Meeting Summary and Briefs: Litchfield Park District Board for April 1, 2026

Litchfield Park District Board Meeting | April 1, 2026

The Litchfield Park District Board of Commissioners met for their regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The meeting, called to order by Board President Jeff Heyen, featured the unanimous approval of the district’s 2026-2027 fiscal year budget following a previously held community hearing. The board also reviewed extensive operational updates, including preparations for the Memorial Pool opening on May 11, progress on the Walton Park dugouts, and the scheduling of the summer concert series.

Maintenance Department Fully Staffed
Commissioner Jennifer Cearlock reported that the Park Maintenance staff is now operating at full capacity. Maintenance worker David List has officially returned from medical leave. The board also conducted interviews to replace employee Scott Thompson, who recently quit without notice. The district offered the vacant position to Ricky Shipment, who accepted the role and will begin work on Tuesday.

Blast Ball Returns to Echlin Park
The board announced that the introductory youth baseball program, Blast Ball, will be returning to Echlin Park this year. The program will be rebranded as “Paws Ball” and will take place on the Echlin Field. The games will be held on Tuesday nights, operating under the LBI umbrella and run by Joe Webb.

Little/Big Dances Postponed
The board briefly discussed plans for the upcoming Little/Big Dances. While the district had previously considered hosting the dances on Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16, the board ultimately decided to wait and offer the community dances at a later, undetermined date.

TLC Spring Cleanup Scheduled
In addition to sponsoring a kickball event at Walton Park in June, the local TLC group will be conducting a spring cleanup event on April 19. Volunteers for the cleanup effort are instructed to meet at Kismet at 11:00 a.m.

Computer System Installation Complete
The Park District’s new computer system has been successfully installed and is currently in operation. The board noted that staff members Steve and Debbie are currently getting accustomed to the new system.