The MWRD’s 13th Annual Sustainability Summit is set for November 13 from 10 a.m. – noon at the Town of Cicero Community Center, 4936 W. 23rd St., Cicero, Illinois. 

There is free parking in the nearby garage on 50th Street between Cermak Road and W. 23rd Street.

In addition to members of the MWRD Board of Commissioners, scheduled speakers will highlight a range of topics focused on climate resilience, infrastructure, and community engagement. Renee Patten, Sustainability Coordinator for the Forest Preserves of Cook County, and John Watson, Sr. Civil Engineer of Water Resources, PE, CFM, will discuss how land conservation, restoration, and nature-based solutions are preparing the region for climate change. Pedro Ortiz, MWRD Senior Civil Engineer, will provide a stormwater management update. Jackie Rigley, Senior Water Policy Advisor for the City of Chicago Department of Environment, will share details on launching Chicago’s green stormwater infrastructure strategy. 

Frank Kraut of the Cicero Stormwater Advisory Board will address how Cicero is improving local infrastructure, protecting homes and businesses from flooding, and promoting public awareness about stormwater management. Kevin O’Toole from the Morton Freshman Center Monarch Garden will discuss how an education curriculum designed, engineered, and built by students can immerse young people in environmental science and stormwater management. Also, from the Chicago Region Trees Initiative (CRTI) at Morton Arboretum, Kate Perryman, Stewardship Specialist, and Ryan Sweeney, JD, LLM, Community Specialist, will discuss how trees and green infrastructure support public health, equity, and environmental resilience.

In addition to sharing innovative strategies and resources, projects across Cook County that advance renewable resources, flood control, and water quality improvements will be honored.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation and the solutions that are shaping tomorrow. 

Register today!