Lake Forest honors volunteer Tom Marks and celebrates retirement of parks director Sally Swartout

The Lake Forest City Council presented the Lawrence R. Temple Distinguished Public Service Award to Tom Marks and read a resolution recognizing his long record of volunteer service to local organizations including the American Legion Post 264 and Rotary.

Tom Marks accepted the honor, saying, “This is a high honor, and I'm very moved by your selection,” and credited veterans’ groups and Rotary with opportunities to serve the community. He invited fellow veterans and Rotarians to join for a photo after the presentation.

The council also adopted a resolution of appreciation for Sally A. Swartout, who retired from the city's Parks and Recreation Department on Jan. 26, 2024, after more than 30 years with the city and service as director since 2015. The mayor read the resolution noting Swartout’s progression from a part‑time ice‑rink attendant at age 16 to director, her leadership with early childhood programs including implementation of a Reggio Emilia approach at Kinder Haven Preschool Academy, and her role with the North Suburban Special Recreation Association (NSSRA).

Fred Jackson, a former parks director, praised Swartout’s fundraising and design work, saying she raised “millions of dollars for improvements” and helped shape facilities such as Veterans Park and turf fields at Deer Path. Steve, identified as Swartout’s son, thanked the city and family supports that enabled her career.

Swartout spoke briefly about the “great ride” of working in the city family and expressed confidence in staff continuing her work: “This place is in exceptionally great hands,” she said.

Procedural notes: the award presentation and the Swartout resolution were presented as part of the council's agenda; the council moved and seconded approval of the resolution honoring Swartout before inviting remarks.