The Kenilworth Park Board has agreed to increase oversight of the Marguerite L. Storch Memorial Garden Fund, following months of criticism over its management of a charitable account. The fund, established in 1998 for beautification purposes, was found to have been mismanaged by using funds for non-beautification projects.
Concerns about the park district’s spending led community members to confront the board starting in November. Residents argued that the district should not have spent the fund’s principal and interest on capital projects such as Townley Field renovations and patio and walkway upgrades at the assembly hall, citing the original agreement’s stipulation that the principal be held “in perpetuity” and only ordinary income used for beautification projects.
The board’s new proposal includes creating an investment committee to recommend changes to the fund’s strategy and monitor investments. Additionally, the district plans to reaffirm its input with the Kenilworth Garden Club and create a website dedicated solely to the Storch Fund.
While no vote has been taken, commissioners expressed support for the proposed changes, particularly the establishment of an investment committee. The board aims to follow the original fund conditions and ensure that the intentions of the donor are respected moving forward.
Source: https://www.therecordnorthshore.org/2025/01/20/kenilworth-park-board-supports-more-oversight-after-residents-question-districts-spending