About the Candidate
Name: Toneal M. Jackson
DOB: April 12, 1980
Occupation: Author and Entrepreneur
Political Experience: Chairwoman of the Cook County Green Party
Website: https://mwrdgreens.org
Twitter: @APSNternational
Facebook: https://facebook.com/mynameistoneal/
Instagram: @APSNternational @educatedandempowered2.0
Candidate Statement
Hi. My name is Toneal M. Jackson, and I'm the Green Party candidate for Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, 2-year unexpired term. I'm running because I believe that it's time for the residents of Cook County to be made aware of the significance of this office. Commissioner Kim DuBuclet is quoted as saying, "The MWRD is the most important agency that no one knows about" and I think that it's high time that we change that. With my entrepreneurial background, I know how to promote and engage with the community. And as an author, I have what it takes to not only research, but also write the necessary policy and procedures to protect our water environment.
I am one who has the best interest of the community at heart, which is one of the reasons that I believe the Independent Voters of Illinois-Independent Precinct Organization, or IVI-IPO, endorsed me. They saw my passion for people, as well as the work that I've been doing for almost a decade. Despite the hardships, I continue to show up. I always give my best and my zeal is contagious.
So, if you want a commissioner who will interact with the community, keep you educated and updated about issues such as stormwater, wastewater and flood prevention, and empower you to take actions toward leading a cleaner, greener lifestyle, then vote for me for commissioner of the MWRD. My name is Toneal, and I'm the candidate that will keep you educated and empowered. On November 8th, take a step in the right direction and punch 57.
Candidate Q&A
Why are you running?
I believe I can help the MWRD become a better functioning agency. I believe that having someone from the Green Party whose underlying principles align with their mission is fundamental for achieving growth and change.
What does this office do well, and what needs fixing?
I believe that some of the plans they have implemented, they've been effective in their execution. They need to do better with getting the community involved with the overall purpose of water conservation and environmental protection. That starts with reaching the public and educating them on the issues and that's what I believe I will be able to do more effectively than what's been done in the past.
What is the most pressing issue facing your constituents and how do you plan on addressing it?
Water pollution. I plan on creating methods that would decrease pollutants such as unused pharmaceuticals from further contaminating the (main) water (supply).
What specific steps would you take to ensure your office is accessible and responsive to your constituents?
Open communication is huge. Having public forums, town halls, etc., where people feel encouraged to not only voice their concerns, but also follow-ups to show that they've been heard and that actions will be taken to rectify their issues. Don't over-promise, but over-deliver to restore faith of the people in the MWRD and the board of commissioners.
