Joliet Park District Board Accepts Executive Director’s Resignation

The Joliet Park District Board has accepted Tom Carstens’ resignation as Executive Director. The District and Tom agreed to end Tom’s contract early so that he may begin his retirement. As part of the agreement, the District will pay Tom three months’ salary out of the 8 ½ months remaining on his contract. Pursuant to state law and District personnel rules, Tom will also be paid for earned but unused vacation and sick days.

Effective immediately, Deputy Director Brad Staab will serve as interim Executive Director. With a number of upcoming large events like the Taste of Joliet, the Park District has stated that its immediate focus is to ensure these popular activities continue to be successful. The board has stated that the Joliet Park District will continue to provide the high level programs and events that the community has come to expect. After a busy summer season is completed, we will make a more permanent decision for the Executive Director position. Ultimately, it is the intention of the board to combine the Deputy Director and Executive Director jobs into a single Executive position.

As a result of these changes, the Park District will also realize a significant cost savings. By ending Tom’s contract early, and by ultimately combining two positions into one, the District will have reduced their administrative expenses.