Tom Lippert worked out of a one-room office in Village Hall when he began his career with the Lindenhurst Park District.
When he retires next month as the district’s executive director, Lippert will be leaving an office in the 26,000-square-foot Park District Community Center, and the legacy of his tenure includes the development of 19 parks and beaches and numerous other recreational amenities.
“It’s been a great ride,” Lippert said. “To do all of that working within the tax cap and without a referendum, I think is wonderful.”
Much of the district’s development was accomplished with $7 million in state and federal grants, developer impact fees and leveraging matching grants. He acknowledged the district was lucky to take root during an era of open space and park grants that appears to be quickly coming to an end.
Lippert joined the Lindenhurst Park District in 1992, four years after it officially formed. He inherited several former village parks, two staff members and no facilities. He is scheduled to retire May 15.
David Mohr Jr., current superintendent of recreation for the district, has already been selected as the next executive director.
Lippert credits the district’s growth to the efforts of the Park Board, staff, intergovernmental cooperation with the state, village and Lake County Forest Preserves, volunteers and business support.
Lippert said he is retiring at a time when the district is stabile with a strong and experienced board as well as a dedicated and talented staff. As for Mohr, Lippert predicts “he’ll do some really great stuff.”
“I feel very confident with the Park Board that is seated and with the staff,” he said.
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In recognition of his longtime leadership, the Lindenhurst Village Board recently adopted a proclamation declaring May 15, 2015 as Tom Lippert Day in Lindenhurst.
For more information on the district, visit http://www.lindenhurstparks.org.
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