FAQ: Election for Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago commissioners
The district oversees sewage treatment and stormwater runoff management.
The offices up for election in November include one more obscure than others: commissioners on the board of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago.
The district serves Cook County. Here is what you need to know about the election for commissioners on its board.
What does the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District board do?
It’s responsible for overseeing the treatment of sewage and the management of stormwater runoff to prevent flooding across the Chicago area and to protect Lake Michigan from being polluted by runoff from the sewer system. Board members are exploring plans to sell treated wastewater to data centers for cooling.
How many members are on the board?
Nine. Three are up for election every two years. Members serve six-year terms.
Additionally this year, one candidate is running unopposed for a seat to complete the last two years of a regular term.
The commissioners are elected countywide, which means voters can choose up to three candidates. The three who get the most votes win. Board members serve part-time and receive $70,000 a year, with the board president earning $80,000.
How much does the district collect?
In 2026 the district levied $756 million in property taxes from Cook County residents, roughly $419 on a $400,000 home.
Who are the candidates?
- Three Democratic incumbents are running for re-election: Eira Corral-Sepulveda, Precious Brady-Davis and Beth McElroy Kirkwood.
- Running against them are Republicans Michelle Pennington, Timothy Rueckert and Jill Shestokas.
- Incumbent Commissioner Cameron Davis, whose term would expire in December, is running unopposed for the two years left on another term.
The candidates have been endorsed by their political parties in Cook County. The 3 incumbents running in the regular election for a 6-year term were also endorsed by the Chicago Teachers Union.
Here is where you can register to vote: Illinois Voter Registration Guide: Deadlines & How to Apply.