In a recent comment on a CASKA Blog post on the Chicago Flatwater Classic (http://caskaorg.typepad.com/caska/2008/10/trip-report-cla.html) Jill Horist made certain statements with respect to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District's approach to the Illinois Pollution Control Board rulemaking proceeding that will set water quality standards for the Chicago River and other parts of the Chicago Waterway System. Jill did not identify herself as being affiliated with any interested party.
Jill Horist is the MWRD's Manager of Public Affairs. In an email today she stated: "Please rest assured, I
would not try to obstruct the fact that I am indeed a vested party as the MWRD Manager of Public Affairs."
In our exchange of emails on this subject, I indicated that CASKA would like to give the MWRD an opportunity to explain its perspective on the proposed rules to the Chicago paddling community with appropriate source attribution. In response, Jill stated as follows: "A continuing and reasonable dialogue is always most welcome and in particular on this issue. We appreciate the opportunity and look forward to the conversation. "
I am hopeful that we can have that dialogue.
Tom Bamonte
CASKA President