Mayor Brandon Johnson has appointed Alderman Carlos Ramirez-Rosa as the new General Superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District. This appointment aims to build on the legacy of outgoing Superintendent Escareño, focusing on equitable service for all communities in Chicago.
“Alderman Carlos Ramirez-Rosa is a passionate public servant with a decade of municipal leadership experience and a successful track record of building coalitions and delivering significant community investments,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. He emphasized the importance of making the Park District more accessible, especially in underserved areas, to enhance life quality for all residents.
Mayor Johnson also expressed gratitude for CEO Escareño’s leadership during challenging times, noting her efforts in rebuilding trust across communities. “I know that she will be a fantastic resource for Alderman Ramirez-Rosa as we make this transition,” he added.
Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, elected three times to represent the 35th Ward, brings extensive experience in securing funding for park improvements. He co-led the passage of Municipal Ordinance 2024-10158, which increased funding for parkland acquisition.
“I am excited to support the appointment of Carlos Ramirez-Rosa to serve as Chicago Park District CEO,” stated Dr. Marlon Everett, President of the Chicago Park District Board. He praised Ramirez-Rosa as a lifelong Chicagoan committed to serving all residents.
Ramirez-Rosa has worked with community members on issues like public safety and park maintenance. He has secured millions in funding for urban green space improvements and advocated for equitable infrastructure and youth programs.
“I want to thank Mayor Johnson for this opportunity and CEO Escareño for her leadership,” said Alderman Carlos Ramirez-Rosa. He expressed gratitude towards his constituents in the 35th Ward and looked forward to ensuring all Chicagoans can enjoy city parks.
Before his tenure on City Council, Ramirez-Rosa worked as a congressional aide, union staffer, deportation defense organizer with ICIRR, and Local School Council representative at Avondale-Logandale School. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and was recognized by Crain’s Chicago Business as “20 in their 20s” in 2016 and “40 Under 40” in 2023.
The appointment awaits approval from the Chicago Park District Board. Mayor Johnson plans to initiate a community-led process to appoint a new Alderman for the 35th Ward.