Dear Neighbor:

Monday, March 24, 2025 marked my last full day as 35th Ward Alderman. Reflecting on my 10 years as alderman, I’ve learned the role of an alderperson is vital, but it’s the people—their unity, vision, and collective action—that shape a community’s future. While I’ll miss working with the 35th Ward's incredible neighbors, volunteers, and organizations, I’m confident our progress will continue. In 2015, I helped launch United Neighbors of the 35th Ward to ensure our community would have a voice. Now, that movement is helping elect progressive leaders to every level of government.

As I step into a citywide leadership role as General Superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District, I’m deeply grateful to my incredible ward office team over the years and the residents who worked alongside us. Together, we built new affordable housing and passed historic legislation to protect immigrants, the LGBTQIA+ community, women, and workers, advancing equity and justice throughout Chicago. We could never have accomplished all that we did without your trust and support over five elections—three as alderperson and two as Democratic Committeeman.

Serving the 35th Ward has been an incredible honor. I’m thankful for the lessons, relationships, and the model of progressive good governance we built together. As I begin my role at the helm of the Park District, I’m excited to serve all 2.7 million residents of Chicago with the same care and dedication I’ve given to the 35th Ward's families.

Thank you, 35th Ward, for your trust, support, and friendship over the years. As the new CEO of the Chicago Park District, I am committed to advancing and protecting our city’s public parks for the benefit of all 77 communities that make up our great city. I will put to good use the lessons I learned from all the 35th Ward’s wonderful community members.

Sincerely, Carlos

Carlos Ramirez-Rosa