Advisory Councils

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An advisory council is a voluntary group of individuals who meet on a regular basis to support the effective functioning of their local park. Park Advisory Councils (PACs)in Chicago represent more than 225 parks in all 77 community areas across the city, as the community voice for their neighborhood park, children’s playground, beach or natural area.

Councils promote ways for the community to better utilize the Chicago Park District's programs and facilities; provide communication to the Chicago Park District on matters relating to their parks; increase community awareness of Chicago Park District projects; provide the community with a vehicle through which park information can be shared; and assist in locating alternate funding sources to enhance park facilities. In an effort to do these things, many councils host events and other related activities throughout the year.

The Chicago Park District seeks advisement from councils regarding services provided to parks, needs, problems, accomplishments, and any other matters councils consider important to the operation of their parks.

PACs help make a difference in their parks whether they are partnering with their park, creating a garden, fundraising for a new playground, hosting special events, sponsoring a recreation program, or advocating for improved services.

The Chicago Park District encourages interested park patrons to participate in or form an advisory council in their local park.
 

Forming a Park Advisory Council

  1. Meet with the Park Supervisor to discuss forming a Park Advisory Council

  2. Submit a letter of intent to the Park Supervisor

  3. Set up a community meeting that encompasses the areas around the play lot

  4. Post fliers in the park, aldermanic office, library, and surrounding community groups, local businesses etc.

  5. Invite the Chicago Park District to talk about advisory councils

  6. All interested members must fill out the PAC Application

  7. Schedule elections giving a 14 day-notice

  8. Complete the New PAC Registration form once you an elected board is set up.

What makes a PAC compliant?

Registered Chicago Park District PACs enjoy the use of rooms, space for their monthly meeting, application fee waivers, expedited event permit processing, partnership benefits of no or reduced fees and liability insurance. If a PAC is not compliant they will not be privy to these benefits.

To be compliant, PACs must:

  • Submit the Annual Report
  • Hold Elections
  • Submit Bylaws to the Chicago Park District
  • Maintain PAC Binder in the park, which includes: meeting agendas, meeting minutes, financial reports & sign in sheets
  • Follow the Code of Conduct
     

Advisory Council Forms

All existing and newly formed advisory councils and those interested in becoming an advisory council, must review and complete the forms below. Email  the completed Application, Registration Form, Partnership Pledge and By-Laws to the Chicago Park District Community Engagement Department to lca@chicagoparkdistrict.com. 

If you have any further questions about Chicago Park District advisory councils, please call the Department of Community Engagement at (312) 742-2797 or email lca@chicagoparkdistrict.com.