Recreation Center Discussion & Video

For over ten years, the Park District has been collecting input from residents to assess the need for a new recreation facility and possible funding options.
The current facilities, including the Founders Center and Puent Building, require significant repairs. The funds generated through the Park District’s annual property tax levy are insufficient to cover these repairs or to finance a new facility.
The Frankfort Park District collects just under $2 million annually in unrestricted property taxes; this level of funding does not support the construction of a new center or all necessary repairs.
A property tax increase via a referendum would be needed to fund the project and support the Park District’s ongoing operating costs.
Community feedback since 2014 has indicated support for a tax increase to fund a new recreation center. Draft plans were developed in 2016 but were not put to a vote. The project costs have increased significantly since then and are expected to grow each year.
In 2021, the District considered purchasing and renovating the former Borg Warner factory into a recreation facility. The community supported this initiative in an advisory referendum; however, the property was sold before the Park District cold secure funding.
In 2024, residents were invited and participated in surveys and focus groups to share feedback regarding a new recreation center. Plans for a recreation facility reflecting the community input have been drafted and will be presented at the May 28 Open House.
The proposed Recreation Center options consider amenities such as a walking/jogging track, fitness areas, gymnasiums, indoor playgrounds, aquatics, multipurpose rooms, and additional facilities.

Will You Fund it?

Summary of May 28 Open House

During the Open House, an informational presentation was given regarding the Park District’s funding and the current condition of aging assets.

Community feedback collected through outreach efforts was used to present conceptual designs for new and renovated facilities.

The presentation included details about the property tax increase associated with each project. A poll was conducted, asking residents to select an “Option” they would support based on the corresponding property tax impact.

The video from the May Open House is provided below, along with a link to the slide deck without the video.

Please note that, due to technical difficulties, the audio in the video begins after the eight-minute mark.