Chicago MWRD outlines $1.8bn budget plan for 2026 infrastructure

Chicago MWRD outlines $1.8bn budget plan for 2026 infrastructureExecutive Director John Murray highlights permit compliance and flood mitigation as key drivers for the district's upcoming fiscal year spending plan.

The proposed 2026 budget totals $1.8 billion, targeting public infrastructure investment.

Spending priorities include long-term environmental implications of permit compliance and flood mitigation.

Executive Director John Murray described the approach as balancing an aggressive capital plan with fiscal management.

No public comments were received during the hearing regarding the tentative budget or tax levy.

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) held a public hearing on December 4, 2025, to consider its tentative budget and tax levy for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2026. During the session, Executive Director John Murray presented a $1.8 billion spending plan focused on critical infrastructure needs. Addressing the Board of Commissioners, Murray stated that the budget is designed to invest in public infrastructure while considering the "long term environmental and financial implications of permit compliance and flood mitigation." He emphasized that the 2026 plan aims to continue a tradition of "balancing innovation and an aggressive capital plan with strong fiscal management." This approach builds on a track record of over 275 stormwater management projects implemented across Cook County. By utilizing a mix of large-scale reservoirs, channel improvements, and green infrastructure such as rain gardens, the district has protected approximately 19,000 homes and businesses from flood hazards and helped lower insurance premiums in affected communities. Patricia Theresa Flynn, Chairperson of the Committee on Budget & Employment, presided over the meeting and invited public feedback on the proposal. However, no comments were received from the public. The board subsequently voted to publish and file the report.