Kewanee Park District Director Andy Dwyer joined Wake Up Tri-Counties from the new pavilion in Baker Park. Andy talked about Bakersville, which is this Saturday, October 4th; plans for an expansion to the Baker Park Clubhouse; recovering from damage from multiple severe storms over the last few years; the function of the Kewanee Park District; and plans for other Kewanee Park District parks. The Kewanee Park District is its own taxing body, with its own board of commissioners and its own parks. While the City of Kewanee collects taxes and maintains city parks, the Kewanee Park District is a separate entity that relies on tax revenue and revenue collected through Baker Park Golf Course, Windmont, Chautauqua, Liberty, and Northeast Parks. Technically, Liberty Park doesn’t generate revenue, but it now houses the long-awaited splash pad. The park district has almost paid off two bonds and will issue new bonds to fund the clubhouse expansion in Baker Park. The expansion will add a banquet room for event rental, expand the 19th Hole Restaurant, allowing the restaurant to remain open year-round, and add a golf pro shop. The clubhouse expansion is part of the park district’s long-term plan and has been in the early planning phase for a couple of years. Upgrades to the shelter houses in Chautauqua and Windmont Parks are planned after the clubhouse expansion. The pool at Northeast Park is in the long-term plan, but it runs at a large loss each year and will require millions of dollars to replace.
Excitement is building as Bakersville 2025 prepares to open at Baker Park in Kewanee on October 4th. This cherished celebration kicks off the Halloween season with hayrack rides weaving through woods filled with entertaining scenes for all ages—from the spooky to the silly. The event features snacks and drinks at The 19th Hole, free tarot card readings, photo ops, a movie, and the cozy addition of fire tables at the Kewanee Park District pavilion. Tickets are available to purchase on Thursday from 10 AM to 5 PM at Mike Miler Edward Jones, and from 5 to 8 PM at Head Nods and High Fives. Tickets are available on Friday at Head Nods and High Fives from 5 to 8 PM. Tickets remain in high demand and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis from 6 PM the day of the event.
The Kewanee Park District invites local photographers to showcase their talents in a contest highlighting the beauty and spirit of Kewanee parks. Participants may enter photos in categories such as wildlife, landscapes and nature, people enjoying recreation, and sports. All ages and skill levels are welcome to submit their best shots. The deadline to enter is November 1st. Winners will have their work displayed publicly and receive recognition from the Park District. Full contest rules and entry forms are available on the Kewanee Park District’s official website. Photographers are encouraged to get creative and capture what makes local parks special.
