Looking To Get Out On The Water This Summer?

by Kathy Savolt -

One of the Village’s greatest assets is our Harbor Island Park waterfront but not everyone has the opportunity to get out on the water.  To improve access and to respond to increasing public inquiries, staff investigated self-service kayak and paddle board rentals.

Jason Pinto, Recreation Superintendent, presented the staff’s work and recommendations to the Board of Trustees (BOT) at the May 11, 2026 Work Session (see HERE).  He reviewed the process, summarized proposals, and presented the staff recommendation to enter negotiations with Rent.Fun.  The Village would pay an activation fee of $45,000 over two years.  The Village would receive 37% of the gross rental revenue annually.  But, as Village Manager Kathleen Gill pointed out, the purpose of this was not to generate revenue but to provide access to people who otherwise would not have it.

Rental fees have not been finalized but would be in the $35-$40 range for a two-hour rental.  All equipment will have tracking devices for safety purposes.  Vendor staff will monitor these devices and maintain insurance.

The BOT will vote on the recommendation at the May 26^th Legislative Meeting.