Litchfield Park District Board Meeting | Dec. 3, 2025

The Litchfield Park District Board met on Tuesday, December 3, 2025, to address end-of-year business, including the approval of the annual tax levy and updates to the district’s Master Plan. The board passed three annexation ordinances to secure property tax revenue and denied a request for renovations at Schalk Park due to usability concerns.

In maintenance matters, the board discussed necessary repairs for the swimming pool and approved professional training for the pool manager. The board also fielded questions from Mayor Jacob Fleming regarding winter access to Walton Park.

News Briefs:

Christmas Office Closure:
The board approved a request to close the Park District office for the week of Christmas. Director Bryant requested the closure, noting that there is very little activity in the office during that time of year. Employees Steve and Debbie will use their accrued time off during the closure.

Visit with Santa Scheduled:
Commissioner Jaylynn Taylor announced that the annual Visit with Santa will be held on Saturday, December 20, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event will feature Santa, a craft table, and Professor Longhair performing magic and balloon animals. The district is accepting food donations for the local food pantry during the event.

Pickleball Tournament:
The board confirmed that a Pickleball Tournament will be hosted on January 31 and February 1. Commissioner Sherry Bergschneider volunteered to plan the event. This follows an agreement made by the board last month to host the tournament.

Rip Rap Project Delayed:
Commissioner Jennifer Cearlock reported that the Rip Rap project at Walton Park is currently on hold. The repairs cannot proceed until the snow has melted and the ground conditions are stable enough to support the vehicles required for the work.

Kilton Fund Ideas:
Under old business, the board discussed potential submissions for the Kilton Fund application due in May. Commissioner Sherry Bergschneider suggested new dugouts and fence straightening at the Walton Park ballfield, while Director Bryant suggested remodeling restrooms to be ADA accessible. No final decision was made.

Financial Report:
Treasurer Brian Kulick reported that the annual levy was approved in November and recorded with the county clerk. Work on the annual budget will begin soon, with a presentation to the board expected in March or April. The board also voted to accept all financial reports for November 30, 2025.