Have you ever wondered what the difference is between the Park District of Franklin Park and the Village of Franklin Park? If so, you’re not alone. It’s a common question we hear and we’re here to educate our residents.
We’re excited to introduce Discover Our District, a new series designed to help residents better understand the roles, responsibilities, and impact of the Park District in our community. Throughout the series, we’ll explain how we operate, what services we provide, and how we differ from the Village of Franklin Park and other local government agencies.
First Up: We’re Not the Same Organization
Let’s start with the most important point. The Park District is not a department of the Village.
We are a completely separate governmental agency, governed by our own elected Board of Commissioners. The Park District of Franklin Park is what’s known as a special taxing district, just like our local school or library.
So, What Does the Park District Do?
Our mission is centered around recreation, open space, and community enrichment. We manage:
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Neighborhood parks and playgrounds
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Facilities including the Community Center, Franklin Park Ice Arena, Pool on Pacific, and Centre at North Park
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Camps, classes, and special events for all ages
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Fitness programs, sports leagues, and wellness opportunities
- AND MORE!
We strongly encourage you to check out our digital brochure services that have brochures dated back to 2022, showcasing the programs and events we host: https://issuu.com/fpparks
What Does the Village Handle?
The Village of Franklin Park is the municipal government. They’re responsible for:
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Police protection
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Water and sewer systems
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Garbage and recycling services
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Street maintenance and snow plowing
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Fire and emergency services
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Business licensing and zoning
They also have their own staff, budget, and elected officials, including a Mayor and Village Trustees.
Why Is It Important to Know the Difference?
Understanding the roles of each agency can help residents:
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Get issues addressed by the right department faster
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Participate more actively in local decisions
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Advocate for services and improvements effectively
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Appreciate how multiple public agencies collaborate to support our shared community
While we often work alongside the Village and other partners to enhance quality of life in Franklin Park, our responsibilities and funding are entirely separate.
How Are We Funded?
The Park District operates on a mix of property taxes, program fees, rentals, and grants. None of our funding comes from the Village’s budget, and vice versa. Every dollar you contribute to the Park District goes directly back into programs, park improvements, facility maintenance, and staff who serve the community.
As the series continues, we’ll share helpful information that highlights the unique role of the Park District of Franklin Park and how we serve our community.
Future topics may include:
- What your tax dollars support
- What areas does the Park District serve
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Who takes care of the parks in Franklin Park
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Who should I call if there’s an issue in a park
- Why do some parks look different than others
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Are Park District programs just for kids
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How do I register for programs
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How can I get involved with the Park District
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Can I attend Park Board meetings
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Who do I talk to if I have an idea for a new program or park improvement
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How does the Park District decide what programs or events to offer
- And any other questions you may have!!!
Stay connected and informed as we continue to shine a light on the ways we bring recreation, wellness, and connection to Franklin Park. We’re proud to be part of what makes Franklin Park a great place to live, play, and grow.