The COVID 19 pandemic continues to impact businesses around the world and locally in Elmhurst, including the Park District. Last May, nearly 90% of the District’s full and part-time employees were notified that they would be furloughed due to the lack of work brought on by mandated facility shutdowns. The hope was to reinstate as many of these positions as possible when operations resumed and/or it became financially feasible. Unfortunately, the District is experiencing a slower, more gradual recovery than the Board and staff had hoped.
Due to capacity restrictions and social distancing requirements, combined with a reluctance to return to indoor programming, attendance at District programs and facilities has significantly dropped as compared to prior years. As a result, operations have shrunk considerably and the funds the District generates from program fees, memberships and facility rentals, which make up more than half of the District’s revenue, continue to be greatly diminished. The reduced size of operations and losses of revenue in the millions of dollars has contributed to the reorganization of job responsibilities across all departments of the District.
Furthermore, the District had to make the difficult decision to reduce full-time staffing by approximately 20% and eliminate 15 positions resulting in a savings of more than $1 million (including wages and benefits). While this is an incredibly difficult time, the District is hopeful that it is not a permanent situation. When restrictions eventually ease the District looks forward to welcoming more participants back into its programs and facilities and an improved financial outlook. The District appreciates your continued support and participation during these challenging times. For more information on COVID 19 and the Elmhurst Park District, please visit epd.org.
