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General Information

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gymnasticsThe Oak Lawn Park District, incorporated in 1944, has a long and proud history of serving the recreational needs of our 56,000 residents with a myriad of recreational programs and services. We operate under the state tax cap as a municipal corporation, meaning we are our own taxing body. Overseen by a Board of five elected officials, the District manages a combination of 34 parks and facilities which cover over 280 acres. In addition, we manage a Special Recreation Cooperative that offers recreational programs and services to individuals with disabilities in 9 municipalities.

The Park District employs a staff of 54 full time and 370 part time employees. Through programs and facilities, the Oak Lawn Park District significantly contribute to the quality of life in Oak Lawn.

We are an Illinois Distinguished Agency and one of only a small percentage of park districts across the country to be nationally accredited through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA).

Departments

The following links to the Oak Lawn Park District’s internal departments will provide you with detailed information about each department and services available. If you cannot find the information you need, please call our main office at (708) 857-2225.

Tom Hartwig has been the Executive Director of the Oak Lawn Park District since 2020. He has been part of the Oak Lawn Park District for over 25 years. His office is located at the Administrative Building and can be reached at thartwig@olparks.com.

Statement of Purpose: The Marketing Department is responsible for making sure the residents of the Oak Lawn Park District hare well informed in a timely manner. This department comprised of two full-time a mascot, Duke Mallard. They work on special projects, community relations, outreach, branding, design, and partnerships. They work to define, adjust and present the public perception of the park district, and strive to keep all departments and facilities focused towards the unified mission defined in our strategic plan.

The Finance Department is comprised of accounting and human resources. The department is responsible for all financial records and transactions for the park district, including general ledgers, payroll, accounts payable, investments and fixed assets. Additionally, the department co-ordinates and prepares the annual budget, annual audit and related comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR).

The Oak Lawn Park District has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 20 consecutive years. The certificate is awarded by the Government Finance Officers Association to governmental units whose comprehensive annual financial reports (CAFRs) achieve the highest standards in government accounting and financial reporting.

Human Resources provide services and assistance to all park district employees, including managerial staff.
Benefit administration, employee relations, and post-employment requirements are part of the services provided.

The department consists of three full-time and three part-time employees.

  • Accounting and Financial Services
  • Human Resources

Statement of Purpose: The Parks and Maintenance Department is dedicated to providing safe, clean, accessible parks, facilities and open space for our patrons. It is the intent of the department to design for each park its own unique identity utilizing innovative play structures and landscaping. Through initiative and dedication, the division is committed to ensuring a balance between the stewardship of natural resources and recreation while providing professional planning and design expertise to enhance the quality of life in Oak Lawn. The department has 12 full-time and 20 seasonal employees that maintain 24 parks and green spaces comprising 181 acres.

  • Parks
  • Fleet Services
  • Park Planning

Statement of Purpose: The Recreation Department provides quality recreational and leisure opportunities that meet the emotional, physical, cognitive, and social desires for all patrons of the Oak Lawn Park District. This department also provides volunteer opportunities and encourages community service. The Recreation Department operates 5 facilities, 2 pools, and offers a variety of classes, programs and activities to all age groups and abilities. There are 13 full time and approximately 250 part time employees in the Recreation Department depending on the season.

ADA Compliance Policy/Officer

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