A standing room only crowd joined Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago’s (MWRD’s) Acting President Barbara McGowan in welcoming one returning commissioner and two new commissioners during yesterday’s annual meeting and installation ceremony.
Commissioner Debra Shore was installed for her second six year term, and Commissioners Kari K. Steele and Patrick Daley Thompson were each installed for their first six year terms.
David Samber sang the national anthem, and Rabbi Sam Gordon delivered the invocation. Aaliyah N. Muhammad, niece of Commissioner Steele, and Nora, Grace and Patrick Thompson, Commissioner Thompson’s children, lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Cynthia M. Santos, Chairman of Finance, introduced distinguished guests.
Illinois Supreme Court Justice Mary Jane Theis read the oath of office to Commissioner Debra Shore, and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle introduced the sworn-in Commissioner, who delivered remarks focusing on the MWRD’s commitment to the environment. Since joining the Board in 2006, Commissioner Shore has served as Chairman of the Stormwater Management and State Legislation and Rules committees.
Illinois Appellate Court First District, Third Division Judge John O. Steele delivered the oath of office to his daughter and new Commissioner, Kari K. Steele. Circuit Court Judge of Cook County Freddrenna M. Lyle introduced Commissioner Steele. Her career as a chemist started at the MWRD in 1998, which was followed by seven years of service to the City of Chicago Department of Water as a water chemist. Commissioner Steele joined L’Oreal USA as a formulating chemist in 2004.
Circuit Court Judge of Cook County Maura Slattery Boyle read the oath of office to Commissioner Patrick Daley Thompson, and Cook County Board of Commissioners Finance Chairman John P. Daley introduced his nephew.
The current MWRD Board of Commissioners and Executive Director provided brief comments welcoming the new Commissioners and look forward to advancing the mission of the MWRD. The meeting closed with a benediction by Father Daniel Brandt.
Welcome to the MWRD Commissioners and congratulations!
Our water environment…Take it personally!
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