Parks staff reports heavy maintenance needs, delays open house until next spring

Ken, the parks staff member, told the LaSalle County Property Committee on Sept. 11 that crews have been focused on repairs and routine upkeep after multiple mower failures and other equipment issues. “Just a lot of maintenance in the last couple weeks,” Ken said, noting a grasshopper mower was repaired and another mower requires a new belt and pulley. He added crews have been working at Shabana park, cutting trees along the pond and weed‑whacking woodland paths.

Ken described work to install 10 bollards that require 40 concrete anchors and said the department will purchase a heavier hammer drill because the current cordless tool cannot handle 3–3.5‑inch anchor holes. “For those bigger ones, we’re definitely gonna have to have that bigger drill,” he said. He also said the concrete and electrical work for pavilion shelters—contingent on the county budget—will determine whether the department can schedule a public open house this year or defer it to spring: “I just don't think I have time to get it in this year.”

Committee members pressed Ken on event logistics and procurement. Ken said cross‑country meets (Ottawa High School and junior high teams) used the park and an overflow lot with signage, and he reported minimal restroom issues despite heavy use—“we went through 5 or 6 rolls of toilet paper in each bathroom” during one meet, and the facilities were left clean. When asked about tool purchases, Ken said the department shops locally when possible (Farm & Fleet, Ace, Menards, Home Depot) and compares online prices, but some heavy equipment had to be ordered because local stock was unavailable.

The committee did not vote on new parks spending but approved routine bills during the parks portion of the meeting. Ken said the department will continue to gather materials and quotes and will move forward with anchor and bollard installation if the budget is approved.