MWRD To Advertise to Continue to Analyze Wastewater and Biosolids for PFAs

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Board Meeting
March 19, 2026

All items on the agenda were approved, with 3 items discussed:

• Authority to advertise a contract to analyze wastewater and biosolids samples collected from industrial facilities and water reclamation plants for PFAs  (forever chemicals) for purposes of monitoring by the Monitoring and Research Dept.  Executive Director Murray explained that this is to continue work that is being done, though this will add samples from water reclamation plants.  Comm. Waller wanted to make sure that the ultimate report would be shared with the Illinois EPA and the public.  Exec. Dir. Murray said he was not opposed to do so with appropriate explanation of results.  (Agenda #13, 26-0172)
• Authority to issue a 6-month extension to Grand Prairie Water Commission to perform soil borings, wetland studies, and soil sampling on properties owned by the MWRD in the Cal-Sag Channel in Palos Hills and Palos Park as a possible route for a new water transmission line to connect to Chicago’s water system.  Exec. Director Murray and General Counsel Morakalis explained that this line would be to furnish water to Joliet and several surrounding communities outside of the MWRD’s service territory.  (Agenda #31, 26-0201)
• Comm. Garcia asked for a status of the MWRD bond situation in connection with a Report on a Request for Proposal for Professional Underwriting Services for MWRD Bond Sales.  Treasurer Steve Lux explained that there is a lot of volatility in the market now and he does not expect to go to the market until August to refinance some existing bonds.  Comm. Garcia said he would like to have a future presentation so that all the Commissioners could hear what he, in his role as Finance Chair, has learned from working with Mr. Lux.
• Not discussed:  authority to purchase 15.82 acres for construction of a Flood Control Project from the Des Plaines River to Glenwood Lane in Maine and Northfield Townships that is expected to benefit 114 single and multi-family structures.  Cost for the land is $8.15 M + closing costs. (Agenda #29, 26-0174)

New business:  President Steele raised Agenda Item #2 which recognizes March 22 as World Water Day and said that this year’s theme is Water and Gender, highlighting the role that women play in the field and promoting more women in careers in water.

No Executive Session.
Time of Meeting:  40 minutes, including a 5-minute break.

Observer:  Priscilla Mims