Engineering building at Stickney Water Reclamation Plant dedicated to former Commissioner and Chairman of Finance M Frank Avila
The Engineering Building at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago’s (MWRD’s) Stickney Water Reclamation Plant was dedicated to former Commissioner and Chairman of Finance M Frank Avila on October 28, 2021.
Surrounded by family, friends and former colleagues, Commissioner Avila remains passionate about protecting the water environment. Whether it was his nature-based solutions, bold holiday sweaters or his tireless efforts to promote civil engineering, healthy diets, recycling and strong stances against herbicides and pesticides, he always exhibits a dedication and enthusiasm toward serving his community and protecting the planet.
After three terms in office as commissioner and over 18 years of service, Commissioner Avila announced his retirement last November. In honor of his long-standing service to the MWRD, the MWRD Board of Commissioners named the engineering facility after Commissioner Avila.
“It was a privilege of a lifetime to serve the people of Cook County for the last 18 years, and it has been a labor of love to work in civil engineering for nearly 60 years,” said Commissioner Avila. “I am proud of the many accomplishments we as a Board achieved: our responsible fiscal management, strong stewardship of the region’s wastewater and stormwater and innovative resource recovery programs. Together, the MWRD has grown to be one of the best-run agencies that strives to protect our water resources, improve our environment and enhance our region’s way of life.”
“We congratulate Commissioner Avila on an impressive career in engineering and water and thank him for his immeasurable contributions to the MWRD,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele.
“We miss his steady presence on the Board,” said MWRD Vice President Barbara McGowan. “His unique talents and passion for the MWRD created an enduring legacy, and it is a fitting tribute to have this building named in Frank’s honor.”
To watch the ceremony, visit the MWRD’s YouTube page.