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, I’m Toneal M. Jackson commissioner candidate for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, two-year term.
As a member of the Green Party, some of our primary concerns, such as green infrastructure, water contamination, and climate change, are the very issues that face the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. I understand that these problems can’t be solved unless everyone gets involved to become part of the solution. The dilemma, however, as stated by Commissioner DuBuclet, is that the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District is “the most important agency that no one knows about.”
Upon being elected, I intend to be the solution to that problem. Through my Educated and Empowered campaign, I am committed to educating Cook County residents about the MWRD, who we are, what we do, and most importantly why residents should care; and then empowering them to get involved to take continual actions towards a cleaner, greener lifestyle.
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 overpromise; but overdeliver to restore faith of the people in the MWRD and the board of commissioners.
