The Latest Breaking News from Park District

Not everyone lives by a beach, so the delay means one fewer summer activity for residents, especially teenagers, who were cooped up inside the last two summers due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Today’s update is a 5-minute read that will brief you on the day’s biggest stories.

The effort to open pools has been hampered by a lifeguard shortage — a nationwide problem but one made worse locally by a Park District lifeguard harassment scandal, despite the offer of bonuses.

CHICAGO — As Friday marked the official start of summer beach season, the city continues to face a severe, widespread lifeguard shortage that could result in closed beaches and pools later this year.

If you're looking for an apartment in Glasgow overlooking the city's stunning skyline, you may want to race to the bank now. This two bed property is bound to sell fast!

Following an investigation into allegations of rampant sexual abuse and harassment among its lifeguards, and a national lifeguard shortage, the Park District is trying to attract summer workers with a monetary bonus.

CHICAGO — A coalition of news organizations convened by the Chicago Tribune is seeking to block the Chicago Park District’s efforts to seal a pending lawsuit alleging Mayor Lori Lightfoot yelled obscenities at and defamed a Park District attorney during a call about a controversial Christopher Columbus statue.

Seven months after former parks boss Mike Kelly’s ouster, Mayor Lori Lightfoot and the Chicago Park District board have yet to name a permanent superintendent — and won’t say why they haven't. This makes no sense.

The mayor’s laudatory comments appeared to signal support for Rosa Escareno. But when the Park District board emerged from a lengthy executive session, it announced her contract would be extended, but only through May 31.

The Chicago Park District board is scheduled to hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday. That’s when a decision could be made about Escareno’s future heading into the all-important summer recreation season.

CHICAGO — Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s long-delayed review of Chicago monuments still isn’t completed, but the mayor has restated her controversial pledge to return a Christopher Columbus statue to its prominent pedestal in Grant Park — the site of a bloody battle between police and demonstrators nearly two years ago.