Vision/Mission

The Rockford Park District was formed in 1909 and is entering its second century of service. It is the second largest park and recreation system in Illinois, and has twice been awarded the prestigious National Gold Medal for excellence in parks and recreation management, and is a Distinguished Agency, professionally accredited for high standards and superior services.
 
Board of Commissioners: Jack L. Armstrong, Douglas J. Brooks, Ian K. Linnabary, Nate Martin, Tyler Smith
 
Vision: The Rockford Park District is the "best" urban park and recreation system in North America, as judged by those we serve.
 
Mission: Helping people enjoy life!
 
Global Priority Result: Park space and recreation are essential for the quality of life in the Rockford Park District, resulting in a high return on investment of available resources.
 
Priority Results:
I. Well-maintained park space and recreational facilities meet the recreational needs of this and succeeding generations of District residents.

II. Residents are involved in diverse and well supported recreational activities for their health, well-being, and entertainment.

III. Residents value recreation as essential for a healthy life.

IV. Residents have exceptional parks and recreation facilities, services, and programs at a reasonable cost.

Size and Scope of Services:

Number of Park and Facility Sites: 175
Total Park Acreage: 4,840.04
Land Area: 125 square miles
2010 User Visits: 9,581,538
Regular Employees 183
Seasonal Employees 1,533
 
Financial Facts:
Tax Base: (2010 estimated) $2,907.112,232
Tax Rate: 78.06 cents per $100 assessed value (2010 estimated)
P.D. Taxes on $100,000 home (2009 estimated): $260
2011 Park District Operating Budget: $30,687,853

Revenues: Taxes 56% Intergovernmental 7% Fees 34% Interest, Sponsorships and Other 3%
Expenses: Personnel 45% Benefits 16% Supplies 10% Services 25% Fund Transfers out 4%

2011 Park District Capital Budget: Revenues $13,447,699 Expenses $20,817,542
Revenues: Taxes 37% Intergovernmental 10% Donations, Grants and Other 53%
Expenses: Repair & Replacement 44% Additions 26%* Debt 31% Fund Transfers-In (6%) Other 5%
*Additions include expenses $8 million for first year construction of Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens

Last Approved Tax Rate Referendum: 1990 (10 cents Corporate/Maintenance) 1979 (5 cents Recreation)

Community Demographics:
Population: 211,538
Number of Households: 81,687
Median Household Income $40,711

click here for 2010 attendance figures

Value and Benefits for Residents

Recreation is vital to people's health and well-being, and plays an important role in a balanced, healthy lifestyle. What value does a great park and recreation system bring to the Rockford community?

click here to find out