Dear Residents,
Our mission statement says it all. “We enrich lives in our community by providing quality recreational and leisure time opportunities.” As we are moving into the new year, I wanted to take this opportunity to recognize the Wauconda Park District staff for always striving to ensure that our programs and services are in line with this statement and thank them for their ongoing dedication to our mission. I look forward to seeing all the innovative and creative programming that is in our future.
Employee Recognition – Quarterly the District recognizes employees for their years of service to the community. On December 9, our Board will be recognizing two employees: Alan Emmerich, Parkman – 20 years AND Kelly Ftacek, Preschool Coordinator – 15 years.
Osage Park – This park has been heavily used since it’s official grand reopening on September 6, 2025. Final touch-ups to the park were completed throughout the month of September. Upgrades to the park included a new playground, two pickleball courts, a new futsal court, and renovations to the basketball and tennis courts. We look forward to planning more programs at this park next Spring including small tournaments, lessons, and drop-in competitive play.
Bangs Lake Marina – The District has been working diligently to complete the final design for the new Bangs Lake Marina. A rendering of the proposed design is shown on page 5 of our winter 2026 program guide. This project will be partially funded through a matching OSLAD (Open Space Land Acquisition and Development) grant administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The current design calls for an ADA kayak/canoe launch, refurbished launch ramp, table games, picnic shelter, overlook with sunning steps, parking lot resurfacing, boardwalk, and native shoreline plantings. Demolition of the current structures located on the property is expected to begin in late winter/early Spring.
As we enter the Holiday season, I want to wish you and all your family and friends, Happy Holidays and best wishes for 2026!
Sincerely,
Tim Staton, CPRP
Executive Director
[email protected]
