Geneseo Park District Advances Community Center Master Plan with First Phase Improvements

by Andy Thurman

Since November 2019, the Park District Staff and Board have been envisioning updates to the 40+ year old Community Center. This process started with a Master Plan Committee and needs assessments, was tabled during Covid, and then reimagined again in 2022. The Master Plan is a working document where staff and Board go to for goal setting, future needs, community input, collaboration, IT and more. The Master Plan was approved in December of 2022 and is a 10-year document.

One of the major pieces of this Master Plan was looking at the Community Center. This facility opened in 1983 and since then has had an Indoor Pool addition (1996) and weightroom/program area addition (2001).

Part of the plan was to hire an architect to help give a vision of an updated building and a phased approach. This vision came with community input sessions, surveys and interviews with Board and staff. This conceptual plan has updates to all areas of the building and some amazing Wishlist items as well.

The first phase of this plan was to add-on office area and storage to move staff out of central locations and create one storage area. This addition to the building has now opened up the pieces needed to allow for other updates and program spaces that are needed now and in the future. The office addition will house administrative staff and marketing, four total offices. There was office space that had previously been closed space and another that had a leaky backflow preventor running across the floor. This will help centralize operations. This addition also includes a meeting room for trainings, board meetings and eventually rented out for businesses.

A new storage area connected to the gymnasium consolidates previously scattered storage rooms into a single location. The addition of a garage door improves access for activities such as bounce house events and skate distribution, while also providing direct exterior access for transporting equipment to offsite programs.

Looking ahead, additional improvements under consideration this year include the development of a teen space, a toddler area, an updated sauna, and an additional program or rental room.

Funding for the first phase has been supported over the past decade through a trust held by the Geneseo Park District Foundation, along with local grant funding and in-kind donations.

The full Master Plan, including conceptual drawings, is available on the Park District website. Future phases of the project are expected to include additional opportunities for community input. If you ever have any questions please feel free to reach out to the Geneseo Park District Executive Director Andy Thurman at athurman@geneseparkdistrict.org.

Lady Leafs Step Up to Support Inspire Continuing Care

Geneseo’s Lady Leafs softball team is taking the field for more than just a game this month—they’re stepping up to support a cause that hits close to home.

On April 23, the Lady Leafs will face Alleman in a special charity game benefiting Inspire Continuing Care, a local organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families through compassionate care services.

The game, which begins at 4:30 p.m., is part of a broader effort to raise funds that will go directly back to Inspire. Throughout the event, the team and community are rallying together to make an impact in several ways. All proceeds from the concession stand will be donated, a bake sale table will offer additional opportunities to give, and a portion of team shirt sales—$2 from each purchase—will also support the cause.

The funds raised will help provide meaningful experiences and support for those served by Inspire, including field trips, meals, and contributions to a scholarship fund.

More than just a night of softball, the event reflects the spirit of community that defines Geneseo—neighbors showing up for one another, athletes using their platform for good, and local partnerships making a real difference.

For the Lady Leafs, it’s not just about the scoreboard. It’s about showing up, giving back, and playing for something bigger.

April City Council Meeting Preview

The Geneseo City Council meets Tuesday at 6:00 PM, and while this agenda is fairly routine, there are a few behind-the-scenes updates that help explain how the City operates.

Here’s what you need to know before the meeting.

Farmer’s Market Agreement

The biggest decision on this agenda is a new agreement for the Geneseo Farmer’s Market.

  • The location is not changing (it will remain at City Park).

  • Any changes are behind the scenes—visitors shouldn’t notice a difference.

  • This is about how the market is structured and managed legally.

The City is reviewing updated agreement options that:

  • Define responsibilities more clearly

  • Require insurance and legal protections

  • Ask the market to distribute information to its vendors on sales tax compliance

This is primarily about who is responsible if something goes wrong—and how clearly that’s defined.

The past agreement has worked, but it’s more informal. The new agreement is designed to:

  • Reduce liability for the City

  • Formalize how the market operates

  • Remove gray areas

A Look at City Finances (and Why the Numbers Can Be Misleading)

The Council will also review the Treasurer’s Report and Capital Planning updates.

At first glance, the numbers might raise eyebrows.

  • The City has collected about $1.07 million in revenue so far

  • It has already spent about $4.87 million

That looks like a large deficit—but it’s not what it seems.

Here’s what’s actually happening

  • Many major expenses and internal transfers are paid early in the year.

  • Revenue—especially taxes—comes in gradually over time.

So right now, the City is spending ahead of revenue on purpose.

What this tells us

  • Finances appear stable.

  • The system relies on timing and planned cash flow.

Capital Planning: Thinking Ahead

Alongside the financial report, the City is reviewing its capital planning documents.

This is where the City tracks:

  • What it owns (vehicles, equipment, infrastructure)

  • What needs to be repaired or replaced

  • What projects are planned for the future

A full list of 2026 projects is included in the materials .

Other Business

Several items are expected to be approved quickly as part of the consent agenda, including:

  • A construction easement agreement with IDOT

  • A façade improvement grant for a local business

  • The sale of surplus City equipment

These items are typically grouped together and approved in one vote unless a council member asks to discuss one individually.

Community Updates

A few upcoming dates were also highlighted:

  • Spring disposal days: April 18 and May 9

  • Arbor Day: April 24

  • Art Walk: April 25

View the full agenda packet here.

High Tea and Fashion Show Fundraiser Planned for Freedom House Shelter

Geneseo, IL - Freedom House is hosting a High Tea and Fashion Show on Sunday, May 3, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Central School House Inn in Geneseo.

The afternoon will feature an array of sweets made by Abigail Wolf, the young teen, who, along with her brother Kenneth, won the Food Network Championship Bake Off – Next Gen, and savory items by Jennifer Jude of P.L. Johnson’s. Jude is known for her popular tea parties at her historic restaurant in Bishop Hill. Various teas, coffee and punch will add to the menu.

Fashions from Four Seasons, Geneseo, will be modeled, showing off the latest in spring and summer wear.

A silent auction, with all things floral, will be available, perfect for Mother’s Day gifts.

Tickets are $50, with tables of four for $200. Seating is limited, and those interested are encouraged to reserve their space early.  Tickets can be purchased here:

https://givebutter.com/springtime-high-tea-2026-3ywl32

Freedom House was established in 1983 by Nedda Simon. It serves survivors of abuse in Henry, Bureau, Stark, Marshall and Putnam counties. Counseling, shelter and ongoing support are provided at no charge.

The agency is adding a 40 bed shelter in Kewanee in response to the large number of clients from Henry County who seek services. Proceeds from this event will go towards funding the shelter.

Geneseo Wine Walk Set to Debut May 30 in Downtown District

A new event is coming to downtown Geneseo this spring, offering a fresh way to experience local businesses, enjoy live music, and spend an afternoon out with friends.

Hosted by the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, the inaugural Geneseo Wine Walk will take place Saturday, May 30 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., transforming State Street into a walkable, open-air destination for wine tasting, shopping, and community connection.

State Street will be closed from Central Bank Pavilion to North Street during the event, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment filled with live music, gathering spaces, and activity throughout the downtown district.

How It Works

Participants who purchase a ticket will gain access to wine tastings hosted inside participating businesses across downtown Geneseo. Attendees can move from stop to stop, sampling a variety of wines while browsing shops, discovering new storefronts, and taking advantage of in-store promotions and special experiences.

Local restaurants will also be open throughout the event, offering options for guests to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a full glass of their favorite wine along the route.

What to Expect

The event is designed to blend multiple elements of the downtown experience into one afternoon, including:

  • Wine tastings inside participating businesses

  • Exclusive shopping promotions and in-store experiences

  • Live music and outdoor gathering space along State Street

  • Opportunities to dine at local restaurants during the event

  • A social, walkable atmosphere in the heart of Geneseo

Live music will continue at Central Bank Pavilion from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., allowing attendees to extend their evening after the Wine Walk concludes.

Tickets and Details

Tickets are required to participate and must be purchased online in advance. No day-of ticket sales will be available.

Organizers note that tickets are limited and expected to sell out. Guests may purchase multiple tickets and will receive a digital QR code to present at check-in.

Additional details include:

  • Ticket sales close May 10

  • Participants must be 21 or older to take part in wine tastings

  • Check-in will take place at the Chamber booth, where guests will present their digital ticket, verify ID, and receive a commemorative wine glass, wristband, and event passport

A New Downtown Tradition

With a focus on local businesses, walkability, and shared experiences, the Geneseo Wine Walk aims to create a new tradition that highlights what makes the community’s downtown unique.

Organizers encourage attendees to plan their stops in advance, gather a group of friends, and take full advantage of an afternoon designed to sip, shop, and explore.

Get Your Ticket here

Geneseo School Board Approves Contract, Advances Cost Updates and Continues Solar Discussions

The Geneseo Community Unit School District #228 Board of Education approved a new teachers’ contract, moved forward with a series of annual cost adjustments, and continued discussion on a potential solar energy project during its April 9 meeting.

Teachers’ Contract Approved

The Board of Education approved a three-year collective bargaining agreement (2026–2029) with the Geneseo Education Association.

The agreement includes:

  • Average annual salary increases of approximately 5%

  • A phased-in district contribution to the Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS)

District leadership states the agreement “reflects a shared commitment between Geneseo CUSD 228 and the Geneseo Education Association to student success, educator support, and long-term district stability.”

Fees and Program Costs Adjusted

The board approved registration fee increases, miscellaneous student fees, and SAFE program pricing updates for the 2026–2027 school year.

Registration Fee Changes

  • K–8: $123 → $126

  • High School: $135 → $138

Miscellaneous Fees

  • HS Participation fee (one-time): $35 → $40

  • MS Participation fee (one-time): $30 → $35

SAFE program increases are incremental—generally $0.25 per day per child across categories.

Support Staff Wages Increase

The board approved incremental wage increases of approximately $0.50 per hour for educational support staff.

Positions impacted include aides, custodial staff, food service employees, secretaries, and SAFE program staff.

Transportation Contract Reflects Rising Costs

The board approved a transportation contract totaling approximately $1.85 million for the 2026–2027 school year, up from about $1.79 million this year.

The increase reflects rising costs in daily routes, mileage, and extracurricular transportation.

Cafeteria Prices Under Review

The board conducted a first reading of proposed cafeteria price increases, with no final approval at this meeting.

Proposed adjustments include:

  • K–5 lunch: $3.10 → $3.20

  • Grades 6–12: $3.30 → $3.40

  • Adult meals: $4.75 → $5.00

  • Breakfast: +$0.10

The proposed increases are part of a phased approach tied to federal Paid Lunch Equity (PLE) requirements, which currently target approximately $4.16 per meal.

Final approval is expected at a future meeting following additional review.

Facilities: Tennis Courts and Maintenance

The board approved tennis court resurfacing and repairs, part of routine maintenance planning as facilities age.

Policy and Administrative Updates

The board conducted a first reading of several policy and administrative items, with no final action taken at this meeting.

Items reviewed included:

  • Administrative contracts for FY27

  • Proposed updates to education support personnel policies

  • Revisions to elementary and middle school student handbooks

These items are expected to return for final approval at a future meeting.

Solar Project Remains Under Discussion

The board continued discussion of a potential solar energy project, with no final decision reached.

Potential Benefits

  • Estimated 8–9 year payback period

  • Long-term energy savings and potential revenue offsets

  • Access to financial incentives

Concerns Raised

  • Project location and land use impact

  • Whether to delay or relocate the project

  • Uncertainty around future incentives

  • Alignment with future facility expansion plans

Additional discussion included infrastructure considerations and the possibility of consultant input and further bid review.

Superintendent Report and District Highlights

Superintendent Dr. Laura Delgado reported:

  • State testing underway (IAR, ISA, ACT)

  • Recognition of the district’s first Seal of Biliteracy recipient

  • GEF Spring Grants expected next month

  • Continued traffic concerns near Ogden and State Street

The district is also continuing rollout of its strategic plan, with communication efforts including website updates, social media, a public FAQ page, and an informational video.

Upcoming Events

  • Spring Musical: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (April 23–26)

  • Graduation: May 24 (parade begins at 1 p.m.)

  • Kindergarten Registration Opens: April 20

April School Board Meeting Preview

UPCOMING MEETING: APRIL 9 AT 5:30 PM

The Geneseo School District #228 Board of Education will review a mix of financial adjustments, staffing updates, operational costs, and long-term planning items at its upcoming meeting. Much of the agenda reflects routine annual updates, alongside ongoing efforts to manage rising costs and maintain services across the district.

Fees & Program Costs Under Review

The board will consider updates to 2026–2027 registration and miscellaneous fees, along with pricing adjustments for the district’s before- and after-school (SAFE) program. While final decisions have not yet been made, the discussion signals that families should expect some cost adjustments heading into the next school year.

Support Staff Wages Increasing

Proposed wage adjustments for educational support staff show increases of approximately $0.50 per hour across most roles.

Examples include:

  • Aides increasing from $16.00 to $16.50 per hour

  • Building secretaries from $17.00 to $17.50

  • Custodial and food service roles seeing similar incremental increases

These adjustments span a wide range of positions, including aides, nurses, custodians, food service staff, and SAFE program employees. The increases are intended to help the district remain competitive in hiring and retaining staff.

Transportation Contract Costs Rising

The board will review a proposed transportation contract totaling approximately $1.85 million for the 2026–2027 school year.

This represents an increase from about $1.79 million this year, with cost increases reflected across multiple categories, including:

  • Daily route rates

  • Mileage costs for buses

  • Hourly rates for trips and extracurricular transportation

The contract covers regular routes, athletics, and other district transportation needs, continuing a broader trend of rising operational costs.

Food Prices Adjusting Gradually

Proposed cafeteria pricing for the 2026–2027 school year includes increases across grade levels:

  • K–5 lunch: $3.10 → $3.20

  • Grades 6–12: $3.30 → $3.40

  • Adult lunch: $4.75 → $5.00

  • Breakfast prices increasing by $0.10

These adjustments are part of a longer-term effort to align with federally calculated pricing benchmarks under Paid Lunch Equity (PLE), which currently targets $4.16 per meal. The increases are expected to continue gradually over time rather than all at once.

Facilities: Tennis Courts Under Consideration

The board will discuss potential resurfacing and repairs to district tennis courts. This falls under routine maintenance planning as facilities age and require periodic updates.

Policy & Administrative Updates

Several standard policy and administrative items are also on the agenda, including:

  • Administrative contracts for FY27

  • Updates to education support personnel policies

  • Revisions to elementary and middle school student handbooks

These items represent typical operational updates and annual adjustments.

Solar Panel Proposal Remains Under Discussion

The board will continue discussions regarding a potential solar energy project. No final decision is expected at this meeting.

The proposal reflects ongoing exploration of potential long-term cost savings, though details and direction remain under consideration.

District Highlights

Recent updates across the district include:

  • A student earning the Seal of Biliteracy for the first time

  • Teachers eligible for Geneseo Education Foundation (GEF) Spring Grants

  • State testing currently underway (IAR, ISA, ACT)

Upcoming Events

  • Spring Musical: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (April 23–26)

  • Graduation: May 24 (parade begins at 1 p.m.)

  • Kindergarten registration opens April 20

Sources

The Geneseo Current independently prepares this recap using publicly available board reports and documents. The district does not review or endorse this publication.

The Current Plans Senior & Active Living Expo for April 17

The Geneseo Current is preparing to host a Senior & Active Living Expo this spring, bringing together local businesses, organizations, and resources focused on supporting older adults and their families.

Scheduled for April 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Geneseo Community Center, the event is designed to connect residents with services that promote independence, wellness, and quality of life.

The expo will feature a range of vendors representing healthcare, senior services, housing, financial planning, home support, and community programs. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with local providers, gather information, and explore options available within the Geneseo area and surrounding communities.

In addition to vendor booths, the event will offer a relaxed, walk-through format that allows attendees to engage at their own pace. The expo is intended not only for seniors, but also for caregivers, adult children, and anyone planning for the future.

The event reflects The Current’s broader focus on providing practical, locally relevant information while supporting connections between residents and businesses.

Local businesses and organizations interested in participating as vendors are still able to register. Opportunities include booth space as well as inclusion in a digital guide that will be distributed to attendees and shared online following the event.

Admission to the Senior & Active Living Expo is free and open to the public.

For more information or to inquire about vendor opportunities, contact sarah@geneseocurrent.com.