The FRIENDS OF FILBERT PLAYLOT PARK Advisory Council presented to Tim Mitchell, Superintendent of the Chicago Park District, at their North Region Budget Hearing on September 28th.  A number of Filbert supporters joined us at the meeting - thanks again for helping us show the Park District that we are fully committed to renovating our playground!

Our presentation was very well received. We displayed two large boards - one of the existing conditions (file below), and another showing our proposed ideas and budget (file below) for a renovated park.  We also handed out copies of our extensive renovation proposal.  Our Advisory Council reiterated that the park is small compared to other Park District playgrounds, so comparatively, our budget is much smaller and therefore more attainable.  Considering our commitment, enthusiasm, aggressive fundraising efforts and reasonable budget, we are well positioned to achieve our goal of a complete renovation in 2011.

Park District officials mentioned several times that we are "very organized" and "on their radar screen", and that we're doing all the right things.  They were also pleased to hear that we have the full support and fundraising assistance of Alderman Schulter; he is a great ally and supporter of the parks.  

The Park District will be reviewing and finalizing their 2011 budget in the next few months.  We hope to confirm if Filbert Playlot Park is in the 2011 budget before the end of 2010.  Our Advisory Council will continue to communicate with the various Park District connections we've established, and we will keep our supporters informed as we learn more.