MWRD Shakman Consent Decree terminated by U.S. District Court
A federal judge has terminated a decades-old ruling for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) as a result of improved, fair and transparent hiring practices. On Friday, Honorable Edmond E. Chang of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois entered an Order terminating the 1972 Consent Decree against the MWRD in the Shakman litigation.
Judge Chang determined that the MWRD had established a durable remedy against political discrimination in employment practices through its Statute, policies and procedures, including its work rules, Ethics Ordinance, and recent Shakman employment plan. The Court also noted the importance of the Inspector General’s continued oversight of political discrimination complaints.
“We take our hiring and employment practices seriously, and we are thrilled to see that our work has been recognized by the Plaintiffs and the Court,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. “Although we are so pleased to be finally dismissed from this litigation after many years, we will continue to adhere to the highest ethical standards and remain committed to ensuring that employment actions are fair, equitable and free from political reasons or factors.”