Meet Mary

As a mother, grandmother, and retired attorney, I bring a wealth of experience as a public servant with a deep commitment to community. My lengthy history of service has equipped me with the professional expertise to influence policy-making, regulation, and legislation on behalf of various non-governmental organizations—both formal and informal—dedicated to improving lives.

As a child, I found my window to the world in the parks, where I took lessons of all sorts, spent hours in the playgrounds and attended summer camps. As a parent, one of my greatest joys was sitting in the bleachers watching my own children play sports and participate on the cheer squads. Now I enjoy taking long walks and sitting quietly in the dog park,

My journey into citizen action began decades ago when my parents led a campaign to preserve a cherished parcel of natural woodlands, which was ultimately handed over to our local park district. Today, that land boasts beautiful walking and biking trails, serving as a beloved community asset.

I am running for the Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park District, Division 5, because I want to ensure that our parks and recreational facilities are not only preserved but also maintained, kept safe, and improved for future generations. I hope to earn your support in this important endeavor!”

- Mary Kennedy

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Volunteer

Meet Mary

As a mother, grandmother, and retired attorney, I bring a wealth of experience as a public servant with a deep commitment to community. My lengthy history of service has equipped me with the professional expertise to influence policy-making, regulation, and legislation on behalf of various non-governmental organizations—both formal and informal—dedicated to improving lives.

As a child, I found my window to the world in the parks, where I took lessons of all sorts, spent hours in the playgrounds and attended summer camps. As a parent, one of my greatest joys was sitting in the bleachers watching my own children play sports and participate on the cheer squads. Now I enjoy taking long walks and sitting quietly in the dog park,

My journey into citizen action began decades ago when my parents led a campaign to preserve a cherished parcel of natural woodlands, which was ultimately handed over to our local park district. Today, that land boasts beautiful walking and biking trails, serving as a beloved community asset.

I am running for the Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park District, Division 5, because I want to ensure that our parks and recreational facilities are not only preserved but also maintained, kept safe, and improved for future generations. I hope to earn your support in this important endeavor!”

- Mary Kennedy

Donate

Volunteer

Background

Education:

Loyola University of Chicago – B.A. Theatre
University of Michigan – M.A. Speech
Loyola University of Chicago – J.D.
University of Illinois, Chicago, School of Law – LL.M.
Tennessee State University – Graduate studies in Public Administration

Work History

Deputy General Counsel, Tennessee Department of Health
Chief Administrative Law Judge, Illinois Human Rights Commission
Deputy Guardian ad Litem, Cook County, Illinois
Chief Administrative Law Judge, Illinois Department of Children & Family Services
Chief of Sales Tax Prosecution Illinois Department of Revenue
General Counsel – Illinois Department of Employment Security

Priorities

A view to the future

Anticipating growth and changing demographics to ensure that spaces and programming reflect the needs of the community. This is especially important for residents south of the 101, as many of them are five or more miles from the nearest park although they, too, contribute tax dollars to the District.

CO-OPERATION & COLLABORATION

The Recreation and Parks District serves the entire Camarillo community, including the unincorporated areas. It’s important to obtain input on critical decisions from all of the affected parties, including residents, employees, local businesses and organizations and other government agencies. Good listening precedes good decision making.

Fiscal responsibility

The Board is responsible for the thoughtful allocation of resources, and preparation for anticipated maintenance and replacement needs. This process should be open, understandable and transparent to the community and all who do business with the district.