Learn about the candidates running for Metropolitan Water Reclamation District commissioner (two-year and six-year terms) in the March 20 election as part of WTTW’s 2018 Voters’ Guide to the Cook County Primary.

Kimberly Neely DuBuclet

“I am running for this office to bring a voice of environmental conservation and a continued commitment to clean water,” writes Kimberly Neely DuBuclet. Learn more about this candidate.

Rachel Wales

“With climate change creating increased rainfall, the MWRD must approve more innovative green projects to lessen stress placed upon city sewer systems,” writes Rachel Wales. Learn more about this candidate.

Debra Shore

“I’m running for re‐election because the people of Cook County deserve a strong conservation advocate on the Board, because I’ve been able to be an effective leader, and because water matters,” writes Debra Shore. Learn more about this candidate.

“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.

Martin Durkan

“In me, you will have a dedicated public servant, dedicated to maximizing the value of your tax dollar and ensuring transparency,” writes Martin Durkan. Learn more about this candidate.

Karen Roothaan

“Green Party candidates are calling for enhanced green infrastructure to cope with the new normal,” writes Karen Roothaan. Learn more about this candidate.

Tammie Vinson

“Acknowledging climate change and implementing strategies to address this reality are essential to the operation of the district,” writes Tammie Vinson. Learn more about this candidate.

“The Board at the MWRDGC is in need for significant balance to afford opportunity for unbiased growth and leadership,” writes R. Cary Capparelli. Learn more about this candidate.

Shundar Lin

“I am running to give my family and all Cook County residents clean and safe water,” writes Shundar Lin. Learn more about this candidate.

McCook Reservoir (Courtesy Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Board of Commissioners)

Public officials gathered Monday to celebrate the completion of stage one of the McCook Reservoir, which will offer 10 billion gallons of storage capacity to prevent flooding once complete in 2029. 

After heavy storms, the Chicago River’s North Branch floods hundreds of homes on the Northwest Side. The Chicago Department of Transportation is now constructing a permanent flood-fighting weapon. We take a look.

A grand canyon that will become a deep lake: We get a tour of the final reservoir in the Deep Tunnel plan. 

George Milkowski

“This government entity, with a billion dollar plus per-year budget, needs to use its resources in a more effective manner to get the most ‘bang’ for our tax dollar investment.” Learn more about this candidate.

Mariyana Spyropoulos

“Nothing could be more important than protecting our natural resources for future generations.” Learn more about this candidate.