allison frazier
Wilmette Park District
candidate video
responses to voter guide questions
Introduction:
Please tell us about yourself, your qualifications, and what prompted you to run for Park Commissioner?
My name is Allison (Alli) Frazier, and I am excited to run for reelection to the Wilmette Park Board. My husband, Tim, and I have five young children (ages 2 to 13) and love living in the McKenzie Elementary neighborhood. We are in our eighth consecutive year at the Wilmette Park District’s preschool, and between my kids’ activities and my own, we visit a WPD park or facility an average of five times a day.
My mother, Margo, also resides in Wilmette and has opened my eyes to the importance of passive enjoyment of our beautiful parks, the need for robust and affordable senior programming, and the necessity of ADA accessibility. My first hand involvement—spanning multiple ages and interests—uniquely positions me to be a voice for every generation.
Upon graduating from Vanderbilt University, I built my career in financial services at Fidelity Investments and Morningstar Investments. Since being elected as commissioner in 2021, I have taken great pride in the projects completed and improvements made during my tenure.
Accomplishments as Commissioner (2021–Present)
Why I’m Running for Reelection
I seek reelection to the Park Board to ensure that every generation in Wilmette has a voice. As the only candidate with young children, I believe it is essential that families with young children are represented in the planning and decision-making that will shape our community’s future.
Each decision I make is guided by three perspectives—those of my mother, my children, and myself. With approximately 70% of our district’s revenue generated through recreational programs, it is critical to have a Board member who understands the quality and value of these programs. This knowledge is key to sustaining the financial success we have achieved over the past decade. Representation matters.
Questions:
1. What do you believe is the most pressing issure facing the Park District and how would you address it as a Park Commissioner?
Our mission statement emphasizes enriching the quality of community life, and to achieve that, we must improve communication and enhance our process of community engagement. Every Wilmette resident deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued—not just the most vocal.
I am committed to reaching and informing those who may be less inclined to attend meetings, complete surveys, or read comprehensive plans, because their voices are just as important in shaping our community’s future.
I do not seek reelection based on any single issue. I firmly believe that every candidate must consider all facets of a commissioner’s responsibility—both to the residents of Wilmette and to the parks and facilities entrusted to us.
2. What are your financial priorities for the Park District and how would you ensure they are realized?
As both a cost-conscious mother and a commissioner, I am committed to managing my family’s budget and taxpayers’ dollars with care and responsibility. Throughout my term, I have focused on delivering high-quality services at affordable prices while navigating the challenges of rising costs and wages. The work is ongoing, and my unique perspective continues to guide me in balancing these responsibilities.
My financial priorities for the Park District are straightforward: maintain the quality of services, invest in the upkeep of existing facilities, and support future projects that enhance the community experience. Our long-term capital plan includes facility improvements, natural habitat restoration, and significant projects at the golf course and other public spaces—each aimed at improving sustainability, safety, usability, and user satisfaction. As a daily park user, I bring both firsthand experience and a strong commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility.
During my four years as commissioner, the Wilmette Park District has consistently operated with a budget surplus. This financial strength has allowed us to maintain our facilities, support our staff, and take on new projects, all while planning for the future. Managing the Park District’s finances is much like raising five young children—it requires patience, flexibility, and a willingness to advocate for both the community and our team. I am confident in my ability to continue serving in this important role.
3. In March 2024, the Wilmette Park District announced it would implement access controls at South Beach in Gillson Park by installing a fence and charging entrance fees. In December 2024, it was announced that the Board of Park Commissioners had committed to continue managing access to South Beach in 2025. Please explain your position on managed access control at South Beach in Gillson Park.
As with every decision I make as commissioner, I approach this issue through the lens of three generations. Viewing it from only one perspective would fail to capture the full picture of our community’s needs.
I support reducing or eliminating fees for users over the age of 55 and making access free for children under 5. However, providing a lifeguarded beach without financial support is not fiscally responsible. A nominal fee—the lowest on the North Shore—for non-passholders will help subsidize beach safety and ensure peace of mind for both patrons and staff.
The physical fence remains a work in progress and is likely to evolve. The term “access control” was intentionally chosen to acknowledge that a fence may not be the permanent solution. Input from focus groups and community engagement will shape the approach for 2025.
I look forward to hearing from residents, considering creative solutions, and ensuring we maintain a safe, lifeguarded beach for all.
4. In 2023, Wilmette government agencies hired a shared Sustainability Coordinator to implement programs that protect our environment, conserve natural resources, and address the climate crisis. In what areas do you feel the Park District has made the best use of this Coordinator's time, and where would you like to see increased focus?
As a founding member of the Intergovernmental Cooperation Committee alongside Village Trustee Kate Gjaja, I was thrilled to see our community come together to hire Lucy Mellen as Wilmette’s Sustainability Coordinator. We proposed that Lucy’s time be shared among the various entities based on need, ensuring she provides meaningful support to both staff and residents.
So far, Lucy’s work with the Park District has focused on conducting a sustainability survey and developing the Guide to Green: Wilmette Park District’s Sustainability Plan, which was adopted by the Board in April 2024. This plan outlines 72 objectives, intentionally organized into five key areas: District Operations, Education Initiatives, Energy and Emissions, Land Stewardship, and Waste Management. (Click here to access the plan.)
It is my hope that Lucy’s expertise and thoughtful communication continue to benefit our community through educational events, grant procurement, and the implementation of the Sustainability Plan she worked so hard to create. We are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of our team!
Conclusion:
Thank you for your interest in my candidacy! Early voting begins March 17, and Election Day is April 1. Please vote Allison Frazier for Wilmette Park Board—#2 on the ballot this spring!
Please tell us about yourself, your qualifications, and what prompted you to run for Park Commissioner?
My name is Allison (Alli) Frazier, and I am excited to run for reelection to the Wilmette Park Board. My husband, Tim, and I have five young children (ages 2 to 13) and love living in the McKenzie Elementary neighborhood. We are in our eighth consecutive year at the Wilmette Park District’s preschool, and between my kids’ activities and my own, we visit a WPD park or facility an average of five times a day.
My mother, Margo, also resides in Wilmette and has opened my eyes to the importance of passive enjoyment of our beautiful parks, the need for robust and affordable senior programming, and the necessity of ADA accessibility. My first hand involvement—spanning multiple ages and interests—uniquely positions me to be a voice for every generation.
Upon graduating from Vanderbilt University, I built my career in financial services at Fidelity Investments and Morningstar Investments. Since being elected as commissioner in 2021, I have taken great pride in the projects completed and improvements made during my tenure.
Accomplishments as Commissioner (2021–Present)
- Intergovernmental Cooperation Committee: Led to the hiring and shared use of a Village Sustainability Coordinator
- Strategic, Comprehensive and Landscape Plans: Helped shape the long-term vision for our parks and programs
- Gillson Park: Championed key infrastructure improvements
- Langdon Park: Supported ADA enhancements and bluff restoration
- Technology Advancements: Increased bandwidth to improve user experience
- Leadership: Helped hire Margaret Resnick, the first-ever female Executive Director of the Wilmette Park District
Why I’m Running for Reelection
I seek reelection to the Park Board to ensure that every generation in Wilmette has a voice. As the only candidate with young children, I believe it is essential that families with young children are represented in the planning and decision-making that will shape our community’s future.
Each decision I make is guided by three perspectives—those of my mother, my children, and myself. With approximately 70% of our district’s revenue generated through recreational programs, it is critical to have a Board member who understands the quality and value of these programs. This knowledge is key to sustaining the financial success we have achieved over the past decade. Representation matters.
Questions:
1. What do you believe is the most pressing issure facing the Park District and how would you address it as a Park Commissioner?
Our mission statement emphasizes enriching the quality of community life, and to achieve that, we must improve communication and enhance our process of community engagement. Every Wilmette resident deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued—not just the most vocal.
I am committed to reaching and informing those who may be less inclined to attend meetings, complete surveys, or read comprehensive plans, because their voices are just as important in shaping our community’s future.
I do not seek reelection based on any single issue. I firmly believe that every candidate must consider all facets of a commissioner’s responsibility—both to the residents of Wilmette and to the parks and facilities entrusted to us.
2. What are your financial priorities for the Park District and how would you ensure they are realized?
As both a cost-conscious mother and a commissioner, I am committed to managing my family’s budget and taxpayers’ dollars with care and responsibility. Throughout my term, I have focused on delivering high-quality services at affordable prices while navigating the challenges of rising costs and wages. The work is ongoing, and my unique perspective continues to guide me in balancing these responsibilities.
My financial priorities for the Park District are straightforward: maintain the quality of services, invest in the upkeep of existing facilities, and support future projects that enhance the community experience. Our long-term capital plan includes facility improvements, natural habitat restoration, and significant projects at the golf course and other public spaces—each aimed at improving sustainability, safety, usability, and user satisfaction. As a daily park user, I bring both firsthand experience and a strong commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility.
During my four years as commissioner, the Wilmette Park District has consistently operated with a budget surplus. This financial strength has allowed us to maintain our facilities, support our staff, and take on new projects, all while planning for the future. Managing the Park District’s finances is much like raising five young children—it requires patience, flexibility, and a willingness to advocate for both the community and our team. I am confident in my ability to continue serving in this important role.
3. In March 2024, the Wilmette Park District announced it would implement access controls at South Beach in Gillson Park by installing a fence and charging entrance fees. In December 2024, it was announced that the Board of Park Commissioners had committed to continue managing access to South Beach in 2025. Please explain your position on managed access control at South Beach in Gillson Park.
As with every decision I make as commissioner, I approach this issue through the lens of three generations. Viewing it from only one perspective would fail to capture the full picture of our community’s needs.
I support reducing or eliminating fees for users over the age of 55 and making access free for children under 5. However, providing a lifeguarded beach without financial support is not fiscally responsible. A nominal fee—the lowest on the North Shore—for non-passholders will help subsidize beach safety and ensure peace of mind for both patrons and staff.
The physical fence remains a work in progress and is likely to evolve. The term “access control” was intentionally chosen to acknowledge that a fence may not be the permanent solution. Input from focus groups and community engagement will shape the approach for 2025.
I look forward to hearing from residents, considering creative solutions, and ensuring we maintain a safe, lifeguarded beach for all.
4. In 2023, Wilmette government agencies hired a shared Sustainability Coordinator to implement programs that protect our environment, conserve natural resources, and address the climate crisis. In what areas do you feel the Park District has made the best use of this Coordinator's time, and where would you like to see increased focus?
As a founding member of the Intergovernmental Cooperation Committee alongside Village Trustee Kate Gjaja, I was thrilled to see our community come together to hire Lucy Mellen as Wilmette’s Sustainability Coordinator. We proposed that Lucy’s time be shared among the various entities based on need, ensuring she provides meaningful support to both staff and residents.
So far, Lucy’s work with the Park District has focused on conducting a sustainability survey and developing the Guide to Green: Wilmette Park District’s Sustainability Plan, which was adopted by the Board in April 2024. This plan outlines 72 objectives, intentionally organized into five key areas: District Operations, Education Initiatives, Energy and Emissions, Land Stewardship, and Waste Management. (Click here to access the plan.)
It is my hope that Lucy’s expertise and thoughtful communication continue to benefit our community through educational events, grant procurement, and the implementation of the Sustainability Plan she worked so hard to create. We are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of our team!
Conclusion:
Thank you for your interest in my candidacy! Early voting begins March 17, and Election Day is April 1. Please vote Allison Frazier for Wilmette Park Board—#2 on the ballot this spring!