FAQ's
Arlington Park
Can you give me information about the Race Track?
Athletics
Where do I find my schedules for the sport I play (basketball, soccer, football, t-ball, etc.)?
Before and After School
Do you have a before and after school program?
Camps
Do you offer camps for the week of Thanksgiving and Christmas?
Pee Wee Tennis and Swim Camp - What is the difference between the two week and one week camp?
Pee Wee Tennis and Swim Camp - My child is enrolled in the two week camp, their friend is enrolled in the one week camp, can they have swimming and tennis together?
Pee Wee Tennis and Swim Camp - How many counselors are there?
Cancelled Programs
Are classes cancelled during the week of a holiday or when district 25 has no school?
How do I know if a class is cancelled due to the weather?
Directions
How do I get directions to a Park or Facility?
Dogs
Are dogs allowed in any Arlington Heights Park District park?
Employment
What jobs do you have for 14- and 15-year-olds?
I'm a very responsible 15-year-old, so why can't I be a cashier or work in concessions?
Are you hiring? How do I know what jobs are available at the Park District?
Why do I have to apply for a job online?
On the job application, why do I need to apply for a specific job if I'm willing to work any job in the Park District?
When do you start accepting applications for summer jobs?
What paperwork and documents do I need if I'm hired?
If I worked for the Park District last year (or am currently employed at the Park District) and want to apply for a different position, do I need to fill out a new job application?
What's it like working at the Park District?
Forest View Raquet & Fitness Club
If I'm a member of Forest View am I also a member of Heritage Tennis Club?
Garden Plot
How do I get information about renting a garden plot?
Heritage Tennis Club
If I’m a resident of Arlington Heights am I a member at the tennis club?
How much is a membership?
What does membership get me?
Can I play as a non-member?
What does it cost to play?
Are there any specials on court rates?
Do you have tennis leagues?
When can I register?
What’s my membership number?
Can I make up a class I missed?
Hours
What are the open gym hours?
What are the Arlington Heights Park District office hours?
New Address
I have a new address, how do I make sure the Park District has my correct information?
North School Park Fountain
When does the fountain at North School Park turn on/turn off for the season?
Preschool
Does the Arlington Heights Park District have a preschool program?
Rental
What facility can I rent out for a party?
Is there paperwork for renting a room for a birthday party or meeting?
Resident
I live in Arlington Heights, why don't you consider me a resident?
Swim Classes
Do you offer swim classes for adults?
Vandalism / Maintenance
How do I report Vandalism or Maintenance problems?
Walking Track
Do you have an indoor walking track?
Registration
Does the Park District offer assistance for residents who have lost their jobs?
How do I receive a refund?
I'm on a scholarship, why are certain classes not available to me?
Why do I need to enter my credit card number again?
Why can't I change my profile member/participant information?
Aquatics
Is there a Summer Pool Closing Policy?
Master Plan
What is a referendum?
What's the bottom line for the taxpayer?
What happens if we decide not to go to referendum?
Submitted 11/20/11 - Please elaborate on the reasons for wholly rebuilding the four centers when survey respondants preferred renovations.
Submitted 11/20/11 – Has the Pioneer rebuild really caused significant new enrollment in AHPD activities as a whole, or have activities formerly offered elsewhere been moved to Pioneer? What has been the impact on district-wide enrollment?
Submitted 11/20/11 – Why is the Hasbrook building being demolished?
Submitted 11/20/11 – All four of the proposed new community centers have walking tracks. How is this financially prudent, if it wasn’t so in Pioneer’s case?
Submitted 11/30/11 – Because the economy has still not recovered, and there are many homeowners in the village who are watching every dollar, can the plan be delayed a year or spread out over a longer period? Or perhaps increase the fees for people who actually take classes or use the fields at the park district facilities?
Submitted 12/26/11 - The latest news articles indicate that polls show resident opposition but the Park Board approved a referendum for the purpose of "letting the people decide." How much will it cost to hold the election?
Submitted 01/05/12 - Will the question of a dog park be included in the referendum?
Submitted 01/05/12 - Is there a plan for public input as to the use of funds?
Submitted 01/25/12 - (Paraphrased for length) Why doesn't Arlington Heights (Park District) ask for this money for building a multi-purpose center like Mount Prospect's Rec-Plex instead of renovating a bunch of old buildings all over the village...and add amenities such as running/walking tracks and rooms dedicated and supplied for all types of fitness and exercise classes?
Submitted 01/30/12 - How is the park district getting word out to the voters? Many voters do not come to the website to look for the link. For those like myself that visit the site regularly, I did not know the link was even there, as there is nothing setting it apart to draw attention to it. You can not see the link unless you look for it, as it blends into the other colors of the site.
Submitted 02/05/12 - (Paraphrased for length) Are allowances made in previous budgets for the replacement of aging buildings and is a portion of existing funding put away for that?
Submitted 02/08/12 - I understand that an off-leash dog park is not part of the plan at this time. Do any of the plans include the needs of dog owners by allowing dogs on leash to be present in the parks?
Submitted 02/08/12 - I have an 8 yr severely autistic son that enjoys swimming daily during the summer. I'm worried that if you renovate the pool at Rec, it will become too crowded for us to use. Although a family changing room would be nice, we currently use the bathroom poolside.
Submitted 02/08/12 - What will be the impact of these plans once they are implemented to the annually operating costs of the park district. How much will these costs go up on a yearly basis and in total over the 25 years it will take to pay off this investment? How will this increase in operating costs be funded?
Submitted 02/08/12 - What are the objectives of the Master Plans and how will their implementation be measured and reported on to the community?
Submitted 02/08/12 - How did you determine the demand of the plans components, like the indoor walking tracks and the gym, and how/did you forecast usage for each over the 25 year period in question?
Submitted 02/08/12 - Why are we spending money on rebuilding our community centers when we need to update the sewer systems to avoid flooding and sewage backup throughout the community?
Submitted 02/08/12 - I live in the Camelot area. Will there be any new classes in the building when construction is completed?
Submitted 02/08/12 - (Paraphrased for length) I see that some of the field improvements to soccer, football, baseball and softball fields will receive synthetic turf. Will this improve the Women's softball league? Currently, women aren't allowed to play at the parks expected to be improved. Also, with the increases in gym space is there a possibility there be a Women's floor hockey league?
Submitted 02/08/12 - How many years would we have a tax increase?
Submitted 02/09/12 - When would the work on Camelot begin and end?
Submitted 02/10/12 - I am interested in attending a Park Referendum Meeting but I have a conflict with the evening scheduled at my neighborhood facility, Recreation Park. Is the information presented at each individual meeting focused only on the facility which is offering the presentation? Or, are the presentations generic in nature (offering the entire plan for each center). Thank you.
Submitted 02/12/12 - Where can I early vote on February 15?
Submitted 02/13/12 - The survey indicated that residents wanted more fitness areas. While I see walking paths and areas for organized sporting areas on the plan, why are there no gyms with workout equipment?
Submitted 02/14/12 - The tax impact will increase over time as house values increase without capping it at an estimated $36 per $100,000 of house value. Will the increase in taxes be capped over the life of the 25 year bond?
Submitted 02/16/12 - I noticed that there does not seem to be any plan for a dog park...I think it is time for Arlington Heights to support it's many, many dog owning residents with at least one area for dogs to run free together...is there still time get something added to the plans? I would have a hard time supporting a referendum for the parks without a dog park included.
Submitted 02/17/12 - You mentioned that visits to Pioneer increased over 48,000. How do you measure that and what does it include? Does that include pool attendance and people walking through the doors for scheduled bball games?
Submitted 2/20/12 - Currently there are approx. 200 parking spaces at Rec. Park. Considering you are adding a gymnasium and a community center what are the proposed number of parking spaces for the new Rec. Park?
Submitted 2/20/12 - What is the estimated cost of constructing the second concentric path at Lake Arlington?
Soccer
Why was there a $15 fee per family to tryout for AHPD travel soccer this year?
Why and when did the Park District begin the “Academy” travel soccer program?
What is the maximum number of teams allowed in travel soccer per age division?
What is the Soccer Advisory Committee role with the AHPD soccer program?
What is Elite Soccer Inc.'s role with the AHPD soccer program?
Why do tryout participants need to declare if they want to tryout for the “Academy” or “Volunteer Coached” team prior to tryouts beginning?
Is the Arlington Aces name only for the travel program?
Who do I contact in case I would like to discuss something about the soccer program?
Arlington Park
Can you give me information about the Race Track?
Arlington Park, formerly known as Arlington International Race Course, is NOT affiliated with the Arlington Heights Park District. If you would like information about Arlington Park please call 847-255-4300 or visit their website at
arlingtonpark.com.
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Athletics
Where do I find my schedules for the sport I play (basketball, soccer, football, t-ball, etc.)?
Follow the link from Programs to Athletics and choose the sport. You'll find a link to the schedules there. Most schedules are posted on
Quick Scores.
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Before and After School
Do you have a before and after school program?
If your children need supervision before and after school, the
CAP program is just what you need. This recreational program runs Monday-Friday from 7-9 am and 3:30-6 pm at Dryden, Greenbrier, Ivy Hill, Juliette Low, Olive, Patton, Poe, Riley, Westgate and Windsor Schools. Children may be registered for full or partial weeks.
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Camps
Do you offer camps for the week of Thanksgiving and Christmas?
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Pee Wee Tennis and Swim Camp - What is the difference between the two week and one week camp?
Curriculum wise, there is no difference. The difference is in the schedule of activities. The two week class will have swim lessons first and then tennis lessons. The one weekers will have tennis first then swimming lessons. After both are done with swimming and tennis, they will all eat lunch together and then have playground playtime prior to pick up.
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Pee Wee Tennis and Swim Camp - My child is enrolled in the two week camp, their friend is enrolled in the one week camp, can they have swimming and tennis together?
As much as we would like to do that, it would be difficult. Staff will use the class lists to ensure attendance and which children are with which counselors. To mix up one weekers and two weekers could lead to confusion as to which counselors are responsible for which children. The nice thing is that they will be able to have lunch and play on the playground together. Camp is a great place to make new friends!
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Pee Wee Tennis and Swim Camp - How many counselors are there?
There will be one camp director and then a ratio of one counselor to six campers.
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Cancelled Programs
Are classes cancelled during the week of a holiday or when district 25 has no school?
Check the
Program Guide, "no class" information is listed under the individual program information.
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How do I know if a class is cancelled due to the weather?
If classes in School District 25 are cancelled for the entire day due to inclement weather, Recreation Department programs will be cancelled until 3 pm. Decisions on classes held between 3-6 pm are made by 2 pm and decisions on classes held after 6 pm are made by 4 pm. For specific information on classes held at Forest View Racquet and Fitness Center (847-640-2574), Heritage Tennis Club (847-398-7780) and the Senior Center (847-797-5341), please call these facilities directly regarding class cancellation.
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Directions
How do I get directions to a Park or Facility?
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Dogs
Are dogs allowed in any Arlington Heights Park District park?
Dogs are not allowed in Arlington Heights Park District parks. They are allowed in the Village of Arlington Heights parks such as Harmony Park (Campbell and Vail) and Dunton Park at the corner of Northwest Highway and Arlington Heights Road. Dogs are also allowed, on a leash, at the eastern portion of Melas Park only. This has the basin and concession building on the right as you pull into the park. This part of Melas is managed by Mount Prospect Park District. You cannot bring your dog on the west side where the baseball diamonds and playground are located. This section of the park is managed by Arlington Heights Park District.
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Employment
What jobs do you have for 14- and 15-year-olds?
14-year-olds can be employed as soccer referees, and 15-year-olds can be employed as soccer referees or lifeguards. Please note you must be 14 or 15 years old by your first day of work.
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I'm a very responsible 15-year-old, so why can't I be a cashier or work in concessions?
Some jobs in the Park District do have minimum age requirements. For example, child labor laws prohibit anyone younger than age 18 from working in our Park Department because of the equipment these workers use. Once an applicant reaches age 16, s/he can apply for most park district jobs.
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Are you hiring? How do I know what jobs are available at the Park District?
Our available jobs are posted on our website in the
Jobs section. Our job information is updated regularly and has all of our current vacancies posted.
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Why do I have to apply for a job online?
The Park District uses an online job application because it is the most efficient way to process your application and get it to the appropriate hiring supervisor. It's also much easier for you to keep your online job application up to date. When you submit an online job application, it's immediately sent to the hiring supervisor, whereas a paper job application could take up to two days to process. And once you've submitted an online job application, you can access it at any time, to either make changes to the application or to apply for additional jobs at the Park District.
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On the job application, why do I need to apply for a specific job if I'm willing to work any job in the Park District?
The Park District appreciates your willingness to work in any position that we may have open. By asking you to apply for specific jobs, we can determine your interests and how well your skills and interests match our available jobs. So, to process your job application appropriately, we need to know what jobs you're truly interested in so we can match the right person to the right job.
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When do you start accepting applications for summer jobs?
It really depends on what jobs we need to fill. We generally start recruiting for day camp counselors each year in the fall, and for our aquatic positions in January. Listings for our other summer jobs are posted as soon as the hiring supervisor knows how many openings s/he has to fill. The best thing to do is to check the Arlington Heights Park District job postings regularly for the most up to date information on our available jobs.
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What paperwork and documents do I need if I'm hired?
When you're hired, you'll be given a New Hire Packet with all of the hiring documents. You will be required to complete the New Hire Packet and also successfully complete a criminal background investigation through the Illinois State Police. You will need to present your social security card (for payroll purposes) as well as the appropriate documents to complete the Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form. If you are under age 16, you will also need to provide a valid Work Permit from your school.
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If I worked for the Park District last year (or am currently employed at the Park District) and want to apply for a different position, do I need to fill out a new job application?
No, former and current employees do not need to submit a new job application if they want to apply for a different position for the coming season. Contact Human Resources at 847-577-3000 and let us know what job you wish to apply for. We will route your saved online job application to the appropriate hiring supervisor for his/her consideration.
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What's it like working at the Park District?
Many former employees have told us they loved working for the Arlington Heights Park District! Because of our neighborhood community centers and parks, our employees have the unique ability to work close to home, and many of their coworkers are their friends and classmates. We offer a variety of seasonal jobs, so there's a wide range of work you could be doing. Many of our seasonal employees start working for us in high school and return seasonally through college, and during that time, they develop both their job and interpersonal skills, which helps to prepare them for their future careers.
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Forest View Raquet & Fitness Club
If I'm a member of Forest View am I also a member of Heritage Tennis Club?
FVRC members can play at HTC without paying guest fees and take classes at the HTC member rate, but cannot make reservations more than 24 hours in advance or register for classes before non-members.
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Garden Plot
How do I get information about renting a garden plot?
You'll find
Garden Plot information online and in the Spring Program Guide.
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Heritage Tennis Club
If I’m a resident of Arlington Heights am I a member at the tennis club?
No, membership is a separate purchase.
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How much is a membership?
Check out Heritage Tennis Club information. Please call 847-398-7780 for information about occasional specials on joining fees.
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What does membership get me?
Membership privileges include priority in class registration and court reservations, lower fees for classes and court usage, and discounts on merchandise, and more. More information is available at HTC.
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Can I play as a non-member?
Non-members can play at any time but may not reserve more than 24 hours in advance and must pay a guest fee. For guest fees check HTC
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What does it cost to play?
Standard court rates are generally $26/hr on weekday evenings and weekend mornings & afternoons and $22/hr on weekday mornings & afternoons and weekend evenings. There are also guest fees of $3/juniors and $12/adults. For more information about specials and variations in court rates, see HTC.
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Are there any specials on court rates?
Yes, such as Super Tuesday ($14/hr for Members, $17/hr & no guest fees for Non-Members on Tuesdays from 11 am - 4 pm) and Student Walk-On ($14/hr & guest fees for anyone playing without a reservation and with a student age 23 & under with school ID). More info is available at Heritage Tennis Club.
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Do you have tennis leagues?
Yes, there are many leagues available to men and women at a variety of times in both singles and doubles. Call League Coordinator Barb Bonk at 847-398-7780 or view HTC
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When can I register?
Registration dates are availalble at HTC
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What’s my membership number?
Check your membership ID card or call 847-398-7780 to find out.
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Can I make up a class I missed?
If there is another class at a similar level that is not full, your instructor will arrange for a make up in that class during Spring, Summer, and Fall I sessions (NOT during Fall II and Winter sessions).
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Hours
What are the open gym hours?
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What are the Arlington Heights Park District office hours?
Find more information about a specific Park District facility in the
Parks & Facilities area.
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New Address
I have a new address, how do I make sure the Park District has my correct information?
If you use online registration, login and change your address in your profile. You can write a letter to Registration, Arlington Heights Park District, 410 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004; send a fax to 847-577-3050 or
Contact Us Online. Please put attention to Registration. Include the person(s) name, street address, phone number, and Email address.
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North School Park Fountain
When does the fountain at North School Park turn on/turn off for the season?
The fountain turns on the second Saturday in April (weather permitting). It turns off the Friday before Halloween.
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Preschool
Does the Arlington Heights Park District have a preschool program?
Yes, the preschool program runs from September through May. The child must be 3 years old by September 1 to participate in the 3-4 year old program and 4 years old by September 1 to participate in the 4-5 year old program. For more information
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Rental
What facility can I rent out for a party?
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Is there paperwork for renting a room for a birthday party or meeting?
Fill out an Application for Use Form
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Resident
I live in Arlington Heights, why don't you consider me a resident?
Just as there are different boundaries for School Districts, there are different boundaries for Park Districts within a Village. Check your tax bill to see which Park District you pay.
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Swim Classes
Do you offer swim classes for adults?
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Vandalism / Maintenance
How do I report Vandalism or Maintenance problems?
Residents can report vandalism and park maintenance concerns on our 24-hour vandalism hotline: 847-577-3003 ext. 8. If any problems at a Park District facility is noted, one call will forward the information quickly any time, any day. A recorded message asks for a detailed description of the problem and location. This line does not supersede an emergency call to 911.
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Walking Track
Do you have an indoor walking track?
Arlington Heights Park District does not have a walking track, but you are welcome to join us at Pioneer Park Community Center. You can walk in the gym Monday-Friday at 7 am until a program is scheduled.
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Registration
Does the Park District offer assistance for residents who have lost their jobs?
Contact Carol Jancek at the Village of Arlington Heights at 847-368-5792.
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How do I receive a refund?
A
refund request must be submitted to the Park District office no later than 48 hours prior to the start of the program in order to be considered for a full refund. Refund requests can be submitted Online or by calling one of the Park District offices. »
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I'm on a scholarship, why are certain classes not available to me?
Contractual classes are not available to those on scholarship. You should have received a letter listing those classes when you received your scholarship letter from the Park District.
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Why do I need to enter my credit card number again?
In order to register for programs online you must provide a credit card number. For security purposes, this information is not stored within the park district registration system. Due to PCI compliance regulations, credit card numbers not used in a 90 day period will need to be re-entered at the time of registration. If you have any further questions, please contact the Administration Center 847-577-3000.
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Why can't I change my profile member/participant information?
Once a profile has been created, the member/participant information will be locked. You will only be able to update, add, or remove a member/participant in a profile by obtaining permission prior to making the change(s). Fill out the Update Online Profile Member/Participant form.
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Aquatics
Is there a Summer Pool Closing Policy?
The following conditions may warrant closing of the outdoor pools:
- Inclement weather – pools will close immediately if lightning is seen, tornado warnings are posted, or thunder is heard. Patrons will be asked to take shelter in the bathhouse. The pools will reopen if a 15-minute period passes without further incidence. Staff will always proceed with caution for participant and staff safety.
- Air temperature below 67 degrees, as recorded at O’Hare.
- Low attendance – portions of the pool or the entire pool may be closed.
- Fecal accidents – staff will follow rules established by the State of Illinois when determining how long the pool needs to be closed after a fecal or vomit accident.
- Mechanical problems
There are certain times when the pool will be closed to the public and only open to event participants. Please check the bulletin board of your local pool to make sure that a change hasn’t been made in the daily schedule.
Olympic Indoor Swim Center is open rain or shine for your swimming enjoyment. However, Olympic will be closed if severe weather is imminent.
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Master Plan
What is a referendum?
A referendum is a vote by citizens on a community issue allowing all citizens to decide the future of the AHPD and the community. The referendum question may appear on the ballot for the March 20, 2012 election. (SS)
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What's the bottom line for the taxpayer?
The median home value in Arlington Heights is $350,000. The tax impact of a referendum would add an estimated $36 per year to the current tax bill of a home with a market value of $300,000. (SS)
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What happens if we decide not to go to referendum?
- The Park District does not have $48million available to make the desired improvements to the four centers.
- Utilizing existing funding sources the District could renovate one community center until 2037, when a second community center could be renovated. (SS)
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Submitted 11/20/11 - Please elaborate on the reasons for wholly rebuilding the four centers when survey respondants preferred renovations.
You are correct, survey respondents preferred renovations and the community center at Camelot will be renovated and a new gymnasium will be added. The Recreation Park building will also be renovated in order to house the pool bath house. The community centers at Recreation, Frontier and Heritage will be new buildings to better accommodate the requirements of the sites and the desires of the users and neighbors of the park. (SS)
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Submitted 11/20/11 – Has the Pioneer rebuild really caused significant new enrollment in AHPD activities as a whole, or have activities formerly offered elsewhere been moved to Pioneer? What has been the impact on district-wide enrollment?
Let’s use the 2005-2006 year (the last year the old Pioneer Center was open) and the 2010-2011 years to compare numbers. Total attendance, District-wide, at the five (5) community centers increased by 20,142 in that time period. There was a decrease in attendance at the four (4) older buildings of 28,790 and an increase at Pioneer of 48,932. This points out that recreation program participants are looking for more program offerings, an expansion of existing programs and an enhancement to the quality of the experience. We fully expected a decline in attendance at the other four (4) buildings when Pioneer opened and we look forward to returning to a more even distribution of participation and enhancing the quality of facility offerings across the whole community. (SS)
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Submitted 11/20/11 – Why is the Hasbrook building being demolished?
The programs currently held in the Hasbrook building will be moved to the new center in Frontier Park, which will provide for enhanced quality and for handicapped accessibility. The Park District will meet with the users and neighbors of Hasbrook Park to determine an appropriate replacement for the current building. (SS)
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Submitted 11/20/11 – All four of the proposed new community centers have walking tracks. How is this financially prudent, if it wasn’t so in Pioneer’s case?
The Pioneer Park Community Center had limited funds available for its construction. In the process of design and budgeting some amenities had to be removed from consideration. The Park District regrets that the walking track was not part of the building as it remains a highly requested feature. Surveys indicate that a walking track will see significant use by our participants and this feature is a critical component of the design of the new community centers. (SS)
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Submitted 11/30/11 – Because the economy has still not recovered, and there are many homeowners in the village who are watching every dollar, can the plan be delayed a year or spread out over a longer period? Or perhaps increase the fees for people who actually take classes or use the fields at the park district facilities?
Because the economy has not fully recovered interest rates and construction costs are very low which could substantially reduce the costs to complete the Master Plan projects. The financing plan is already spread as far as is legally allowed to keep annual costs as low as possible. The Park District expects increased use of the community centers and those users will pay program related fees that will cover all costs of operating the buildings and the programs. (SS)
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Submitted 12/26/11 - The latest news articles indicate that polls show resident opposition but the Park Board approved a referendum for the purpose of "letting the people decide." How much will it cost to hold the election?
In the community-wide professionally conducted survey in 2009 45.7% of residents said they would pay $1-$6 extra per month to improve the community centers, 32.1% said they would not and 22.2% were undecided. In the 2011 professionally conducted poll 37% percent of residents were in favor of paying additional taxes for improved and expanded community centers, 37% were opposed and 26% were undecided. The Board of Commissioners is interested in hearing from the entire community as a means to chart the future of the Park District. Election costs are borne by Cook County. The Park District will have to pay about $150 to have the referendum question written in Spanish for the Lake County portion of the District. (SS)
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Submitted 01/05/12 - Will the question of a dog park be included in the referendum?
The installation of a dog park is not part of the plan for funds should the referendum be approved. The Park District has discussed, frequently, the need for a dog park and has several sites under consideration. Should the referendum be successful capital improvement funds that are earmarked for facility repairs can then be made available for other capital improvement purposes. (SS)
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Submitted 01/05/12 - Is there a plan for public input as to the use of funds?
The public will certainly be a part of the discussion in the design of building and park improvements and we anticipate that other projects will be discussed and considered. (SS)
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Submitted 01/25/12 - (Paraphrased for length) Why doesn't Arlington Heights (Park District) ask for this money for building a multi-purpose center like Mount Prospect's Rec-Plex instead of renovating a bunch of old buildings all over the village...and add amenities such as running/walking tracks and rooms dedicated and supplied for all types of fitness and exercise classes?
The Park District conducted a survey in 2009 and one of the questions dealt specifically with the question of neighborhood community centers versus larger, district-wide centers. The response from the community indicated a preference for the current system of smaller community centers conveniently and strategically located in distinct neighborhoods. This system was developed in the 1960's and has proven to be most successful for Arlington Heights. The new buildings will include some of the amenities you describe, such as running/walking tracks and rooms dedicated and supplied for all types of fitness and exercise classes. The AHPD currently offers indoor swimming at the Olympic Indoor Swim Center and weight training and aerobic equipment at the Forest View Racquet and Fitness Center. (SS)
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Submitted 01/30/12 - How is the park district getting word out to the voters? Many voters do not come to the website to look for the link. For those like myself that visit the site regularly, I did not know the link was even there, as there is nothing setting it apart to draw attention to it. You can not see the link unless you look for it, as it blends into the other colors of the site.
There are multiple ways that the Park District is sharing information about the referendum. As you mention the Park District website has many pages of information that are constantly being updated. The Winter Program Guide featured eight pages on Master Planning and the referendum. The Spring Program Guide's first two pages are dedicated to the referendum. Each of these program guides is delivered to every household in the community. Additionally, referendum information is available at each of the Park District's facilities and information will be shared with all those residents who have asked to be a part of our email list. The Park District will also be hosting meetings at the five community centers to answer any questions that residents may have. (Frontier Park - Monday, February 20 at 7:00 pm, Heritage Park - Tuesday February 21 at 7:00 pm, Recreation Park - Thursday, February 23 at 7:00 pm, Camelot Park - Monday, March 5 at 7:30 pm, and Pioneer Park - Saturday, March 10 at 9:30 am). (SS)
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Submitted 02/05/12 - (Paraphrased for length) Are allowances made in previous budgets for the replacement of aging buildings and is a portion of existing funding put away for that?
The Park District has a Six-Year Capital Improvement Plan and invests an average of $1.5 million every year in its physical assets or general infrastructure, such as land, buildings, playgrounds, tennis courts, athletic fields, swimming pools, golf courses, vehicles, and equipment. These projects are funded with grants, non-referendum general obligation bonds and savings from improved efficiencies in the operating budget. As you know, if these assets are not maintained in good condition, or if they are allowed to become obsolete, the result is often a decrease in the usefulness of the assets, an increase in the cost of maintaining and replacing them and a decrease in the quality of our services.
Capital Improvement plan projects are evaluated yearly, by reviewing replacement schedules, physical condition and funds available. Scheduled replacement of the older mechanical systems with high efficiency equipment helps us to reduce energy consumption and maintenance expenses. Priority is given to those projects that are likely to lead to a reduction in long-term operating expenses.
Most of the improvements associated with the Park District’s upcoming referendum are for improving accessibility, parking, outdated programming spaces and gymnasiums that no longer meet the recreational needs of our residents. Some of the renovation and/or new construction would include improving roofs, HVAC, electrical and other physical plant improvements and therefore eliminate about $1 million in projects from our Six-Year Capital Improvement Plan.
The Park District doesn’t have $48 million available to make all of the desired improvements to the four community centers. Utilizing existing funding sources, the District could renovate one community center now and would need to wait until 2037 to do another one. The proposed referendum funding would allow the District to spread the $48 million investment over a 25-year period and complete all four community centers now. (DW)
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Submitted 02/08/12 - I understand that an off-leash dog park is not part of the plan at this time. Do any of the plans include the needs of dog owners by allowing dogs on leash to be present in the parks?
The installation of a dog park is not part of the plan for funds should the referendum be approved. The Park District has discussed, frequently, the need for a dog park and has several sites under consideration. Should the referendum be successful capital improvement funds that are earmarked for facility repairs can then be made available for other capital improvement purposes. The current policy of the Park District is to not allow dogs in parks, either on or off leash.
Your comments and concerns will be shared with the Board of Commissioners. Should you wish to provide additional comments or information you are encouraged to do so by writing an email or a letter to Steve Scholten or at 410 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights IL 60004. All of these comments will be shared with the Park District Board of Commissioners. (SS)
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Submitted 02/08/12 - I have an 8 yr severely autistic son that enjoys swimming daily during the summer. I'm worried that if you renovate the pool at Rec, it will become too crowded for us to use. Although a family changing room would be nice, we currently use the bathroom poolside.
The improvements provided by the referendum, should it be approved, will include renovations to the existing building at Recreation Park that will turn it into the bath house for the pool that will be handicapped accessible. A family changing room is now an expected amenity in locker rooms and will be a part of this renovation. The pool, itself, at Recreation Park will not be part of these improvement plans so we anticipate that the swimming experience will remain the same. (SS)
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Submitted 02/08/12 - What will be the impact of these plans once they are implemented to the annually operating costs of the park district. How much will these costs go up on a yearly basis and in total over the 25 years it will take to pay off this investment? How will this increase in operating costs be funded?
These questions can best be answered by looking at the recent history with the new neighborhood community center opened in Pioneer Park in 2008. The District has seen significant increases in program participation at Pioneer. These programs generate income through the fees required for participation. The Park District expects these fees to cover all direct expenses of the program and to cover indirect expenses as well (i.e. heat, air conditioning, building maintenance and minor repairs, etc.) History has shown that the operating costs of Pioneer Community Center are paid by the people who chose to use the building. It is the expectation that all of the District's community centers will pay their operating expenses through program fee income. (SS)
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Submitted 02/08/12 - What are the objectives of the Master Plans and how will their implementation be measured and reported on to the community?
The Master Plan process was a collaborative effort between the users and neighbors of the community centers and the AHPD. The main objective was to establish a land use planning tool. Other objectives were to discuss and discover how the parks and community centers were meeting the current needs of the users and neighbors. Should the referendum be approved the District will establish an area on the website dedicated to updating the community on the renovation and construction progress. Additionally, on an annual basis, the Recreation and Facilities Department produces a report that details the type and amount of use at each of the District's recreation facilities. As currently proposed, the plan calls for proceeds from a bond sale authorized by the community (an approved referendum) to allow all four buildings to be built by 2016. Community feedback and the District's observations indicate that the need to complete these renovations is there now. (SS)
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Submitted 02/08/12 - How did you determine the demand of the plans components, like the indoor walking tracks and the gym, and how/did you forecast usage for each over the 25 year period in question?
Just like the current community centers, the District expects these new and renovated buildings to serve the community for 40-50 years. (Recreation Park built in 1939 and Camelot, Heritage and Frontier built in 1969) Demand and usage has been tracked via numerous methods. The District conducted a community wide survey in 2009, asking in-depth questions about current use patterns and unmet needs. All recreation programs currently offered actively seek evaluation by and suggestions from participants, and staff tracks demand (met and unmet) through the number of programs that can be offered with the existing limitations of space. A quick example; in 1983 the AHPD basketball program had 249 participants, in 2012 there are 1,519 kids playing basketball in the program. The new centers will allow for continued growth in recreation programming and significantly enhance the quality of the experience. (SS)
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Submitted 02/08/12 - Why are we spending money on rebuilding our community centers when we need to update the sewer systems to avoid flooding and sewage backup throughout the community?
First, and foremost, the Park District is asking you, the community if money should be spent on community center and park upgrades. If you decide it is a good idea then the District will see that the plans are carried out in an efficient and effective manner. The Arlington Heights Park District is its own unit of government, separate from the Village of Arlington Heights. Any and all funds received by the District are spent to offer top quality recreation programs, facilities and parks throughout the community.
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Submitted 02/08/12 - I live in the Camelot area. Will there be any new classes in the building when construction is completed?
Yes there will. The work at Camelot will include a new full size gymnasium and renovations to all of the existing space that will allow the current gym to be turned into program rooms and a lobby area that will enhance the social opportunities for parents and program participants. The District fully expects all sorts of new activities to be a part of the new Camelot Community Center.
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Submitted 02/08/12 - (Paraphrased for length) I see that some of the field improvements to soccer, football, baseball and softball fields will receive synthetic turf. Will this improve the Women's softball league? Currently, women aren't allowed to play at the parks expected to be improved. Also, with the increases in gym space is there a possibility there be a Women's floor hockey league?
The District anticipates a sharing of the new synthetic surfaces across all programs that use them. The women's leagues have been held at Methodist park for years and feedback from the players has been that they like playing in that early time slot. This decision is reviewed on an annual basis. Additional gyms would free up time for more new programming. If the interest was sufficient for a women's floor hockey league, it would certainly be considered. (SS)
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Submitted 02/08/12 - How many years would we have a tax increase?
The bonds to be sold, if approved via the referendum, would be completely paid off in 25 years. Therefore the tax increase would be for 25 years. If the market value of your home is $300,000 then you would pay $36 more than you are currently paying. The first bond payments will occur in 2013. The Park District is also currently paying on bonds sold for the pool referendum of 2000 and those will be paid off in 2016. At that time your tax obligation for bonds would remain the same and your taxes would not go down. The District intends to structure debt payments so they stay stable for the next 25 years. Therefore the best way to know what your tax obligation would be is to determine the market value of your home and to add $12 for every $100,000 of market value to the taxes you currently pay to the Park District. This will be your obligation for 25 years (SS)
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Submitted 02/09/12 - When would the work on Camelot begin and end?
The Camelot Community Center would be the first to receive renovations should the referendum be approved. Work would be scheduled to begin in Spring 2013 and completed in June 2014. (SS)
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Submitted 02/10/12 - I am interested in attending a Park Referendum Meeting but I have a conflict with the evening scheduled at my neighborhood facility, Recreation Park. Is the information presented at each individual meeting focused only on the facility which is offering the presentation? Or, are the presentations generic in nature (offering the entire plan for each center). Thank you.
Each of the presentations will be general in nature and provide an overview of how the referendum question came to be formed and what type of work would be completed.Please feel free to attend the presentation that best fits your schedule. Also the presentation schedule includes a Saturday morning (Saturday, March 10, 9:30 am at Pioneer Park) for those who may have evening conflicts. If you want to review the specifics of the master plan for each park you can find them on this website. (SS)
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Submitted 02/12/12 - Where can I early vote on February 15?
Early Voting starts February 27 and ends March 15. Locally, early voting can be done at the Village Hall and the Rolling Meadows Courthouse in the County Clerk's Office. For all of the information you will need for early or absentee voting please visit the Cook County Clerk's website at www.cookcountyclerk.com/elections. (SS)
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Submitted 02/13/12 - The survey indicated that residents wanted more fitness areas. While I see walking paths and areas for organized sporting areas on the plan, why are there no gyms with workout equipment?
Each of the new/renovated centers will include a full size gymnasium and a dance/aerobics studio that will house numerous types of fitness and exercise classes. These neighborhood community centers will not be big enough to support a fitness center with workout equipment. The Forest View Racquet and Fitness Club does have exercise/workout equipment for your enjoyment and benefit. (SS)
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Submitted 02/14/12 - The tax impact will increase over time as house values increase without capping it at an estimated $36 per $100,000 of house value. Will the increase in taxes be capped over the life of the 25 year bond?
The Debt Service plan calls for annual debt payments to increase by 1% per year. However, there has been a 1% growth in new property for each of the last 17 years. Therefore the increase in debt payments is planned to be offset by more property sharing the tax burden and the expectation is that debt service will remain relatively stable. Each individual property owners tax burden is dependent on what % their property is in relation to all property values within the Park District's boundaries. If your property value increases faster than others then your tax burden will increase. If it stays stable, decreases or grows more slowly than other property then your tax burden will go down. Although, the amount of dollars required for debt service will be known, the amount of taxes you pay might change based on the value of your property to all other property in town. (SS)
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Submitted 02/16/12 - I noticed that there does not seem to be any plan for a dog park...I think it is time for Arlington Heights to support it's many, many dog owning residents with at least one area for dogs to run free together...is there still time get something added to the plans? I would have a hard time supporting a referendum for the parks without a dog park included.
The installation of a dog park is not part of the plan for funds should the referendum be approved. The Park District has discussed, frequently, the need for a dog park and has several sites under consideration. Should the referendum be successful capital improvement funds that are earmarked for facility repairs can then be made available for other capital improvement purposes. (SS)
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Submitted 02/17/12 - You mentioned that visits to Pioneer increased over 48,000. How do you measure that and what does it include? Does that include pool attendance and people walking through the doors for scheduled bball games?
The Park District tracks the use of its building by program participants and participant visits. The figures quoted (48,000) for Pioneer in 2010-2011 includes participants in recreation programs, drop-in programs, rentals and clubs. It does not include any of the pool attendance nor does it include anyone who may come to visit a class or watch a basketball game. (SS)
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Submitted 2/20/12 - Currently there are approx. 200 parking spaces at Rec. Park. Considering you are adding a gymnasium and a community center what are the proposed number of parking spaces for the new Rec. Park?
At this time, the Recreation Park Master Plan establishes approx. 242 parking spaces at Recreation Park. The new design anticipates an increased use of the new off-street parking lot due to its improved location adjacent to the new community center and pool bathhouse. (BH)
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Submitted 2/20/12 - What is the estimated cost of constructing the second concentric path at Lake Arlington?
Additional pathway improvements is $750,000. This amount also includes some limited repairs/improvements to the existing Lake Arlington pathway. (BH)
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Soccer
Why was there a $15 fee per family to tryout for AHPD travel soccer this year?
The fee was to be a deterrent for players to tryout at multiple clubs, as a result these players who do not accept their selection on an Aces team slows down the notification process. This was to attract the players who were serious about playing for the Arlington Aces Soccer Club.
Also their are many fees incurred by the park district during the tryout process. The park district pays a service fee to Elite Soccer for their services during the tryouts and coordinating the tryouts, and the $15 fee was put in place this year to help alleviate the costs that the park district incurs during the tryout process. This cost was in addition to the $290 Park District fee that was paid if your child made a travel soccer team.
In late August all participants who tried out were issued a refund of the $15. If your family paid by credit card, then the amount was credited back to your account. If you paid by cash or check, then you were issued a refund. If you have not received the $15 back, please let the park district know.
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Why and when did the Park District begin the “Academy” travel soccer program?
In 2005 many parents came to Soccer Advisory Committee meetings to request that they look at a program with a unified trainer and another component of the travel program for the kids that could benefit from a more competitive program. In 2006 the “Academy” name was given and full time trainers would handle all practices and games for this program.
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What is the maximum number of teams allowed in travel soccer per age division?
This depends on the age, the younger ages have as many as 4-5 teams because their rosters have less kids. The older age groups typically have 2-3 teams.
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What is the Soccer Advisory Committee role with the AHPD soccer program?
This committee is a Park Board appointed committee, which meets regularly during the soccer season to advise Park District staff on the program as they see it. One of there main responsibilities is to accept coach applications for the Volunteer Coached program for travel soccer and interview candidates and select coaches for the various age groups.
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What is Elite Soccer Inc.'s role with the AHPD soccer program?
Elite Soccer is the organization hired by the Arlington Heights Park District as the unified training company for the travel program. They are also hired to offer various soccer camps/programs throughout the year, such as Pre K soccer, Bridge to Aces Camp , coaches clinics, player clinics etc. They are hired for both the House and Travel program.
Each year Park District staff reviews with Elite soccer there role for the upcoming seasons and determines what classes/programs they can assist the Park District in regarding soccer.
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Why do tryout participants need to declare if they want to tryout for the “Academy” or “Volunteer Coached” team prior to tryouts beginning?
When the “Academy” program began it was suggested by parents that only ones interested in a more competitive program should tryout for this, therefore two separate tryouts were held – “Academy” and “Volunteer Coach.” It has stayed that way since 2006.
It is apparent to Park District staff that this may not be working for the best for all players and their families. Adjustments are being made to fix this situation for future tryouts.
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Is the Arlington Aces name only for the travel program?
The entire soccer league program (Travel and House) is considered the Arlington Aces program. Many people have thought that “Aces” refers to the Travel program.
At Arlington Heights Park District, our soccer program is more unique than at other Park Districts. We are the only Park District in the area that coordinates both type programs.
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Who do I contact in case I would like to discuss something about the soccer program?
The soccer program has many staff working on this program. If you have questions about the house league program you can begin by contacting your local park (Camelot, Frontier, Heritage, Pioneer, Recreation) Supervisor. In addition there is an Athletic Supervisor, 847-506-7133 in charge of the soccer program who can be contacted. There is also a Superintendent of Recreation, 847-506-7131 in charge of athletics that may be contacted.
Please don’t hesitate to contact someone within the Park District if you ever have a question/concern. We hope to help you through every situation.
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