City of Waukegan City Council met July 17.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
The Council of the City of Waukegan met in regular session on Monday, July 17, 2023 at 7:08 PM
City Council Chambers, City Hall. 100 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, Waukegan.
Mayor; Ann B. Taylor, City Clerk; Janet E. Kilkelly, City Treasurer; Dr. John R. Schwab, & Corporation Counsel; Kelley A. Gandurski, were present.
1. Opening Items
Procedural: A. Roll Call.
PRESENT: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
ABSENT: None.
Procedural: B. Invocation by Apostle Mark McCorley (House of Prayer)/ Pledge of Allegiance
Procedural: C. Mayor's Comments - At this time, Mayor Taylor shared her comments.
2. Resolutions/Proclamations/Presentations/Appointments
Action: A. Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Donnenwirth to approve Resolution 23-R-210 - “Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Living Waters Cathedral”
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
3. Audience Time
Chuck Rukstales: Spoke about the email he sent to the Aldermen regarding the EPA comments on the coal ash. Shared that Ald Hayes encouraged the general public to provide comments, and he hopes that the Aldermen would consider providing comments. Spoke about the public hearing that took place on the EPA side. He urged the Waukegan City Council to do something, and explained that it is their time. Continued to urge the City Council to form an environmental subcommittee. Touched base on his concerns regarding the Salary Ordinance. Stated that we have full-time employees that deserve increases. Shared that part of that includes servicing our residents in a remote matter. Spoke on full-time elected officials salary, and shared his thoughts on City Clerk, Treasurer. Also spoke regarding part-time Aldermen pay and benefits.
Jamie Rukstales: Shared her concerns regarding Waukegan's multiple Superfund sites, and the many pollutants caused by these sites, including ETO. Spoke about what she believes should be done to prevent Waukegan from becoming a further dumping ground for pollution.
Rayon Edwards: Spoke about item 6. A. on the agenda, and raised the question as to why this is being brought back for reconsideration. Shared that some of these Aldermen, including Ald Florian, fought former Mayor Cunningham on everything. Stated that this Mayor has had 3 police chiefs in under 4 years. Called out Ald Felix for wanting to rescind his vote. Stated that he hopes the Latino community is paying attention, and called him a sellout, and shared his reasoning, including involvement with Miguel and Community Outreach Waukegan. Raised the question of how much money did Arena Strategies allegedly donate to their organization. Stated how dare this administration use his family's death to make them feel safe, and shared that they did not reach out to the family, and explained his frustration with the police and the way they allegedly conducted themselves at the crime scene. Stated that under former Mayor Cunningham, they were a little bit safer, and when Mayor Taylor took the seat, crime has been on the rise. Stated that people are here talking about the air pollution, and their safety. Stressed that the administration is failing us.
Rastor Willie Morton: Urged the community to come together, and stressed that we can get a lot of things accomplished if we do them together. Pray for the community to come together.
Randy Sobeiki: Raised concern on the following of City Ordinances - asked what the point of them are, if the City doesn't follow them. Highlighted firework issues, and signs on parkways. Spoke about Scoop, and the issue of dogs and certain dogs who were targeted. Raised concerns about the presence of the Waukegan Police Department, including the traffic division and the lack of attention in certain areas for speeding, reckless driving, and parking issues.
Wygenia Brisco: Shared that she would like the late Mary Moore recognized, if she wasn't already. Shared information regarding the email correspondence between her and Ald Martinez, regarding the spanish speaking community / latino community, and her response that we have a community made up of many groups, and that english in the language used here from all the Aldermen. She again shared that the only thing she was saying to Ald Martinez was that he should make the statement in english / translate. Shared that she is in favor of the speed bumps/humps in the community, and that they help with the issue of speeding. Stated it should continue to be addressed for our community.
Carlos Smith: Lives at 223 Washington St. Owns 'A Crazy Place' on Genesee Street. Shared that he has a 'little sugar, and a little salt' this evening. Encouraged all the 'Aldermen' to relax up here - and that everyone understands they are all 'men'. This was in response to the comments certain Alderpersons made about being addressed as 'Aldermen'. Gave a shout out to Waukegan Police Department for their work during Scoop.
Brother Blanks: B.A.M.M. Shared that the Office of the Mayor reached out to B.A.M.M. on some background regarding the proposed Civilian Office of Police Accountability. Shared that he is interested to learn what the nature of that inquiry was about, and for some feedback. Continued to advocate for the Civilian Office of Police Accountability. Shared the work done over at Barwell between B.A.M.M. and the Waukegan Police Department. Touched base on the 'peace keeping mission' as he calls it, by the Waukegan Police Department at Belvidere [Corrine J. Rose] Park.
Clyde McLemore: Spoke about the senseless murders taking place in town, and shared that Mayor Taylor has not yet reached out to the families. Shared that the Mayor of Waukegan is out of touch with the residents. Thanked Ald Martinez for showing up to the balloon release for the victims of these senseless murders. Touched base on item 6. A. for Arena, which he stated is being brought back up as Mayor Taylor allegedly got in Ald Felix head. Stated that we should not have taxpayers pay for political favors, and continued to speak on how this is 'trickonometry' by Mayor Taylor. Raised the question asking how many times are we going to entertain this motion. Touched base on New Business item 7. S. and shared a quote. Asked Mayor Taylor what gas station does she pump gas at, and what stores does she go to in Waukegan. Spoke about the fire hydrant work being done by AntMound Foundation / Youth, and how the work is allegedly being done mostly in the 9th Ward. Stated that the AntMound Foundation can't save her or get her any votes.
Laura Delgado: Member of the organization 'Fiestas Patrias'. Shared that she is advocating for their group to host Fiestas Patrias, and that she is an activist from Tonatico. Shared information on what their non-for-profit organization is doing to advocate for our community. Shared that many members of the community are paying out of pocket to participate in these events. Advocated for her community, and shared that our community in Waukegan should assist them, so they feel connected and supported.
Margaret Carrasco: Special Guest with her this evening: Lisa Alva Delgado, Queen of Fiesta Patrias for Waukegan Tonatico. Shared that she will be handing out invitations personally as a community member, to people from the community for their celebration that she shares has been going on in Waukegan for the last 40 years. Addressed item 8. A. on the agenda, and encouraged everyone to stay this evening. She continued to address item 8. A.: Hearing on Appeal of Denial of Special Event Permit requested by Petitioner Margaret Carrasco/Fiestas Patrias Parade & Celebration. She continued to stress the issues regarding Puro Futbol, and shared multiple alleged discrepancies, including alleged lies she claimed Mayor Taylor stated regarding donations for different groups. Called Mayor Taylor a liar, and shared that she allegedly saw the thousands of dollars going to non-minority groups. She stated this is even after they allegedly applied two times. Continued to call Mayor Taylor a liar, and stated that she believes she is the most racist white woman in Libertyville.
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 Turner to approve Consent Agenda items 4. A - F.
Action (Consent): A. Motion to approve the Regular Closed Executive Session Meeting Minutes from Monday, June 20, 2023.
Action (Consent): B. Motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from Monday, June 20, 2023.
Action (Consent): C. Motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from Monday, July 03, 2023.
Action (Consent): D. Motion to approve vendor payments dated July 17, 2023 in the amount of $3,548,763.88.
Action (Consent): E. Motion to approve Regular Payroll dated July 14, 2023 in the total amount of $1,934,171.38.
Action (Consent): F. Motion to approve Misc. Payroll (PD HBB & CT Cashout, EO & CS, Final Payouts) dated July 14, 2023 in the total amount of $27,010.40
Consent Agenda Vote:
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
5. Reports and Communication
Action: A. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Florian to accept the LOC to Old National Bank for Yeoman Creek $10,531.00
Dr. John R. Schwab, City Treasurer, gave a report on the LOC (Letter of Credit). City Treasurer Dr. Schwab asked for Approval from the City Council.
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
6. Old Business
Action: A. Motion by Ald Martinez, second by Ald Felix 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 originally voted on at the June 20, 2023 meeting and subject to a successful Motion to Reconsider at the July 3, 2023 meeting.*
A lengthy discussion took place on the floor reconsidering the Agreement with The Arena Strategic Communications, LLC. Ald Bolton, Ald Turner, Ald Newsome, Ald Martinez, and Ald Donnenwirth shared their comments and concerns to Mayor Taylor regarding this agreement for reconsideration.
Ald Turner made the following motion for consideration:
Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Donnenwirth to TABLE the Resolution Approving an Agreement with The Arena Strategic Communications, LLC for Professional Communications Consulting Services in the amount of $108,000 until a date certain: May 05, 2025:
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Bolton, Ald Martinez.
NAY: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Guzman, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION FAILED
Corporation Counsel Kelley A. Gandurski shared that the original motion* for item 6.
A. Old Business is back on the floor. Upon calling the question the vote was as followed:
AYE: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Guzman, Ald Felix.
NAY: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Bolton, Ald Martinez, Ald Newsome.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION FAILED
7. New Business
Motion by Ald Ald Florian, second by Ald Guzman to Omnibus vote New Business items 7. A - Q, T, & V, Excluding items 7. R, S, & U.
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Omnibus Motion As Amended: Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Bolton to approve to Omnibus vote New Business items 7. A - Q, T, & V, Excluding items 7. R, S, & U, & V.
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED as amended.
Action (Omnibus): A. Resolution approving and authorizing the proper City Officials to purchase four V-Box Spreaders from Bonnell Industries per Sec. 2-458(i)(3)(Joint Purchasing) through Sourcewell for a not to exceed amount of $116,576.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023
Action (Omnibus): B. Resolution approving and authorizing the proper City Officials to approve a resolution for change order #4 with AirCon Refrigeration & Heating for an amount of $8,250.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): C. Resolution Approving the Procurement and Installation of a Salt Storage Dome from Greenfield Contractors LLC through Sourcewell in the not-to-exceed amount of $117,118.25. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): D. Resolutions to Authorize the Appropriation of MFT Funds for the Installation of a Concrete Slab for the Salt Storage Dome and Approve the Proposal by D'Land Construction per Sec. 2-458(i)(7)(Good Faith Waiver) for an amount not to exceed $110,838.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): E. Resolution approving and authorizing the proper City Officials to approve a resolution amending the previous resolution for design engineering services for Robinson Engineering as well as Change Order #2 for a not to exceed amount of $102,500.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): F. Resolution approving and authorizing the proper City Officials to approve a resolution for Robinson Engineering to perform Lead Service Line Replacement Inventory per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) for a not to exceed amount of $100,000.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): G. Resolution approving and authorizing the proper City Officials to approve a resolution for Change Order #1 with the Antmound Foundation per Sec. 2-458(i)(7)(Good Faith Waiver) for the Youth Fire Hydrant Restoration Program for $70,000.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): H. Resolution approving and authorizing the proper City Officials to approve a resolution approving a LPA Joint Funding Agreement for construction work for a federally funded project to resurface Glen Flora Ave. and Sheridan Rd. with the City's share being $176,960.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action( Omnibus): I. Motion to authorize the proper City Officials to approve a resolution approving the use of MFT Funds for payment of the construction portion of the Resurfacing on Glen Flora Ave. and Sheridan Rd. to Illinois Department of Transportation in the amount of $160,860.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): J. Motion to authorize the proper City Officials to approve a resolution approving a LPA Engineering Agreement for inspections with Robinson Engineering per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) for a not to exceed amount of $138,712.00. This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): K. Motion to Approve an Application by Aaron Park to Participate in the City's Adopt-a-Road Program. This matters was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023.
Public Works staff recommends that the City Council approve a Motion to Approve an Application by Aaron Park to Participate in the City's Adopt-a-Road Program for one of the two following sections of road:
-Applicant's First Choice: On Lawn Ave. (near Diversity Park) from W. Hill Ave. to S. West Ave.
-Applicant's Second Choice: On W. Hill Ave. from Darla Ct. to S. West Ave.
Action (Omnibus): L. Resolution Approving a Grant of Easements to Permit Encroachments on City Property by Existing Structure at 325 Washington Street. This matter was presented before the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee on July 17, 2023
Action (Omnibus): M. Resolution to approve the 2022 Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) and to authorize submittal to the United State Department of Housing and Urban Development. This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on July 3, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): N. Resolution waiving competitive bidding per Sec.2-458(i)(1)(Sole Source) and approving an agreement with Stryker for Stretcher and Trolley Maintenance Service. This matter was presented to the Finance and Purchasing Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): O. Resolution approving a Tower and Ground Spaced Lease between K2 Towers III, LLC and The City of Waukegan. This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): P. Resolution approving a Plan and Participant Consulting and Investment Advisory agreement between Retirement Plan Advisors and the City of Waukegan. This matter was presented to the Finance and Purchasing Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action (Omnibus): Q. Resolution approving the City of Waukegan's amended Credit Card & Store Credit Policy. This matter was presented to the Finance and Purchasing Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action: R. Ordinance increasing the number of Class A - Tavern Liquor license by one Bertrand Lounge INC. D/B/A/ Bertrand Lounge -2616 Washington Street. This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee on July 17, 2023.
Discussion took place for clarification of this item, between Ald Donnenwirth and Mayor Taylor. Mayor Taylor provided clarification that this was an ownership change, and it was not caught at the initial renewal process.
Ald Guzman recused himself from this item, and left the room.
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix.
NAY: Ald Newsome.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Action: S. Motion by Ald Bolton, second by Ald Florian to approve a Resolution Adopting IML Civility Pledge. This item was presented before the Code Revisions, Appeals, and Negotiations Committee on July 17, 2023.
Ald Turner asked for clarification on this item, as well as shared why he is opposed to adopting this resolution for the IML Civility Pledge. Risk Manager Bob Bentz provided clarification for Ald Turner, as well as for Ald Donnenwirth.
Ald Felix asked Risk Manager Bentz about the net-positive outcome of this IML Civility Pledge. Corporation Counsel Gandurski provided clarification on this item, also adding that her and Risk Manager Bentz will not responsible for enforcement on this pledge.
Ald Turner touched base on the Constitution of the United States, and directed comments to Mayor Taylor. Mayor Taylor touched base on the importance of civility as a City Council.
Corporation Counsel Gandurski again explained IML's concern, and why they recommend the IML Civility Pledge.
Ald Turner continued his comments, and Ald Hayes shared why he feels this is an important item to support. Ald Guzman raised questions about enforcement. Corporation Counsel Gandurski again clarified that concern, before the question was called:
Mayor Taylor* shared on record she supports this pledge.
AYE: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Mayor Taylor*
NAY: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Action (Omnibus): T. Resolution authorizing CBA with PBLC. This item was presented before the Code Revisions, Appeals, and Negotiations Committee on July 17, 2023.
Action: U. Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Turner to approve a Resolution Approving Agreement with Hera Property Registry LLC and Milberg Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman PLLC for vacant and foreclosed property registry and enforcement. This item was presented before the Code Revisions, Appeals, and Negotiations Committee on July 17, 2023.
Ald Turner asked for clarification to this item. Discussion, questions, and concerns were answered by Building Commissioner George Sellas. Alderpersons continued, and Commissioner Sellas spoke on the ProChamps Bankruptcy and the importance of this proposed agreement for their vacant and foreclosed property registry and enforcement. Ald Hayes and Ald Florian added to the discussion, as well as Ald Felix asking about the size of the company. Mayor Taylor stated that it is a good size company.
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Action: V. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Newsome to approve an Ordinance Amending Article III Chapter 2 of the Code of Ordinances regarding Residency Requirement for Employees
Ald Newsome asked Corporation Counsel Gandurski to clarify exactly what this is amending. Corporation Counsel provided clarification that this is striking residency requirement out of the entire code, making it reserved.
Ald Turner asked for this whole item to be spelled out. Mayor Taylor shared her thoughts and clarification, as well as the history from 2003. Spoke about the Department Heads, and shared the example of the Finance Director position not having a single Waukeganite apply. She continued to talk about that nation side search, and the negotiations from the candidates, including 5 to 6 week vacation period.
A lengthy discussion continued with Alderpersons sharing their opinion on the residency requirement, while Corporation Counsel again provided clarification. Human Resources Director Tameika S. Jones provided clarification to the Alderpersons, and answered any questions or concerns they may have had, specifically questions from Ald Turner, Ald Martinez, and Ald Guzman, before the question was called for a vote.
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
New Business Omnibus Vote:
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
8. Special Order of Business
Motion by Ald Felix, second by Ald Donnenwirth to open the Hearing on Appeal of Denial of Special Event Permit requested by Petitioner Margaret Carrasco/Fiestas Patrias Parade & Celebration at 9:20 PM:
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Please note, the entirety of the Hearing on the Appeal of Denial of Special Event Permit requested by Petitioner Margaret Carrasco/Fiestas Patrias Parade & Celebration is available for review on the City's 'WaukeganTV' Youtube Page, beginning at 4:39:00, and concluding at 5:49:28. Corporation Counsel Gandurski explained the rules of the proceedings. City Clerk Janet E. Kilkelly swore in the witnesses. Witnesses from the Petitioner side included Margaret Carrasco, Elizabeth Marrero, and Uriel Vieyra. Witnesses from the City of Waukegan side included Finance Coordinator Carlos Parada and Finance Manager Shaun N. D. Nunag.
Ms. Margaret Carrasco has submitted an appeal on behalf of Fiestas Patrias Parade & Celebration requesting a review of the denial of a special event permit. Section 15-183 entitled "Notice of denial, appeals" provides applicants for special event permits the opportunity to appeal a denial to the City Council. A memorandum summarizing the issue is attached to this item and background materials are being provided to City Council members for their review and consideration. Alderpersons were given the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses from each side.
Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Guzman to uphold the City of Waukegan’s decision to deny the Special Event Permit requested by Petitioner Margaret Carrasco/Fiesta Patrias Parade & Celebration:
AYE: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
NAY: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION FAILED – Application will be brought back to the proper City of Waukegan Departments for review.
Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Bolton to close the Hearing on Appeal of Denial of Special Event Permit requested by Petitioner Margaret Carrasco/Fiestas Patrias Parade & Celebration at 10:30 PM:
VOICE VOTE: MOTION APPROVED
9. Ordinances
10. Closing Items
Alderperson Time
Ald Turner: Shared that he had a 6th Ward Meeting online, and that information can be found on social media. Spoke about gun seizures throughout the City of Waukegan, and shared statistics on those seizures. Reminded everyone that he and Ald Donnenwirth are still offering a reward for the arrest and conviction of anyone illegally in possession of a firearm, from their 6th and 7th Ward Rewards Program. Shared that Saturday the 22nd between 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM there will be a block party in his ward on Greenwood and Linden. Shared that all are invited. Shared that on July 29 he will be having a 6th Ward Dumpster Drop in front of Dollar General from 8:30 AM - 12:00 Noon. All are welcome. Shared that they finally put to rest the contract for Arena Communications and asked if the 108k was budgeted. Mayor Taylor answered yes, and that this is not a discussion period. Don't ask no questions, won't tell no lies was the feedback from Ald Turner. Shared that he would like to entertain a motion that the $108,000 dollars previously budgeted for Arena Communications be redirected/re-allotted to the Police Department for overtime for traffic enforcement detail. Mayor Taylor stated that would have to happen next time. Ald Turner stated he would like to make a motion to have it come up in the committee next time. Mayor Taylor stated that Corporation Counsel will have to look at that first, and she can answer that when she comes back. That concluded Ald Turner's comments.
Ald Donnenwirth: Thanked everyone for their phone calls and for letting him know what is going on in the 7th Ward. Talked about the issue of cars parked all over people's lawns, and sidewalks. Spoke about an incident at Jackson and Buck Ave with 200 cars. Stated that he will take care of the issues and encouraged his residents to continue calling - he will see what he can do to take care of the issue.
Ald Florian: Commented on items brought up during Audience Time. Stated that a former Alderman indicated that they make $250.00 an hour - stated that she hopes this former Alderman incorporated those extra hours as it is 10:36 PM. She stated that she would hope as a former Alderman, he would know this [the City Council Meetings] are not their only duties. She stressed the many duties of Aldermen, including answering phone calls, emails, events in the community. She stated that at least some of them are. She wanted it clarified publicly that she most definitely does not make $250.00 an hour. Touched base on ETO and an article in Time Magazine that spoke about life expectancy. Shared that based on information from CDBG, the average Waukeganite lives 10 years less than anyone in Lake County. Stressed that it is on them, and encouraged everyone to read the article in Time Magazine, since it talks about what affects America's life expectancy, and shared some examples. Shared that she is having a dumpster on Saturday July 22 in front of Midlane from 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM.
Ald Hayes: No Comment - Pass.
Ald Bolton: Thanked YCC for hitting the pavement on Friday in 90 Degree Weather and for their work. Spoke about the efforts from the young people painting fire hydrants throughout the wards. Thanked them for their work. Thanked the Sister City in Japan for their visit. Shared information on an event going on at Greenbelt on Saturday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Ald Guzman: Shared condolences to the two young ladies and their families. Stated that his prayers go out to the families. Noted the telephone number that Mayor Taylor shared regarding domestic violence prevention and encouraged residents to take note of that number. Shared the roads that are on the list to receive attention in his 2nd Ward. Shared that Aldermen is a part time job, and that he is not accessible until 3:00 PM Shared that someone from the City has given out his personal number, and that the number should not be used to reach him. He shared his city cellphone number - 847-390-2690. Touched base on the issue of ETO in Waukegan, and the concerns of ETO and who do we need to contact in order to get things done on this issue. Spoke about an issue of police officers from Gurnee and Park City pulling over residents in our jurisdiction. Stressed this issue and shared examples of problem areas.
Ald Martinez: Thanked Pastor for the Invocation this evening. Spoke about the two victims, and shared his thoughts. Touched base on the concern from resident regarding sharing information in spanish. Shared that he is here for everyone and is not looking for a fight. Shared a message with the spanish-speaking community, stating that he will be there to assist and return their calls.
Ald Felix: Spoke about item 6. A. on the agenda this evening. Clarified regarding the accusations of Arena Strategies donating to Community Outreach. Shared that the information from Rayon was simply not true, and is gossip and continued his thoughts on that matter. Spoke about the complaint directed to CDBG of the alleged unprofessional workers at a residence. Shared complaints about holes left behind after work and the cones put in the middle. Stated that this is a hazard to the kids. Encouraged residents to reach out to him for their concerns and shared a message in spanish.
Ald Newsome: Shared that she is getting a lot of complaints about loud music, and would like to see an amendment to the ordinances regarding fees and fines, and explained the current process and how neighbors are reluctant to sign a complaint. Urged for an amendment to the ordinance, strengthening it. Urged neighbors to please be mindful. Ald Newsome and Corporation Counsel Gandurski discussed the proposed amendment.
Motion for Referral by Ald Newsome: Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Bolton to discuss the Noise Ordinance at the next Code Revisions, Appeals, and Negotiations Committee.
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Motion for Referral by Ald Turner: Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Donnenwirth to discuss at the next City Council Meeting, allocation of funds $108,000 for Arena Strategies, to be allocated for for use of traffic detail for traffic enforcement
AYE: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Mayor Taylor shared that both items for referral will be for discussion only.
11. Adjournment
Procedural: A. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Newsome to Adjourn at 11:05 PM
AYE: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: Ald Turner.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
https://go.boarddocs.com/il/cowil/Board.nsf/Public
Alerts Sign-up