A recent survey of Skokie Park District residents revealed a slight majority would endorse a $53 million, 20-year bond referendum. This plan aims to create a new park in Skokie and enhance an existing one. The positive survey response led district officials to vote unanimously on July 21 to place this measure, which will raise local property taxes starting in 2027, on the November 3 election ballot.
The development proposal focuses on converting a former asphalt site on Oakton Street into Channelside Park South. The Skokie Park District currently operates 45 active parks. Some parks, however, are smaller neighborhood sites.
If voters approve, the referendum will also finance improvements to Skokie Sports Park and Sports Park East. Plans include a recreation center with multi-sport courts, more walking and biking paths, and a bridge connecting Sports Park to the North Shore Channel Trail.
The Skokie Park District Board of Commissioners highlighted survey results showing 54% of responders would vote either “decidedly yes” or “probably yes” for the referendum. To clarify the project’s financial impact, commissioners held public information sessions in June about how property owners’ tax bills will change.
Residents with homes valued at $500,000 may see their annual taxes rise by approximately $183, around $15.25 monthly. Owners of $1 million homes would pay an additional $379 annually, or $31.58 monthly. A tax estimator will help voters review expected tax increases. The Park District serves about 67,000 residents, covering nearly all of Skokie and parts of Evanston, Morton Grove, and Chicago. It is independent of the Village of Skokie and can levy taxes.
The proposed Channelside Park South would transform the old asphalt plant by McCormick Boulevard into a community park with green space. The new park’s plans include a multipurpose facility with amenities like a patio, band shell, outdoor fitness equipment, children’s maze, and splash pad. Enhancements to Sports Park East may involve a new recreation center, golf simulators, flexible program rooms, patio, garden, and increased parking.
Commissioners are considering adding baseball fields, contingent on community feedback. If passed, the projects aim to start by spring of 2027, with completion estimated 18 to 24 months later. Years of community input have shown a demand for more paths, playgrounds, and improved sports facilities. Despite the current development plan, Skokie already offers a range of recreational spaces, including playgrounds, soccer fields, courts, and a dog park.
Skokie resident Sheldon Wernikoff expressed concern about the project’s financial impact on taxpayers. He advocates for clear ballot language to ensure voters understand a ‘yes’ vote signifies a property tax increase, similar to requirements in Texas.
Wernikoff also suggests considering affordable housing development instead, citing a need for such projects in the community.
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