In the wake of widespread criticism regarding the Chicago Park District's handling of the lifeguard sexual-abuse investigation, Board President Avis LaVelle announced her resignation Nov. 10, The Chicago Tribune reported.
"I am deeply sorry for the culture of abuse and harassment that was allowed to fester in the beaches and pools division of the Chicago Park District," LaVelle said. "It is apparent that this went on for many years, even decades, before I joined the Chicago Park District board. I take responsibility because it came to light on my watch."
In a statement, Mayor Lori Lightfoot said LaVelle would be replaced on an interim basis by board Vice President Tim King, per state statute.
LaVelle's resignation happened a month after Park District superintendent/CEO Michael Kelly resigned on the same day that Lightfoot joined several aldermen in calling for his ouster. Interim Superintendent Rosa Escareno has succeeded Kelly.
Recently, Park District commissioners released the results of an independent investigation that detailed the agency's mishandling of sexual-abuse claims. Escareno then announced she had fired three high-level managers.