Title
AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER V OF THE CODE OF THE CHICAGO PARK DISTRICT
Body
To the Honorable Board of Commissioners of the Chicago Park District:
I. Recommendation
It is recommended that the Board of Commissioners approve the amendments to Chapter V of the Code of the Chicago Park District.
II. Explanation
Chapter 70 ILCS 1505/7.02 enables the Board of Commissioners to “establish by ordinance all needful rules and regulations for the government and protection of parks.” Therefore, it is recommended that the Board of Commissioners approve the proposed amendments to Chapter V in order to align this chapter with applicable law. The proposed amendments are set forth in full in the enclosed Exhibit A.
The Chicago Park District did receive comments from Alderman Villegas as well as the Coalition Unions and one individual veteran through our public webform. The President of the Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County also spoke at the May Board Meeting. All the comments appeared to mistakenly interpreted the Code amendments as a change or reduction to benefits provided. However, the proposed amendments will not change any past practice or benefits offered to our veteran employees as the Park District will continue to follow applicable local and federal Military Leave laws/policies. Commenters were advised of this and that unionized employees were covered under CBAs which language remains unchanged and grants qualifying employees Military Leave in accordance with applicable law.
The General Superintendent recommends that the Board approve the amendments to Chapter V of the Code as set forth in Exhibit A to the Ordinance.
Upon final approval, the General Counsel shall review, prepare and publish electronic copies of the Code of the Chicago Park District that have been revised by reason of these amendments.