? Myth

The Oak Brook Park District is part of the Village of Oak Brook.

✓ Fact

The Oak Brook Park District and the Village of Oak Brook are two separate local governments. Each has its own elected board, budget, staff, and responsibilities while working together to serve the community.

? Myth

The Oak Brook Park District boundaries are the same as the Village of Oak Brook boundaries.

✓ Fact

The Oak Brook Park District boundaries are not the same as the Village boundaries. The Park District serves the entire Village of Oak Brook, as well as areas beyond the Village limits.

? Myth

The Family Recreation Center and pool were built at the same time.

✓ Fact

The Family Recreation Center opened first. The outdoor pool was added four years later as a separate expansion to the facility.

? Myth

The Park District can spend money without Board approval.

✓ Fact

Expenditures are governed by the approved budget, purchasing policies, financial controls, and Board authorization where required.

? Myth

The pond at the Dean Nature Sanctuary is a natural pond.

✓ Fact

The pond was created in the 1950s when clay was removed from the Dean property during construction of the Tri-State Tollway. The pond was built in exchange for allowing the clay to be used for construction.

? Myth

The plants growing along the north side of Ginger Creek by the seating area are weeds that need to be cleaned up.

✓ Fact

What may look like overgrown vegetation is an intentional natural planting area. Native and pollinator plants help support bees, butterflies, and other wildlife while also contributing to the natural habitat along Ginger Creek.

? Myth

A Family Recreation Center Membership only includes access to Fit Central and the indoor walking track.

✓ Fact

A Family Recreation Center Membership includes access to Fit Central, the indoor walking track, Swim Central, Splash Island, Open Gym, Pickleball, and a variety of fitness and aqua classes.

? Myth

Attorney invoices are confidential, so Commissioners can't see them.

✓ Fact

Transparency and confidentiality can go hand in hand. Commissioners have access to attorney invoices, and the acknowledgment helps protect privileged legal information from being shared outside the attorney-client relationship.

? Myth

Fishing isn't allowed in Oak Brook Park District parks.

✓ Fact

Fishing is welcome at designated Park District locations, including the fishing ponds and Ginger Creek at Central Park, as well as the pond at the Dean Nature Sanctuary. Central Park even features a dedicated fishing dock on Ginger Creek. Catch-and-release fishing is permitted, making these great places to cast a line and enjoy the outdoors. Just remember: anglers age 16 and older must have a valid Illinois fishing license, unless exempt under state law.