U.S. Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García reflects on career at MWRD’s Latino Heritage Month event

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As part of its Latino Heritage Month celebration, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) honored U.S. Rep. Jesús G. "Chuy" García (IL-4th), who joined MWRD commissioners to reflect on his career in public service, the communities he represents and the importance of federal investment in water management.

García, who will retire from Congress at the end of his current term, visited the MWRD's Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building in Chicago, where he received an award recognizing his service and discussed his accomplishments, interactions with influential political figures and legislative priorities for the future. To watch the MWRD's Latino Heritage Month event, visit the MWRD's YouTube channel at youtu.be/RV1Hlw4yhh8.

"Congressman García's story is one of perseverance, public service and a deep commitment to the communities he represents," MWRD President Kari K. Steele said. "From his journey as an immigrant to his decades of service in Chicago, Cook County and Congress, he has demonstrated the power of community, opportunity and civic engagement. We are honored to welcome him to the MWRD as we celebrate Latino Heritage Month and recognize the many contributions of Latino communities throughout our region."

Throughout his career, García has worked on transportation, education, housing, economic opportunity and water management. He serves on the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and House Judiciary Committee and is a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. He also founded the Future of Transportation Caucus. A member of Congress since 2019, García said he is particularly proud of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 and called for similar investments in the future.

"We need to do more legislation like that in the area of water management," García said. "We need more resources to invest in this area and quickly because the storms are becoming larger, fiercer and more frequent."

García shared his reflections during a conversation with MWRD Commissioner Eira L. Corral Sepúlveda and MWRD Chairman of Finance Marcelino Garcia.

"Congressman García has left a footprint at every level of government, from local and county to state and federal," Commissioner Corral Sepúlveda said. "He has been a trailblazer for many Latino elected officials to follow, and his progressive voice has amplified the voices of everyday citizens."

García's appearance was part of the MWRD's 2026 Latino Heritage Month celebration, which carries the theme "Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together." The theme recognizes the contributions of Latino communities and the importance of creating opportunities for future generations. Through its community engagement and educational programs, the MWRD works with residents, municipalities, schools, businesses and community organizations throughout Cook County to protect water quality, reduce flooding and promote environmental stewardship.

"Congressman García has spent decades fighting for communities that deserve a strong voice in government and the resources to thrive," said MWRD Chairman Garcia. "His advocacy for infrastructure investment is especially important as we face growing challenges from heavier storms and flooding. His legacy of public service is an inspiration to those of us working to build stronger, more resilient communities."

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