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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF MARY PAT DAILEY CROSS
WHEREAS, Mrs. Mary Pat Dailey Cross has retired from her position as the Special Assistant to the Deputy Superintendent at the Forest Preserve District of Cook County (the “Preserves”) after six years and after a twenty (20) year career at Cook County’s Department of Capital Planning; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Cross began her career with Cook County’s Department of Capital Planning in 1991, where she managed office operations, assisted in the development of departmental policies and procedures, organized and compiled proposals, arranged board items, prepared payroll and the annual budget and much more; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Cross joined the Preserves in 2011 where she played an instrumental role in the development of the Preserves’ Centennial Campaign and in planning the Preserves’ three (3) year Centennial Celebration all aimed at ensuring that the remarkable nature of the Preserves’ continues to thrive for the enjoyment of the people of Cook County; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Cross shepherded and managed the production of the Preserves’ 2017 Emmy Award winning documentary “Chicago’s True Nature” which has been seen by tens of thousands of people since the release; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Cross launched the Preserves’ first Green Team to identify how the Preserves could improve its sustainability efforts. The Green Team worked with the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to access internal sustainability and recycling and to identify improvements and implement best practices. The Green Team’s work led to the 30th Annual Illinois Governor’s Sustainability Award and the Best of the Best Green Practices Award from the Illinois Association of Park Districts, both in 2016; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Cross was deeply committed to ensuring that all of Cook County’s residents be aware of the many amenities the Preserves have to offer. She helped create and manage a parade float that celebrated the Preserves’ natural beauty and many outdoor recreational and educational opportunities. The Preserves’ float has participated in numerous parades and reached thousands of residents; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Cross spent each and every day dedicated to building a strong administrative infrastructure that enhanced the Preserves’ efficiency and effectiveness. She always went above and beyond in her work and her can-do attitude made small work of big tasks; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Cross always volunteered generously of her personal time and energy both on behalf of the Preserves and the many other causes that she cares about. An enthusiastic and talented photographer, she could often be found serving as the Preserves’ informal photographer at special events or out in nature capturing the beauty of native plants and animals; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Cross’ commitment to inclusion and her unfailing kindness, courtesy and helpfulness contributed significantly to a collegial and positive work environment. She is a champion of young people and mentored many of the Preserves’ interns; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Cross would want to recognize her two daughters Ashleigh St. Peters and Leigh Dailey Cross for all of their support over the years and she would want to especially remember and celebrate her beloved husband Chuck Cross with whom she shared 38 years in marriage and who was the delight of her heart; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Forest Preserve District of Cook County Board of Commissioners and on behalf of all citizens of Cook County do hereby congratulate Mary Pat Dailey Cross on a long and rich career of public service and thank Mrs. Cross for her many contributions to improve the health, beauty and sustainability of the Preserves; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be tendered to Mrs. Cross in recognition of her contribution to the Preserves, Cook County and her passion and dedication to a life of exemplary public service. end