Candidate Q&A
Why do you want to be a commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago and why do you believe you are qualified to be a commissioner?
I'd like to continue the great work that the MWRD is doing by pursuing more projects that help prevent flooding and treat our water properly. I have actively contributed to initiatives that protect water quality, mitigate flood risks, and address environmental challenges. Green infrastructure will contribute to a major part of the stormwater management in the district. The treatment of our water is a passion of mine, which is why I am so proud that the MWRD has collaborated with The Iowa University to create a patent around Blue Algaes use in removing chemicals from our water. I am driven by a genuine dedication to environmental stewardship and public service, and I see the MWRD as a crucial platform to continue making a positive impact on our community.
I'd like to continue the great work that the MWRD is doing by pursuing more projects that help prevent flooding and treat our water properly. I have actively contributed to initiatives that protect water quality, mitigate flood risks, and address environmental challenges. Green infrastructure will contribute to a major part of the stormwater management in the district. The treatment of our water is a passion of mine, which is why I am so proud that the MWRD has collaborated with The Iowa University to create a patent around Blue Algaes use in removing chemicals from our water. I am driven by a genuine dedication to environmental stewardship and public service, and I see the MWRD as a crucial platform to continue making a positive impact on our community.
With rainstorms more frequent and severe, the Deep Tunnel system and the MWRD reservoirs fill up. As a result, it's sometimes necessary to release sewage overflows into waterways. What other strategies should the MWRD employ to reduce those sewage releases between now and when the fourth reservoir is finished in 2029?
A pivotal approach is the continued emphasis on smart separation, specifically the separation of sewage and stormwater at the municipal level. By upgrading existing infrastructure and advocating for the incorporation of green infrastructure in municipalities, we can enhance the efficiency of stormwater and sewage systems. This involves not only physical separation but also the integration of sustainable practices such as permeable pavements, green roofs and green infrastructure.
How else can the MWRD improve conditions in area waterways to reduce the risk of public health threats for recreational swimmers, kayakers, boaters, etc.?
We are incredibly proud that since the construction of the deep tunnel system, we have eliminated large sewage overflow events. We still have them but much less often than before. We are hopeful that in 2029 there will be even less of these large overflows.
Do you think the MWRD does a good job of informing the public about sewage releases and the potential health risks?
The answer is yes, of course we can do a better job. My colleagues and I have been strong advocates for awareness about our “underground government”. There is always room for improvement in the way we inform the large public that we serve.
Do you think the MWRD does a good job informing the public about permeable paving, “green alleys,” rain barrels and other methods of reducing flooding?
Yes, but we always can do better. Meeting and actively engaging with 125 municipalities about our initiatives is a top priority of ours. If no one knows the MWRD exists, then how can we implement positive change into our communities?
Do you think the MWRD does a good job informing the public about conserving water during storms such as holding off on running the dishwasher, doing laundry, or taking shorter showers?
I do, we have had a dedicated campaign through our various social medias and through traditional media to inform the public. Over the past 12 months our public affairs office has also implemented two new strategies for alerting the public on “Overflow Action Days”. We now have a text alert system as well as an email blast that goes to all who sign up. All Commissioners are committed to get this message across to try to prevent combined sewer overflows.
Do you think the MWRD has a role in reducing contaminants like prescription drugs / pharmaceuticals and toxic chemicals like phosphates?
Yes, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) typically plays a role in reducing contaminants, including prescription medications and toxic chemicals, in wastewater. Wastewater treatment plants operated by organizations like MWRD are designed to treat domestic and industrial wastewater to remove pollutants before the treated water is released back into the environment. Here are some ways in which MWRD or similar entities may address contaminants: Conventional Wastewater Treatment: The primary function of wastewater treatment plants is to remove physical, chemical, and biological contaminants from sewage and industrial wastewater. This process typically involves several stages, such as screening, primary treatment, secondary treatment, and sometimes tertiary treatment. These treatments can effectively remove or reduce various contaminants. Advanced Treatment Technologies: In some cases, advanced treatment technologies may be employed to specifically target certain contaminants that are challenging to remove through conventional methods. This might include the use of advanced oxidation processes or additional filtration techniques. Monitoring and Regulation: Regulatory agencies often set standards for the discharge of contaminants into water bodies. Wastewater treatment plants, including those operated by MWRD, are usually required to comply with these standards. Regular monitoring of effluent quality helps ensure that the treated water meets regulatory requirements. Public Awareness and Outreach: Some wastewater treatment agencies engage in public awareness and outreach programs to educate the public about the proper disposal of medications and chemicals. Encouraging responsible disposal methods, such as using take-back programs for medications can help reduce the input of contaminants into the wastewater system. It's worth noting that while wastewater treatment plants play a crucial role in reducing contaminants, challenges may still exist, especially with emerging contaminants that are not as easily removed through conventional treatment processes. Ongoing research and collaboration between regulatory bodies, wastewater treatment plants, and other stakeholders are essential to addressing these challenges effectively.
Do you believe the MWRD has a role in preventing aquatic invasive species from entering the Chicago waterway system?
Preventing aquatic invasive species often involves collaborative efforts between various agencies, including environmental protection agencies, conservation organizations, and regulatory bodies. (MWRD’s aquatic ecology team often partners with the Shedd Aquarium to study and track fish populations in our waterways.)The responsibility for preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species in water bodies typically falls under the purview of state and federal agencies focused on natural resources and environmental protection. MWRD, in the context of its broader mission, also contributes indirectly to preventing aquatic invasive species by maintaining healthy water ecosystems and implementing water management practices that reduce the risk of invasive species introductions. This includes measures such as controlling water quality, monitoring water bodies, and implementing best management practices for stormwater and wastewater treatment.
What specific water infrastructure projects or investments would you pursue if elected?
Completing the Deep Tunnel project on time, which will have a dramatic impact, will be a major priority. The McCook reservoir will double in size to further assist us in fighting storm water. We still must continue our green infrastructure efforts and work with local communities to reduce flooding. I would also like to see the city of Chicago separate more of their sewers via “smart separation”. I think the MWRD can play a major role in stopping a lot of the flooding in the city of Chicago.
