Chicago Park District Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Chicago Park District has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, administration, and governance.

Driven by community engagement, Chicago Park District provides essential recreational services and park management across the city, fostering vibrant public spaces and promoting active lifestyles for all residents.

Leadership Roles at Chicago Park District

  • Chief Financial Officer - Steven Lux
  • Chief Operating Officer - Patrick Levar
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Elizabeth Tomlins
  • President - Sandra Holder
  • President of PAC for Williams and Davis - Carolyn Mitchell
  • Chief of Staff - Michael Merchant
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Richard Butler
  • Steven Lux - Chief Financial Officer

    Steven Lux, the Chief Financial Officer at Chicago Park District, directs all financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal management activities. Lux oversees the allocation of financial resources, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability for park operations and capital projects across Chicago. This critical role involves managing revenue streams, controlling expenditures, and developing financial strategies that support the district's long-term objectives. Steven Lux ensures compliance with all financial regulations and reporting requirements, maintaining transparency and accountability in all fiscal matters. The Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in securing funding and optimizing financial performance to support the district's mission of providing exceptional park services. Steven Lux's financial acumen is essential for the economic health and operational capacity of the Chicago Park District.
    Steven Lux

    Patrick Levar - Chief Operating Officer

    Patrick Levar, the Chief Operating Officer at Chicago Park District, oversees the daily operations and service delivery for all park facilities and recreational programs. Levar directs the management of park maintenance, public safety, and event coordination, ensuring high standards of service across the city's extensive park system. This leadership position involves optimizing resource allocation and operational workflows to enhance visitor experiences and maintain the integrity of public spaces. Patrick Levar drives initiatives focused on operational efficiency and service excellence, directly impacting the quality of recreational opportunities available to Chicago residents. The Chief Operating Officer ensures that all park operations adhere to safety regulations and community needs, supporting the district's mission to provide accessible and engaging public amenities. Patrick Levar's operational oversight is critical to the functional success of the Chicago Park District.
    Patrick Levar

    Elizabeth Tomlins - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Elizabeth Tomlins, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Chicago Park District, supports the Chief Operating Officer in managing the vast operational landscape of the city's parks. Tomlins focuses on specific operational domains, ensuring the efficient delivery of maintenance, programming, and facility management services. This role involves implementing operational strategies and overseeing project execution to enhance park usability and visitor satisfaction. Elizabeth Tomlins contributes to optimizing departmental workflows and resource deployment, directly supporting the district's commitment to providing high-quality recreational experiences. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer assists in ensuring operational compliance and safety standards across all park locations. Elizabeth Tomlins's operational support is vital for the effective functioning of the Chicago Park District's extensive network of public spaces.

    Sandra Holder - President

    Sandra Holder, the President at Chicago Park District, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire organization. Holder guides the district's mission to manage and enhance Chicago's park system, ensuring the provision of high-quality recreational services and public spaces. This role involves overseeing all major initiatives, fostering community partnerships, and ensuring fiscal responsibility across operations. Sandra Holder directs the executive team in achieving the district's goals for park development, programming, and community engagement. The President champions the district's commitment to accessibility, sustainability, and the overall well-being of Chicago residents through its extensive park network. Sandra Holder's leadership is pivotal in shaping the future of the Chicago Park District and its impact on the city.

    Carolyn Mitchell - President of PAC for Williams and Davis

    Carolyn Mitchell, the President of PAC for Williams and Davis at Chicago Park District, leads specific advocacy and political action committee functions related to key district initiatives. Mitchell directs efforts to engage stakeholders and advance the district's objectives through strategic communication and community outreach. This role involves coordinating activities that support the district's operational and developmental goals, particularly concerning the Williams and Davis initiatives. Carolyn Mitchell ensures that PAC activities align with the broader mission of enhancing Chicago's park system and recreational offerings. The President of PAC for Williams and Davis plays a crucial part in garnering support and facilitating progress on targeted projects. Carolyn Mitchell's focused leadership contributes to the strategic advancement of specific programs within the Chicago Park District.

    Michael Merchant - Chief of Staff

    Michael Merchant, the Chief of Staff at Chicago Park District, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across departments. Merchant coordinates key projects, ensuring departmental objectives directly support the district's overarching mission of providing comprehensive park management and recreational services. This role involves close collaboration with executive leadership to translate policy into actionable plans. Merchant oversees the implementation of new programs and operational efficiencies, driving the district's commitment to enhancing public spaces throughout Chicago. The Chief of Staff ensures seamless communication between the executive office and various operational units, facilitating effective decision-making and resource allocation. Michael Merchant's leadership focuses on optimizing internal processes to better serve the city's park users and stakeholders.

    Richard Butler - Chief Administrative Officer

    Richard Butler, the Chief Administrative Officer at Chicago Park District, directs the administrative functions essential for the organization's smooth operation. Butler oversees human resources, procurement, and general administrative services, ensuring efficient support for all district activities. This leadership position involves developing and implementing policies that enhance organizational effectiveness and employee engagement across the park system. Richard Butler ensures that administrative processes align with the district's strategic goals and operational needs, facilitating the delivery of park services throughout Chicago. The Chief Administrative Officer manages critical support functions that enable the district to effectively serve its community. Richard Butler's administrative oversight is fundamental to the operational capacity and employee welfare within the Chicago Park District.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Chicago Park District Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Chicago Park District?
    Chicago Park District is led by Steven Lux (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Patrick Levar (Chief Operating Officer) and Elizabeth Tomlins (Deputy Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Chicago Park District’s executive team?
    The executive team of Chicago Park District includes leaders such as Steven Lux (Chief Financial Officer), Patrick Levar (Chief Operating Officer), Elizabeth Tomlins (Deputy Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Chicago Park District have?
    Chicago Park District has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Chicago Park District’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Chicago Park District includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, President, President of PAC for Williams and Davis.