Park Board Votes to Sell Bonds, Passes Tax Levy

Effingham Park Board commissioners have voted to sell up to $625,000 in bonds to finance Park District improvements in 2021.

Park District Director Jeff Althoff said projects could include replacing the fence on the second softball diamond at Hendelmeyer Park, moving the McDevitt Field outfield fence at Community Park in to create a walkway between the outfield fences on the various diamonds, and coverting the tennis courts at Hendelmeyer Park to pickleball courts. 

Althoff said some pickleball enthusiasts were present for the Board's meeting this week, and asked for a permanent outdoor location for the sport. He said there are still plenty of tennis courts available at Evergreen Hollow and Community parks. 

The Board passed the fiscal year levy totaling $1,292,637, which will generate about $61,000 more than last year.

Althoff said they are moving ahead with printing Park District booklets for 2021. He said they are projecting a normal recreation year, so are moving with getting the booklets printed.

Althoff said the Park District also plans to fill the skate pond at Community Park the next time a prolonged cold snap is in the forecast. He said it's been 2 to 3 years since they tried to use the skate pond.