Skokie Residents Consider Bond Referendum for New Park Development

A slim majority of Skokie residents show support for a $53 million, 20-year bond referendum. The goal is to develop a new park and enhance an existing one in the area. On July 21, district officials voted unanimously to place the measure on the Nov. 3 election ballot. If approved, local property taxes will rise starting in 2027.

The proposed project aims to transform a former asphalt site on Oakton Street into Channelside Park South, a new community park. The Skokie Park District currently operates 45 parks and facilities, some of which are small neighborhood parks. If voters approve, the initiative will fund improvements to Skokie Sports Park and Sports Park East. This includes a new recreation center with multi-sport courts, walking and biking paths, and a bridge connecting to both the park and the North Shore Channel Trail.

According to the Skokie Park District Board of Commissioners, 54% of survey participants expressed intent to support the referendum. Public information sessions held by commissioners in June allowed residents to inquire about the project’s impact on property tax bills. For a home valued at $500,000, taxes may increase by roughly $183 annually, or $15.25 monthly. A $1 million home would face a $379 yearly increase, translating to about $31.58 per month.

The Skokie Park District services approximately 67,000 residents, extending to parts of Evanston, Morton Grove, and Chicago. Operating as a separate government entity from the Village of Skokie, the district has its own budget and tax authority. Plans for Channelside Park South include a multipurpose facility, band shell, outdoor fitness equipment, children’s maze, and splash pad.

Sports Park East, a popular recreation spot, would get a new center with multi-sport courts and golf simulators if the bond passes. Commissioners also consider incorporating baseball fields, contingent on community feedback. The district expects to start work in spring 2027, with completion targeted within 18 to 24 months.

Years of community engagement have highlighted a demand for more walking paths, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Skokie already boasts ample recreation space, with its 45 active parks featuring diverse amenities.

Most voters do not fully understand how a bond referendum is paid for.

Skokie resident Sheldon Wernikoff raises issues about the cost implications for taxpayers. He advocates for clear ballot language to inform voters about the tax increase linked to approving the bond. Wernikoff stresses the value of maintaining the status quo for potential savings.

Wernikoff suggests the land might be better used for affordable housing, emphasizing a lack of such developments in the community. This, he argues, could be a worthier project.