Chicago City Wire

City of Waukegan City Council met Aug. 5

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

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; Stewart J. Weiss were present.

1. Opening Items

Procedural: A. Roll Call

PRESENT:  Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner.

ABSENT:  None.

Procedural: B. Invocation / Pledge of Allegiance

Procedural: C. Mayor's Comments - At this time, Mayor Taylor shared her comments.

2. Resolutions/Proclamations/Presentations/Appointments

Proclamation: A. PROCLAMATION: Recognizing Waukegan Olympian Shakedia Jones

Proclamation: B. PROCLAMATION: “Illinois Municipal Treasurer’s Week - August 11 - 14, 2024"

3. Audience Time

Rayon Edwards: Thanked Mayor Taylor for addressing the residents regarding the snip shared on social media from the bill run. Shared that nothing for the Waukegan Police Department should be coming out of her budget. Shared concerns regarding the proposed rules amending Audience Time, and thanked Ald Newsome for providing clarification during committee. Shared his dissatisfaction with current Elected Officials. Shared that we need to stop putting people in groups.

Chuck Rukstales: Shared that he has seen the same issues when he sat up there 40 years ago as an Alderman. Doesn't recall the City Council limiting Audience Time during City Council Meetings, and they were paid far less than the current City Council. Addressed concerns from the last meeting, pertaining to the elimination of Audience Time and Aldermen Time, and questioned legality to Corporation Counsel. Shared that for 3 years, he has had conversations regarding environmental concerns, particularly with Ald Hayes, and something needs to be done to restrict toxic chemicals in the water, and our air. Shared his suggestions on what can be adopted.  

Clyde McLemore: Shared his dissatisfaction with the proposed amendments to Audience Time and encouraged residents to challenge current Elected Officials. Shared that he supports the Palestinian Community, and shared his dissatisfaction with what was voted down at the last meeting. Encouraged the Mayor to sit down and listen to these residents, and stated that her gatekeeper, Chief of Staff George Bridges Jr, is stopping this from happening.  

Yesenia Reese: Stated the words 'uniform, code, matter, and resolution,' as she has heard them tonight multiple times. Thanked the Traffic Division for giving her tickets, and a thief for stealing from her vehicle. Explained multiple codes and resolutions and spoke about the Uniform Commercial Code. 

Brother Blanks:  Stated that under this Administration, B.A.M.M., has been honored symbolically the most. However, explained in substance, shared that they have been given what feels like a 'blank check'. Continued to share his concerns regarding wanting a Civilian Office of Police Accountability, and how the City of Waukegan still does not have the Civilian Office of Police Accountability, and wants to see it happen with or without current administration. 

Christopher: Asked what is going on with Waukegan, and why are we still broke as we have an airport, moving transportation via railroad and boat, and we are still broke. Asked the City of Waukegan to stop censoring comments on YouTube, and allow people to share their comments. Shared that there may be peaceful demonstrations letting the Council Members know they are tired. Shared concerns regarding bills and spending within the city of Waukegan. Shared to Mayor Taylor that it is known where she is and asked all of the Aldermen including Alderman Newsome to take a 'chill pill' when they talk. 

Miriam J. Argueta: Shared the mission of her organization, Build to Empower Corporation, located at 1906 Grand Ave, Suite 2.

Ken Iles: Shared concerns regarding communication pertaining to Building Code concerns at his property. Shared that he has been a business owner in Waukegan for a long time. Used to have a hall of all the athletes, and stated it might be somewhere, and Ms. Jones should be added. Stated that his property has been the same for over 70 years, and has concerns regarding how this will affect the value of the property. Asked for communication and rules ahead of time regarding Building and Code concerns. 

Joyce Evans:  Shared that she lives on McAlister Ave in the 1st Ward. Shared that she is tired of the Waukegan Police allegedly harassing her. Stated that she was born and raised in this town. Added that she has not met an Officer Friendly, yet. Said that police have been following her, and she has been notified by city staff to watch out for these officers. Shared an unpleasant experience she had with Waukegan Police while living in Waukegan. Shared that she is tired, and not taking this sitting down. Continued to share safety concerns throughout the city. Shared that she is disappointed in this City Council, and this is not the same council she remembers. Asked for the police to be 'off her back'.  

Wygenia Brisco: Stated that the Ceasefire Resolution took three months, and the City Council acted on it. Stated that other residents have been coming to city council for years regarding issues. Shared concern regarding panhandling, speeding, loud noises, ETO, and 200 Julian. Shared that she would like to see progress for others in the community, as the Palestinians got with their Ceasefire Resolution being added and brought forward for a vote. 

Margaret Carrasco: Shared concerns regarding the lack of communication from Mayor Taylor for the City of Waukegan. Spoke about an alleged Open Meeting Act (OMA) violation by Chairperson Hayes at the last Regular City Council meeting, not allowing Audience Time to take place. Stated that she filed a complaint regarding an individual breaking multiple laws, including impersonation an officer of the law, who has also been allegedly pictured with Mayor Taylor during an event. Shared that there has been no response from the police regarding threats directed to her. This individual is the alleged parade director, for an upcoming event, and shared concerns regarding an alleged criminal being the parade director.

Robert Stewart: Stated that there are more Blacks and Latinos on the southside than anywhere else in the community, and the drugs are atrocious. Shared that we need to get the drugs out of the community for our children. Shared that 'ghetto' is explained in 'The Ghetto Experiment' book, and explained the issues within the southside of Waukegan, including drug issues at 'The Comb" and spoke about prostitution concerns within the southside. Shared that he is angry, and wants to protect his children, and that something needs to be done now.

Azfar Uddin: Shared concerns regarding the City Council voting against the proposed Ceasefire Resolution at the last City Council Meeting. 

Iyan Asad: Thanked everyone who worked so hard to get the Ceasefire Agenda added, and they are grateful for the hard work. Continued his comments, regarding the City Council voting against the proposed Ceasefire Resolution at the last City Council Meeting. 

Laura Delgado: Invited members of the community to an upcoming Beauty Pageant, and shared that the information for the event is being shared on social media. 

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 Donnenwirth to approve Consent Agenda items 4. A - C excluding item 4. D.

Action (Consent): A. Motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from Monday July 15, 2024

Action (Consent): B. Motion to approve and ratify Regular Payroll dated July 26, 2024 in the total amount of $2,112,395.64.

Action (Consent): C. Motion to approve and ratify Misc. Payroll (PD HBB & CT Cashout and Final Payouts) dated July 26, 2024 in the total amount of $42,543.20.

Consent Agenda vote:

AYE: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner.

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED 

Action: D. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Newsome to approve vendor payments dated August 5, 2024 in the amount of $4,585,978.43.

Ald Turner shared that the post was made by him on social media and that he had questions regarding some of the expenses. He stated that he knows Mayor Taylor doesn't like the questions, however, stated that she follows his page.

Ald Turner shared concerns with multiple expenses within the bill run, and explained why he has questions to them. He shared that the public is entitled to know what these items are.

Mayor Taylor shared that this is what Alderman briefings are for, and he could call finance at any time.

Ald Turner objected to Mayor Taylor's statement, and shared that this information isn't covered.

IT Director Ron Gardella explained the charge for the MacBook.  

Ald Florian shared that the Port Angeles Report is under 'public content' on BoardDocs, so any member of the community may look at each item.

Ald Turner asked what we can done to ease the burden on our residents, making the information more accessible, including for those without computer use.

Ald Florian reiterated the information is public, and welcomed residents to ask her as she may have asked the same question.

Mayor Taylor provided clarification, stating that most of the equipment in the gym is not brand new, or state of the art. She further explained that this is for employees to stay physically fit and to cut down on workers comp claims.

Ald Turner asked for clarification regarding credit card charges allotted to Chief of Staff Bridges Jr. Mayor Taylor assured Ald Turner with her accomplishments as Mayor, including a 0% Tax Levy, she wouldn't waste money. 

Ald Turner stated you can avoid the potential waste by putting the the information out. Ald Turner stated Mayor Taylor won't communicate with the Aldermen, especially him.

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 

5. Reports and Communication

6. Old Business

Action: A. Motion by Ald Martinez, second by Ald Newsome to approve a Resolution Approving a Traffic Calming Policy for the City of Waukegan [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on July 15, 2024 and held over at the July 15, 2024 City Council meeting]

Ald Turner stated there were changes, and he hopes the Aldermen are clear on what is presented.

AYE: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner.

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED 

7. New Business

Action: A. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Bolton to approve An Ordinance Amending the Waukegan Code of Ordinances to Prohibit the Sale or Distribution of Balloons Inflated with Helium or Other Lighter-Than-Air Substances [Referred from Committee of the Whole on July 15, 2024]

AYE: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Martinez, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner.

NAY: Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Felix.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED 

Action: B. Motion by Ald Bolton, second by Ald Turner to approve An Ordinance Amending the Waukegan Code of Ordinances to Provide for the Abatement of Graffiti [This matter was referred from the Committee of the Whole on July 15, 2024]

AYE: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner.

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED 

Action: C. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Hayes to approve a Resolution approving spending authority in excess of $25,000.00 per Sec. 2-458(i)(7)(Good Faith Waiver) with EJ Equipment for a not to exceed amount of $43,000.00 for the purchase of a trackless boom flail mower. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on August 5, 2024.]

Corporation Counsel Weiss explained that there was a small amendment regarding the Good Faith Waiver for this Resolution. Two thirds majority-vote required for this item. 

AYE: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner.

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: D. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Guzman to approve a Resolution approving and authorizing a contract with Lake County Grading Company, LLC for the removal of contaminated soil for the south lakefront brownfield cleanup. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on August 5, 2024.]

Ald Turner asked for clarification on the dollar amount. Corporation Counsel Weiss provided clarification on the dollar amount: $225,200.00. Further clarified that this item was paid for by an E.P.A. grant. Mayor Taylor stated this was truly a good price. Ald Turner agreed.  

AYE: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner.

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: E. Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Florian to approve a Resolution of the City of Waukegan Adopting Public Comment and Participation Rules [This matter was presented to the Government Operations & Oversight Committee on August 5, 2024]

Ald Guzman explained why he feels it is inappropriate and incorrect to limit residents for Audience Time and explained the duties of the Alderpersons at these meetings.

Ald Guzman entertained a Motion to postpone forever to never hear it again. The motion was seconded by Ald Turner.

Mayor Taylor asked Corporation Counsel Weiss to explain. Corporation Counsel Weiss stated you need to have rules regarding Public Comment and Participation, and explained the 45-minute block. He shared that it is perfectly legal to have these rule, and this can be amended to remove the 45 minute block if they choose to do so. He further shared that you need to have these rules and explained the benefits.

Ald Guzman stated this hasn't been brought before City Council since the city is incorporated. Mayor Taylor corrected Ald Guzman and explained why that information is incorrect.

Ald Turner shared suggestions on how to address situations with larger groups. Ald Guzman agreed to Ald Turner's suggestions.

Ald Hayes stated this will create even more issues, and explained that this is not restricting anyone's speech, and it is not illegal. He further shared that everyone will still get their 3 minutes. 

Mayor Taylor shared the history of Audience Time during her tenure. Mayor Taylor further explained that this is something that was brought forward, as many Aldermen wanted revamping, but it is up to them how they would like to vote on it. Mayor Taylor stated she doesn't have an opinion on this.

Corporation Counsel Weiss stated the recommendations that came out of committee, including allowing those who need an interpreter twice the allotted time. Ald Hayes stated that the modification is only if the interpreter is required.

Mayor Taylor also provided clarification for those who are deaf.

Ald Turner stated how do we handle if residents speak a different language other than Spanish how they would notify the city. Mayor Taylor stated that the city would need a minimum of 72 hours in advance of notice. Ald Donnenwirth reiterated what the rules will be, and Corporation Counsel Weiss read from the ordinance directly regarding time allotted.

Ald Guzman asked for clarification regarding what took place last time, and Corporation Counsel explained.  The motion to postpone forever was explained by Corporation Counsel Weiss.

Ald Hayes stated we should vote on the item as presented. 

Corporation Counsel Weiss explained that the motion was to postpone indefinitely/table to take it off for now, by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Turner. 

Motion by Ald Hayes, second by Ald Florian to override the table by Ald Guzman. 

Corporation Counsel Weiss stated this was basically a motion to table, and would need to be brought forward at a different time.

Corporation Counsel Weiss stated the appropriate action is to vote for what is on before them [motion to postpone indefinitely/table]

Mayor Taylor stated you are voting to table this indefinitely.  Corporation Counsel Weiss clarified the voting procedure for this motion.

Corporation Counsel Weiss explained there is a motion to table this indefinitely, if Alderpersons want that, vote yes, if they want to continue consideration of these rules, vote no.

Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Turner to postpone indefinitely/table item 7 E.

AYE: Ald Guzman, Ald Turner.

NAY: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION FAILED to postpone indefinitely/table.

Corporation Counsel Weiss explained that we are back to the original motion, with the rules as presented, with the recommendation from committee to add double time for people who need translation for their native language, to English.

Mayor Taylor recommended a 72-hour window for those who need translation. Corporation Counsel Weiss stated that the City of Waukegan is not required to provide an interpreter, but rather allot for the extra time. Ald Guzman asked for clarification on what is being voted on. Corporation Counsel Weiss provided clarification, with the rules being as presented with the recommendations as discussed.

AYE: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome, Ald Turner.

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: F. Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Florian to approve an Ordinance Amending the Waukegan Code of Ordinances Regarding Public Comment and Participation [This matter was presented to the Government Operations & Oversight Committee on August 5, 2024]

AYE: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Newsome.

NAY: Ald Guzman, Ald Turner.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED 

Corporation Counsel Weiss explained that the Liquor License item Ald Felix would like to hear tonight, cannot be voted on, as it was not placed on the Regular City Council meeting agenda. Ald Hayes provided clarification as to what took place during the committee. Ald Martinez explained his vote at committee, explained that he would have voted for it if they were present as they are now at Regular City Council.  Ald Hayes explained that the committee is just a recommendation, and Aldermen can ask questions at a later time/date to the petitioner. 

8. Ordinances

9. Closing Items

Alderperson Time

Ald Donnenwirth: Thanked City of Waukegan staff for their efforts. Spoke about his upcoming 7th Ward Dumpster Drop on Saturday at Bowen Park from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

Ald Florian:  Shared that Saturday September 7th she will have a Dumpster Drop in the 8th Ward from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Shared that she attended the Waukegan Housing Authority Block Party, and that it was a great event with lots of people, great food, and many community organizations represented. She was glad she could be in attendance.

Ald Hayes: Thanked City of Waukegan staff for their assistance and guidance, as they were faced with much uncertainty regarding the weather and an audience related disruption at the last meeting. He further explained that at the last meeting, they made a decision to prioritize everyone safety, and to make sure that first responders were not at City Hall, but rather in the community assisting residents. 

Ald Bolton: Thanked City of Waukegan staff for their work, and that they are appreciated. Shared a list of City of Waukegan events that she attended within the City of Waukegan over the last three weeks. Shared that on 8th and Adams, there will be a 1st Ward Dumpster Drop. Shared that on Thursday, The Boys and Girls Club will have a community event.

Ald Guzman: Thanked the City of Waukegan first responders for their efforts during the last City Council Meeting and stated that he feels when the Aldermen are here, we should be doing our job no matter the length it takes and explained. Stated that he is a first responder as well, so he feels we should have gotten the job done. Stated that he takes his hat off to all the first responders, and city staff. Shared that he is disappointed with the newly passed Audience Time rules and explained how to go about handling that as a resident speaking. 

Ald Martinez: Thanked Pastor Mark Rollenhagen from St. Paul Church for the invocation. Shared condolences to the family of Lt. Fernando Shipley for his loss and explained his personal story involving Lt. Shipley. Welcomed Build to Impower to the 3rd Ward and thanked her for her work within the Latino Community. Thanked Waukegan Public Works for their job well done on July 15, 2024 with the storm clean up. Shared upcoming work being done in the 3rd Ward, and asked residents to be patient, and shared his phone number 847-390-2689. Asked neighbors to be safe, mindful, and to be good neighbors.

Ald Felix: Shared that he is having a 4th Ward Meeting on August 17 from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM at the Waukegan Public Library. Shared that a 4th Ward Clean Sweep will take place, and he invites everyone to please attend, and use it. Stated that he is willing to talk to anyone willing to talk about issues if they approach him. Shared that he attended a not-for-profit organization training, with Sen. Johnson and Rep. Mayfield, and spoke about an upcoming date for an additional training on Aug 24, 2024 at 10:00 AM. Invited to join North Chicago Think Tank, and spoke about the efforts at Lakeside Towers', where he got to meet residents. Shared his phone number with residents, 847-390-2693, he is always open to having a conversation and having a plan. Shared that his focus is public safety and having more communication with our community. Thanked COS George Bridges Jr for his communication and work, and encouraged residents to each out if they have concerns. He addressed concerns as stated by certain individuals, and stated we have to start conversation with our community.

Ald Newsome: Thanked Public Works for their efforts, including Director of Public Works Chris Garland. Shared condolences to the family of Lt. Fernando Shipley, and shared kind words regarding Lt. Shipley. Shared that the services will take place Saturday, Aug 10th starting at 10:00 AM, Trinity AME Church, 210 South Ave, Waukegan IL 60085.

Ald Turner: Spoke about the storm clean-up efforts and shared the work done by Waukegan Public Works.  Shared his phone number for residents that need to contract him directly for anything that needs attention 847-445-3788.  Spoke about the 6th and 7th Ward Reward Program. leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone with position of an illegal firearm. Shared his condolences to the family of Lt. Fernando Shipley, and shared kind words. He reiterated the service date. Invited residents to his annual 'Ice Cream Social' at Wheels of Chicago, 415 N. Greenbay Rd, Sat August 24 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. 

10. Adjournment

Action: A. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Florian to Adjourn at 9:12 PM.

VOICE VOTE:  MOTION APPROVED

https://go.boarddocs.com/il/cowil/Board.nsf/Public