New Commissioner Being Sought For Lemont Park District Board

LEMONT, IL — After the unexpected resignation of Lemont Park District Board President Brian Pepich, local officials are seeking a local resident to fill out a one-year term as a park commissioner, officials announced on Monday.

Pepich announced in April that he was leaving the board on May 1 due to other obligations, which created the opening on the board. Pepich, who has served on the park board since 2012, was re-elected in 2019 and was set to serve on the board through 2023.

Board members praised Pepich, who assisted in several park district projects including the restructuring of the Centennial Campus Parkway and the revitalization of nine local parks, officials said. Officials said Pepich continued to work “diligently and passionately” on improving the park district’s Master Plan in his role as president, which he took on in 2014.

“His risk management expertise, as well as his thoughtful demeanor, has continually brought much perspective to the board,” officials said in the release.

With Pepich’s resignation, officials on Monday announced the need for a replacement on the park district board with the one-year appointment running until 2023. After the one year, the board position will be up for election and interested residents may run for the remaining unexpired two-year term, officials said.

The purpose of the board member is to help develop policies, devise long-range plans and regulations for the park agency, monitor finances, and serve as a voting member on the board, officials said. Board members are expected to attend monthly meetings, participate on various committees and attend standing committee meetings, board retreats, and in-service workshops.

Board members must be well-informed and be aware of needs in the community and participate in organizational decision-making, officials said. Interested residents in seeking the commissioner’s position are asked to apply by June 1 at the park district website.

“Commissioner Pepich did a fantastic job in leading the Lemont Park District to where it is today,” Park District President Bill McAdam said. “We are grateful to him for all of his hard work and dedication to the district.

"Looking ahead, we are pleased that another Lemont resident will have the opportunity to serve on the Lemont Park District Board of Commissioners. It is truly a very rewarding experience to see when a positive difference is made and embraced by the community.”