New Era for Park District as New Members Sworn In

The  now has some new faces.

At a meeting Tuesday, April 26, the district's board of commissioners was sworn in for the current term.

The April 5 election for the board was fairly quiet, as . 

It was Jim Richmond's last meeting, as he leaves the park board after 

"We've had a good time," Richmond told his former colleagues. "I look forward to doing some bigger and better things."

The current park board includes incumbents Dennis Bagdon, Kevin Brogan, Steve Kirschsieper, Robert Lindbloom and Alex Vecchiet. The group has been joined by newcomers George McJimpsey and Jim E. Richmond (not the same Jim Richmond who recently left the board). 

"I look forward to working with all you," McJimpsey told the other commissioners Tuesday. "I'm looking forward to working with such a great group of professionals."

In addition, Bagdon announced the name of the district's new executive director, James Romanek, who was formerly the executive director of Kankakee Valley Park District. Bagdon said Romanek will start Monday, May 2.

Former Mokena Park District Director Connie Eskoff after 31 years of service.

Bagdon said he was excited about Romanek joining the district.

"It's going to be a great thing," Bagdon said. "The board did a great job with the interview process in selecting a candidate. I think he's going to take us to the next level and he's a great, great guy."

The commissioners also held elections for officers: Bagdon will remain president, Vecchiet is vice president, Kirschsieper is secretary and Lindbloom is treasurer.