Dupage Policy Journal

The Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) has tabbed state Sen. John Curran (R-Downers Grove) as its Legislator of the Year.

The IAPD cited the senator’s tireless legislative support for parks and recreation programs.

“Parks and outdoor recreation areas provide a major boost to the quality of life in our communities, and it’s an honor to be recognized for my work in support of them,” Curran told the Illinois Senate Republican website.

“I hope our state government can continue to encourage the growth of parks and other recreation programs to offer fun and healthy options for the people of Illinois.”

The IAPD noted Curran’s support for park programs, including being the chief sponsor of legislation that focused on helping parks grow.

One such bill includes House Bill 2073, which assisted park districts to maximize revenue via property leasing programs.

Another was Senate Bill 1273, which aimed to protect taxpayers in park districts by ensuring that their park districts receive fair prices for sold properties.

The IAPD also applauded Curran’s work in fighting against costly unfunded mandates, which can negatively affect both local governments and park districts. Taxpayers could also be hurt by having to potentially cover the costs related to complying with the new mandates.

“On behalf of the Woodridge Park District community, we congratulate Sen. John Curran on receiving the Illinois Association of Park District’s 2020 Legislator of the Year Award,” Mike Adams, executive director of the Woodridge Park District, told the Illinois Senate Republican website.

“Sen. Curran has been a model supporter for parks and recreation through his family’s participation in local recreation programs, supporter of critical funding through state grant programs, as well as his continued legislative advocacy to sponsor bills that further improves the quality of life for the residents within his district and state of Illinois. We are proud to have Sen. Curran as a member of the park district team.”