Who We Are
What's Next for the Northfield Park District
To remain connected to the wants and needs of the community, the Park District regularly updates its Comprehensive Master Plan, most recently in early 2023. It was developed through extensive community feedback and serves as the road map for the next 5 years. Additional funding is needed to execute approximately $10M in capital projects derived from the plan.
Funding the Master Plan Projects
Willow Park Phase II (coming 2025): $800K - $900K
New North Side Pocket Park & Playground: $500K - $600K
Community Center Expansion: $2M - $3M
Willow Park Outdoor Restrooms & Maintenance Facility: $2.5M - $3.5M
Future Land Acquisition: $2M - $5M
Fox Meadow Park & Playground Improvements: $500K - $600K
Property Tax Referendum
The Park District placed a limiting rate increase referendum on the ballot for the April 1st, 2025 Consolidated Election, which did not pass by a very slim margin. Had this referendum passed, it would have resulted in a tax increase of $300 per year on a $1M home. This would have allowed the Park District to move forward with the Master Plan projects and also provided future funds to meet the growing needs of our vibrant community.
With the results of the April 2025 referendum being so close (failed by 2%) we plan to bring this question to the voters again in the future. If this limiting rate referendum were to pass, the additional tax revenue would allow the Park District to move forward with the Master Plan projects and meet the growing needs of our vibrant community. If you're interested in more details on the tax impact, visit our Referendum page to learn all about it.
Northfield Parks Foundation Fundraising
The Northfield Parks Foundation has consistently stepped up to fill any funding gaps in previous projects. Park District reserves and grants can only cover so much, and relying solely on that will limit our ability to expand. With the current need estimated to be $10M, fundraising is more important than ever to help us achieve our goals. The Northfield Parks Foundation is actively fundraising for the development of a new pocket park located on Happ Road just south of Temple Jeremiah. The Park District and Village of Northfield entered into a lease agreement in 2024 that has paved the way for this park, but an estimated $500K is needed to get this project off the ground. If you're interested in donating or getting involved with the Northfield Parks Foundation, you can visit their website, mynfld.org, to learn more.
History
Founded in 1957, the Northfield Park District has continually grown to meet the recreational needs of the community by delivering the highest quality parks, facilities and programs. The Park District is a separate taxing body from the Village of Northfield and is governed by a 7 member Park Board of Commissioners.
