Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi defeated challenger Kari Steele in his bid for a second term in what was the county’s most expensive and high-profile Democratic primary contest on Tuesday.

The candidates for Cook County assessor face off in a “Chicago Tonight” candidate forum.

The value of commercial properties increased 56% from 2018 to 2021, compared with 10% for single-family homes and small apartment buildings, according to the data released by the Cook County assessor’s office. That could result in a consequential change in how Cook County’s property tax burden is carved up. 

New MWRD President Kari Steele is the only chemist on the organization’s nine-member board. She was re-elected in November to a second term as commissioner. 

“I work diligently every day, to protect workers, promote fiscal responsibility and transparency, and ensure we maintain a clean water environment,” writes Kari Steele. Learn more about this candidate.