Hinsdale staff close Robins Park courts, recommend resurfacing; bench donation approved for Burns Park

Staff told the commission that Robins Park tennis courts have deteriorated quickly — likely from freeze–thaw damage and a failing rubber overlay — and that US Tennis recommended a full resurface rather than spot repairs. For safety, staff removed nets and closed the courts, directing players to other village courts while proposing the resurfacing project for an upcoming capital budget cycle.

"Nothing can be done, and you need to do a full resurface on it," a parks staff member said, describing the rubber coating’s current failure and the need for a proper mill-down and resurfacing. Staff said they will propose the work through the CIP process and that the closure is temporary while budget planning occurs.

Separately, staff presented a bench-donation request from a local volunteer, Sue Niebeck, to install a new bench at Burns Park on the southwest corner near Monroe School. Commissioners expressed support, and staff indicated the village will accept and install the memorial bench with an approximately six-month lead time.

Staff also summarized lodge (KLM) operations and marketing: rental and caterer fees continue to generate steady revenue, and staff are moving to a new CRM to capture leads and reduce third-party costs. The commission heard that many lodge leads come from outside the immediate north suburbs and that weekday bookings and last-minute memorials help fill slower months.

Next steps: Staff will pursue a CIP request to resurface Robins courts and will coordinate bench donation logistics with the donor. No formal funding decision for court resurfacing was made during the meeting.