Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioners (6-year terms)

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) is responsible for protecting homes and businesses from flood damage and for protecting the water quality of Lake Michigan and Chicago-area rivers and streams. The nine-member Board of Commissioners has an annual budget of $1.4 billion to invest in infrastructure projects like its system of deep tunnels and reservoirs. The MWRD also treats wastewater from Chicago and 128 surrounding communities at seven water reclamation plants. Commissioners are elected and serve on part-time basis. Three commissioners are elected every two years for six-year terms.

Candidates

Sharon Waller

Democrat

“I’m running for clean water and change for climate change because we need all options on the table to adapt.”

Kari K. Steele

Incumbent Democrat

“I would like to be re-elected so I can continue spreading awareness about climate change and addressing environmental injustices, sharing information about resources and opportunities in the water sector, and continue ensuring Cook County maintains a clean water environment.”

Marcelino Garcia

Incumbent Democrat

“I am running for re-election as MWRD Commissioner because for the past 5 years, I have delivered a positive oversight of programming, strategies, and initiatives at the agency.”

Daniel “Pogo” Pogorzelski

Incumbent Democrat

“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.”

Toneal M. Jackson

Green Party

“Whereas it is true that the job of the commissioner is to write policies to protect the water environment, I think it’s time that they also interact with the respective community residents to get a better idea of how the policies actually effect those who they are written to protect.”