Photo, The Record North Shore

Today’s Press Highlights Continued Community Pushback Against Gillson Beach Fence

Today’s article in The Record North Shore adds to the remarkable level of press coverage our community has garnered since the tremendously unpopular fence and fees were introduced at Gillson Beach just before Memorial Day. Today’s story is just one of many that have highlighted the ongoing issues with the park district, with coverage extending across local papers, citywide media, multiple TV news stations, radio, and even reaching international audiences. With nearly 20 stories in less than three months—roughly one every five days—let’s take a moment to appreciate the sustained attention we’ve achieved.

The Wilmette Park Board continues to absorb vocal criticism from opponents of a fence at Gillson Beach, with residents continuing to demand its removal at the board’s public meetings.

That criticism was on full display during the public comment period at the board’s regular meeting on Monday, Aug. 12, with most of the 16 speakers addressing the fence at some point during their remarks.

The Record North Shore article published August 14

This steady flow of press coverage reflects the growing recognition of the park district’s mismanagement and its unresponsiveness to the community’s clear and consistent demands. The Record North Shore is bringing continued attention to the ongoing public dissent at board meetings, where numerous speakers continue to unanimously voice their objections to the fence at Gillson Beach. The district’s refusal to engage meaningfully with these concerns only underscores their disconnect from the community they are supposed to serve.

The effectiveness of our efforts is evident in the fact that, despite the district’s attempts to ignore or dismiss us, our message is continuing to be broadcast far and wide. This consistent media coverage is important, as it keeps the pressure on the park district and ensures that our concerns remain front and center in public discourse. Every new article, broadcast, and mention amplifies our voices, ensuring that this board cannot simply brush this issue aside.

As we continue to attend board meetings, speak out, and engage with the media, it’s clear that our grassroots effort is making a significant impact. Each contribution—whether it’s a letter, a comment at a meeting, or an interview—plays an important role in maintaining this momentum. The continued focus on the fence at Gillson Beach is a testament to the power of community action and the importance of staying committed to our cause.

Moving forward, let’s acknowledge the strength of our collective voice. The unwavering dedication of everyone involved is not only keeping the conversation alive but also pushing it forward. Together, we are making a real difference, and with continued persistence, we can achieve our goals.

Photo Credit: The Record North Shore


Comments

5 responses to “Today’s Press Highlights Continued Community Pushback Against Gillson Beach Fence”

  1. Joanna Prisiajniouk Avatar
    Joanna Prisiajniouk

    Thanks for the persistence! Much appreciate it and I too have voiced my comments! After 100 years of handling issues, they are clearly manageable enough not to have made this expensive, ugly and authoritarian changes! Just unacceptable!

  2. Sondra Mihelbergel Avatar
    Sondra Mihelbergel

    My husband and I are seniors. We have used Gillson Beach for many years. It is a beautiful place to sit and reflect on
    Life and enjoy nature. It has now been taken away from us. We have not been down there because the fence has ruined the beauty of this beautiful place. The Board is not listening to the
    Residents of Wilmette.

  3. Ann Fitzgerald Avatar
    Ann Fitzgerald

    I am a senior with some mobility issues, and would often go to the South Beach ! It was such a pleasure to relax by the water ! The views of the Lake were just Beautiful ! Now the views are obstructed, and the area is not as easy to navigate ! It is quite SAD !!

  4. Glynis Doyle Avatar
    Glynis Doyle

    My husband and I often walk to the beach. It’s beautiful. During the height of Covid we walked there daily, and would oftentimes see many of the same faces (albeit with masks). We have not gone back once we saw the fence. The fence has obstructed the beautiful views. As there is more and more development on the north shore, this is one of the few spaces left to enjoy nature, and it has been ruined.

  5. Magdalena Wester Avatar
    Magdalena Wester

    Me and my family have enjoyed walking and driving to the beach and the surrounding area for our peace of mind. Sadly, have not been able to go back so often because of the fences. Now I wait when things are out of season to enjoy lake and nature that is right here but not accessible. Sadly, we just have to travel to other places.

    For my daughter, I would love for this area to be clean, accessible and free. Where else can we get such undisturbed view of lake and the nature near by?

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