Endorsements: Davis, DuBuclet, Sepulveda in Democratic primary for water board

In the March 17 Democratic primaries, there are 10 candidates for three six-year seats on the board of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, a low profile government agency responsible for spending more than $1.1 billion annually to perform essential functions in preventing flooding and keeping waterways clean.

The three incumbents are running for reelection, Cameron "Cam" Davis and Kimberly Neely DuBuclet, who were elected two years ago to fill vacancies, and Frank Avila, who is seeking a third term.

We generally give an edge to incumbents if they are doing a good job, and Davis and DuBuclet, endorsed by the Democratic Party, appear to be doing so.

Avila, 81, lost the party's endorsement in this election in favor of Hanover Park Village Clerk Eira L. Corral Sepulveda, 34, who impressed us with her research, her ideas, her enthusiasm and her history of coalition building across race and class lines.

Another strong candidate is Michael G. Grace, 52, president of the South Lyons Township Sanitary District.

But we believe Sepulveda's strengths make her the best candidate to join Davis and DuBuclet on the Democratic ticket for the November election.