The Park and Fen Committee works to protect, maintain and enhance the Village’s 42-acre park for the enjoyment of residents and visitors, while supporting the preservation of the fen, which is designated as an Illinois Nature Preserve and co-managed by the McHenry County Conservation District and the Village of Oakwood Hills.
Our Role
Park Stewardship and Maintenance
The Committee monitors the overall condition of the Village park, including the baseball diamond, volleyball and basketball courts, Playgrounds, Park Shelters, trails, wooded ravines, and common areas. It identifies maintenance needs, reports any damage or safety concerns, and assists in planning routine upkeep and improvement projects to ensure the park remains clean, safe and welcoming.
Fen Protection and Coordination
The Committee supports the protection of the fen by respecting its status as an Illinois Nature Preserve and coordinating with the McHenry County Conservation District. It helps promote awareness of the fen’s ecological importance, encourages appropriate use by the public, and reports concerns that may affect the preserve to the proper authorities. It also encourages community engagement in the preservation and improvement of the Fen, including encouraging ecological stewardship throughout the Village.
Recreation and Community Use
The Committee helps ensure fair and balanced use of park facilities for recreational activities such as sports, walking and family outings. It may assist with scheduling or recommending policies for facility use and works to balance active recreation with quiet enjoyment of natural areas.
Trails and Natural Areas
The Committee monitors nature trails and wooded ravines for accessibility, erosion, or safety issues. It supports efforts to maintain trails in a manner that protects natural features while allowing residents and visitors to enjoy walking and nature observation.
Safety and Accessibility
The Committee identifies potential safety hazards throughout the park and reports them to the Village. It recommends measures to improve safety and accessibility, including signage, path maintenance, and appropriate rules for park use.
Budget and Planning Support
The Committee assists the Village Board with park-related budget recommendations by identifying priorities, estimating costs for maintenance or improvements and helping seek grants or partnerships when appropriate. All expenditures remain subject to Village approval.
Advisory Role and Communication
The Committee serves in an advisory role to the Village Council on park and fen matters. It communicates relevant information to residents, listens to community concerns and encourages responsible use and stewardship of Village Park areas as well as encouraging ecological stewardship throughout the Village.
Pavillion
The applications are available in the Clerk’s Office for park and pavilion space. There is a $50.00 refundable fee if the park and pavillion are not damaged or dirty. If there has been damange caused or the need for cleaning the deposit will be used and therefore not refunded.