Leaders from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) elevated their dedication to water stewardship and policy advocacy onto the national platform as MWRD President Kari K. Steele, Vice President Patricia Theresa Flynn and Executive Director Brian A. Perkovich embarked on a pivotal visit to Washington, D.C. to meet with key policymakers and legislators on Capitol Hill. Their mission was to champion sustainable water management practices, advocate for vital stormwater management infrastructure investments, and address pressing environmental challenges facing Cook County.

“The annual visit to our nation’s capital is an opportunity to forge partnerships, foster collaboration, and advocate for policies that safeguard our water resources for future generations,” said President Steele. “We appreciate the opportunity to engage with federal leaders to advance initiatives that promote public health and sustainable water management.”

With decades of combined experience in water management and environmental stewardship, President Steele, Vice President Flynn and Executive Director Perkovich discussed the need for federal support in addressing water quality, flood mitigation, and infrastructure modernization. In particular, the MWRD leaders sought federal funding for the rehabilitation of sanitary sewers and major stormwater management projects that help absorb increasing rainfall brought on by climate change. 

The delegation also requested legislative support to address emerging contaminants, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The MWRD representatives voiced the need for more protection for water utilities and taxpayers from the liabilities of these hazardous substances so that the polluters are held accountable for paying the price for removing this pollution from the environment.

New federal legislation and investment can make a major impact in supporting the MWRD in its mission to protect the region’s water environment. 

"Water is essential to life," said Vice President Flynn. "As stewards of this invaluable resource, it is important that our communities are resilient. We extend our gratitude to the Illinois delegation for their ongoing efforts.”

Famous for reversing the flow of the Chicago River, introducing wastewater treatment to the Chicago area and building and operating the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan, the MWRD is renowned for its innovative approaches to water reclamation, stormwater management, and wastewater treatment. It is committed to safeguarding water resources and enhancing the quality of life for residents living and working in Cook County. On average, the MWRD treats 1.2 billion gallons of water per day, transforming it into clean water to serve 5.19 million people living in Chicago and 128 surrounding suburbs.