A key figure in Park District of Oak Park leadership has left for an opportunity to lead another suburban park district.
Following a nationwide search, Wilmette’s park district commissioners selected Chris Lindgren, PDOP’s deputy director of properties and planning, as the North Shore community’s next park district leader. Lindgren will officially begin his new role on July 21, according to Wilmette officials.
“What really drew me to Wilmette was the passion I saw in the people, both in the organization and the community,” said Lindgren. “I look forward to listening, learning and working together to shape a future that keeps Wilmette’s parks, facilities and programs thriving for everyone.”
Wilmette park commissioners saw applications from over 50 highly qualified candidates from across the country, according to Wilmette officials.
“From the start, the board was focused on finding a leader who could move our mission forward while staying grounded in the community and its long-term priorities,” said Patrick Lahey, president of Wilmette’s park district board. “Chris Lindgren stood out as a clear choice. He is strategic, communicative, and leads with the values that matter to this district.”
Lindgren is credited as one of the key players in bringing major capital projects to the finish line for Oak Park parks. Lindgren’s accomplishments in that area include the construction of the landmark Community Recreation Center, a $22 million building designed to function at net-zero carbon emissions and provide a host of wellness amenities to Oak Parkers.
Lindgren’s move from PDOP follows several village of Oak Park government employees who made the move to Wilmette. Former Development Services Director Emily Egan and former parking services manager Sean Keane have both started jobs with the North Shore community’s village government in recent months.
Lindgren will lead the Wilmette Park district following a controversial chapter for the body. Steve Wilson, longtime Wilmette park’s executive director, resigned in January on the heels of an internal investigation over alleged misconduct, resignations by department staff and a civil lawsuit concerning alleged retaliation, according to reporting by The Record North Shore.