In November 2024, Elmhurst residents approved a $90 million bond referendum to enhance parks across the district. Of that amount, $2.5 million is allocated for the construction of a permanent bandshell in Wilder Park.

On the Elmhurst Park District website, Park Board President Kevin Graf underscored the importance of community involvement throughout the referendum process:

“Our residents have been an essential part of this process from the beginning, sharing their vision during the Elevate Elmhurst Parks planning, providing feedback on projects during multiple open houses, answering our voter survey and then voting.”

A timeline on the Park District’s website indicates that community engagement for the Wilder Park bandshell was scheduled to begin in Spring 2025.

However, at the Park Board meeting on May 21, a divided vote (4–3) approved a specific location for the bandshell—the site currently used for the moveable bandwagon each summer. This decision was made without soliciting public input, despite the published plan and the objections of two commissioners who advocated for community engagement before making a final decision. Multiple residents in attendance also emphasized the importance of public involvement in this critical choice.

The selection of the bandshell location has long-term implications for Wilder Park, including:

• Sightline impacts on the historic Wilder Mansion
• Effects on existing park amenities and green space
• Potential removal or disruption of mature trees

By bypassing the promised public engagement process, the Park Board risks eroding community trust and giving the impression that resident voices are not valued.

We urge the Park Board to uphold its commitment to transparency and inclusiveness by soliciting public input on the bandshell’s location—a decision that will shape the park’s future for generations.

Please support this request by signing the petition and encouraging the Park Board to keep residents at the heart of this important project.

Thank you.