City of Waukegan City Council met Sept. 5.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
The Council of the City of Waukegan met in regular session on Tuesday, September 05, 2023 at 7:00 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 Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
ABSENT: None.
Procedural: B. Invocation by Pastor Billy McCollum (Crown Jewel Christian Ministries Kenosha, WI) / 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 Florian, second by Ald Bolton to approve Resolution 23-R-263 - “Honoring Herbert Handy”
AYE: Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Action: B. Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Turner to approve Resolution 23-R-264 - “Honoring Pete ‘the Tramp’ Yarbrough”
AYE: Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
Proclamation: C. “Hispanic Heritage Month in Waukegan - September 15 - October 15”
Proclamation: D. “Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Nu Lambda Sigma Chapter Day - September 23, 2023”
3. Audience Time
Andrea Moore: Homeless citizen who shared her concerns regarding the funding of Waukegan CDBG. Spoke about her experience with Barwell Manor eviction, urged the City of Waukegan to do something regarding board members who've been appointed for 20-30 years on the Waukegan Housing Authority. Continued to share her concerns and stated something must be done for the future.
Jennifer Cordova: Provided an update from the Waukegan Public Library, which included many upcoming events. Invited everyone to the library.
Charles January: Stated that he is from North Chicago. Shared that he is here tonight with disappointment. Spoke about the upcoming Fiestas Patrias Parades and shared that the two parades will divide the community. Addressed the aldermen and told them they have the right to discuss things and fire anyone.
Carlos Smith: 223 Washington. Owner of 'A Crazy Place'. Shared recommendations regarding Genesee Street. Addressed the Council and told them that a conversation regarding the zoning of Genesee Street needs to happen because the street is developing. A mission and vision are needed for the downtown area. A relationship between the city and the business owners should also be in place.
Rene Pare: Evoking Dr. MLK Jr. Suspected he integrated his people into a burning house.
Asked why Andrea Moore and her children are still homeless for whistleblowing on the Waukegan Housing Authority. Questioned why the Waukegan Housing Authority is still able to operate Barwell Manor. Spoke about Cook County Biker Gang, NRG Coal Plant, Policy of Police Department regarding mental health and said she would like answers.
Dean Jesus Ruiz: Dean of the College of Lake County. Thanked City Council for the support, accomplishments and partnership between the College of Lake County and the City of Waukegan. Provided an update on the downtown building, spoke about the intergovernmental agreement with the city and invited the aldermen to visit the Lake Shore Campus.
Rayon Edwards: Spoke about the following resolutions being presented at the Market Street Reunion: 23-R-263 & 23-R-264 and correction is needed. Mentioned that 1st Ward Alderman didn't make time to attend. Mayor Taylor and COS Bridges - have destroyed the police department. Shared that police officers do not engage with the community and spoked about an incident that happened on Saturday on the 1st ward and how the residents were disrespected. Spoke about Wraparound center and questioned who is running the city.
Margaret Carrasco: On behalf of Fiesta Patrias Organization. Spoke about Press Release in regards Racist Mayor Ann Taylor - Anti-Immigrant, Persecution threats to arrest Mexican Charros Cowboy horse riders at the Fiestas Patrias parade. Reached out to Chief of Police regarding the legal code that riding a horse as a felony offence and no response back. Mentioned that she has filed ethical complaints and FOIA requests. Spoke about breached of the public’s trust and said mayor is blocking visas for families come to Waukegan.
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 Newsome, second by Ald Turner to approve Consent Agenda items 4. A - E.
Action (Consent): A. Motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from Monday, August 21, 2023.
Action (Consent): B. Motion to approve Regular Payroll dated August 25, 2023 in the total amount of $1,827,314.93.
Action (Consent): C. Motion to approve Misc. Payroll (PD HBB & CT Cash out, Final Payouts) dated August 25,2023 in the total amount of $80,125.13.
Action (Consent): D. Motion to approve vendor payments dated September 4, 2023 in the amount of $3,594,184.49.
Action (Consent): E. Motion to approve the Door to Door Cookie Ordering Solicitation request, from September 22, 2023 to October 15, 2023 & from December 15, 2023 to January 16, 2024 by the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana
Consent Agenda Vote:
AYE: Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
5. Reports and Communication
6. Old Business
Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Bolton to reconsider, as amended, the Lease Agreement with the Waukegan Chamber of Commerce for office space at 100 N Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue with a final termination date of February 29, 2024 - 6 Months for a total amount of $5.00.
Discussion between Aldermen, Mayor Taylor, and Corporation Counsel Gandurski occurred as to how this motion would be brought back, if reconsidered. Corporation Counsel Gandurski confirmed the motion would be brought back for reconsideration, as passed/amended on the floor at the August 21, 2023 meeting.
AYE: Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.
NAY: Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
7. New Business Motion by Ald Bolton, second by Ald Newsome to Omnibus vote items 7. A - F.
Vote to allow omnibus agenda:
AYE: Ald Bolton, Ald Martinez, Ald Newsome, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
NAY: Ald Guzman, Ald Felix, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION to omnibus vote APPROVED
Action: A. Ordinance Amending the Waukegan Code of Ordinances to Adopt by Reference the Most Recent Version of the Lake County Watershed Development Ordinance. This matter was presented to the Codes and Revisions Committee on September 5, 2023.
Action: B. A Resolution Approving to Purchase Chevy Tahoe for an amount not to exceed $200,000 for the Risk Management and Public Works Departments
Ald Turner asked for clarification on what is being being purchased for $200,000. One Chevy Tahoe, or multiple Chevy Tahoes. Ald Turner stated nobody else has asked a question but himself.
Ald Florian shared that the information is presented in their packets for them to read. Ald Turner continued to share his concern on this item, and asked if anyone can answer the question on what is being purchased.
Ald Newsome shared that it was three Chevy Tahoes, as discussed in the committee. Ald Turner asked if this was for three.
Mayor Taylor stated it is for three, and asked Ald Turner if he would like the departments to clarify. Ald Turner stated no, and that he was hoping Mayor Taylor could explain. Mayor Taylor provided clarification stating this item was discussed during the committee and the questions were answered. Ald Turner stressed that regardless of what was in committee, he needs clarity as it is presented at city council for a vote.
Ald Florian read the prepared documentation on BoardDocs for item 7. B. Ald Turner thanked Ald Florian for providing clarification.
Action: C. A Resolution Approving a Settlement and Release of all Claims for Engineering Department Employee
Action: D. Motion to approve Visit Lake County Partnership authorization to pay the annual partnership contribution in the amount of $34,125.00. [Presentation was made at the Community Development Committee meeting on September 5, 2023.]
Action: E. Resolution Approving a New Intergovernmental Agreement with the College of Lake County for the Use of the Madison Street Mall. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on September 5, 2023.]
Action: F. Ordinance approving Zoning Calendar #2723, Variance for fence height, and Zoning Calendar #2724, Site Plan approval for the permanent casino facility at 600 Lakehurst Road for FHR Illinois, LLC / Alex Stolyar. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on September 5, 2023.]
New Business Omnibus Vote:
AYE: Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
NAY: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
MOTION APPROVED
8. Ordinances
9. Closing Items
Alderperson Time
Ald Bolton: Shared that she was at the Market Street Reunion, and presented the proclamations from the City of Waukegan, met the family, and is in constant communication with them. Mentioned that Trinity AME Church is being marked as a historical landmark by the Waukegan Historical Society. Shared the date of that event: Thursday September 07, 2023 at 1:30 PM, 210 South Ave, Waukegan IL 60085. Shared that they are celebrating 119 years. Shared the date for her dumpsters in the 1st ward: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM on Oct 27 and 28. Locations for those dumpsters are to be determined.
Ald Guzman: Shared that he would like to bring forth the following based on the comments from the young woman regarding homelessness: *Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Turner to direct Corporation Counsel to create a new ordinance so any board member appointed by Mayor and approved by Council may be removed by Council before board member’s term is up. Per Mayor, this item will go to the Special Committee of the Whole Meeting on Thursday October 19, 2023.
Ald Martinez recused himself from this item.
AYE: Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth.
NAY: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
*MOTION APPROVED for referral to Committee of the Whole on Thursday October 19, 2023
Shared a motion that he would like to bring forward, based on the article shared in Puro Futbol that people will be arrested based on changes made by City of Waukegan staff. A lengthy discussion and clarification took place between Aldermen, Mayor Taylor, and Corporation Counsel Gandurski before the motion was voted upon: *Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Felix to discuss only, code amendment to special event permit code section, that 1000 attendees triggers city council approval. Per Mayor, this item will go to the Special Committee of the Whole Meeting on Thursday October 19, 2023.
AYE: Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth.
NAY: Ald Bolton, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
*MOTION APPROVED for discussion at the Committee of the Whole Meeting on Thursday October 19, 2023
Continued to share his comments. Stated that he has received multiple calls regarding Waukegan Homecoming. Mayor Taylor stated this has already been approved, and if he would have asked staff they would have been able to answer that for him. Ald Hayes at this time stated that Waukegan Ordinance limits debate to 10 minutes per Aldermen, and that there should be a vote to go beyond the ten minutes. Ald Guzman responded to Ald Hayes comments, stating this is his Aldermen time and he can take as long as he wants. Ald Hayes encouraged Ald Guzman to be respectful. Ald Guzman called for point of order. Ald Florian shared her comments on Ald Hayes statement, agreeing, stating especially since we give audience members three minutes. Ald Guzman asked for point of order. Discussion took place regarding the allocation of money for the Bathhouse at he Lakefront. Mayor Taylor provided clarification regarding grants they are seeking for this. Ald Guzman stated he must have misunderstood when a department head provided clarification. Mayor Taylor invited Chief of Staff George Bridges Jr to provide further clarification regarding the funding of the $1.5 Million. Discussion took place between Ald Guzman, COS Bridges Jr, Mayor Taylor, and Corporation Counsel Gandurski regarding funding.
Continued to share his comments. Shared that he will have a dumpster drop on October 14 at 1525 Dugdale. Encouraged everyone to join and come by. Shared why he is so hard on money issues within the city. Stated that he is a business owner, and will live by watching the cents and dollars.
Ald Martinez: Shared that the Homecoming parade will not be as traditional as it used to be, and will take place on Friday, September 22, 2023. Spoke on uptick in crime and violence in our city. Urged everyone to put differences aside and address violence. Stated we are losing the battle. Spoke about an event he attended for Senator Johnson. Thanked Patricia Jones for her help for organizing it. Shared that he attending the Market Street Reunion. Shared that he is going to have an upcoming 3rd Ward Meeting, and is still getting things in order for that. Shared that he is going door-to-door throughout his 3rd Ward, and explained some of the different issues he is seeing. Again urged that we need to pray and do something for our city. Asked everyone to be mindful, safe, and to be good neighbors.
Ald Felix: Spoke about Downtown Police Activity. Welcomes discussion with downtown business owners, and shared that we should all be at the table discussing these issues. Shared that they can possibly have a meeting in the city council chambers, and he will work on that on his end. At this time, Lengthy discussion took place between Aldermen, Staff, Mayor and Corporation Counsel. The following 'motion' was proposed by Ald Felix:
*Motion by Ald Felix, second by Ald Turner to repeal any code requiring green space islands in parking lots. Per Mayor, this item will go to the Special Committee of the Whole Meeting on Thursday October 19, 2023.
AYE: Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth.
NAY: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
*MOTION APPROVED for discussion
After an additional lengthy discussion between Aldermen, Staff, Mayor and Corporation Counsel, the following additional 'motion' was proposed by Ald Felix:
*Motion by Ald Felix, second by Ald Guzman for discussion of minimum parking requirements in Article 12 of Zoning code. Per Mayor, this item will go to the Special Committee of the Whole Meeting on Thursday October 19, 2023.
AYE: Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth.
NAY: Ald Newsome, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
*MOTION APPROVED for discussion
Ald Felix continued his comments. Shared that a 4th Ward Cleanup will take place on Oct 7 at City of Waukegan Parking Lot D. He thanked everyone for being in attendance this evening. At this time, discussion took place regarding allowing horses at the Fiesta Patrias Parade. Corporation Counsel Gandurski explained to the Aldermen that the appeal process is over at this time, and nothing is before the City Council at this time. Ald Felix continued his comments. He echoed comments from Ald Martinez regarding uptick in violence. Ald Felix asked Corporation Counsel Gandurski to confirm the motions he brought forward tonight. Corporation Counsel Gandurski reiterated the motions. Ald Felix concluded his comments at this time.
Ald Newsome: Thanked Public Works Department, Mr. Garland, Mr. Jenkins, Javi, and Ricky for their assistance with the 5th Ward Clean Sweep on August 27. Shared that she will have another one in the spring around Earth Week. Shared that 5th Ward Residents can take their items to another Ward's Clean Sweep if they need to dispose of their items sooner.
Ald Turner: Shared recognition with Rayon Edwards for a job well done at the South Side Picnic. Shared that he was delighted to hear Ald Felix and Ald Martinez speak about public safety, and shared safety issues in the 6th Ward and throughout the City of Waukegan. Spoke about the issues specifically in Downtown Waukegan, and stated that we do need to engage the businesses. Shared with Carlos from A Crazy Place that he will come to him for a sit down and is interested in hearing his ideas on what he feels the solution is. Touched base on the basketball game that was moved out of town due to safety concerns, and other safety concerns covered in the incident reports the Aldermen receive. Stated that these items are never discussed, and he has asked repeatedly for a Public Safety Committee - stated if one isn't formed, there are Aldermen prepared to move forward with a plan to form a Public Safety Caucus and will take public action. Shared that Labor Day ends the 6th and 7th Ward Rewards Program, and gave information regarding that program. Stated that program will pick back up on Memorial Day. Spoke about the issue of no action being taken after unanimously agreeing that the camera be placed on audience members while speaking during audience time. He urged for an ordinance to be crafted and stated he wants something done. Ald Felix at this time stated we voted on things, and he encourages residents to watch the last video - asked Corporation Counsel for clarification on what happens when we vote on things. Mayor Taylor shared that she did state this evening that the audience members can be on camera. Ald Turner again reiterated that the Aldermen passed something unanimously that they wanted an ordinance directing this. Ald Turner stated that is what they want, the camera pointed to the audience members, and there is no alternative. Ald Turner stated this was a motion, and it was decided on - doesn't understand why it is such a challenge. Ald Turner continued his comments. He shared that the 14th Annual 6th Ward Ice Cream Social will take place this Saturday 2:00 PM at 503 N. Genesee Street. Encouraged everyone to join for free ice cream on him. Ald Turner shared his concerns regarding comments made by Mayor Taylor regarding Aldermen correspondence with Department Heads/Public Employees. Also shared his experience regarding FOIA request he has put in. Mayor Taylor responded. Ald Turner continued his comments, and shared that he is going to bring forward some motions. Ald Turner made the following motion:
*Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Guzman to direct staff and Corporation Counsel to prepare a written ordinance that Aldermen may contact or communicate with any personnel employed or contracted by the City of Waukegan to request information or to request action to be taken or discuss any matter related to city business in any matter that an Alderman may choose including verbal, written, text message, instant messenger, email, or any other form of communication. Such information must be provided to the Alderman unless there is a personnel privacy, legal, police, or IT security restriction that precludes or restricts the release of that information. A Freedom of Information Act request may not be required of an Alderman unless they are seeking protected personnel privacy, legal, police, or IT security information. Per Mayor, this item will go to the Special Committee of the Whole Meeting on Thursday October 19, 2023.
Discussion between Mayor Taylor and Ald Turner took place, as well as clarification between Ald Turner and Corporation Counsel Gandurski, before calling the question. Ald Bolton added that she feels like we are already doing this. Ald Turner stated that he disagrees and this is why he is putting in the motion before them/ the FOIA requests. Ald Guzman stated this item was already motioned, and seconded, and they should continue to the roll call. Clerk Kilkelly asked Corporation Counsel Gandurski for clarification as to where this item is going, is this for discussion. Corporation Counsel clarified. Ald Turner asked why we have to have a discussion at every committee. Ald Florian shared a comment, citing that the public need to have an opportunity to voice their concerns on the items. Mayor Taylor stated that legal needs to have the chance to review and make the changes requested that are being made on the fly, and explained the lengthiness at committees due to these items. Mayor Taylor stated we do not have enough time to get all of these items done, and everyone will do as much as they can to get these items done for October 19, 2023 Special Committee of the Whole. Ald Turner stated great, and thank you. Clerk Kilkelly called the roll:
Ald Florian shared why she is voting no, and stated that she has seen exchanges between employees and Aldermen that have embarrassed her. She stated she does her best to always treat employees well.
AYE: Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth.
NAY: Ald Newsome, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
*MOTION APPROVED for discussion
Ald Turner shared that this concludes his comments, and he will bring forward the other motion(s) another evening.
Ald Donnenwirth: Thanked everyone for attending. Asked everyone to be careful when they are out in town. Encouraged residents to report anything they see suspicious to the police. Also encouraged residents to call him - shared that he always answers his phone. Thanked all the staff for their assistance in answer questions he may have. Shared that he will be having a 7th Ward Clean Sweep on October 21, and the location is to be determined at this time. Encouraged everyone to be safe.
Ald Florian: Shared information regarding the upcoming Harbor Fest on Sunday, September 24 from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Shared information regarding her upcoming 8th Ward Meeting, which will take place on Thursday, September 28, 2023 - 6:00 PM, at McCall School, and shared some of the topics that will be discussed. Shared that there was Aldermen time for over an hour, and spoke about the possible limitation of Aldermen time, and explained to the Aldermen that there is a process for getting questions answered. Stated that there are laws about how Aldermen should behave on the dais, and how they make things happen. Stated that there are arguments and back and forth conversations going on. Shared that things are getting out of hand and that we need to hold ourselves accountable. Added that if the Audience have to have their thoughts together in three minutes, then they should have to have to as well.
Ald Hayes: No Comment - Pass.
Mayor Taylor shared a closing comment about public safety in out community, asking people to look out for children and stop for buses. Asked residents to follow the laws and slow down.
10. Adjournment
Procedural: A. Motion by Ald Donnenwirth, second by Ald Martinez to Adjourn at 9:39 PM.
VOICE VOTE: MOTION APPROVED
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