Chicago City Wire

City of Waukegan City Council met Dec. 16

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

Mayor; Ann B. Taylor, City Clerk; Janet E. Kilkelly, City Treasurer; Dr. John R. Schwab and 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(seated late 7:16 PM), Ald Newsome, Ald Turner.

ABSENT:  None.

Procedural: B. Invocation by Pastor Robert L Richards (New Way Faith Tabernacle Ministry Zion IL) / Pledge of Allegiance

Procedural: C. Mayor's Comments - At this time, Mayor Taylor shared her comments, and invited certain City of Waukegan Departments to share an update.  Mayor Taylor also gave Waukegan Proud Awards to the Waukegan Queens.

2. Resolutions/Proclamations/Presentations/Appointments

Action: A. Motion by Ald Martinez, second by Ald Guzman to ratify appointment of Robert Freeman to the Waukegan CDBG Stakeholder Participation Panel.

Board Member Freeman introduced himself to the City Council.  Mayor Taylor shared congratulations, and thanked Freeman for his service. Ald Guzman shared congratulations, and would like to see new blood on the board, and encouraged Mr. Freeman to do a great job.

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

Proclamation: B. PROCLAMATION: "Celebrating the 175 Year Anniversary of the Waukegan Fire Department" 

Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Martinez to seat Ald Felix at 7:16 PM

VOICE VOTE: MOTION APPROVED

3. Audience Time

Clyde McLemore:  Shared concerns regarding the work being done by the contractor, building the new car wash at the old OBT site at 630 Green Bay Road. Cited WEBS and Custom Exteriors as the name of the contractors involved, and states that one of these companies is allegedly owned by the City of Waukegan's Chief of Staff George Bridges Jr.

Brother Blanks:  B.A.M.M.  Shared that McAlister is one of the worst paved street even after a finished product. Shared that the 1st Ward always has to be the last when it comes to anything in the City of Waukegan. Disappointed it took so long to get the engineering specs. Robinson Engineering then shows up after being in the City Council Chambers, and reviews. He is reviewing the specs, and the whole community will know he has real concerns. Shared we have to do better for the 1st Ward.

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 Guzman, second by Ald Turner to approve Consent Agenda items 4. A - D. 

Action (Consent): A. Motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from Monday, December 02, 2024.

Action (Consent): B. Motion to approve vendor payments dated December 16, 2024 totaling in the amount of $2,373,047.01.

Action (Consent): C. Motion to approve and ratify Regular Payroll dated December 13, 2024, in the total amount of $2,001,507.85.

Action (Consent): D. Motion to approve and ratify Misc. Payroll (PD HBB & CT Cashout, EO & CS, Vacation Buyout, PBLC Uniform Allowance and Stipend, Retro Pay and Final Payouts) dated December 13, 2024, in the total amount of $275,619.19.

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

5. Reports and Communication

Action: A. Monthly Treasurer's Report- Dr. John R. Schwab

6. Old Business

Action: A. Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Florian to approve an Ordinance Amending Section 2-100 of the Code of Ordinances Removing Requirement for Annual Adoption of a Salary Ordinance [This matters was considered by the Code Revisions, Appeals, and Negotiations Committee on July 1, 2024; Alderman Guzman requested it be presented at December 2, 2024 Council Meeting]

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  Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Guzman to omnibus vote New Business items 7. A-B, D-G, I-N, excluding items 7. C H O P Q R S T.

Action (omnibus): A. A Resolution approving the procurement of a generator, installation service, and warranty per Sec. 2-458(i)(3)(Joint Purchasing) through Sourcewell for the new Emergency Dispatch Center in a not to exceed amount of $143,650.00. [This matter was presented before the Finance and Purchasing Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Action (omnibus): B. Resolution approving the award of the Traffic Intersection Upgrades rebid to the lowest responsible bidder, Meade Inc. for a not to exceed amount of $228,652.42. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Action: C. Motion to approve a Resolution approving the repaving of three City owned parking lots by Leopardo for a not to exceed amount of $908,632.17 per Sec. 2-458(i)(3)(Joint Purchasing) through Sourcewell. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Mayor Taylor invited Public Works Director Garland to clarify for Ald Turner. Ald Turner raised concern regarding landscaping per the UDO.  Mayor Taylor asked for anyone from Planning & Zoning to clarify.  Nobody was present to assist.  Ald Turner moved to hold this item over.  Ald Guzman stated this won't be done until next year either way. Director Garland confirmed.

Item 7. C HELD OVER by Ald Turner.

Action (omnibus): D. Resolution approving the purchase of an excavator for the Water Department from West Side Tractor Sales per Sec. 2-458(i)(3)(Joint Purchasing) through Sourcewell for a not to exceed amount of $141,975.77. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on December 16,2024.]

Action (omnibus): E. Resolution approving Change Order #1 with Baxter & Woodman for a not to exceed amount of $32,500.00 for the OCCT Study. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Action (omnibus): F. Resolution approving Change Order #1 with Robinson Engineering increasing their inspection services scope without an increase in price. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on December 19, 2024.]

Action (omnibus): G. An Ordinance abating in full the sum of $1,336,750 due in payment of principal and interest on the $8,800,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2018D Of The City Of Waukegan. [This matter was presented before the Finance and Purchasing Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Action: H. Motion by Ald Florian second by Ald Newsome to approve a Resolution approving a contract with Stiles, Inc. for underground storage tank removal services at 200 E. Sea Horse Drive. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Ald Turner asked for clarification on the cost. COS Bridges Jr provided clarification on the cost.  Mayor Taylor shared this information including dollar amount was included in the packet.  Corporation Counsel Weiss stated the amount wasn't in the line item, but was shared in the detailed agenda. Ald Turner shared that he objects to 'no bid contracts' and called for the vote. Corporation Counsel Weiss stated this was bid out, and explained. Mayor Taylor shared this was in the paperwork. Ald Turner stated we need to be more informative and transparent. Mayor Taylor responded that this information is all given to the Alderperson. Ald Turner stated this is simple to add to the item, and called the question.

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 (omnibus): I. An Ordinance levying and assessing taxes of the City of Waukegan, Lake County, Illinois for the 2024 Tax Levy Year. [This matter was presented before the Finance and Purchasing Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Action (omnibus): J. An Ordinance abating in full the sum of $278,000 due in payment of principal and interest on the $7,005,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2015A of The City Of Waukegan. [This matter was presented before the Finance and Purchasing Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Action (omnibus): K. An Ordinance abating in full the sum of $674,800 due in payment of principal and interest on the $6,850,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2016A Of The City Of Waukegan. [This matter was presented before the Finance and Purchasing Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Action (omnibus): L. An Ordinance abating in full the sum of $1,130,000 due in payment of principal and interest on the $14,860,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2018A Of The City Of Waukegan. [This matter was presented before the Finance and Purchasing Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Action (omnibus): M. An Ordinance abating in full the sum of $1,001,200 due in payment of principal and interest on the $12,815,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2021A (McGaw Park TIF Project). [This matter was presented before the Finance and Purchasing Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Action (omnibus): N. An Ordinance Abating in full the sum of $2,056,381 due in payment of principal and interest on the $31,180,000 Taxable General Obligation Bonds, Series 2021B (McGaw Park TIF Project). [This matter was presented before the Finance and Purchasing Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Action: O. An Ordinance amending Section 21-64 of the Waukegan Code of Ordinances regarding stop signs at certain minor arterial roads. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on December 19, 2024.]

Action: P. An Ordinance amending Section 21-64 of the Waukegan Code of Ordinances regarding stop signs at Genesee Street and Lake Street. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on December 16, 2024.]  put on in error

Action: Q. Motion by Ald Felix, second by Ald Bolton to approve an Ordinance amending Sections 21-62 and 21-64 of the Waukegan Code of Ordinances regarding various intersections. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on December 16, 2024.]

Mayor Taylor provided the intersections that have been discussed and those who have been pulled from the ordinance. Mayor Taylor reiterated these recommendations were not made by staff. Ald Felix stated that Genesee & Cory should be included, after discussing with Ald Martinez. Ald Florian stated there was either no study done, or if it was done, they were not recommended by staff, and stressed that fact. Ald Turner called for the question

Stop Signs Pulled from the Ordinance:

Glenwood Ave & Crescent Ave

Muirfield Ave & Crescent Ave 

4 Way Stops included in the ordinance:

Genesee St & Cory Ave

8th Pkwy & McAree Rd

Elmwood Ave & Lloyd Ave

Oakley Ave & Gillette Ave

3 Way Stops included in the ordinance:

4th St & County St 

Butrick St & Catalpa 

AYE: Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix, Ald Turner.

NAY: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Newsome.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: R. An Ordinance Amending Section 3-10 of the Waukegan Code of Ordinances Regarding Class P Coffee Shop Licenses [TO BE CONSIDERED ONLY IF RECOMMENDED BY COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE]

Action: S. Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Martinez to approve an Ordinance creating a Class P Coffee Shop liquor license for Euforia Nutrition Cafe LLC located at 2202 Grand Ave [This was presented to the Community Development Committee on November 4, 2024]

Ald Martinez asked for an amendment to this item, to include spirits. Mayor Taylor asked the Aldermen to use caution with this, regarding regulation. Ald Hayes asked if this could be voted on before the ordinance is amended. Corporation Counsel Weiss explained the regulations attached to this unique license. Ald Florian asked about carry out and how to prevent that for liquor. Ald Turner asked if this allows liquor in coffee, and Corporation Counsel explained you cannot with the current class P license, it only allows beer and wine. Mayor Taylor shared if this is passed tonight, you can amend it, but you have to think about it as you open the door for other stuff.  Ald Martinez shared this is a nice family coffee shop with no turn over, and this is not like Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts. Mayor Taylor shared she agrees, but you have to make ordinances that are laws that apply across the board. Ald Florian states that many people have stood up and lied to the City Council before, and explained. Ald Martinez stressed that this is a family business.

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

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: T. A Resolution Authorizing the City of Waukegan to Host an Annual Hispanic Heritage Parade and Festival and Issue a Request for Proposals to Organize and Conduct the Event [TO BE CONSIDERED ONLY IF RECOMMENDED BY COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE]

Action (omnibus): U. Motion to authorize the proper City Officials to renew 3-year agreement, commencing January 1, 2025 with MaintStar relative to the licensing, maintenance and support of Building & Code Enforcement computerized solution for a not to exceed amounts of $150,000. [This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee on December 16, 2024]

New Business omnibus 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

8. Ordinances

9. Closing Items

Alderperson Time

Ald Donnenwirth: Wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thanked City of Waukegan staff for an excellent job. Thanked City of Waukegan staff for efforts on leaf pick-up that has been left over. Encouraged residents to stay safe, and report issues to the Police and Fire Department.

Ald Florian: Proud to have the tax levy at 0 increase, however, this doesn't mean you may not see an increase in taxes, including from Park District or School District. Encouraged residents to look over each line item. Congratulated staff and this administration for keeping taxes level and for a job well done. She is disappointed that she hears comments regarding respect for staff from certain Alderperson, but then they vote against the staff recommendations. Encouraged everyone to go to the "Know you Rights" meeting from 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM at the Waukegan Public Library. Encouraged residents to make a plan.  Wished everyone Happy Holidays.

Ald Hayes:  Pass - no comment.

Ald Bolton:  Congratulated the Waukegan Fire Department on their 175th Anniversary. Wished everyone a Happy Holidays, and congratulated NORCO and those in recovery. Shared that she attended Staben House wonderful Gala, and testimonies of those who overcame so much were shared. Heart of the City and Harvest Market made many efforts in the 1st Ward, and she thanks them. Shared that there will be a Toy Drive this Friday at 631 S. McAlister, and to call her with any questions 224-607-8445. Time is TBD, and sign up will be required. Harvest Market will have a coat drive this Friday, 502 10th Street in Waukegan. Thanked the Chief of Police and Public Works for their work on graffiti removal at the churches in the 1st Ward.

Ald Guzman: Shared that this is the last meeting of the year - encouraged everyone to have a Happy Holiday and safe new year. Congratulations to the City of Waukegan staff and Administration for a great job, including the work done for repaving roads without taking out bonds. Wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Didn't have a chance to attend Shop with a Cop at Walmart, but he did see that it was a great success and that people were having fun. Spoke about the 2nd Ward Neighborhood discussion regarding the closure of Willow Road, and encouraged everyone to attend sometime in January. Push to re-open the road or not. Wants residents voice to be heard regarding Willow Road. Spoke about graffiti issues in his area, and shared that he is going to have more enforcement in the area from police. Shared concerns regarding code enforcement ticketing on Commonwealth Ave. Cars were not in the way, which is why leaves were picked up. Shared that he is going to get this cleaned up and there is more work to be done moving forward. Shared that the stop signs passed in his ward, and they will be done by Mikes pizza and 8th and McAree. It is getting dark early, by 3:30 - 4:00 PM, and he encouraged everyone to use caution as school buses are out. Asked residents to keep an eye out for children as vacation is will be happening soon. Happy 2025.  

Ald Martinez: Thanked Pastor for invocation this evening. Thanked all those who were at the Honorary Street Sign for Mr. Albararan. Congrats to Niya Symone in PR for her work, and she will be missed as she leaves the City of Waukegan. Thanked everyone who was there in attendance. Thanked Mr. Motley from the PR department, and welcomed him back as he was missed. Reminded everyone that leaf pick-up is over with and we now have City of Waukegan Public Works giving a hand with anything left over. Shared the issues including cars that have been in the way. Shared that we will keep you posted on efforts, and public works is doing a great job. Commended the many not-for-profits for what they do for the many who are in need in our community. Stated his phone number for those who need to get ahold of him - 847-390-2689. Wished everyone a Happy Holiday season, and encouraged everyone to be safe, mindful and a good neighbor. Happy New Year 2025.

Ald Felix: Shared information on the meeting tomorrow for Immigration Know Your Rights. A lot of Fear going on in the community, and it might seem scary but everyone still has rights here. Shared that we need to make sure our community knows their rights. Shared that he will have more discussions on how we can continue to keep our immigrate community safe. Thanked the City Council for their approval of the stop signs, and shared that they will make an impact. Thanked City of Waukegan staff for their assistance, and listed multiple staff members who've assisted. Shared that he attended the Staben House event over the weekend. Asked COS Bridges Jr to provide clarification on a concern.  Shared that he will see everyone at Polar Bear Plunge, and to have a Happy Holiday and Merry Christmas.

Ald Newsome: Wished everyone a Happy Holiday and Merry Christmas.

Ald Turner: Shared welcoming thoughts to David Motley, as he is loved and appreciated. Shared farewell to Niya, and she does an excellent job and will get great references from the City of Waukegan. Shared that he has 3 winter coats XL ready if anyone is in need of them. Shared that if he sees homeless that need assistance please let him know. Spoke about Angel Tree efforts at Trinity Church for incarcerated parents, and his partnership with that event. The Angel Tree is this Sunday. Shared his phone number, 847-445-3788, and encouraged residents to call him directly if they need anything. Wished everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

10. Adjournment

Procedural: A. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Guzman to ADJOURN at 8:46 PM.

VOICE VOTE: MOTION APPROVED

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