Barr on pools, parks and properties

Elected in April, Janet Barr is currently serving a four-year term as a commissioner on the Downers Grove Park Board. Along with her role as a commissioner, Barr is also the board’s representative to the South East Association for Special Parks and Recreation.

Q Where do you stand on the issue of building a pool in Downers Grove? If you are in favor of it, what type of pool would you like to see?

A I love to swim and I think that it would be nice to have a Park District pool. However, there are lots of swimming options for me already and so I don't think there is any big hurry to build a Park District pool. I think the Park Board needs to take the time to do careful planning including finding a suitable site, determining a budget and financing strategy and gathering input from the community. Most important for me is that the board needs to bring the detailed plan to the voters in a binding referendum.

Q You had concerns as a resident when the Recreation Center was built. Now, as a commissioner, how do view its impact on the community?

A As a neighbor to the Recreation Center, I know that it is a very popular facility and used regularly by many people in our community. As a board member, it allows us the opportunity to offer great programs. As a SEASPAR board member, I know what a wonderful facility it is for the special needs members of our community. And as a Fitness Club member, I regularly enjoy the health club facility myself. I think that there were mistakes made when the Recreation Center was built, and I think that the board and the community have learned from those mistakes and we won't make them again in future projects.

Q What would you like to see happen with the recently acquired property on Venard Road?

A The Venard Road Property is next door to Doerhoefer Park and there is often a shortage of parking at that park. When the Board voted to purchase the property on Venard, we discussed using the property to help alleviate the parking shortage. I think that is probably the best and most logical use for the property.