WESTON — the Village of Weston’s Parks and Recreation Board met on Wednesday, March 4, to map out a future for the community's green spaces. The board—consisting of Ron Dallas, Rob Myerholtz, and Doug Marion, alongside Council Liaison Travis Ackerman—tackled an agenda focused on modernization and accessibility.


The Vision for Alumni Park: Inclusive Play and Strategic Soccer


The spotlight of the meeting was on Alumni Park, which is slated for significant upgrades. The board discussed the installation of all-inclusive playground equipment. After evaluating various locations, members identified the south end of the park—near the older swing sets—as an ideal spot due to lower traffic.

Beyond the playground, the board is considering new soccer fields. Rather than a full regulation field, the discussion centered on a "7-on-7" or "9-on-9" strategic practice field, which would better fit the available space behind the ball diamonds. However, this area already houses several existing amenities, including a walking path, disc golf course, and a baseball practice field. At this time, the board has yet to provide a formal plan or visual layout detailing how these new improvements would be envisioned alongside the current park features.


Modernizing Infrastructure: Solar Power and Tech Upgrades


The village is exploring solar energy to solve power and security needs at Old Schoolhouse Park. The shelter house there requires a new roof, and the board is seeking quotes for both metal and asphalt shingles.

Because bringing traditional electrical service to the park is currently unfeasible due to high monthly fees, the board is looking into solar power to provide lighting and potentially a battery system for basic needs. This approach extends to security; the board is investigating Homeland Security grants for solar-powered, wireless camera systems to be installed across village parks.


Transparency and the "Lazy Citizen" Debate


The meeting included a pointed discussion regarding the recording and archiving of public meetings. Board member Rob Myerholtz expressed strong opposition to video-recording every committee and board session, citing concerns over cybersecurity costs and record retention mandates.

Myerholtz was blunt in his assessment, explicitly asking to be quoted:

"You're adding cost to this village... all the blab out on Facebook talks about transparency—that's all bullcrap," Myerholtz stated. "These meetings are available for anyone to come in and, to be quite honest with you, we're making lazier residents. If they want to know, in my opinion, they should come participate in your government."

It was noted during the discussion that the topic of recording meetings is currently under review by the administrative process committee for a financial and logistical evaluation.


Other Meeting Highlights


  • New Signage: New park signs are in process and will be installed when weather permits.
  • Tree Maintenance: The board identified dead trees at Alumni and Merrill Parks and will contact the Tree Commission for review.
  • Rule Updates: Park rules are currently missing from the physical parks. The board plans to mark up existing regulations—including a proposal to increase the current fine—and submit them to Council.
  • Easter Egg Hunt: The board discussed the upcoming Easter Egg Hunt scheduled for March 28st (with a rain date of the following 4th) and plans to assist by passing out baskets.
  • Administrative Tech: The board approved a motion to appropriate up to $1,000 for a new laptop and a dedicated "Parks" email address to ensure official business is handled securely.
  • Liaison Notes: Travis Ackerman will continue providing his own notes at council meetings, with the clarification that they are personal observations and not official minutes.