President Preckwinkle: Randall’s 13-year impact “extraordinary by every metric”

Forest Preserves of Cook County General Superintendent Arnold Randall announced today that he will step down from the position in January. Randall was appointed in 2010 by Forest Preserve District of Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle.

“Arnold has been a calm, collaborative and strategic leader, always looking for how to advance the mission of the Forest Preserves of Cook County: protect our natural places and connect more people to nature. The changes over the 13 years he has been general superintendent have been extraordinary by every metric. The organization is more effective and efficient, there are more resources, better partnerships, new programs, healthier habitats—the list goes on and on. While none of us want to see to see him go, he leaves an indelible legacy with the agency firmly headed in the right direction,” President Preckwinkle said.

During Randall’s tenure, the Forest Preserves has become a more transparent and accountable government agency, with increased commitments to restoring and protecting Cook County’s most precious natural areas, sustainability, and racial equity, diversity and inclusion. Key accomplishments include the ambitious Next Century Conservation Plan; a celebration of the 100-year anniversary of the Preserves; developing strategic plans for recreation, trails, habitat restoration and more; building and strengthening partnerships, including creating an independent advisory Conservation and Policy Council; and opening five new campgrounds that re-establish the legacy of camping in the Preserves.

The Forest Preserves remained open during the Covid pandemic shut-down, a decision that required constant monitoring of public health guidelines but provided the public with a respite during that trying time. The Forest Preserves estimates that annual visits rose from approximately 62 million annually to 100 million in 2020. Most recently, voters overwhelmingly approved a referendum to raise the property tax levy for the Forest Preserves, adding more than $40 million annually in funding and putting the organization on a sustainable fiscal path.

“It has been an honor to be part of the legacy of leadership at the Forest Preserves. I thank President Preckwinkle for the opportunity and support, the staff for their vision and dedication, the Board of Commissioners for their backing, and the Preserves’ many advocates, volunteers, partners and collaborators. Like you, I deeply believe in what the Forest Preserves provides, and I am proud of the work we have done together,” General Superintendent Randall said.

Deputy General Superintendent Eileen Figel will serve as the Interim General Superintendent of the Forest Preserves beginning in January. Randall will be leaving the government sector for a new opportunity, with an announcement of his next position expected soon.

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About the Forest Preserves of Cook County
Don’t you sometimes just want to escape? Explore the natural beauty of Cook County for an hour, a day or even a night. When you’re surrounded by 70,000 acres of wild and wonderful there’s no better place to feel free.