Mon January 29, 2024
Batavia Park District was recently evaluated and approved to receive the Distinguished Accreditation Agency Award from the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA).
“This program recognizes park and recreation agencies that go above and beyond in dedicating themselves to offering quality programs and services designed to fill the community’s needs,” said Batavia Park District Executive Director Allison Niemela.
In late fall, the park district underwent a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether it met the stringent criteria, she added. A Joint Distinguished Park and Recreation Accreditation Committee (JDPRAC) composed of members from IAPD and IPRA visited park district parks and facilities and reviewed park district documentation and information.
The team reviewed general management procedures, recreation statistics, master plan, finance and business operations, facilities and parks, personnel, recreation services, legal documentation, conservation of natural resources and other materials including mission statements, goals and safety manuals.
Batavia Park District received special commendation for community input on listening tours, an impressive number of environmental policies, QR ticket codes in the seasonal Fun Guide, new board member manual and preventive maintenance schedule.
The district passed accreditation in October 2023. The agency received the Distinguished Accreditation Agency Award at the IAPD/IPRA statewide conference in Chicago in January. Less than 10% of all park districts in Illinois receive state accreditation.
“We strive to offer outstanding customer service, engaging recreation programs and well-maintained parks and facilities to the community,” Niemela said. “It’s the board and staff's hard work that is being recognized and I’m proud of all of them for this significant accomplishment.”
In compliance with the program, Batavia Park District will be reevaluated in five years to verify that they have continued to demonstrate sound management practices in providing quality park and recreation services to the community.