Batavia Park District Exec. Director Resigns

The executive director of Batavia's parks has resigned, the announced on Wed., Jan. 11.

Michael Clark steps down to accept the Executive Director position at the Palatine Park District.

The Batavia Park Board is expected to officially accept Clark's resignation at the Jan. 17 board meeting, according to a press release.

Clark's last day is Jan. 31, said Allison Niemela, Batavia Park District spokeswoman.

"We wish Mike Clark and his family all the best with his new position," said Pat Callahan, Batavia Park Board President.

The Park Board is in talks to develop a transition plan for the District as Clark departs.

"We know the Batavia Park District is in good hands moving forward," Callahan said. "We have full faith in the staff's leadership skills and abilities."

About Clark

Clark, 47, was selected for the Batavia Park District's top job more than 11 years ago. His predecessor, Ralph Voris, held the position for 12 years before retiring. 

Before coming to the Tri-Cities, Clark was Deputy Director for the Bloomingdale Park District. Batavia was his first experience in an Executive Director role. 

Clark led a department head staff of seven in all areas and facets of the Park District, according to his biography on the Parks website.

During his 11-year tenure with the District, Clark instituted the Capital Development Plan and the following programs:

• Capital Improvement
• Partner/Affiliate/Friend
• Playground Replacement

Advancing the Parks

Clark also made it a priority for the District to become an Illinois Distinguished Agency, a statewide honor establishing a set of standards in providing superior park and recreation services to residents.

In addition, the District became a National Gold Medal Finalist twice under his direction.

Clark faced two referendums, one in 2008 and . The referenda involved a plan to finance a with an indoor aquatics area. The 2008 ballot measure did not pass, and the last one didn't either. On Nov. 2, 2010, about 57 percent of voters .

Clark received a Master's Degree in Business Administration from the Lake Forest Graduate School of Management, according to his Parks bio. He also received a Bachelor of Science degree in Park and Recreation Administration from Illinois State University.

The resignation and biographical information in this article is courtesy of the Batavia Park District. The information on the 2010 referendum is from Batavia Patch archives.