Press Release: Community Members Rally in Support of Crystal Lake Park District
- Ellen Swanson
- Aug 12
- 2 min read
Contact:
Parks for the People
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 12, 2025
Community Members Rally in Support of Crystal Lake Park District
“Pro Park” Event to Defend Public Access, Integrity and Stewardship
CRYSTAL LAKE, IL — Over forty concerned residents gathered for the Pro Park Rally on Tuesday, Aug. 12th, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM in front of the Crystal Lake Park District Administration Building- 1 E Crystal Lake Ave. The rally brought together community members committed to protecting the integrity, accessibility, transparency and public stewardship of the Crystal Lake Park District.
The event comes in response to a soon to be published letter from Park Board President Fred Tiesenga which, according to rally organizers, undermines the value of Park District programming, staff, and facilities. Despite concerns raised by other Park Board members regarding inaccuracies in the letter, it is set to be published in the August 15th Fall Brochure.
“We love our Crystal Lake Park District programs, staff, and sites, including our namesake lake. Recently, Fred Tiesenga and his board majority have been making decisions that only benefit themselves as Lake Property Owners.
“With this draft letter questioning the value of the Park District, we had to show our support for all that our Park District provides to the community.” - Debbie Gallagher, Community Member and Former Crystal Lake Park Board President
The group points to several recent actions by the Park Board majority—including the decision to reduce the number of board meetings and use Park District funds to treat lake weeds on Board Members’ private property —as moves that are not in the public’s best interest and weaken community oversight.
Rally attendees brought signs in support of the Park District’s staff, programming, and cherished green spaces, including the community’s namesake lake. Photos of the event can be found here.
Residents are urged to attend the next Park Board Meeting on Monday, August 18th, at 6:30 PM at Crystal Lake Main Beach, 300 Lakeshore Dr., to maintain momentum and advocate for community interests.
About Parks for the People:
Parks for the People is a grassroots coalition of local residents dedicated to safeguarding the public nature of the Crystal Lake Park District. The group works to ensure decisions are made in the best interest of the community, prioritizing transparency, accessibility, and stewardship of public lands and programs.
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