title
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
CELEBRATING THE CAREER AND HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF MICHELLE GAGE
WHEREAS, Ms. Michelle Gage has provided over 30 years of public service in local government agencies including 16 years as the Human Resources Manager at the Chicago Park District where she was responsible for all aspects of human resources for up to 900 employees, and will retire from her position as Director of Human Resources for the Forest Preserves of Cook County, after 14 years of service, on December 31, 2024; and
WHEREAS, Michelle has a B.A. degree in political science (public law) from Northern Illinois University, has served on the Board of Directors for Harriet's Daughters, and has been an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management, Illinois Park and Recreation Association, Illinois Association of Park Districts, and the City Parks Alliance; and
WHEREAS, her compassionate and caring attitude, her boundless energy, her commitment to finding solutions, and her lively sense of humor made her a valued colleague and an exceptional human resources director; and
WHEREAS, in her role as the Director of Human Resources for the Forest Preserves, she managed an infrastructure that supports over 700 full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees, ensuring that its human relations practices are fair, transparent and effective; and
WHEREAS, Michelle oversaw hiring, employee relations, change management, conflict resolution, labor relations, performance management and employee recognition initiatives, as well as instituted human resources policies, implemented equal employment opportunity practices, and assessed organizational as well as employee needs; and
WHEREAS, Michelle was instrumental in drafting the Forest Preserves' original Employment Plan and has drafted and obtained approval of amendments crucial for effective employment practices in the Forest Preserves; and
WHEREAS, Michelle facilitated the Forest Preserves' dismissal as a Defendant und...
Click here for full text