Endorsements: Shore, Thompson, Ehrlich for water district board

With challenges like completing the ambitious Tunnel and Reservoir Plan, funding pension obligations, new disinfection standards and the threat from the Asian Carp — a threat that some speculate could force the re-reversal of the Chicago River — the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District board needs knowledgeable professionals from a range of disciplines. Democrat Debra Shore, of Evanston, has a wealth of conservation experience and a genuine interest in the issues facing the region. She’s also the only candidate from the suburbs running for one of three open seats to oversee a district that includes more than 60 communities outside of Chicago. She is strongly endorsed. Among the crowded field of remaining candidates, Democrat Patrick Thompson and Green candidate Dave Ehrlich stand out. Thompson’s community service and experience as an attorney would serve the board well. Ehrlich has worked for the watchdog U.S. Government Accounting Office and teaches in the Environmental Management & Sustainability program at Illinois Institute of Technology. They are endorsed.