Jason Herbster, Executive Director, To Retire in April 2026 After 16 Years of Service to the Crystal Lake Park District

Fri February 6, 2026

After 36 years of service to the Parks & Recreation field—and 16 incredible years with the Crystal Lake Park District—we announce the retirement of our Executive Director, Jason Herbster. Jason’s last day will be April 17, 2026.

During his tenure, Jason helped shape the Crystal Lake community in lasting ways, leading projects and improvements that many of us enjoy every day, including the West Beach Building re-build, Lakewood Meadows Park, Main Beach Pavilion renovations, Main Beach Park southside renovations, Della Park renovation, three splash pads, and the purchase of the Parks Maintenance Building. Under his leadership, the Park District also expanded services like pickleball, day camp, Extended Time, senior programming, and theater programming, while continuing to invest in facility improvements and maintenance to care for what we have.

Above all, Jason is most proud of building a high-functioning team and a culture rooted in happiness, quality work, and results—a legacy that will continue well beyond his retirement.

Jason will be deeply missed by his co-workers and the entire Crystal Lake community. Please join us in thanking him for his leadership, dedication, and the countless ways he has made our parks, programs, and people stronger.