrowing priorities. However, areas of special interest to me are enhancing and preserving our parks, trees, and natural ecosystems as well as the mobility goals. I am already helping Wilmette improve in this area; for instance, I secured a National Parks Service grant on behalf of Canal Shores to bolster their ecological master plan and help the park develop a multi-use trail. I was at the forefront advocating against Cullerton’s plans to pave the Canal Shores tenth hole. I support making Wilmette even more walkable and promoting other healthy activities that get us moving safely.
Should the Village play a role in expanding affordable housing and/or housing assistance programs in Wilmette and, if so, what role should the Village Board take?
It’s important that we provide and maintain safety nets for our residents, whether seniors or disabled residents struggling to afford rising property taxes or to help support someone going through a life transition like divorce, or a surprise medical condition. This can happen to any of us or our loved ones, and it’s delusional to think otherwise. It’s also important that we make available affordable housing for our police officers, school teachers, and other important members of our community. Within the past few years, Wilmette defunded and privatized our housing assistance program. I also support our village president fulfilling his duties and making the required appointments to fill the long-vacant housing commission seats.
What issues remain in the Village's plans to improve stormwater management and how would you address them?
I’m pleased by the very recent unanimous support for a plan that better protects virtually every family’s home. One issue that remains is that in comparison to the conveyance option, which would have cost us about $50 more annually, is that the proposed system will at times become overwhelmed causing flooding. During sustained rainfall, storage tanks will reach capacity and stop providing relief. Despite these limitations, I fully support the current plans being implemented as quickly as possible serve the residents who will be helped by storage tanks. I’m now optimistic about working out an intergovernmental agreement with the park district, but felt discussions could have been more public. I will work to foster better intergovernmental cooperation to address the issues that came up during this process.