Open House Planned For Frankfort's New Recreation Facility Plans

FRANKFORT, IL — The Frankfort Park District will host an open house on May 28 to gather feedback on designs and costs associated with the construction of a new recreation facility for the district.

The park district said that for over 10 years, it has been seeking input from residents about the need for a new recreation center and potential funding options. The District's current indoor facilities, including the Founders Center and the Puent Building, require significant repairs.

The district said that the revenue generated through its annual property tax levy is insufficient to cover these repairs or to support developing a new facility.

"The key question we hope residents can help us answer is whether voters would support a tax rate increase to fund renovations of existing facilities or to construct a new recreation center," Executive Director Gina Hassett said in a release. "Such funding would require a referendum that would result in higher taxes. The District recognizes that no one wants a property tax increase but believes it is essential to seek further input given the condition of the existing facilities."

The district said it currently collects just under $2 million annually in unrestricted property taxes. Portions of the Founders Center are approaching 100 years old, and have reached the end of useful life.

"Previous feedback has indicated support for a tax increase to fund a new recreation center," Hassett said.

Draft plans were developed in 2016 but were not brought to a vote, according to the park district. Construction costs have increased significantly and are projected to continue rising. In 2021, the District explored purchasing and renovating the former Borg Warner factory into a recreation facility.

The community expressed support for this initiative through an advisory referendum; however, the property was sold before funding could be secured, the park district said.

In 2024, residents participated in surveys and focus groups to provide input on a potential new recreation center. Based on this feedback, draft plans for a facility have been developed and will be presented at the May 28 open house.

Proposed amenities include a walking/jogging track, fitness areas, gymnasiums, indoor playgrounds, aquatics, multipurpose rooms, and additional features.

The open house will be held at 6:30 p.m. on May 28 at Founders Center.