An inside look into how the Park District is saving money and resources
As a grant writer at the Naperville Park District, I look for ways to enhance the Naperville Park District’s mission, programs, and parks with funding from the outside.
For example, an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is currently funding the improvements at Winding Creek Park. The $400,000 grant enabled us to add permeable pavers, wetland plantings, a multi-use path, and upgrades to the ball fields and playground at the park.
However, it’s eye opening to realize that the Park District’s efforts to save money through efficiencies result in an equally important source of budget relief from the inside.
Here are a few examples of these significant cost savings:
Significant savings in 2009-2010
The Naperville Park District’s renewed Aaa bond rating will result in ongoing savings in financing future capital projects. As announced at the January 14 board meeting, our business services department was able to re-finance a 2001 bond issue at significantly lower interest rates, creating a savings for the District of $159,000.
Through the 2009 construction season, competitive bids allowed the Park District to secure construction contracts for park development projects at 16% under budget. The savings add up to more than $900,000.
Even our efforts to bring green technology and practices to the District have generated savings of over $60,000 just in 2009.
Of course, outside grant funding, donations, sponsorships, and partnerships in the community provide support that is vital for our new initiatives and growth toward our vision as a park district.
Equally important, our commitment to efficient operations, effective planning, and flexibility as an organization on the inside will go a long way toward saving tax dollars as we work to fulfill our mission–to provide recreation and park experiences that enrich the quality of life for our community.
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