Michelle Pennington, a Republican from Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood, is running for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Board in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election. Three seats are open, and voters may choose up to three candidates.
Asked why she is running, Pennington said in our candidate questionnaire: "I'm running because families deserve safe homes, clean water, and a government that respects their money. As a mom and business owner, I know rising property taxes squeeze household budgets and flooding can destroy what families have worked to build."
The MWRD manages wastewater treatment and stormwater systems across Cook County. Its board sets budgets and policy for flood control and water-quality infrastructure that affects North Shore communities and the rest of the county.
Five other candidates are also in the race: Beth McElroy Kirkwood (Democratic), Eira L. Corral Sepúlveda (Democratic), Jill B. Shestokas (Republican), Precious W. Brady-Davis (Democratic) and Timothy E. Rueckert (Republican).
Candidate information
Party: Republican
Residence: Pennington said in our questionnaire: "My husband and I have lived in Chicago for 25 years, making our home in Bucktown, where we own and operate our business and have raised our two children. One attends high school in the city, and the other is away at college."
Education: Pennington said in our questionnaire: "Originally from Texas, I attended DePaul University and have continued my education through professional training, civic involvement, and experiences that challenge how I see the world. I completed StormwaterONE coursework and earned certifications in MS4s and stormwater compliance."
Family involvement in politics: Pennington said in our questionnaire: "No one in my family works in politics or government. We are business owners, parents, and taxpayers who care about our community."
Experience and public service
Pennington is a leasing agent at GMC Realty and managing partner at Medill Street Partners, a position she has held since 2007, according to BallotReady profile data. She previously served as vice president at Computers for Schools and PC Rebuilders from 2001 to 2006 and as an account manager at I Works from 1999 to 2001.
Asked about her occupation, Pennington said in our questionnaire: "I am a real estate entrepreneur, investor, and owner-operator with more than 20 years of experience managing properties, operations, budgets, and long-term investments."
On previous public service, Pennington said in our questionnaire: "I previously ran for Cook County Clerk because I care deeply about this county and believe residents deserve responsible, accountable government. For many years I have served as an election judge, helping neighbors participate in our democracy."
On the issues
Flooding and accountability: Pennington pointed to the Harvey area as an example of what she called poor MWRD oversight. She said in our questionnaire: "In Harvey, MWRD displaced homeowners and left properties vacant and unsecured. I spoke up and demanded action. Within days, homes were boarded and lawns mowed. That was a win for Harvey and the accountability I'll bring to Cook County."
Spending and governance: Asked about her party affiliation, Pennington said in our questionnaire: "My approach differs from leadership that too often answers problems with higher taxes, additional departments, and expanded programs. Before asking residents for another dollar, I will ask whether existing resources are being used effectively, whether an expense serves MWRD's mission, and whether the public receives measurable benefits."
What sets her apart: Pennington said in our questionnaire: "The critical difference is accountability. I bring more than 20 years of business experience and a willingness to challenge decisions that fail residents. I will judge success by cleaner water, fewer flooded homes, and responsible spending."
Candidate responses were collected through our candidate questionnaire. All statements attributed to Pennington reflect her own claims and have not been independently verified.
