CEO Ramirez-Rosa Commits to Enhanced Security Measures, Expanded Training And Policy Awareness and Continued Efforts to Diversify Staff; Board Approves Contracts Vital to Park District Operations
Today, the 快播视频 Board of Commissioners meeting opened with a public presentation on the internal review following the tragic June 26 shooting by former lifeguard Charles Leto that claimed the life of 15-year-old Marjay Dotson and critically injured 14-year-old Jeremy Herred. In the presentation, the District shared the information gathered from staff interviews, emails, texts, incident reports, and other documentation. Based on those findings, the District identified gaps in employee oversight, communication, and documentation.
鈥淭his was a horrific and heartbreaking act of violence. We must act with urgency and integrity to ensure a tragedy like this never happens again,鈥 said General Superintendent and CEO Carlos Ramirez-Rosa. 鈥淥ur internal review was guided by three principles: thoroughness, transparency, and accountability. We are sharing our findings with the families, the public, and our Board because our communities deserve to know the truth and see how we鈥檙e responding.鈥
In response, the General Superintendent Ramirez-Rosa has directed a series of systemic reforms to improve safety, strengthen accountability, and support staff and community healing. Changes include expanded security coverage and assessment of current security staffing model and security camera system and use; expanded safety training and policy awareness; stronger oversight and disciplinary tracking; community-led safety planning; continued workforce diversification through the Lifeguard Explorers Program and improved cultural competency and employee support. The public can access the full summary of the internal review and key supporting documents on the Park District website.
Also during the meeting, the Board approved a two-year agreement with Moore Landscapes, LLC for the design, installation and maintenance of Districtwide floral gardens. The 快播视频 manages more than 70 floral gardens, many located in the most prominent and historically significant parks, that attract millions of visitors annually. The incumbent vendor for the previous contract, Moore Landscape has consistently performed well with design, installation and maintenance of floral gardens across the District as outlined in the agreement. The contract amount is not to exceed $4 million for the initial term. Participation for this contract is 25% MBE and 5% WBE, meeting the Park District鈥檚 goal.
The Board also authorized the District to exercise a one-year extension the contract with Cannon Cochran Management Services for administrative functions related to the District鈥檚 workman鈥檚 compensation program. Under the agreement, the firm鈥檚 responsibilities include effectively managing workers compensation claims, initiating prompt investigation and determination of liability, constructive communication and coordination with all interested parties; employee education and establishing measurable standards against which the Park District can evaluate the effectiveness of the program. The contract amount for the extension is not to exceed $163,656.00. Participation for this contract is 25% MBE and 5% WBE, meeting the Park District鈥檚 goal.
Other Board agenda items include the appointment of the Treasurer to the 快播视频 and appointment of the Trustee to the Park Employees鈥 Annuity and Benefits Fund. The Board also approved a workman鈥檚 compensation settlement in the amount of $ 183,000.00.
Next Board Meeting is September 10, 2025 at the 快播视频 Administration Building, 4830 South Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609 at 9 a.m.