Wilmette Park District Board Announces Upcoming Commissioner Vacancy

Saying Goodbye to Commissioner Kosloskus

Wilmette Park District Board of Park Commissioners announces an upcoming vacancy following the resignation of Commissioner Kara Kosloskus. Her family will be relocating out of Wilmette later this month and as a result is stepping down from her position on the Board.

Kara first informed the Board, staff, and public of her plans at the Committee of the Whole meeting on June 28, 2025. Although final details of her departure were not confirmed until August 4, she emphasized her intent to give the Board ample lead time and to remain transparent during this personal transition. Her thoughtful planning reflects the leadership she consistently demonstrated throughout her time on the Board.

Commissioner Kosloskus was elected twice to the Wilmette Park Board between 2021 and 2025, during which time she served as Vice President and President. A committed community leader, she has volunteered with the District 39 PTO and New Trier High School Parent Advisory and served as a USA Swimming Official.

Throughout her tenure, Kara guided Wilmette Park District during executive transitions and the completion of major capital projects. She led the Park District through pivotal changes, including implementing managed access at South Beach, pursuing sustainability goals under the Guide to Green Plan and strategically acquiring the Beth Hillel property.

A graduate of The Wharton School of Business and The University of Pennsylvania, Kara brought strategic vision, financial acumen, and steady leadership to every Board discussion. She was also active in the Illinois Association of Park Districts’ Board Member Development Program, further elevating her effectiveness as a commissioner.

Wilmette Park District is deeply grateful for Kara’s service, vision, and dedication to the community. Her departure marks a significant transition for the Board and the broader Park District. Reflecting on her time in office, Commissioner Kosloskus shared:

“It’s been an honor serving with this Board and being trusted by the community. A huge thanks to the incredible Wilmette Park District staff, the heart of so much great work! While I’ll no longer be a Wilmette resident, I’ll still be nearby, cheering you on.”

Public Invitation: Apply for the Board Vacancy

In accordance with Park District procedures, the Board of Park Commissioners will begin appointing a qualified individual to fill the vacant seat and serve through the next election cycle in 2027. The process includes a public invitation for interested residents to apply for consideration.

How to Apply
Interested Wilmette residents must submit a written statement answering the 2025 Board of Park Commissioners Vacancy Questionnaire (PDF or Online Form) to be considered for appointment. Responses may be submitted in one of three ways:

By mail or in person:
Wilmette Park District Administration Center
Attn: Michelle Parson, Executive Administrative Assistant
1200 Wilmette Avenue, 2nd Floor, Wilmette, IL 60091

By e-mail:
Send completed Questionnaires to mparson@wilpark.org

Online:
Submit an online form.

Eligibility Requirements:
To be eligible for appointment, applicants must:

• Being a resident of Wilmette for at least one year
• Be a registered voter
• Be committed to upholding the values and responsibilities of public service.

Deadline: All submissions must be received no later than 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
Please note: the Administration Center will be closed Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day.

Appointment Process Timeline

Wilmette Park District Board of Park Commissioners will follow a structured process to appoint a new commissioner. Once all applications have been received, commissioners will thoroughly review submissions between September 2 and September 8.

On September 8, the Board will convene in Executive Session to evaluate applicants and determine a list of finalists for further consideration. These selected candidates will then participate in interviews with the full Board from September 15 to September 27.

The Board will update the public on the status of the appointment process during the Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for September 28. The new commissioner’s final selection and formal appointment will occur at a regular Board meeting in October, at which time the appointee will also be sworn into office.

Questions? For additional information about the process or the role of a Park Board Commissioner, contact:

Chris Lindgren
Executive Director
Wilmette Park District
847-256-9617
clindgren@wilpark.org