Geneseo Park District's Master Plan

FROM THE

BOARD PRESIDENT

I am proud to present the Geneseo Park District’s Master Plan. The Master Plan is a living document used to guide staff with their goals and objectives over the next 10 years. This document provides a roadmap to the needs of the community including programs and facility needs documented through a Community Survey, Staff Survey, Community Input Sessions, Board Staff Workshop and information provided through specific program surveys and feedback directly to the staff and board.

The work was started in 2019 and then put on hold due to the changes during and after the pandemic. Staff took the project in-house and created the surveys and workshop information without hiring an outside consultant.

I’m proud of the staff and time put into this document. I believe that the information presented is a thorough representation of the needs of the community. The staff and board appreciate the time those of you spent filling out the surveys and providing comments to the staff. The Geneseo Park District is here to enhance the quality of life in our community by providing a positive recreational experience for all.

Geneseo Park District Mission Statement

The mission of the Geneseo Park District is to enhance the quality of life in our community by providing a positive recreational experience for all.

Geneseo Park District Vision Statement

It is the vision of the Geneseo Park District to provide quality parks and recreational opportunities for the benefit and enrichment of our community today and in the future.

Park Board of Comissioners

Doug Bodeen

Board President

Nate Vorac Board Vice President

Julia McAvoy Board Secretary

Bethany Winkleman Board Commissioner

Christina Zobrist Board Commissioner

Andy Thurman

Leadership Team

Executive Director

Paula Verbeck Superintendent of Finance & Administration

Scott Himmelman

Superintendent of Facilities

Andrew Sigwalt Superintendent of Recreation

Jackie Beach Recreation & Aquatics Supervisor

Jodie Olson

Administrative Assistant

Doug Bodeen Geneseo Park District Board President

GENESEO PARK DISTRICT’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE

ENVISION 2033

Engage.................................................. Page 4

The Geneseo Park District engaged the staff, board, and community in our planning process.

Notable................................................. Page 5

The Geneseo Park District has several notable accomplishments since implementation of our 2012 Master Plan and 2016 Strategic Plan.

Viable.................................................... Page 9

The Geneseo Park District strives to remain financially viable by generating sufficient income to meet operating payments, debt commitments and, where applicable, to allow growth while maintaining excellent service levels.

IT, Inventory & Replacement Plans.....Page 10

The Geneseo Park District will continue to maintain current facilities and equipment while also preparing for the future with detailed inventory & replacement plans.

Succession Planning............................ Page 11

The Geneseo Park District has been fortunate to have dedicated long-term employees. Succession Planning will be put in place over the next 5-10 years as several key employees will become eligible for retirement.

Innovative............................................. Page 12

The Geneseo Park District will work to identify innovative ways to renovate the existing building and create an opportunity to make minor improvements to the Community Center in the short term and plan for future redesign.

Opportunities....................................... Page 13

The Geneseo Park District will seek and further develop all opportunities for collaboration, communication and volunteerism through community partnerships and sponsorships.

Numerous Experiences........................ Page 15

The Geneseo Park District will expand and enhance its already numerous recreational experiences portfolio.

The Geneseo Park District engaged the staff, board, and community in our planning process.

Master Plan Timeline

1November 2019

This phase occurred concurrently with Phase 2 and included a collection and assimilation of Park District information, including an inventory of parks, open space, recreation facilities, and program offerings.

Community engagement is the foundation of a Comprehensive Plan. Throughout this phase, the Park District Staff actively engaged the community in information gathering.

During the third phase of the planning process, the Park District Staff created a long-term vision for the Park District based on the analysis completed in the previous project phases.

Started Master Plan Process with Bracke Hayes Miller & Mahon.

December 2019 Master Planning Committee Meeting held for Leadership Team and several Park District Members.

January 2020

Staff & Community Needs Assessment Surveys.

February 2020 Interviews with staff members and key stakeholders.

2March 10, 2020

March - June 2020

August - September 2022

September 14 – 30, 2022

Results from Needs Assessment Survey and Interviews presented to the Geneseo Park District Board of Commissioners.

Geneseo Park District shut down March – June due to COVID

Master Planning Process re-starts as an internal project.

Staff Survey open to current Geneseo Park District staff.

3September 14 – October 5, 2022 Community Survey.

September 19, 2022

S.W.O.T. Survey sent to Board & Leadership Team.

October 11, 2022 Board/Staff S.W.O.T. Analysis Workshop along with review of Staff & Community Survey results.

October 17 - 23, 2022

Community S.W.O.T. Open House.

November - December, 2022

December 2022

Geneseo Park District staff compiled data and wrote Master Plan.

Geneseo Park District Board of Commissioners reviewed & approved Master Plan.

ENVISION 2033 | NOTABLE

Major Projects 2013 - 2022

ATHLETIC FIELD

Installed driveway & resurfaced Athletic Field Track

Installed concrete bags game and ping pong table

Renovated Sand Volleyball Court

New 42’ x 72’ 1 story building with dedicated Youth Football and Summer Camp Space

New Bleachers added Tennis Courts Resurfaced

2 Pickleball Courts added Athletic Field Playground & Outdoor Classroom

COMMUNITY CENTER

Updated Activity Room

Recovery Room added Party Room opened for rentals Pool Lift added to the Indoor Pool

Digital LED Marquee

Community Garden Program

Gymnasium Painted and Floor Resurfaced

Elevated Walking Track Resurfaced Windows added to Gymnasium

Spiral Staircase replaced to the Elevated Walking Track New Cardio/Weight Equipment

Donor Recognition Wall

CENTRAL THEATER

Purchased Vision and Hearing Impaired Equipment

Digital Projection Conversion

ADA Upgrades

Updated equipment & signage

AQUATIC CENTER

Opened John and Carla Edwards Aquatic Center

ANDERSON MEMORIAL PARK

Park size doubled

A shed, sundial, statue/bench, new lights & signage added

Landscaping and connecting sidewalk added

The Geneseo Park District has several notable accomplishments since implementation of our 2012 Master Plan and 2016 Strategic Plan.

ENVISION 2033 | NOTABLE

The Geneseo Park District has several notable accomplishments since implementation of our 2012 Master Plan and 2016 Strategic Plan.

Accomplishments 2013 - 2022

Developed Employee Recognition Program

Developed Employee Wellness Program

Established Geneseo Park District Foundation

Established Fund Balances

Established Sponsorship Program

Established FUNding Positive Recreational Experiences Scholarship Program

Established Core Values

Established Volunteer Program Partnered with Smith Studio and Gallery Musical Memories

Hammond-Henry Hospital Rehab Geneseo School District City of Geneseo A Spotted Apron QC Pickleball

Established New Programs Gators Swim Team Parent Led Playgroup Summer Day Camp Spring Break Day Camp Active Adult/Senior Programs Cooking Classes S.T.E.M.

Established Annual Free Special Events

Santa at The Center Turkey Trot Special Day Fun (Swimming & Inflatables) Middle School Fun Special Skates

Letters from Santa Stories in the Park Easter Egg Hunt

Kayak/Canoeing

Outdoor Movie Series

Kiwanis Fun Day Back to School Bash Community Camp Out Pitch, Hit & Run Monthly Senior Programs

ENVISION 2033 | NOTABLE

The Geneseo Park District has several notable accomplishments since implementation of our 2012 Master Plan and 2016 Strategic Plan.

Created Highway/Facility Way-finding Signage

Updated ADA Transition Plan

Created cohesive program logos

Geneseo Park District Foundation

Swim Team Gymnastic Team Bright Beginnings Preschool Spring Break & Summer Camps

IMRF 100% Funded

5-Star Audit from Star Guard

A+ GO Bond rating and an A Debt Certificate rating from Moody’s Rating Agency

Updated all Affiliate & Intergovernmental Agreements

Online Activity Guide Flip Book

Grants & Donations 2013 - 2022

• $125,000 from Geneseo Foundation for Gymnasium floor resurface, windows and staircase.

• $108,303.38 Grant from Small Business Administration for Central Theater.

• $20,000 from the Geneseo Foundation for FUNding Positive Recreational Experiences Scholarships.

• $499,600 from Geneseo Senior Citizens for Senior Programming.

• $80,000 from the Geneseo Foundation for a Playground & Outdoor Classroom at the Athletic Field.

• $2.5 Million PARC Grant for the Aquatic Center Project.

• $100,000 from JF Edwards and EIP for 11 Parking Lot Lights at the Community Center.

• Land donated by Karen Kohne to establish Anderson Memorial Park.

• $102,000 donation from Karen Kohne for Anderson Memorial Park Maintenance.

• $50,500 Grant from the Geneseo Foundation for FREE Swim Lessons to all 3rd Graders over 10 years.

• $25,000 Grant from Geneseo Foundation for new gymnastics equipment.

• $4,000 Grant from the Seth Ernst Soccer Slam for new soccer goals at the Athletic Field.

• $5,000 Grant received from the Francis G and Betty J Miller Foundation for the new recovery room equipment.

• $1,000 Grant from PDRMA Wellness for Employee Wellness Program.

• $122,000 raised in a capital campaign for the new Athletic Field Building.

• $2.3 million raised through the Make a Splash campaign for the new Aquatic Center.

• $30,000 CURE Grant (local Corona Virus Remediation Emergency Support program).

• $2,500 Grant from Bethany Winkleman State Farm for Youth Sports Programs & Activities.

• $26,600 Grant from Geneseo Foundation to support Youth and Family Programs.

Awards 2013 - 2022

ILLINOIS DISTINGUISHED AGENCY ACCREDITATION

Staff completed a rigorous assessment process that resulted in the District receiving Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency by the Illinois Association of Park Districts and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association. The accreditation process focuses on efficient and effective operational practices and the implementation of professional standards. By dedicating the time and effort to go through the review and compilation of materials, as well as the evaluation process, the Geneseo Park District has shown a commitment to meeting the highest standards of the Parks and Recreation profession.

IPRA OUTSTANDING FACILITY & PARK AWARD

John & Carla Edwards Aquatic Center received the Illinois Park & Recreation Association Outstanding Facility & Park Award. This award recognizes public agencies for their exceptional and unique achievement in design and development.

PDRMA’S ACCREDITATION AWARD

PDRMA (Park District Risk Management Agency) has awarded the Level A recognition to the District for the District’s efforts to maximize safe operations and minimize insurance claims.

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING AWARD

The Geneseo Park District and the Finance Department has annually been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). The certificate is the highest form of recognition for excellence in state and local government in the area of governmental accounting & financial reporting.

IPRA HEALTH AND WELLNESS “EXCEPTIONAL WORKPLACE” AWARD

The District was scored on staff wellness programs, continuing education, team building, community involvement, environmental policy, risk management, and professionalism. The Park District earned 45 points out of a possible 52 points. The Geneseo Park District board and staff were congratulated by IPRA for answering the survey questions and dedicating the time to develop a wellness policy which shows our commitment to our employee’s well being.

IAPD BEST OF THE BEST AWARDS Outstanding Journalist Award

This award recognizes a print, radio and television medium (or individual reporter/journalist) that has provided responsible and comprehensive coverage of an Illinois Park District. Lisa Depies and Amy Carton from the Geneseo Republic were the journalists submitted for the award.

The Geneseo Park District has several notable accomplishments since implementation of our last Master Plan and Strategic Plan.

ENVISION 2033 | VIABLE

The Geneseo Park District strives to remain financially viable by generating sufficient income to meet operating payments, debt commitments and, where applicable, to allow growth while maintaining excellent service levels.

Financial Stability is a redundant theme not only in our new Master Plan but throughout the prior Master Plan and Strategic Plan.

In 2009 the Park District implemented a fund balance policy and has worked hard to reach those goals and maintain them ever since. COVID really reinforced the importance of having healthy fund balances, not only to prepare for capital replacement items and meet long-range goals, but also to help weather through the unexpected.

Maintaining a steady tax rate at approximately .50 has been a Board priority. While there are many factors and challenges in trying to maintain an exact tax rate, the Board & Staff have been able to accomplish this over the last 10 + years.

Geneseo Park District 2013-2022 Tax Rate

The Park District has drastically reduced its work force to save money since COVID, but the reduced workforce is not maintainable long term. As the Staff Survey indicated, burnout is becoming a real concern. As business continues to rebound, job descriptions will need to be reevaluated and additional personnel may need to be hired.

The Finance Department has allocated budget responsibility to each department to help with understanding and ownership. Moving forward, staff will continue to take ownership in their department’s budget to make them sustainable, put together and maintain fixed assets list and develop replacement plans for each department/program area.

Staff & Board compiled a plan and have reserved funds to pay off the Aquatic Center early. The soonest debt certificates can be paid off is in 2025.

The operational levy + the annual rollover bond combines to make up the total tax rate. Due to rising operational cost, the Park District will need to switch to collecting more in the operational levy and decreasing the annual rollover bond amount to meet operational expenses and maintain the same tax rate. Education on this topic will be important to help calm any concerns from the community when they see the Park District propose a larger increase in the operational levy since they will not necessarily see the decrease in the annual rollover bond.

The Geneseo Park District Foundation, although a separate entity, has been crucial in helping secure donations & grants to offset cost for capital improvements and give the Park District the ability to offer free or reduced cost programs, activities, and events.

To maintain financial viability moving forward…

• Maintain Healthy Fund Balances.

• Maintain stable tax rate while shifting to a larger operational levy and lower annual rollover amount.

• Re-evaluate job descriptions and workforce.

• Sustainable Department/Program Budgets.

• Pay off Debt Certificates for the Aquatic Center in 2025.

• Continued promotion of the Geneseo Park District Foundation.

ENVISION 2033 | IT, INVENTORY & REPLACEMENT

The Geneseo Park District will continue to maintain current facilities and equipment while also preparing for the future with detailed inventory & replacement plans.

The Geneseo Park District has put together a list of all major recreational facilities throughout the community (see Appendix D: Facilities & Amenities). This will help not only avoid duplication of services, save taxpayers money, but also identity areas and activities not currently being serviced and help with the Innovative Section of this Master Plan.

Feedback from both SWOTS (see Appendix C: S.W.O.T. Results) indicated the concern for the aging equipment throughout the Park District. Fixed Asset Inventory lists have begun to be tracked through our financial software, which has started the establishment of departmental capital inventory and replacement plans. This will help with the replenishment and upgrade of equipment through the annual budget.

As technology rapidly evolves it is difficult with a limited staff to stay ahead of the trends. The staff and community surveys also both identified IT as an area the Park District could improve. This included areas such as timekeeping/payroll, website, financial software, registration software, and communications.

98% of staff say Text is the best way to communicate with staff Appendix A: Staff Survey Results Appendix B: Community Survey

The lack of staff specifically trained and dedicated to IT is also a concern since everyone continues to become more dependent on technology and the increased awareness of the need for cyber security. The Geneseo Park District is working with PDRMA and Advanced Business Systems to address cyber security.

Both internal and external communication can be challenging when you are working with so many different demographics.

How do you find Park District information?

Website 43% Facebook 53% Online Activity Guide 57%

% access Park District information via mobile phone

Appendix B: Community Survey

Moving forward to address IT issues and maintain current equipment while planning and preparing for the future, the Geneseo Park District can...

• Move financial software to cloud hosting.

• Move recreational software to cloud hosting.

• Redesign website, mobile friendly.

• Investigate best ways to communicate with staff & patrons.

• Investigate electronic timekeeping software/ equipment.

• Create Capital Inventory and Replacement Plans by each Department/Facility/Program Area.

• Continue to seek grants/donations for purchasing, replenishing & replacing equipment.

ENVISION 2033 | SUCCESSION PLANNING

The Geneseo Park District has been fortunate to have dedicated long-term employees. Succession Planning will be put in place over the next 5-10 years as several key employees will become eligible for retirement.

Low unemployment rates accompanied by increased competition, increased staffing needs and increased wages are causing park and recreation agencies across the country to face staffing challenges. Hiring both part-time and full-time employees has never been more daunting.

The Geneseo Park District is a major employer of part-time employees in Geneseo. Employment at the Geneseo Park District helps develop customer service skills, organizational skills, teaches responsibility, provides leadership opportunities, and provides an opportunity to positively impact our community in significant and meaningful ways.

The 2022 average IMRF Employer Contribution Rate is 8.59%, due to the Geneseo Park District’s funding status our 2022 Employer Contribution rate is .87%.

IMRF eligible employees are required to contribute 4.5% of their annual salary. The Geneseo Park District is 100% funded. 100% funding means that the Geneseo Park District has enough money in our reserve account to meet future pension obligations for all benefits earned to date.

Flexibility, co-workers, work/life balance, membership discounts and distance from home are some of the top things our employees like about working for the Geneseo Park District.

Negative patrons, low pay, communication breakdowns, restrictive/outdated equipment & software are some of the top areas that staff feel can be improved upon.

Discounted Memberships was by far chosen as the most important benefit amongst part-time staff.

Dedicated, kind, friendly, and attentive employees that know most patrons by name is one of the Geneseo Park District’s greatest strengths. This sets the bar pretty high when it comes to trying to replace these employees.

The Geneseo Park District has 21 employees that have worked for the Park District for over 10 years and of those, 11 have worked at the Park District for over 20 years. 5 of the 7 full-time employees will be eligible for retirement within the next 5-10 years and a total of 8 of the 12 IMRF employees will be eligible for retirement within the next 10 years.

97.73% of employees responded to survey stating that they are proud of the Geneseo Park District’s image in our community but reduced staffing levels with added responsibility has some employees teetering on burnout.

Moving forward will require an intentional, focused effort to create an enjoyable working environment for current and future employees.

• Create Department and Position Task Manuals to help document and transfer key knowledge.

• Analyze current job descriptions and future staffing needs.

• Investigate value of Early Retirement Incentive.

• Financially plan and prepare for IMRF retirements.

• Review Staff Discount Policy.

• Enhance Communication – text option.

• Regular evaluations of pay plans and benefits.

• Conduct annual employee satisfaction surveys.

staff are proud of the geneseo park district’s image

ENVISION 2033 | INNOVATIVE

The Geneseo Park District will work to identify innovative ways to renovate the existing building and create an opportunity to make minor improvements to the Community Center in the short term and plan for future redesign.

The Park District must keep in mind it’s mission to provide a positive recreational experience for all and therefore must prioritize multi-functionality in any future renovations and expansions.

The Geneseo Community Center was built in 1982, the Indoor Pool was built in 1995 and the Aquatic Center was built in 2016.

In 2003 the addition of the Cardio/Weight Room, Lifefitness Room, Small Gym, and storage was added.

Throughout the years there have been some renovations, such as in 2018 when the gym floor was replaced, windows added to the walking track, and the removal of the spiral staircase, but the basic layout of the main building has remained the same.

Feedback from the Community indicated the desire for expanded hours, renovated locker rooms, and family changing rooms (see Appendix B: Community Survey Results).

Feedback from staff indicated the functionality, traffic flow, storage and restrooms/locker rooms are priorities when it comes to any redesign and renovation (see Appendix A: Staff Survey Results).

COVID demonstrated the need to provide outdoor recreation and the state of the economy makes the free recreational opportunities offered by the Park District with support from the Geneseo Park District Foundation crucial to what we offer the community. The Athletic Field property allows the Geneseo Park District to provide free outdoor recreation so seeking donations and grants for this property will be balanced with the need to renovate the Community Center.

Moving forward the Geneseo Park District is not committing to any specific project but instead will explore all options and be innovative in efforts to revitalize the Park District’s aging facilities in both the short term and long term.

• Identify renovation priorities for the Community Center.

• Create phased permanent improvement plan for the Community Center.

• Investigate 24 hr access and/or expanded hours.

• Renovation of restrooms/locker rooms.

• Coordinate capital plan development with recreation programming for improved use of limited facilities.

• Hire architect for feasibility study and architectural drawing once renovation priorities identified.

ENVISION 2033 | OPPORTUNITIES

The Geneseo Park District will seek and further develop all opportunities for collaboration, communication and volunteerism through community partnerships and sponsorships.

The Geneseo Park District understands that with the demand for greater services and fewer resources, no one can do it alone. The Park District will continue to seek opportunities to act collaboratively, leverage resources, meet challenges and address the needs of our community.

Through partnerships, sponsorships, volunteers, and intergovernmental agreements the Geneseo Park District has been able to expand services and offer greater opportunities for our community to access and enjoy recreation (see Figure 1). We realize that recreation is critical to the physical, emotional, and mental side of a person’s development and partnerships are a powerful way to get things done.

The

The benefits of successful partnerships include:

• Sharing of resources as well as risk.

• Avoiding duplication of services and creating efficiencies for all involved.

• Teaming up with agencies with similar values and missions.

• Expansion of services to offer greater opportunity for citizens to access and enjoy recreation.

• Collaboration instead of competition.

• Access to new energy and new ideas, helping to get the job done.

Figure 1:

Park District has consistently collaborated through partnerships, sponsorships & intergovernmental agreements with…

ENVISION 2033 | OPPORTUNITIES

The Geneseo Park District will seek and further develop all opportunities for collaboration, communication and volunteerism through community partnerships and sponsorships.

In these challenging economic times, the Geneseo Park District also works hard to bring the best possible recreational opportunities to the community at the lowest possible cost and maximize tax dollars by minimizing duplication of facilities and services.

The Park District realizes that sometimes it’s role may be to facilitate rather than run a program/ sport/activity so efforts are made to work with other organizations to do what is in the communities best interest.

Community involvement is a vital key in staying active and making a difference in others’ lives. The Park District has an assortment of volunteer opportunities that offers rewarding use of time as well as supporting recreation in the community.

The Park District is working with the School District’s Silver Cord program to offer students volunteer opportunities.

Local businesses have the opportunity to purchase a Business Membership Discount for their employees through the Park District.

• Increased employee morale; which creates a more productive, customer-friendly employee.

The Park District does not have the resources alone to meet the needs and desires of the community so we need to seek opportunities to cultivate relationships with organizations and individuals that have a similar philosophy as ours and can compliment what we have to offer.

Some of the benefits of offering a discounted membership to employees are…

• Reducing accidents and injuries.

• Reduced absenteeism and improved ability to manage stress.

• Improved quality, energy, performance and productivity.

• Better able to attract and retain top-quality employees.

• Lower health care costs and fewer workers compensation claims for business.

Some of the opportunities that we have to accomplish this moving forward are:

• Enhance and promote our volunteer program.

• Participate in and host job/volunteer fairs.

• Communicate & promote the benefits of Business Memberships.

• Promote and expand our current Sponsorship/ Partnership Program.

• Identify the need and level that the Park District offers specialized programs, and competitive teams.

• Analyzing the use of partner agencies and travel groups to run/offer programs

ENVISION 2033 | NUMEROUS EXPERIENCES

The Geneseo Park District will expand and enhance its already numerous positive recreational experiences portfolio.

The Geneseo Park District strives to get families and individuals involved at an early age and provide numerous opportunities that allow them to become lifetime users.

The Park District provides a wide range of recreational opportunities, which can only be offered with the financial support of fees and charges. Fees are designed to provide a spectrum of price points to accommodate different economic circumstances, as the benefit extends from the community to the individual; the participant is expected to pay for a greater percentage of the costs associated with the program.

The Geneseo Park District has a program portfolio that provides numerous safe, recreational experiences yearround for participants of all ages. The program categories offered include; Early Childhood, Fine Arts, Free Community Events, Youth & Adult Athletics/ Leagues, Day Camps, Gymnastics, Learn to Swim, Water Fitness, Fitness/Yoga/Cycling, Specialty Programs and Active Adult/Senior Programs.

The Geneseo Park District offers services such as fitness facilities, gym space, aquatic facilities, birthday parties, rental spaces, roller skating, concessions and a movie theater.

ENVISION 2033 | NUMEROUS EXPERIENCES

A non-resident is an individual who does not reside within the corporate boundaries of the Park District or does not pay taxes for the Park District. Non-residents are charged an additional annual fee when they purchase a membership. This non-resident fee is less than most residents pay in taxes to the Park District.

The mandatory annual minimum wage increases coupled with rising operational cost such as utilities create a challenge in pricing programs and services to cover cost. Finding qualified instructors is another challenge the Park District faces.

Travel Sports and specializing in one sport impacts not only participation in our youth recreational programs but also our adult programming because families have both limited time and discretionary income.

Lack of childcare services has been expressed as a deterrent to some people utilizing our facilities or participating in fitness classes. This was a service that was offered pre-Covid but was not financially sustainable and on average only about five families utilized the service.

The Geneseo Park District is unique amongst most Park District’s in the fact that we have a movie theater and have been able to offer state of the art entertainment at affordable prices. Monthly free movies are offered for the Active Adult/Senior community on the second Wednesday of each month. COVID, streaming, shorter theatrical windows and simultaneously releases have all had major impacts on the movie theater industry over the last few years. The Central Theater was established in 1924 and has been a mainstay in downtown Geneseo.

The Geneseo Park District will expand and enhance its already numerous positive recreational experiences portfolio.

ENVISION 2033 | NUMEROUS EXPERIENCES

The Geneseo Park District will expand and enhance its already numerous positive recreational experiences portfolio.

Even with strong satisfaction, there are numerous opportunities for improvements in all areas moving forward.

• Fee structure review, cover rising indirect expenses.

• Seek and apply for grants to help offset fees.

• Continue to provide Free Recreational experience options.

• Promote and encourage support for the Geneseo Park District Foundation.

• Stay relevant with program trends & offering at least one new program category each season.

• Evaluate each program’s life cycle, helping identify core programs, gaps, areas of improvement and future program offerings/need.

• Expand Outdoor and Nature programing, Environmental Education.

• Research Esports.

• Expand Health & Wellness offerings.

• Expand programming for middle school age kids.

• Explore after-school programming options.

• Offer Lifelong learning & Enrichment programming.

• Vocational Classes.

• Expand Special Needs programming.

• Host Tournaments.

• Cooking classes.

• Holiday Special Events.

• Gaming Nights at Central Theater.

• Continue to evaluate the number of showings per week at the Central Theater.

• Research reclining seats at the Central Theater.

• Investigate credit card capability at the Central Theater.

• More free Foundation/business sponsored matinees at the Central Theater.

• Investigate pre-paid membership/punch card for admittance options at the Central Theater.

APPENDIX A

Staff Survey Results September 14 - 30, 2022

RESULTS

What do you LIKE about working for the Geneseo Park District? (click all that apply)

Which of these would you rate as the BEST thing about working at the Geneseo Park District?

Co-workers Flexibility

Distance from Home

The Patrons

Atmosphere

SURVEY RESULTS

If you could add one benefit, what would it be?

• Larger space for program x2

• Free memberships to staff that works year round x3

• Possibly a free guest pass when you are done for your season

• More guest passes to Aquatic Center or family daily admission discount

• None - I am part time and the benefits compared to what I get at my full time job are so incredible. I feel very valued.

• N/A x5

• Birthday gift

• Training/certification stipend

• Ability to take all classes at no charge

• More family benefits

• Part time people should accrue more vacation time with years of service. I was working 12 days every two weeks for 2.5 years. Then, I was asked to come in on my days off to cover. Amazingly, I was under 40 hrs.

• Employees who work 5+ years get a bonus/raise. x3 • Higher

IF NOT, PLEASE EXPLAIN WHAT YOUR

COULD DO TO MAKE YOU FEEL MORE SUPPORTED.

• That is a yes and no answer...He needs to do his end for me to do mine

• It would be nice if supervisors had scheduled work hours so staff knew when supervisors would be working. It is sometimes demoralizing when supervisors are just gone for half the day on a workday and cannot be found or reached.

• Be more hands-on in supervising the department

IF NO, WHY NOT?

• I didn’t know they were a thing

• I forget about them x4

• I read them sometimes but being part time/seasonal I don’t always make it a priority

• I think the notes could be organized better. There should be a new section for easy reference because somethings are redundant for several weeks

• I don’t check my email too often

• Not necessary

• I’m in school I don’t always have the time

APPENDIX A | STAFF SURVEY RESULTS

Do you have any suggestions for additional programs, activities, or special events you think the Park District should offer?

What amenities and/or equipment do you think is important for the Park District to updated?

• Continue gymnastics updates with plans for preschool & replacements

• I do not go to the community center due to the cost.

• The computers are slow, maybe getting new ones could be an investment

• The sports equipment in the gym. Some/most of the balls are deflated or don’t hold air very well or is old and doesn’t hold up to stress very well

• Bigger indoor pool so we could host swim team adequately.

• Maintain and repair the building and equipment.

IF YES, PLEASE ELABORATE

• Winter swim activities for children.

• We have enough cooks. We should do a BBQ to raise money for programs

• Holiday Special Events

• Santa’s Workshop with Santa/Elves, Hot Chocolate & Candy Canes, Toy Workshop – make stuff animals (similar to Build a Bear), reindeer to pet, Christmas games, photo booth, Bounce House, Elf Training Camp

• Glow in the Dark Easter Egg Hunt

• Bobbing for Pumpkins in Pool

• More Wellness Programming

• More Cooking Classes - A wine & dine - pairing wines with dinner

• Adult Craft Classes

• Adult Dance Classes with alcohol

• Esports utilizing the Central Theater

• Themed Holiday/Seasonal Movie Weeks/Nights at the Central Theater

• Brew & View Night at Central Theater

• Shark Week at the Aquatic Center

• Dog swim at the outdoor pool on the last day

• Evening Adult Pickleball classes/tournaments

• N/A x6

• Registration Software

• Decent chairs in the indoor pool office + more plastic clipboards for both pools

• Seal Easys

• Gymnastics equipment/space x2

• Life saving equipment

• Remodel locker rooms / bathrooms x3

• I think a kids jungle gym would be cool sometime in the future. Many other similar facilities have something like that. Also, a renovation of the community center is needed

• New payroll system. Somehow computerizing time-sheets would be amazing.

• More open gym space x3

• 24 hour fitness access

APPENDIX A | STAFF SURVEY RESULTS

The most important area I would like to see improvement is...

• For year round part time staff free admission to the community center. There is already free admission to the theater. For theater staff, we would like free admission to the community center

• Equipment (specifically sporting equipment) x6

• Facilities x3

• Indoor pool

• Pay x10

• Training x2

• Find a way to increase attendance in the building

• N/A x2

• Facility building layout

• Communication x3

• All employees held to the same minimum standard in performing their job responsibilities.

• Website improvements

• Improving the current programs we offer instead of trying to offer new programs.

Please provide any additional comments:

• There have been huge improvements in communication & leadership

• I love the environment and opportunities given to each staff member, I only work summers and it being my first year working I liked to know how flexible schedules can be

• If I didn’t like working here, I wouldn’t be here. The staff attitude is better now than 5 years ago. With that being said, I don’t think some people appreciate the amount of time some of us put in ie: calls from fellow employees to fix mistakes, talk with employees about problems to bring them up to my supervisor, customers asking questions while working out to name a few

• Staff morale is low. There is a disconnect from Leadership Team to all other staff. Leadership Team does not listen to the staff they supervisor. Opinions/thoughts are requested and then ignored without any follow up. There is no team atmosphere

APPENDIX B

Community Survey Results September 14 - October 5, 2022

APPENDIX B | COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

PLEASE DESCRIBE

• Cost x35

• Non-Resident Fee x6

• Programs not included x6

• Just Not Interested x5

• Schedule/Too Busy x5

• Limited evening classes x4

• Go someplace else x3

• No childcare x3

• Health Issues x3

• Age/Too Old x2

• Not enough Pickleball times x2

• Kids Unsupervised x1

• COVID x1

APPENDIX B | COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

Summer Day Camp Flag Football Water Fitness Gymnastics Youth Basketball Swim Lessons Free Events/Activities

Mom & Son Night of Fun Fitness/Yoga/Cycling Roller-skating

Daddy Daughter Dance Art Classes Youth Summit Santa Visits Birthday Parties

Bright Beginnings Preschool Swim Team

Active Adult/Senior Programs Luncheon/Seminars

Adult Volleyball League Early Childhood Programs Preschool Soccer League Gymnastics Team Personal Training

Middle School Fitness Access

Prairie Fire Children's Theater Lifeguard Training

Spring Break Day Camp Music Classes Youth Golf Youth Track & Field Adult Summit Youth Volleyball Youth Tennis

Let's Build (Lego Class) Pokemon Class Babysitting Course

Adult Basketball League STEM Youth Archery Cooking Classes

Adult Wallyball League

Martial Arts

Horses Helping Humans

Central Theater Preshow

Geneseo Chamber of Commerce

Geneseo Park District Staff

Bulletin Boards at The Center City of Geneseo

Center Monitors Instagram Digital Marquee at The Center Henry County Republic

Park District Website How do you learn about Park District programs/activities? (check all that apply) 50% 50%

Facebook Online Activity Guide Have you registered for any programs/activities using our online registration system? Yes No 106 106

Twitter Historical Knowledge

Mediacom Channel 19

Email Family/Friend Printed Activity Guide pages 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

Splash Pad

Outdoor Summer Movie Nights Special Swims

Easter Egg Hunt

Special Roller-skate Nights

Kiwanis Fun Day

Monthly Movies at Central Theater

Interactive Inflatables

Back to School Bash Turkey Trot

Santa at the Center Flick & Float

Jinglebell Obstacle Course

Middle School Events

Free Saturday Swim Hour

Letters from Santa Games at Athletic Field

3rd Grade Free Swim Lessons

Monthly Fitness Class

Active Adult Bingo

Monthly Water Exercise Class, Community Camp Out Luncheon/Seminars

Free Tue/Thurs Adult Current Channel Water Walking

Pitch, Hit & Run

Free Art Classes

Kayak & Canoeing (Water Safety Course)

Parent-led Playgroup

Kayak & Canoeing

Unplug Illinois

Stories in the Park

Active Adult Coffee & Snacks

Active Adult Walking Club

Active Adult Cards/Games

APPENDIX B | COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

Free Events/Activities

Bright Beginnings Preschool Personal Training Youth Basketball Summer Day Camp Active Adult/Senior Programming Gymnastics Water Fitness Fitness/Yoga/Cycling Swim Lessons

Middle School Fitness Access Roller-skating

Early Childhood Programs

Daddy Daughter Dance Lifeguard Training Youth Summit Cooking Classes Birthday Parties Art Classes Flag Football Luncheon/Seminars

Mom & Son Night of Fun Preschool Soccer Gymnastics Team STEM Swim Team

Adult Volleyball League Santa Visits Adult Summit Youth Tennis

Prairie Fire Children's Theater

Music Classes Youth Golf Martial Arts Babysitting Course Spring Break Day Camp

Let's Build (Lego Class)

Horses Helping Humans

Youth Archery Youth Track & Field Youth Volleyball

Adult Wallyball League

Adult Basketball League

Pokemon Class

Which FIVE of the programs/activities from the list are most important to you, any of your immediate family members or you feel should be offered in our community?

APPENDIX B | COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

Which Park District amenities do you use AND how would you rate them?

Yes No

Gymnasium 99 40 73% 3% 24%

Elevated Indoor Walking Track 95 46 70% 2% 28%

Racquetball Courts 23 103 21% 0% 79%

Gymnasium Locker Rooms 55 82 31% 12% 56% Sauna 27 105 14% 7% 79%

Restrooms 140 17 76% 13% 11%

Admissions Desk 135 14 90% 1% 9%

Activity Room 64 72 47% 3% 50%

Dedrick Room 61 71 45% 2% 53%

Cardio Room 77 58 59% 2% 39%

Free Weight Room 59 71 48% 2% 50%

Lifefitness Room 50 78 39% 2% 59%

Gymnastics Room (Program Gym) 44 86 27% 7% 66%

Party Room 32 91 25% 1% 74%

Indoor Pool Lounge 62 68 46% 4% 50%

Indoor Pool 97 43 67% 6% 26%

Indoor Locker Rooms 90 50 53% 14% 34%

Recovery Room 21 101 17% 2% 81%

Poolside Room 54 72 41% 1% 58%

Splash Pad 91 46 69% 1% 30%

Aquatic Center 119 26 83% 2% 15%

Aquatic Center Bathhouse 101 35 71% 4% 24%

Athletic Field Building/Sideline Room 41 84 33% 2% 66%

Sand Volleyball Court at the Athletic Field 9 107 5% 4% 91% Bags Court at the Athletic Field 6 108 9% 1% 90% Table Tennis at the Athletic Field 9 108 8% 1% 91% Basketball Court at the Athletic Field 11 105 8% 3% 90% Tennis Court at the Athletic Field 17 101 12% 5% 83% Track at the Athletic Field 61 64 50% 1% 50% Pickleball Courts at the Athletic Field 29 91 18% 7% 76% Open Space at the Athletic Field 48 74 40% 2% 58% Football Field at the Athletic Field 35 86 32% 1% 67% Anderson Park 35 86 29% 0% 71% Central Theater 134 21 80% 5% 15%

APPENDIX B | COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

25.00 $ 50.00 $ 75.00 $ 100.00 $

24 Hour Access 14% 48% 30% 8% 14%

New/Updated Locker Rooms 13% 51% 30% 5% 14%

New/Updated Strength Equipment 8% 72% 23% 0% 5% New/Updated Cardio Equipment 8% 79% 21% 0% 0% Parking Lot 6% 79% 18% 0% 4% Programming/Activities 17% 48% 33% 1% 18% Maintenance 10% 73% 15% 0% 13% Aquatic Center 6% 80% 17% 0% 3% Central Theater 11% 61% 28% 0% 11% Athletic Field 6% 77% 16% 0% 6% Anderson Memorial Park 3% 80% 13% 0% 7%

APPENDIX B | COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

The goal for specialized programs is to recover 100% of direct and indirect expenses. Do you feel that the following specialty programs should instead be subsidized?

Would you be interested in receiving more information about serving on the Park District Foundation Board? The Board meets a minimum of 4 times a year and supports all of the free programming and activities at the Park District. Yes No

The goal for specialized programs is to recover 100% of direct and indirect expenses. Do you feel that the following specialty programs should instead be subsidized?

Would you be interested in receiving seasonal information about volunteer opportunities at the Geneseo Park District? Yes No

APPENDIX B | COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

Please share any additional comments that could assist the Geneseo Park District in improving our facilities and programs.

• I would love additional Indoor Pool open swim hours Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm when it is so crowded.

• I would love to see an optional entrance specific to the Bright Beginnings Preschool program on the East/Southeast corner of the main building. The current daily trek with young kids through the lobby, gymnasium, and locked hallway door is tedious and impractical, especially while the gymnasium is in use for pickleball, basketball, etc. Being able to use the entrance near growth would be better for parents like myself who have to make a quick pickup at 3pm followed by an even quicker departure to pick up other kids at the local elementary schools. On a related note, it would be nice to see the park district eventually set up a proximity-based access control system for doors. Controlled access key fobs like what the city hall, police dept,etc already have in place aren’t terribly expensive to maintain past the initial installation cost,and would allow for more granular control of secured areas like the preschool and pools,without parents having to remember a lengthy (shared) pin code. This type of system would also provide timestamped access logs for security purposes should issues occur. Personally, I would have no problem with the added cost of a key fob on top of the cost of my membership if it meant ease of access into those areas when needed. Additionally, based on some of the survey questions, it sounds like the district is floating the idea of 24 hour access to certain areas (like the weight room I’m guessing?). Some sort of controlled access system will be needed for that program in lieu of having staff on site 24 hours anyway.

• All locker rooms needs drastic updates and overall improvements In cleanliness. There needs to be increased rules on the kids running around free in the center. Most are unruly and rude and terrible influences on the younger children there for their classes. The prices for semi-private swim lessons are getting extreme.

• Make the sauna way larger but do not convert it to infrared. Add brazilian jiu jitsu and muay thai classes for adults and children. My answer to yes to Edwards park tax increase depends on the proposed plan.

• Provide schedule information at pool entrance; indoor pool hours for Saturday and Sunday to start at 6:00 am instead of 7:00 am; feel blessed to have this great center in Geneseo

• I feel the bathrooms and concessions at the theater are very outdated. The flags in the Dedrick room were really nasty(dirty) the last time we used them for DAR pre-Covid.

• I would like to see the indoor pool only membership reinstated and pool locker rooms improved. Lots of rust and moldy areas. The ventilation in the indoor pool could be improved.

• I would consider supporting a tax increase for the development of the acres of land North of Geneseo if I know what is proposed.

• Too expensive

• So glad to have this in our community and the commitment to Geneseo families!

• I’m finding that my specific feedback is all related to families with young children:

• Program Gym - Would very much appreciate a way to watch the activities, whether a parent/watch room with mirror/glass or TV monitors. Currently parents have to sit on the floor in the hallway if they want to keep an eye on their child(ren) which is both uncomfortable for the parents and distracting for the participants. Babysitting - Offering childcare, even just for limited hours,would allow much more use of the facilities for families during the day. Locker rooms &restrooms - I love all that the community center has to offer but this is definitely my primary area of frustration - I would LOVE to see more family friendly facilities available. The current setup makes it extremely challenging for parents with opposite sex children (i.e. father with daughter or mother with son), and/or families with multiple children. We appreciate the family restroom at the aquatic center but having multiple of these available there and having similar options in the community center would give families the private spaces they need to help their children change for program activities or indoor swimming, and private rooms would help families with multiple children keep them contained for restroom visits, etc. (including spaces for a parent of either sex to have access to safe diaper changing spaces and potentially having other small children with them). I hated having to take my son when he was young into the women’s locker room to get ready for indoor swimming and now my young daughter hates having to go into the men’s locker room and restrooms any time she’s there with my husband. Central Theater - It would be nice to have additional showtimes on Saturdays when there are films rated PG or G.

• How did you acquire 37 acres north of town? What funds did you use? How is the property maintained?

• Investigate opportunities to increase the indoor pool hours during the year so there is more time/days for lap swim.

• I only use the indoor pool and would like to see a membership for just the use of the pool. Also, I would really like the locker rooms and the pool to be clean. They are so dirty and disgusting. I would also like to see a more lenient policy adopted for the lightning policy. There has been several times that I get to the pool and there has been no lightning and yet some staff member says he saw lightning and won’t let us in the pool for 15 minutes. My one thought is that maybe the center is not grounded to prevent lightning strikes. I know that other indoor pools in the surrounding areas are not this strict. When I don’t see lightning driving into the center, then there is no reason why we can’t be allowed to swim.

APPENDIX B | COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

• Cardio equipment needs updated. More technology needed - screens with classes (peloton). Expensive membership for outdated technology. Dedrick room and locker room areas need updated.

• #24 and #25 should be in the front of the survey

• I am interested in extended swim times. I would like a 6-8 pm swim M-F and a later swim on Saturday and Sunday from 1-3 pm. I would put the other $60 for improvements toward extended swim times. Could you please restrict the music the lifeguards play. I don’t mind country/pop or no music at all but there are a couple girls who play disney musicals and I prefer my swim to be more relaxing. The elevated walking track is to hot to use in the Summer. Both Kelly’s at the desk are very nice. I am enjoying the new Indoor pool dividers. I love the massage chair. Sometimes I bike around the athletic field but the gravel makes it difficult. I would update the locker rooms and make restrooms and changing spaces wider. Please put curtains between showers for privacy in Indoor Pool. Add extended parking in parking lot. The Aquatic Center is so much fancier than community center or athletic field. Social interactions are geared mostly toward seniors and youth but I understand why. Would possibly consider a tax increase for farm land property but would need to know how much of an increase and for what. I would support private swim lessons for income restricted kids only because swimming lessons are essential. I do not support private gymnastics because you do not need to knowhow to tumble. I would suggest lowering the price of personal training.

• Thank you for seeking our input, the Park District is a great asset in our community.

• Should not have to pay taxes on something we do not use

• All things considered, I think the park district is doing a very good job! Thank you!

• We love that the park district offers a way for our kiddos to be involved at every age level without being a “travel” sport or costing a million dollars. I think the bathrooms/locker rooms could use updating and I’d love to see some treadmills in the cardio room, but keep up the great work!

• The program gym needs more space and equipment. Membership prices are too high. Treat your employees better. You shouldn’t have let go all of the positions you did during covid and all of the great people that used to work there. I’d rather go to fitness premier.

• We don’t use many of the facilities mainly because there are not many programs that pertain to us or timing is an issue.

• My perception has been and based on the lists of activities in this survey - seems to be confirmed that the majority of the programs are related to youth - with limited adult programs.

• Also, for the cost of the adult programs there is little to no flexibility regarding missed classes,-- need some creativity in this space. We are in full support of all the youth programs and have had opportunities in the past to take advantage of them -- but it just seems there is little focus on this area. Appreciate the flexibility of indoor pickle ball scheduling, etc - but this is something that would get huge attendance at and we need to be creative and focused on this activity.

• Cut costs don’t raise taxes

• I would like to see a more robust flag football program. I would also like to see a reduction in program costs for youth athletic activities.

• After work/evening programming for pickleball.

• I live alone so I don’t really use it much. I think the programs are very good especially for kids. I would use indoor pickleball courts this winter if they were available.

• I am saddened by the lack of fitness class availability in the early mornings or in the evenings. I’m not sure what happened to the options available, but have been dwindling in the last year or two. Also, I’m not sure who is directly responsible for landscaping, trimming, overall aesthetics of the beautiful aquatic center, but IMO, needs someone that cares about what they do, and have ownership in their work. That goes for cleaning fans, vents, ect. Beautiful place, needs to be treated as such.

• We need bigger locker rooms in the Aquatic area!

• Development of indoor pitching lane for softball/baseball.

• Taxes are too high for the Park District vs. benefit to taxpayers.

• More chairs in the swim lounge. Updated swimming locker rooms. 1 equipment room.

• I believe that all of the programs within the District are important to the community - even though I use only a fraction of what is available.

• More fans in the main gym area in the summer. More/new activities in the aquatic center.

• Updates to the bathrooms would be nice.

• There are often middle school aged kids asking people for money in the hallways. This makes me feel unsafe.

• Easier to understand available swim times

APPENDIX B | COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

• I wish you offered a punch card discount program for classes. I brought this idea up in the past too. I know you get a discount when you sign up for 4-6 wk classes, but I work a job that I never have the same days off week to week and work long hrs so classes never work out. It would be nice to get a break for classes by having a punch card. It is sad to have to pay a drop in rate when I’m a member. I’ve taking classes other places and they had it as a card if you prepaid for 10 classes you got it cheaper and you could go whenever classes were offered. Our family had been dedicated members of the center in the past, but when Covid closed the daycare we had to let the membership go as we don’t live in town and wasn’t reasonable to drive back and forth daily for my spouse and I to both get a workout. We have since rejoined now that the kids are in school.

• I think the Athletic Field track needs a face lift. Everything else is updated except the track. The surface is horrible and uneven. I would love to see a better track similar to the high school. After using the track, my feet hurt but I have no other alternatives because the high school track is closed to the public. It’s nice to have a soft surface to walk and run on.

• Get Renew Active and I will be back to use the facility. Right now it is way too expensive for me!

• Please bring back the child care option. Many other gyms and YMCAs in the area offer this option and it is very beneficial for their members.

• I think more youth sports to the kids who are not in school sports. Dodge ball use to be something extra and I think kids loved that. Basketball and volleyball for these children would be very important and would give them more skills and self confidence. For me, I would like adult art classes.

• The aquatic center is priced so high for children. There should be a reduced rate for families or children under a certain age.

• Our family has started trying to involve ourselves in the programs the park district has to offer,and we’ve really enjoyed the summer night movies specifically! The splash pad is amazing, our little one year old loves going there. When we were there over the summer, we did hear some families complaining about chairs, just the lack of chairs for parents to sit in but that’s the only thing I’ve overheard myself. Overall, the park district is a really amazing asset to Geneseo and the families/children in the area. We’re fortunate to have the facilities we do!

• Bring child care back!

• I would like to see gym space addressed in the future as floor space is at a premium fall through spring.

• More indoor evening Pickleball times in winter months.

• Childcare for parents working out would be wonderful

• Bring back child watch!!!!

• More variety of fitness classes/instructors.

• Instructors that instruct. We have stopped doing programs because of lack of instruction. There have been some great instructors, but no consistency. My son would love to play flag football, but with last experience, it is a waste of money. It become the same two kids on a team, throwing, catching, running the ball. Skills are not really taught. In the younger basketball, in our experience, were playing full court. They didn’t even know how to dribble or understand positions. I am unable to help because of my schedule. High school kids helping is great, if they actually help. We have such an awesome resource in our community and I believe it could be great, but last experiences have kept us from signing up for programs and canceling our membership.

• We need indoor opportunities during the colder months (November through March) to play pickleball in the evenings. Please! Add more seating at the splash pad. The Easter egg hunt last year was terribly done. There were too many kids. My 3 year old was able to get one egg and then he cried because all the eggs for his age group were gone in one minute. We won’t be back. There was too much chaos. It doesn’t seem to have been this way in the past. Maybe a required sign-up would help?

• There needs to be a senior adult couple rate. Senior couples have to pay same rate as an entire family.

• Please get the sound at Central Theater recertification from THX. Sound makes half of the movie experience and without a proper sub-woofer/bass, the experience falls flat. The sub-woofer system used to be impressive when it first went digital. Now I get better sound from my speaker bar at home with my TV.

• The park district needs to have better plans in place for their programs. Individual programs could be run better. Less volunteers and more KNOWLODGEABLE paid instructors for the kid programs.

• Would love longer hours on the weekends. Also, would love to have the non-resident fee waived for those with a business membership.

• I think that the Community does not fully realize what an asset the Park District is to this community.

APPENDIX C

S.W.O.T. Results

Board/Leadership Team October 11, 2022 Community October 17 - 23, 2022

APPENDIX C | SWOT RESULTS

1. What are the Strengths of the Geneseo Park District?

BOARD/LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMUNITY

STAFF

• Friendly and helpful staff & customer service (x2)

• Longevity of quality long term staff, experienced team (x7)

• Great Leadership Team

• Friendly / Personable staff (x2)

• Kind, friendly & attentive employees that always greet with a smile and always eager to help! They know a lot of us by name. You won’t find this elsewhere. I would argue this is your greatest strength!!!

• Skills and knowledge - very positive and “can do” attitude consistently illustrated by the executive director.

• Quality instructors

• Professionalism

• Volunteers

PROGRAMS

• Variety of programs & classes offered (x4)

• Variety of class offerings for all ages. I especially appreciate seeing classes offered for kids that aren’t sports oriented. Adding programs outside of sports (STEM, Legos, Stories in the Park, Pokémon)

• Quality programs

• Services for families/all ages

• Core programs

• Free events & programming (x4)

• Providing swim lessons year round

• Investigating/Implementing latest trends & wide variety of classes that continue to evolve (x6)

FACILITIES

• Good, modern, clean, facilities & equipment for the community of our size (x7)

• Amount of recreation opportunities for a community our size

• Central location

• Modern Aquatic Facility

• Providing Activity Room for kids after school

• Central Theater Aquatic Center/Splash Pad

• We continually improve our environment and, functions and equipment to support patron goals.

STAFF

• Welcoming Staff who know your name (x9)

PROGRAMS

• Free 3rd grade swim lessons with excellent instructors

• Senior Adult programming is very good

• Variety of programs offered (x2)

• It is wonderful you offer programs for all ages

• Great preschool program

• Free Open Swim and Kids Gym

FACILITIES

• Good selection of equipment and classes at a reasonable cost

• Great place for youth to go after school to be with friends and workout

• Awesome, friendly, clean, place for adults & kids for a community our size (x6)

• Theater offering is very good and very affordable

APPENDIX C | SWOT RESULTS

1. What are the Strengths of the Geneseo Park District?

BOARD/LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMUNITY

FINANCIAL

• Fiscally sound and responsible, navigating the pandemic very intelligently (x4)

• Fund Balances offer stability

• Financially responsible Support from Geneseo Park District Foundation

• IMRF 100% funded

• Competitive prices

• Scholarship program

• Grant Applications to offset costs

COMMUNITY

• Provide Safe & healthy place for families to recreate

• It provides a safe & healthy place for all ages to utilize for exercise, gatherings, events, sports, etc (x3)

• Serve wide age range

• Add to the quality of life in our community

• Supportive Community (x4)

• Welcoming atmosphere. Members are supportive and friendly to each other. Committed members

• Active within the community with other organizations (x2)

OTHER

• Impressive organization for the size of the town and community

• Safe & Healthy environment (x4)

• Increase property values

• Providing Free opportunities to a wide age range of the community.

• WiFi throughout the building

• Getting through the pandemic issues and updated small areas of the Community Center (one desk)

• Communication, advertising, making the park district accessible to all community members.

• Distinctive - willingness to help others and volunteer

FINANCIAL

• While paying for membership at once seems like a lot, our price per use as a family is so low and a really great value.

• Sound financial management

COMMUNITY = 0

OTHER

• I think you are doing a great job!

APPENDIX C | SWOT RESULTS

2. What are the weaknesses of the Geneseo Park District?

BOARD/LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMUNITY

STAFF

Lacking fun team building environment throughout staff

Level of relationship with all staff

Staff respect and accountability

Re-evaluate hours of staffed operation

Recruiting/finding retaining staff

Empowering staff

Staff buy in and follow through is a struggle.

Small staff size that is overworked/burnout (x2)

Communication (x4)

Rectrac

Succession Planning

Lack of motivated and enthusiastic programming staff

Lack of support staff (mowing, grounds maintenance, cleaning, snow removal, special events)

Difficult hiring in specialized positions (swim team, gymnastics)

Staff spread throughout the building

Staff availability is a constant struggle

Some long-term staff still continue to struggle with duties that have been in place for years.

PROGRAMS

• Lack of childcare services. This was lost pre-COVID and does create barriers for families with small children. Although I know it is not financially possible to bring it back, I do think it is important to recognize it a deterrent for some. Other facilities in town offer care or a room for kids to hang out in during parent workouts.

• Lack of evening fitness classes. Current class schedules are impossible for working individuals

• There are some staffing shortages, which limits some classes and opportunities

• Cannot compete with Jazzercise for fitness classes

• Limited options for middle school kids when they stay every day

• Finally growing programs in the Indoor Pool, but limited options for a high-cost facility

• Improve kids programing-more structure, drills, experienced instructors

STAFF = 0

PROGRAMS

• Exercise to Music

• Evening pickleball leagues are needed

• Lack of adult fitness programs

• No babysitting offered (x3)

APPENDIX C | SWOT RESULTS

2. What are the weaknesses of the Geneseo Park District?

BOARD/LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMUNITY

FACILITIES

• Wasted space (x2)

• Aging Facilities (x6)

• Aging Equipment (x7)

• Locker Rooms (x4)

• Community Center Layout/Design (x9)

• Limited space/expansion possibilities (x3)

• Lack of storage space (x2)

• Parking at Athletic Field (Movies, Youth Football, Day Camp).

• Air flow in main gym - too hot in summer / chilly in winter.

• Gymnastics spacing needs for equipment.

• Lengthen hours at the pool

• Recycling containers at the athletic field

• Administrative Office’s Locations

• More attention to cleaning the weight room

• programming

FINANCIAL

• Fees (x2)

• Tight Budget

COMMUNITY

• Trying to please critics/constant complainers

• Decreased community involvement

• Volunteers are a struggle.

• Communication between members, staff and the community. I think you always need to consider communication a weakness because there will always be room for improvement. Always. Ask anyone who is married.

TECHNOLOGY

• Technology

• The computer/registration platform seems difficult for staff to use from my perspective.

• Limited IT staff with limited knowledge (x3)

OTHER

• I don’t see any glaring issues with the park district.

• Private sector competition

• Communication with activities (ex: flag football feedback)

• I wouldn’t say there are any weaknesses. No disappointments and absolutely no areas where the park district is ineffective

FACILITIES

• Expanded Hours especially on weekends should be considered (x15)

• Having more pool hours

• Bigger Sauna (x4)

• Better at cleaning/maintaining cardio and weight equipment (x2)

• Update main locker room, bathrooms, and toilets

• Women’s showers need unclogging and need cleaned more than once a month

• On Demand spin bike videos

• Ice machine

• Don’t allow loitering in locker rooms

FINANCIAL

• Student Discount (x2)

• Why should someone have to get a day pass just to play pickleball?

• Paying

COMMUNITY = 0

TECHNOLOGY = 0

OTHER

No donuts

APPENDIX C | SWOT RESULTS

BOARD/LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMUNITY

STAFF

• Sometimes I hear people in the community commenting that the park district is “administration heavy” but they don’t really know anything about the organization or who does what

• ERI - offer long term employees early retirement incentive to replace them with enthusiastic & motivated staff who will most likely be tier 2 employees and save the district more money

• Consolidating positions for cost savings isn’t necessarily always possible, or always the best idea

• Hire passionate staff

PROGRAMS

• Offer different times for programs to see if different age groups could attend more at different times.

• Continue to offer more STEM programming for kids as this seems to be growing

• Continue to bring more senior programming to keep that age group involved

• Expand educational offerings from seniors to include younger generations

• Stay on top of trends (x2)

• I think there is room to expand offerings to include more coaching or programs to help individuals reach personal goals. example: Creating groups that can work towards a goal of a 5K, half marathon over an 8 week period of in person and at home training. I hate to say weight loss because I think that should never be the focus of improving one’s health, but 4 weeks of how to build healthy habits through nutrition, exercise, etc

• Adult Programming

• Outdoor Programming/Hennepin Canal (x3)

• Kayak class for kids or beginners

• The City allowing alcohol at events could open up event/program possibilities at the Athletic Field

• Rental House location for expansion/programming

• Working with outside organizations (youth baseball, soccer, Hennepin Canal Group, etc)

• Absorb Youth Baseball/Softball

• Programming for Healthy Lifestyle trends

• Expand the kitchen classes that are currently making freezer meals to teach kids make and take snacks while educating on nutrition.

• After School Programming (x2)

• More teen-age services/programs

STAFF = 0

PROGRAMS

• After school programs

• More am/pm yoga and include $ w/membership fee

3. What are the opportunities for the Geneseo Park District over the next 5 years?

APPENDIX C | SWOT RESULTS

BOARD/LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMUNITY

PROGRAMS CONT...

• More Structured Middle School Activities

• Programming at the Central Theater

• Providing a dance program.

• Branch off of the Youth Summits programs and bring more youth athletes in

• Continue to collaborate with School District and businesses in town to offer other programs

• Rock Climbing

• Pickle Ball League for adults and kids

FACILITIES

• Use the theater space for more than just movies, rent out for meeting space, programming, etc

• 24 hour fitness access (x2)

• Maximize Community Center space for programming (x3)

• Expand or remodel existing facilities (x2)

• Edwards Park Property is a huge opportunity for future expansion of fields

• Athletic Field has options for rentals, education, growing camps, large special events/fundraisers

• Locker rooms could be condensed, made into family changing rooms and use for other programs. (x2)

• Buildings in the community may become available in order to move current programming and make room for others

• Fitness could be in rental rooms combined and we could make a different access point.

• Always looking forward - opportunities to expand the facility. It appears that we are starting to outgrow it-look to see if we could expand/add on.

• Cardio and weight rooms are generally at capacity at peak hours. Would be great to further investigate and see if it would be feasible to expand.

• Utilize outdoor space in Geneseo to provide outdoor programming

FINANCIAL

• Geneseo Foundation support of free programs and financial assistance programs

• Corporate sponsors

• Keep fundraising for foundation to expand free programming.

FACILITIES

• Being open 24 hours

• Stay open later Saturday and Sunday during winter

• Get a hack squat machine

• More squat racks/benches in weight room or cardio room

• Speed bags

• Open more often at outdoor pool

• Add the water slide to outdoor pool

• Have a room only for Senior activities so it is offered all hours you are open

• Separate locker room/showers for adults and children

• Updated locker rooms

• Expanded facilities (new gym)

• Bigger Indoor Pool

FINANCIAL = 0

3. What are the opportunities for the Geneseo Park District over the next 5 years?

APPENDIX C | SWOT RESULTS

BOARD/LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY

• Increase membership

• I think the playground will be a great asset to the Park District and the community

• The opportunity to keep the needs of the community a priority is nice - example handicap access

• Perhaps a good opportunity would be to how to have things for sensory sensitive children or autistic children

• Community opportunities and organizations might help to bring volunteers and staffing.

OTHER

• Proactive vs Reactive

• Expand partnerships and sponsorships (x3)

• Host job fairs and volunteer days to find help.

• Send job postings to area business people and area colleges for recruitment

• Take over City Park or Richmond Hill Park

• Expanded social media presence to reach more members. More Facebook posts of what is happening inside the center, photos and videos of the pickleball people in action or an accomplishment in gymnastics that parents can share to their own account. It gets the word out of what people are doing and accomplishing at the center! The more people can see on their feed what all is happening the more they are educated on the offerings and possibilities

COMMUNITY = 0

OTHER = 0

3. What are the opportunities for the Geneseo Park District over the next 5 years?

APPENDIX C | SWOT RESULTS

4. What are the biggest challenges/threats to the Park District over the next 5 years?

BOARD/LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMUNITY

STAFF

• Staff time/proper training/buying in to mission

• Work Ethic

• People not wanting to work or easier work for same/ more pay, tuition, hiring bonuses, etc.

• Bringing in qualified staff

• lack of people seeking employment

• Lack of qualified instructors willing to teach

• How do we get staff to buy in to training, communication, policy/procedure, payroll, etc.

• Cost of living on the rise may decrease the ability to get new staff and keep the current staff.

PROGRAMS

• Travel/Club & Specialized Sports (x4)

• Other entities duplicating programs, such as the youth basketball programming

• Busy schedules - not enough time to participate in programs.

• I do think the free classes and activities do help the overall image of the organization

• Youth obesity (tv, video games, non-participation in programs)

• Providing specific ADA programming or when we have a participant with special needs who are the resources to help

FACILITIES

• Aging facilities/components - Big expenses

• Space to expand

• 24 hour fitness

• Finding ways to compete with the area fitness centers for members (x3)

• Continuing to draw in younger families and kids for long term success

• Restrictions from OEM or CDC

• I think the biggest threat comes from those who moved to at home fitness during COVID. The explosion of multiple fitness platforms and equipment with built in screens holding a library of classes, make the current cardio machines look dated. Keeping up with current technology and trends will be important to retaining and drawing more business. Otherwise, buying a five-year-old treadmill off the market place for a few hundred dollars is much cheaper than a membership to use the same tread.

STAFF

• Finding & keeping qualified staff (x2)

PROGRAMS = 0

FACILITIES

• More members same space (x2)

APPENDIX C | SWOT RESULTS

BOARD/LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMUNITY

FINANCIAL

• Mandatory Minimum Wage Increases. (x6)

• Inflation (x5)

• Maintaining tax rate as costs for everything continue to rise

• Rising operational cost such as utilities, credit card fees

• EAV growth is slowing

• Limited discretionary income (x2)

• Hitting the ceiling on pricepoint people are willing to pay for programs - outpricing ourselves (x2)

• Sticking to our pricing policy to make sure programs are covering their costs

• Balancing covering costs with continuing to offer a variety of programs without last minute cancellations due to low program enrollment.

COMMUNITY

• Community members complaining about administrative positions or high property taxes that are for the Park District. Some people don’t like that they pay taxes and have to pay for classes, but again, you don’t get anything for free, and if you want a good Park District, you have to be willing to pay for it.

• Entitlement Mentality - Public Perception that since they pay taxes to the Park District there should be no additional fees

• The naysayers and complainers are people who don’t use the park district or the facilities. Keep doing a good job, and the people who take advantage of the community center and park district will be the best public relations possible.

• Public awareness that Non-resident fee is less than most pay in property taxes

• Aging population that utilizes the Indoor Pool

• Initial shock value to public in order to transition to higher percentage from operating income and less in annual rollover bond even though the tax rate would remain the same.

• Stagnant population & tax base

• Lack of affordable housing in Geneseo

• Streaming of new movies

• Recruitment of new members to join

• Small town with a lot of competition for programs and fitness (x2)

• People are going to home gyms, workout outside or other means of exercise/fitness

• Lack of Volunteers (x2)

FINANCIAL

• Keeping program prices and membership costs fair and reasonable as inflation remains a constant. (x4)

• Income based membership fees

• IMRF obligations

COMMUNITY = 0

4. What are the biggest challenges/threats to the Park District over the next 5 years?

APPENDIX C | SWOT RESULTS

BOARD/LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMUNITY

OTHER

• online streaming affects theater

• Technology/digital age

• I can be whatever I want, do whatever I want and you have to accept me attitude, no matter your personal beliefs

• Network failure/back up plan, cyber threats

• IT Security

• Increasing travel costs / gas

OTHER = 0

4. What are the biggest challenges/threats to the Park District over the next 5 years?

APPENDIX D

Facilities & Amenities

Compiled August 2018 Updated October 2022

Seasonal Restrooms

Walking Path, ADA Picnic Table, Benches, Gazebo, Swing, Flower Gardens

Concessions, Seasonal Restrooms

Benches, Shelter, Seasonal Restrooms, Boat Ramp

APPENDIX E

Organizational Chart

Updated September 13, 2022

APPENDIX E | ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

Park District Aquatic Manager

Attorney

Superintendent of Recreation FT

Geneseo Park District Organizational Chart

Residents

*Board of Commissioners

Executive Director FT

Auditor

*Board of Commissioners: President Vice President Secretary Commissioner Commissioner

Superintendent of Facilities FT

Recreation/Aquatic Supervisor FT

Preschool Coord.

Lead Custodian FT

Administrative Assistant FT

Community Center Managers

AC Assistant Managers AC Cashier AC Concessionaire AC Maintenance

Lifeguards Water Fitness Swim Lessons

Preschool Instructors

Intern Assistant Manager Rollerskating

Rollerskating

Gymnastics General Programs Activity Rental Asst. Basketball Volleyball Football Leagues Scorekeepers Referees

Land Fitness Personal Trainers Fine Arts Active Adult/Senior TKD Tennis Golf Running/Track Special Events B Day Parties Independent Contractors

Day Camp Manager Day Camp Assistant Manager Day Camp Counselor

Theater Manager

Lead Projectionist

Superintendent of Finance & Administration FT Marketing Coordinator

Theater Assistant Managers

Concessionaires

AC Admissions/ Concessions Assistant Managers Theater Custodian

Center Custodians Aquatic Center Custodian Anderson Park Custodians/ Maintenance

The Mission of the Geneseo Park District is to enhance the quality of life in our community by providing a positive recreational experience for all.

FT - Denotes Full Time Staff

Revised 9/13/2022