LOOKS like our beloved governor is up to his old tricks. His latest game, under the guise of the state budget crisis, is selecting 11 state parks and 14 historical sites that will be closed in either October or November .

While every Illinoisan understands the difficulties of our current economy, as it has hit each of us in our own pocketbooks, it appears Gov. Rod has managed to make even these closures political. According to State Rep. Jerry Mitchell (R-Sterling), Republican districts have been hit the hardest. It may just be coincidental, since the Illinois DNR said the selections were done by measuring the number of visitors but many Republicans are skeptical.

But Ogle County resident T. Richard Day said it best at a community meeting two weeks ago. “It’s not a Republican issue. It’s not a Democratic issue. It’s not a governor issue. It’s a people issue and we’re the people.”

Some of the parks, like Lowden Park, actually make a profit, according to Rep. Mitchell. If this is accurate, closing the parks makes no sense, no matter whose district they fall within because it will be hard to generate revenue when the park is closed.

Many communities feel strongly about their park or historical, and recognize the importance of these sites to their community. Over 500 residents attended a Sept. 10 meeting in Oregon and presented our state legislators with a petition with over 3,800 signatures.

I spend considerable time in Clinton, where Weldon Springs State Park is located (and another area where Republicans are strong). The community is in an uproar, as this park is beautiful and well-used. The campsites are usually full, providing positive economic impact for this small community. Thousands have signed the petition. It will have a very negative impact on that community.

Clinton also blends state ownership with the private sector, as a privately-owned restaurant fronts the lake. The Clinton community area veterans also built a nice memorial in the park several years ago that would not have been placed there if the veterans knew the Governor would close the park.

One of my favorite parks and museums is the Black Hawk Museum in Rock Island, surrounded by a beautiful park on the river. Our family visited the museum each summer and in later years my parents took all of their grandchildren to the museum. It’s also on the chopping block.

It will become even more difficult for the state to partner with the private sector and community groups, if the Governor can cancel those relationships with a month’s notice.

If you believe that these parks should remain open, let your voice be heard by signing the online petition to keep the parks and historical sites open, visit www.thepetitionsite.com/3/keep-illinois-parks-open.



“A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small bundle.”

-Benjamin Franklin