Batavia parks have an ally

A political committee has formed to persuade voters to say "yes" to the Batavia Park District's request for $36 million to build a recreation center and new Quarry Beach.

Friends for Batavia's New Community and Recreation Center and Aquatics Center filed a statement of organization with the state board of elections Sept. 16.

Co-chairman John Tilmon, founder and president of MSC Services Corp., said he became involved because of his volunteer work for the Batavia Park District's youth basketball program. Kids now practice at Batavia High School and Rotolo Middle School.

"I'm passionate about activities with the park district," he said. He believes a recreation center at the quarry site would draw people to downtown Batavia.

As for the historical aspect of Quarry Beach, he noted that it has been renovated several times. "The Quarry is in serious need of repair. There is very little left from the original quarry," he said.

Tilmon acknowledges it's a bad time to be asking for money, and that there is never a good time.

"If they (taxes) go up, I'd like them to be for something that helps the town," he said.

People interested in contacting the group can e-mail yesforfitfunfamily@gmail.com.

The Batavia Park District will have informational forums at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, and Wednesday, Oct. 22, at the Civic Center, 327 W. Wilson St.