Unfinished Business: Stormwater Management Discussion
Board President Kubiesa opened the table for stormwater management discussion. Executive Director Rogers gave an update of subcommittee discussions where parks and sites (Pioneer Park, Golden Meadows, East End, York Commons, Berteau property) under consideration continue to be reviewed. The City is drafting the framework of an intergovernmental agreement should both parties move forward on the use of park sites.
Executive Director Rogers offered to request a breakdown of costs from the City for the $12 million connection of East End Park to Golden Meadows and, if needed, seek out the opinion of an independent consultant specializing in stormwater detention to protect the Park District’s interest. The subcommittee’s next meeting is scheduled for February 10, 2014.
Executive Director Rogers reminded the Board that deed restrictions on the City’s portion of the Berteau property require the land remain as open space for 50 years of which nine years remain, thus impacting plans listed in the Park District’s position paper for the site. Legal counsel is reviewing the deed for potential ways to address the restrictions as the opportunities provided would prove beneficial to the City’s stormwater retention needs, the School District’s overcrowding concerns, and provide opportunities for the Park District to serve the anticipated new homes proposed on the former Elmhurst Memorial Hospital site on Berteau. The Berteau property purchased by Nitti Development is unaffected by the deed restrictions.
