City of Waukegan City Council met June 20.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
The Council of the City of Waukegan met in regular session on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at 7:00 PM
City Council Chambers, City Hall. 100 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, Waukegan.
Janet E. Kilkelly, City Treasurer; Dr. John R. Schwab, & Corporation Counsel; Stewart J. Weiss, were present.
Mayor; Ann B. Taylor, was absent* (Alderperson Edith L. Newsome - Chair)
1. Opening Items
Procedural: A. Roll Call
PRESENT: Ald Felix, Ald (Chair)* Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez
ABSENT: Mayor Taylor*
Motion to Seat Alderperson as Chair: Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Felix to 'seat' Ald Edith L. Newsome as 'Chair' in the absence of Mayor Ann B. Taylor.
AYE: Ald Felix, Chair-Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Procedural: B. Invocation by Pastor Barbara Brown (Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church) / Pledge of Allegiance
Procedural: C. Mayor's Comments - Chair-Ald Newsome shared Mayor Taylor's Comments.
2. Resolutions/Proclamations/Presentations/Appointments
Proclamation: A. June is Men’s Health Month
Proclamation: B. June 2023 is National Immigrant Heritage Month
Action: C. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Turner to approve a Resolution 23—R—172 Honoring the Life of Harrison Bankhead
AYE: Ald Felix, Chair-Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
3. Audience Time
Janet E. Kilkelly: Clerk Kilkelly read from her prepared comments regarding item 7S. The prepared comments are on file with the Office of the City Clerk.
Jaslyn Torres: She introduced herself as a 14 year old who recently graduated from Abbott Middle School. She attended the meeting tonight to ask the community for financial help because she will be attending Carmel Catholic High School in the fall.
Debra Jordan: She introduced herself as a lifelong resident who attended and graduated from Waukegan High School. She spoke about speeding, crime, having a Community-based-group with citizens of Waukegan.
Rayon Edward: He addressed comments that were said about him and played an audio. Next, he spoke about Juneteenth event, his commitment to the community and what he has done.
Rev. Barbara Brown: She thanked the elected officials and Mayor Taylor who gave Trinity one thousand dollars for scholarships. She also thanked Ald Bolton for helping distributing the scholarship applications in the 1st ward and for always being present in the ward. Lastly, she thanked Ald Newsome, Police Chief Navarro, Chief of Staff Bridges and everyone who have supported the church.
John Tagliaferro: He spoke about the Road and Water Project happening where he lives, River Road. He said he attended tonight's meeting because he has questions regarding the project. He shared he is concerned about the cost of the project for the homeowners and more. He wants to know more details and who they should contract because nothing has been provided. He was directed to speak with Chief of Staff Bridges.
George Myers: He introduced himself as a 9th ward resident. He shared concerns about the Road and Water Project happening at River Road.
Bro Blanks: He spoke about Waukegan having a Civilian Office for Police Accountability. Next, he shared the passing of a young man on 8th street and McAlister Avenue block. He suggested to have all the Waukegan officers out of their car and start building relationships with the residents.
Clyde McLemore: He addressed Corporation Counsel Stew regarding Ivory Hall opening without a license. He shared that Stew said that Ivory Hall received a ticket from the City regarding the matter. Moreover, he stated that Stew lied and that Ivory Hall had a hearing and was dismissed without prejudice.
Margaret Carrasco: She addressed item on agenda 6B.Old Business regarding the approval of the Arena Strategic Communication LLC . She said this LLC is owned by Bradley Woodman from Vernon Hills who she said was personally introduced to by Mayor Taylor and her husband as her "Campaign Manager" for Mayor's candidacy. She spoke about other local businesses not having the opportunity to have contracts here in Waukegan. Furthermore, she said that his person can potentially be tempted to work on the campaign of their candidate while being paid with residents tax money. Lastly, invited everyone to the Fiestas Patrias which includes the Waukegan group that has done the parade for the past 20 years.
4. Consent Agenda (Items under the Consent Agenda are considered routine and/or non-controversial and will be approved by one motion. If any one board member wishes to have a separate vote on any item, it will be pulled from the Consent Agenda and voted on separately) Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Hayes to approve Consent Agenda items 4. A - C.
Action (Consent): A. Motion to approve vendor payments dated June 19, 2023 in the amount of $2,410,264.45.
Action (Consent): B. Motion to approve Regular Payroll dated June 16, 2023 in the total amount of $1,855,528.52.
Action (Consent): C. Motion to approve Misc. Payroll (PD HBB & CT Cashout, Final Payouts, Retro, Uniform Allowance) dated June 16, 2023 in the total amount of $154,482.64
Consent Agenda Vote:
AYE: Ald Felix, Chair-Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
5. Reports and Communication
Information A: Letter of Credit - Item postponed per request of Treasurer Dr. John R. Schwab
6. Old Business
Action: A. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Donnenwirth to Approve Honorary Street Signs in Honor of Ald. Larry TenPas at Various Locations in 6th Ward. This matter was presented to the Code Revisions, Appeals & Negotiations Committee on May 15, 2023.
AYE: Ald Felix, Chair-Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez.
NAY: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Action: B. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Hayes to approve a Resolution Approving an Agreement with The Arena Strategic Communications, LLC for Professional Communications Consulting Services in the amount of $108,000. This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on June 5, 2023.
Ald Hayes spoke in favor of approving the agreement. Ald Florian asked Corporation Counsel Weiss to share his thoughts on the agreement, as he represents the City of Waukegan legally. Corporation Counsel Weiss shared his professional opinion on the agreement. Ald Guzman raised the question regarding Goodman's work with the 'negative vs. positive' and who would do this afterwards. Ald Newsome asked Ald Guzman to clarify his question. Ald Guzman asked who would do this if it doesn't pass. Ald Newsome stated we would not have anyone doing that, besides Jane and David who handle the City of Waukegan Public Relations.
Ald Hayes stressed that nobody will be fielding the numerous items Goodman fields, and stressed the importance. Ald Turner stressed that the narrative is managed here at the City of Waukegan. Ald Hayes explained how he disagreed. Ald Turner responded sharply with comments on the issue of crime. Ald Florian and Ald Guzman asked if the Police Chief could comment on his work with Mr. Goodman. Chair Newsome stated that is up to the Chief Navarro, and then stated that she would not be making him comment in Mayor Taylor's absence. Ald Martinez called for the question. Chair Newsome explained, sharing that this is a one (1) year contract, and that Mr. Goodman has now been here for two years.
AYE: Chair-Ald Newsome, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton.
NAY: Ald Felix, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION FAILED
7. New Business Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Turner to omnibus vote New Business items 7. E - R, excluding items 7. A - D, and S.
Action: A. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Donnenwirth to approve an Ordinance creating a Class C Retail Package sales liquor license for Aseel Hi & Bi Inc DBA South Park International located at 102 S Park Ave. This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on June 5, 2023.
Ald Guzman recused himself from this item, and left the room.
AYE: Ald Felix, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Martinez.
NAY: Chair-Ald Newsome.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Action: B. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Martinez to approve an Ordinance creating a Class E Restaurant liquor license and Associated VGT Licenses for La Mexicanita Restaurant located at 1310 N Lewis Ave. This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on June 5, 2023.
Ald Guzman recused himself from this item, and left the room.
AYE: Ald Felix, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Martinez.
NAY: Chair-Ald Newsome.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Action: C. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Martinez to approve an Ordinance creating a Class A-1 Tavern with outside services for The Maple WKGN located at 1508 Washington St. This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on June 5, 2023.
Ald Guzman recused himself from this item, and left the room.
Ald Martinez asked for clarification regarding the timeframe for the renewal of this license. Chair-Ald Newsome stated the failed to renew on time, and they are present this evening.
Ald Martinez raised the issuance of a penalty of some kind for liquor license holders who do not renew on time. Raised the question how can we go about that. Corporation Counsel Weiss explained the process by the City of Waukegan, and also shared that Shaun Nunag from the Finance Department can speak to this as well. Nunag from the Finance Department clarified and explained the process of renewing. Ald Florian explained her thoughts on the penalty, and what the difference should be for someone who served without a valid license. Nunag spoke about the process of the Development Review Board, as well, and the court hearing that takes place within those meetings. Corporation Counsel Weiss stated that language can be proposed with the next item, which will cover Ald Florian's concerns. Ald Florian agreed.
AYE: Ald Felix, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Martinez.
NAY: Chair-Ald Newsome.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Action: D. Motion by Ald Donnenwirth, second by Ald Turner to approve an Ordinance creating a Class E Restaurant liquor license for Enrichment Enterprises Inc DBA Encore Events located at 4555 Yorkhouse Rd. This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on June 5, 2023.
Ald Guzman recused himself from this item, and left the room.
Ald Martinez asked if this was the same issue - not renewing on time. Corporation Counsel Weiss provided clarification and explained what was discussed during the Community Development Committee.
Ald Turner brought forward that they had a state liquor license at the time. Corporation Counsel Weiss stated he does recall them making that statement.
Ald Florian shared her proposed amendment. Information from COS George Bridges Jr, stating that Enrichment Enterprises was present, but left as they thought the item passed.
Ald Turner raised the concern about the harm to them, if the item was held over. COS Bridges Jr shared, including that the venue has events booked. Ald Turner shared that he is in favor of establishing a fine, but not for this item as they are already in process. Ald Florian raised that they are just going to get away with it.
Motion to amend the ordinance: Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Felix to amend, including the following language:
SECTION TWO. This Ordinance will be in full force and effect from and after the occurrence of all of the following:
a. its passage, approval and publication as required by law, and
b. the submission by the Petitioner of all required documentation and fees for a Class E Restaurant liquor license; and
c. a review and determination by the City’s Liquor Commissioner of a penalty and fine for any alcohol sales found to have been conducted by Petitioner during any period in which the premises located at 4555 W. Yorkhouse Rd, did not have an active and valid liquor license.
Ald Felix asked for clarification on the motion, and Corporation Counsel Weiss provided. Corporation Counsel Weiss stated we need to have a second on the amendment. Ald Newsome provided Ald Felix further clarification. Corporation Counsel reiterated the motion to amend. Ald Donnenwirth shared his opinion, stating he is in favor of something like this in the future, but not tied down to this liquor license, he raised a concern to Ald Florian asking why she didn't assist this business with their liquor license, as it is in her ward. Ald Florian explained why it isn't her job as an Alderperson to make sure they renew on time, and shared all of the warnings and notices they get. She used an example of her having to renew her driver's license before it expires, and said she knows when that takes place. She shared that the business continued to serve liquor without their local liquor licenses. She stated that the owners are not there now, and that she would have loved to ask them certain questions regarding their license. Ald Martinez shared that he agreed, and explained, stating their irresponsibility shouldn't fall on their shoulders and having the license is a privilege. Ald Martinez asked if gaming was involved. Ald Newsome stated they had it, but lost their gaming. Ald Florian stated they had it at one time. Ald Martinez continued his thoughts on a liquor license being a privilege. Ald Turner touched base on the proposed talks of a penalty. Ald Florian used the item before as an example vs. this item. Ald Turner stated they were already in process, and explained why he doesn't feel this license holder needs to have an additional add on to their process. Ald Florian stated that Ald Turner can vote no on the item. Ald Florian called for the question.
After further clarification and discussion from the Alderpersons and Corporation Counsel Weiss, Ald Felix removed his 'second' (Ald Felix) to the proposed amendment.
Ald Hayes came forward with a second to the proposed amendment by Ald Florian. Ald Newsome asked when is the soonest they can receive their license. Corporation Counsel Weiss explained. Ald Turner asked if they liquor commissioner (Mayor Taylor) already saw this item, and if it went through the normal process. Corporation Counsel Weiss explained the process, adding that he doesn't believe Mayor Taylor has taken a position on this. Ald Turner reiterated that she approves the agenda. Corporation Counsel Weiss explained things come through from staff recommendations as well, and this is not an item that Mayor Taylor actively decided, and it came though the application process. Ald Turner thanked Corporation Counsel. Ald Donnenwirth asked for clarification on the issuance of their liquor license. Corporation Counsel Weiss explained the conditions. Ald Newsome explained once they didn't renew, it became void, and the City Council has to create the license. Ald Newsome explained that they are now voting on the amended ordinance, and explained what is within the amendment.
Motion to amend the ordinance: Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Hayes to amend, including the following language:
SECTION TWO. This Ordinance will be in full force and effect from and after the occurrence of all of the following:
a. its passage, approval and publication as required by law, and
b. the submission by the Petitioner of all required documentation and fees for a Class E Restaurant liquor license; and
c. a review and determination by the City’s Liquor Commissioner of a penalty and fine for any alcohol sales found to have been conducted by Petitioner during any period in which the premises located at 4555 W. Yorkhouse Rd, did not have an active and valid liquor license.
AYE: Ald Felix, Chair-Ald Newsome, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Martinez.
NAY: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION to amend APPROVED
Action: 7. D as amended: Motion by Ald Donnenwirth, second by Ald Turner to create as amended an Ordinance creating a Class E Restaurant liquor license for Enrichment Enterprises Inc DBA Encore Events located at 4555 Yorkhouse Rd. This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on June 5, 2023.
Ald Felix asked what are we voting on.
Ald Newsome stated we are voting on the ordinance as amended with the proposed language.
AYE: Ald Felix, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Martinez.
NAY: Chair-Ald Newsome.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED as amended
Action (omnibus): E. Resolution authorizing the proper City Officials to approve construction of a new retaining wall at Huntington Lakes by M. Sanchez Concrete, Inc. per Sec. 2-458(i)(7)(Good Faith Waiver) for a not to exceed amount of $26,400.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): F. Resolution approving and authorizing the proper City Officials to enter into a contract with Office Plus for the purchase of office furniture for Public Works per Sec. 2-458(i)(3)(Joint Purchasing) for a not to exceed amount of $6,780.16. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): G. Resolution approving and authorizing the proper City Officials to execute an agreement with Ciorba per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) for the biannual and special feature bridge inspections as is required by IDOT for a not to exceed amount of $14,000.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): H. Resolution authorizing the proper City Officials to approve Ciorba per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) to prepare the funding application for the rehabilitation of the Market Street over unused land bridge (SN 049-0151) for an amount not to exceed $4,577.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): I. Resolution authorizing the proper City Officials to execute an agreement with Ciorba per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) for the FY23 Culvert Repair Supplement Proposal for a not to exceed amount of $339,233.50. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): J. Resolution authorizing the proper City Officials to execute an agreement with Crawford, Murphy and Tilly per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) for the Proposal for Lewis Avenue Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) Vault for a not to exceed amount of $83,900.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): K. Resolution approving the second amendment to the independent contractor’s agreement between the city of Waukegan and Municipal Resources Group, Inc. This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): L. Resolution authorizing the proper City Officials to execute an agreement with Baxter & Woodman per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) for the FY24 Water Main Design for five (5) Projects for a not to exceed amount of $485,000.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): M. Resolution authorizing the proper City Officials to execute an agreement with Robinson Engineering per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) for the design engineering services for the Lead Service Line Replacement for a not to exceed amount of $35,000.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): N. Resolution authorizing the proper City Officials to approve spending authority in excess of $25,000.00 per Sec. 2-458(i)(7)(Good Faith Waiver) to the Antmound Foundation for the Youth Fire Hydrant Restoration Program for an estimated up to amount of $60,000.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): O. Resolution approving the purchase of a 2024 Ford F550 Conversion Ambulance from Foster Coach Sales, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $411,171. This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee on June 20, 2023.
Staff recommends the Finance and Purchasing Committee authorize the Mayor to approve a resolution authorizing the purchase of a 2024 Ford F550 Conversion Ambulance from Foster Coach Sales, Inc. in a not to exceed amount of $411,171.
Action (omnibus): P. Resolution approving an agreement with Polaris Sales Inc. for the purchase of one Polaris Ranger Crew UTV per Sec. 2-458(i)(3)(Joint Purchasing) for a not to exceed amount of $52,642.40. This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): Q. Resolution approving the advanced payment for and distribution of rescue equipment amongst Illinois lakefront communities pursuant to a grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources in an amount not to exceed $27,627.60. This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee on June 20, 2023.
Action (omnibus): R. Resolution waiving competitive bidding and approving the purchase of two Ford Explorers from Curry Motors in a not to exceed amount of $87,210. This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee on June 20, 2023.
New Business 7. omnibus vote:
AYE: Ald Felix, Chair-Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Action: S. Motion by Ald Martinez, second by Ald Guzman to approve an Ordinance Amending and Restating Ordinance No. 23-O-125 Fixing the Salaries to be Paid to Elected Officials of the City of Waukegan, Illinois Holding the Offices of Mayor, Clerk, and Treasurer. This matter was presented at the regular Government Operations & Oversight committee meeting on June 5, 2023.
After a lengthy discussion on the floor between multiple Aldermen, City Treasurer Dr. Schwab, and Corporation Counsel Weiss, the following Action item(s) were proposed:
motion to amend Motion by Ald Turner, Second by Ald Donnenwirth to amend item 7. S., freezing the base salary as is (current salary) for the City Clerk, City Treasurer, and Mayor, leaving the two (2) percent annual increase, starting 2025.
AYE:
NAY:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
MOTION: (no vote taken on motion to amend).
Action: 7. S. Motion by Ald Bolton, second by Ald Guzman to postpone item 7. S. for 2 weeks, to a date certain: Next Regular Scheduled City Council Meeting: July 3, 2023.
AYE: Ald Felix, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez.
NAY: Ald Newsome, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED.
ITEM 7. S. POSTPONED TO THE JULY 3, 2023 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
8. Ordinances
9. Closing Items
Alderperson Time
Ald Felix: No Comment - Pass.
Ald Newsome: Coal Ash Community Meeting will be held Tuesday June 27, 2023 from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Collage of Lake County – 34 North Sheridan Road on the 5th Floor – Murkey Center. Encouraged everyone to give their input to the EPA.
Ald Turner: At this time, Ald Turner made a motion to put into committee for discussion and recommendation to the City Council, an ordinance establishing drop off and pick up times and parking designations for each of the 98 licensed home daycare centers in Waukegan. Second by Ald Felix. Ald Newsome asked if this is to put into committee. Ald Turner deferred to Corporation Counsel on which committee. Corporation Counsel Weiss stated Code Revisions would make the most sense, and explained this is in the works to bring forward. Corporation Counsel Weiss stated this is going forward anyway, and that 5 votes are needed for this to be done on the floor. Ald Turner provided clarification to his constituents as to why he is bringing this item up. Corporation Counsel Weiss asked if Ald Turner already submitted this item with the support of two other Alderpersons. Ald Turner confirmed, and stated this is to clarify because there is confusion with the new process implemented by the city. Corporation Counsel Weiss again clarified that this item is already in process. Ald Turner stated this is to formalize it and get it on the agenda for Code Revisions Committee. Corporation Counsel Weiss stated it will go on Committee, however needs to be discussed with Mayor as to a date. Ald Turner again reiterated what he has done to get this item moving. Corporation Counsel Weiss deferred to Chief of Staff George Bridges Jr. COS Bridges explained, and shared that they are looking to have a Code Revisions Committee the next meeting in July (July 17). Ald Turner stated this is the first time he is hearing this. COS Bridges Jr stated he did say that they were working on it—Ald Turner explained that he has the email, and reiterated. Cos Bridges Jr again reiterated they are still working on it. Ald Turner thanked COS Bridges Jr. Ald Turner again asked if he can get this item in committee. Corporation Counsel Weiss confirmed, and shared that there will be a committee the second meeting in July. Spoke about the process of the lead pipe program, and that they are currently working within the 6th Ward – he shared the areas being addressed. He encouraged residents to be responsive to this program, and to contact him should they have any questions 847-445-3788. He also shared he is offering up to $20.00 an hour (preferably bi-lingual, but not required) for those willing to assist with outreach regarding this program. Spoke about fireworks being illegal in Waukegan, and enforcement efforts. He touched base on Public Safety, and shared that he gets very passionate about these issues. Shared that he is dissatisfied with the level of attention he is seeing regarding this matter. Spoke about the efforts of creating a Public Safety Caucus with Ald Donnenwirth and Ald Martinez.
Ald Donnenwirth: Thanked his constituents for calling and reaching out regarding matters that need attention within the 7th Ward. Thanked the Public Works crew for assisting with Operation Clean Sweep and the YCC team on cleanup efforts near Clark Middle School. Shared that many of the neighbors shared their satisfaction with the job well done. Spoke about an issue he was able to resolve at Blanchard Rd and Western Ave, with support of the Lake County Forest Preserve. Encouraged residents to keep their eyes open and to give him a call if they need anything.
Ald Florian: No Comment - Pass.
Ald Hayes: No Comment - Pass.
Ald Bolton: Thanked Public Works for their work on the Youth Fire Hydrant Restoration Program. Shared Trinity AME Church summer program information. Shared condolences with those who have lost a loved one, especially to gun-violence.
Ald Guzman: Shared that he has sent Director Garland out to fix potholes within the 2nd Ward, and has recommendations for the streets that need attentioned in his ward. He mentioned that there were three or four that really needed attention, and this is why he is fighting for every nickel, dime, penny, dollar. He shared his experience with finance and negotiations, sharing he has a business and that he is on the finance and negotiations committee. Stressed that he will fight these four years regarding funding for infrastructure.
Ald Martinez: Shared that tonight took a lot of his energy. Thanked Pastor Brown for invocation. Congratulations on the resolution. Spoke about his involvement within the Neighborhood Watch Program on Tiffany Dr, and encouraged residents to participate in Neighborhood Watch Programs. Shared his phone number and encouraged residents who are interested in creating a group to call him at 847-390-2690. Spoke on the issue of people having house parties with bands and the noise/disturbance. Reminded residents to let adults handle fireworks, and stressed safety concerns. Shared that he got a disturbing email from a resident sharing that she was offended that he spoke in Spanish. Stated he speaks in Spanish so his constituents so they know he is here for them, and that his constituents should not take offense especially during a PSA. Shared that he will always assist Spanish speaking residents, and shared a message in Spanish. Spoke about the issue of losing loved ones to violence, including a friend who lost their life in a car accident. He shared his condolences with the Rachel Reyna family.
Action: B. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Florian to enter the closed executive session to discuss pending or imminent litigation pursuant to Section 2(c)(11) of the Open Meetings Act.
AYE: Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton (virtually), Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Motion to re-enter Regular Session: Motion by Ald Donnenwirth, second by Ald Turner to re-enter Regular Session at 9:57 PM
AYE: Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: Ald Bolton (virtually at 9:57 PM).
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
10. Adjournment
Action: A. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Donnenwirth to Adjourn at 9:57 PM
AYE: Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: Ald Bolton (virtually at 9:57 PM).
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
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