Michelle Pennington, a Republican, is running for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Board in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election. The district covers Cook County, so Oak Park voters will see the race on their ballots. Three seats are open, and voters choose up to three candidates.

Asked why she is running, Pennington said in our candidate questionnaire: "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."

Five other candidates are in the race: Beth McElroy Kirkwood, Eira L. Corral Sepúlveda, Jill B. Shestokas, Precious W. Brady-Davis and Timothy E. Rueckert.

Candidate information

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."

Party affiliation: Asked about her party, Pennington said in our questionnaire: "I am a Republican because I believe government should respect taxpayers, focus on its responsibilities, and deliver results. … One party has controlled MWRD for decades, yet communities continue to experience flooding."

Experience and public service

According to BallotReady profile data, Pennington has been a managing partner at Medill Street Partners since 2007 and a leasing agent at GMC Realty. She previously served as vice president at Computers for Schools and PC Rebuilders from 2001 to 2006.

Asked about her work history, 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

Asked what sets her apart from other candidates, 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. … Harvey illustrates the consequences of poor oversight. MWRD acquired homes, displaced residents, and left properties vacant and unsecured. Residents reported trespassing, fires, and other safety concerns. I demanded that MWRD secure and maintain its properties. Within days, homes were boarded and lawns mowed."

Asked about accomplishments that qualify her for the role, Pennington said in our questionnaire: "I am proud of building and running a successful real estate business, providing homes for my tenants, raising children who are becoming capable people, and sustaining a marriage of 23 years. … Managing properties means balancing budgets, maintaining buildings, planning for repairs, and responding when something goes wrong."