At last Thursday’s Crystal Lake Park District board meeting, Jason Herbster was selected to replace long-time Executive Director Kirk Reimer.  Herster is the Director of Recreational Services at the Glenview Park District.

I asked him what he wanted to accomplish as Crystal Lake’s main guy. This was his reply:

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New Crystal Lake Park Executive Director Jason Herbster

“As far as what I would see accomplished upon my arrival to Crystal lake in the short term is to review the final Comprehensive Master Plan and begin to prioritize what the plan spells out as being the most important items to complete.

“I have been made aware of some organizational restructuring that may be needed, so that is another area I would plan to focus my attention.

“There are some additional internal items that also need review and possible adjustments.

“Meeting the leaders of the other local units of government, school districts, etc. will also be a priority so I can begin to establish solid working relationships with these groups.”

The park district’s press release follows:

Announcing the new Executive Director of the Crystal Lake Park District…..

The Crystal Lake Park District Board of Commissioners has selected Jason Herbster as the next Executive Director to succeed retiring Executive Director Kirk Reimer.

Herbster brings over 20 years of experience in the field of Parks and Recreation with him to Crystal Lake.

He has worked for park districts in Alsip, Palatine, Schaumburg, and most recently in Glenview as the Director of Recreation Services.

Herbster’s extensive background includes program management, facility management, financial management, facility development and team building.

He has managed the Glenview Park District’s award winning 165,000 square foot Park Center Recreation Center, led the simultaneous construction of two outdoor aquatic centers, and oversaw program participation double in six years.

Herbster has also been instrumental in building and maintaining strong cooperative relationships with other local governmental agencies and school districts and feels it is the key to a well rounded community.

“The timing was right for him to step up to an executive directorship, and his skill set fits in well with our future plans.” -Commissioner Eric Anderson

“We are confident that Jason Herbster can continue to elevate the CLPD, help refine our focus going forward, and play a key role in acquiring the facilities that this community has continually asked for.” -Commissioner Michael Zellmann