top of page
WSP LOGO.png

The Advisory Council

What is the Washington Square Park Advisory Council?

A Park Advisory Council (PAC) is a volunteer group that meets regularly to support and improve their local park. These councils promote use of Chicago Park District programs and facilities, share community feedback, and raise awareness about park projects. PACs enhance parks by organizing events, supporting programs, fundraising for improvements, sharing community feedback with park staff, and advocating for better services. The PAC at Washington Square Park is 1 of the 255 PACs in the Chicago Park District network.

​

The 2026 PAC meetings will take place at 6:00pm CT at Newberry Library on the following dates:​

  • May 13

  • July 8

  • September 16

  • November 11

If You Want to Change It, You Need to Champion It!!

Washington Square Park belongs to all of us. The Advisory Council is made up entirely of volunteers, and the park is strongest when neighbors bring not only ideas, but the passion to help make them a reality. Whether you have an idea for an event, a beautification project, a communications initiative, or a new community program, we'll help you get started—but the most meaningful change happens when community members choose to champion it. That's how lasting improvements are made. We encourage you to come to a meeting, build a proposal, recruit volunteers, and help carry it through. Complaints without champions do not drive change. 

How do I join the Washington Square Park Advisory Council?

All PACs are led by community volunteers and any local members of the public over the age of 18 are invited to join the advisory council!

 

The first step to becoming a member of the PAC is to attend a meeting. Our meetings are typically held on the 2nd Wednesday of every-other month at 6:00pm at Newberry Library. Be sure to stay up to date on upcoming meetings and any changes by subscribing to our email communications, following us on Facebook, or frequently checking for meeting postings in the East and West Kiosks at Washington Square Park.  

​

Individuals interested in becoming a PAC member must complete an application and attend at least 2 meetings in one calendar year in order for their membership to be considered active and in good standing. PAC members in good standing retain voting rights for topics at each meeting and may run for office in upcoming PAC Executive Committee elections. Read our bylaws for more information on membership.

What does a PAC do?

Park Advisory Councils play an active, supportive role in improving and activating their local parks. Their work focuses on community engagement, collaboration with park staff, and enhancing the park experience for all. PACs can:

  • Raise funds to support park improvements (e.g., landscaping, hanging flower baskets, seasonal lighting)

  • Organize and host programs, events, and activities in the park

  • Lead and coordinate park clean-up efforts

  • Share information and post signage to increase community awareness

  • Communicate community feedback, concerns, and ideas to park staff

  • Report safety issues, criminal activity, or maintenance concerns to park officials

  • Collaborate with park staff to enhance park services and amenities

What does a PAC NOT do?

All PAC members are held to a PAC Code of Conduct which includes treating every park patron with respect and fairness. It is important to note that while PAC members contribute in many meaningful ways, they do not have authority over enforcement or official park operations. Our role is advisory and supportive, not regulatory or disciplinary.

 

PACs cannot:

  • Issue permits or grant official approvals for events or park use

  • Enforce park rules, policies, or laws

  • Police behavior, including responsible dog ownership

  • Remove or confront individuals violating rules or laws

  • Handle or remove encampments or other sensitive situations

  • Conduct welfare checks, provide social services, or respond to individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health concerns, or substance use challenges

  • Perform law enforcement or emergency response duties

  • Address medical emergencies or safety threats

  • Repair, maintain, or manage park infrastructure, including fountains, drinking fountains, lighting, landscaping, grass, trees, or other park fixtures

  • Remove litter, pet waste, fallen limbs, or other maintenance concerns outside of volunteer clean-up efforts

  • Manage pest control, wildlife concerns, or animal-related issues

  • Make decisions about park staffing, schedules, maintenance priorities, or Chicago Park District operations

​

For concerns related to park operations, maintenance, permits, safety, or Chicago Park District services, please contact our park supervisor, Ariel Hernandez, at ariel.hernandez@chicagoparkdistrict.com​

​

How is the PAC structured?

The Washington Square Park Advisory Council consists of a Park Supervisor, an Executive Team, and the following committees: Communications, Fundraising, Landscaping, Programs, Membership, and Safety. Any PAC member in good standing is invited to participate in any of our committees. 

Washington Square Park Advisory Council Leadership

Ariel Hernandez,

Park Supervisor

Courtney Clay,

PAC President

Justin Szerlong,

PAC Vice President

Rafael Gomes,

PAC Secretary

Amy Podzius,

PAC Treasurer

Barbara Clark

Committee Chair

Elaine Cohen,

Committee Chair

Jeff Sydel,

Committee Chair

Mary Lou Sydel,

Committee Chair

Sam Young,

Committee Chair

bottom of page