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City of Waukegan City Council met Jan. 21

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 Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Guzman, Ald Martinez, Ald Felix(seated at 7:10 PM), Ald Newsome, Ald Turner, Ald Donnenwirth, Ald Florian.

ABSENT: None.

Motion by Ald Martinez, second by Ald Guzman to seat Ald Felix at 7:10 PM.

VOICE VOTE: MOTION APPROVED

Procedural: B. Invocation by Pastor Anthony Charles Conley (Antioch Baptist Church- Waukegan, IL. 60085) / Pledge of Allegiance

Procedural: C. Mayor's Comments - At this time, Mayor Taylor shared her comments. Updates shared by Waukegan Police Department, Waukegan Animal Control, Vista Medical Center, and Robinson Engineering.

2. Resolutions/Proclamations/Presentations/Appointments

Action: A. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Newsome to approve Reappointments of Theodora Anderson, Michael Bill, and  Benjamin Grimes to the Planning and Zoning Commission with terms expiring December 31, 2027.

Ald Guzman asked if these are new people, or reappointments. Mayor Taylor stated these are reappointments, and we have not received any new interest at this time. Planning & Zoning Director Noelle Kischer-Lepper shared her support of these reappointments. Ald Guzman asked how many applications came in for appointments. Director Kischer-Lepper stated zero, and shared information for those who are interested. Commission Michael Bill was in attendance this evening.  Mayor Taylor shared how we try to get new appointments, and this is a volunteer board that requires a lot of work. Ald Turner shared that this is the first he has heard of openings being available for this commission. Mayor Taylor stated she has mentioned this several times during her Mayor's Comments. Ald Turner spoke about how the Alderpersons can be involved to make it more of a proactive process. Mayor Taylor called for the question. 

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: B. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Turner to approve a RESOLUTION 25—R—15 "SUPPORT FOR THE BIRD CITY ILLINOIS INITIATIVE"

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

3. Audience Time

Chuck Ruckstales: 5th Ward Resident of Waukegan. Former Elected 7th Ward Alderman. Shared his concerns regarding the variance for the proposed Chick-Fil-A. 

Jo Ann Gilley: Shared concerns regarding the proposed Chick-Fil-A, variance. Shared that she does not want the Chick-Fil-A in her parking lot, and neither do her employees. Shared the amount of revenue her business brings in, and the amount of business that is brought into the community by their Waukegan business.

Jason Hill: Director of Development and Construction at Chick-Fil-A, and explained why they are incredibly excited to be apart of the Waukegan community, and what their business offers to the community.

Mike Kuenn: Representing Astronics. Shared that they will have to reassess their future in Waukegan regarding this proposed Chick-Fil-A variance in their light industrial use property.

Scott Gendell: President of Tero Inc. Shared details on the proposed Chick-Fil-A development and the investment set to take place at the property. 

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 Turner, second by Ald Newsome to approve Consent Agenda items 4. A - E.

Action (consent): A. Motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from Monday, January 06, 2025

Action (consent): B. Motion to approve vendor payments dated January 20, 2025 totaling in the amount of $2,764,145.26.

Action (consent): C. Motion to approve and ratify Regular Payroll dated January 10, 2025, in the total amount of $2,079,560.18.

Action (consent): D. Motion to approve and ratify Misc. Payroll (PD HBB & CT Cashout, EO & CS, Retro Pay and Final Payouts) dated January 10, 2025, in the total amount of $30,282.32.

Action (consent): E. Ordinance approving a Conditional Use Permit for Motor Vehicle Services in the B3, General Commercial District at 3201 Sunset Avenue (Zoning Calendar #2767). [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on January 6, 2025.]

Consent Agenda vote:

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

5. Reports and Communication

6. Old Business

Action: A. Motion by Ald Bolton, second by Ald Newsome 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 and held over at the December 16, 2024, and January 6, 2025 City Council Meetings.]

Ald Turner shared his concerns regarding UDO requirements, and if this resurfacing plans incorporates all of the UDO requirements.  Kischer-Lepper provided clarification. 

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: B. Motion by Ald Felix, second by Ald Donnenwirth to approve 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.]

Corporation Counsel Weiss provided clarification to this item, and the reasoning for this item being brought back under Old Business, as it was lost under the shuffle.  Mayor Taylor stated she would like the public to know we generally do studies for these requests, and staff did not recommend this ordinance, but this is up to the Alderpersons tonight.  Ald Florian shared safety concerns regarding the proposal, and asked if Ald Felix can be respond.  Ald Felix shared that he understand Ald Florian has concerns, but he has support for this from residents in his 4th Ward, and stressed why he feels it is necessary. Ald Turner called for the question.

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

NAY: Ald Hayes, Ald Newsome, Ald Florian.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

7. New Business 

Action: A. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Turner to approve Resolution approving a Memorandum of Understanding with the County of Lake and the City of Zion for the allocation of Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistant Grant Program Funds [This matter was presented to the Government Operations and Oversight Committee on January 6, 2024]

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: B. Motion by Ald Felix, second by Ald Turner to Authorize the Selection of Legislative Legal Counsel for Members of the City Council [This matter was presented to the Government Operations and Oversight Committee on January 6, 2025]

Mayor Taylor shared why she is not in favor of a separate legal counsel, citing funding and explained.  Ald Hayes raised the question as to what the Alderpersons motive is.  Ald Turner expressed his reasoning for the ask. Corporation Counsel Weiss shared his disappointment and explained his efforts with the current City Council.  Ald Hayes stressed why this is a bad idea, bad look, and how this creates bad ethics. Ald Hayes shared support for the current Corporation Counsel, Elrod Friedman LLP. Mayor Taylor shared that you are taking away capital improvement efforts away from residents when trying to do efforts such as this. Ald Florian stressed the challenges coming up and how this brings unnecessary stress and burdens. Mayor Taylor called the question. 

Please Note: The Office of the City Clerk was notified on 01/27/2025 that Mayor Taylor intents to 'veto' this legislation].

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

NAY: Ald Hayes, Ald Newsome, Ald Florian.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: C. Ordinance Amending Chapters 14 and 20 of the Waukegan Code of Ordinances regarding Short-Term Rentals. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on January 6, 2025.]

Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Felix to further amend Ordinance Amending Chapters 14 and 20 of the Waukegan Code of Ordinances regarding Short-Term Rentals - to remove the minimum 48 hour period of rental.

Ald Hayes stressed his frustration on how Ald Felix went back on what was agreed upon initially after multiple efforts of amendments. Ald Turner shared concerns regarding what was put on BoardDocs vs what has been discussed. Corporation Counsel Weiss shared that it has been clearly labeled on BoardDocs, and has been amended numerous times.  

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

NAY: Ald Hayes, Ald Newsome, Ald Florian.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED to amend

Action: C. Motion by Ald Martinez, second by Ald Turner to approve an Ordinance, as amended, Amending Chapters 14 and 20 of the Waukegan Code of Ordinances regarding Short-Term Rentals. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on January 6, 2025.]

Ald Newsome explained the issues with Air B&B home in her 5th Ward, and work that was done without permits, including sidewalks. Shared that she is not in favor of this ordinance as amended, as they do what they want anyway.

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

NAY: Ald Hayes, Ald Newsome, Ald Florian.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED as amended

Action (omnibus): D. Motion by Ald Bolton, second by Ald Guzman to approve omnibus items Ordinance approving the Preliminary and Final Plat of Subdivision (Zoning Calendar 2759) creating a new parcel north of 800 S Northpoint Blvd. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on January 6, 2025.], Action (omnibus): E. Ordinance approving a Map Amendment for newly created lot adjacent to 800 S Northpoint Blvd (address to be assigned), rezoning from R/LI, Research and Light Industrial to B2, Community Shopping (Zoning Calendar 2760). [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on January 6, 2025.], Action (omnibus): F. Ordinance approving a Variance from the perimeter landscaping buffer requirements of section 12.2-1.2.d of the Waukegan Zoning Ordinance, a five-foot landscaped front yard setback at the newly created lot adjacent to 800 S. Northpoint Boulevard (Zoning Calendar 2761). [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on January 6, 2025.]

Ald Hayes shared that this is the first time he has heard of limited development in Waukegan, and explained why he does not feel we need to be catering regarding this amended, and stated that they want it their way, or no way at all. Stressed that we are willing to change things on the fly, but the best thing to do in this scenario would be to rely on the laws we passed and the zoning restrictions, and offered up numerous different areas where this plan could work. Shared if Chick-Fil-A would like to do business elsewhere, he would fully support that.  Ald Florian stated she agrees with what Ald Hayes has been saying, and explained that we need to start taking more consideration into what the Alderperson of the ward wants. Ald Florian stated there are existing businesses asking us not to do this.

New Business omnibus vote  7.  D,  E,  &  F:

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

NAY: Ald Hayes, Ald Newsome, Ald Florian.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: G. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Martinez to approve an Ordinance approving a Map Amendment and granting a Conditional Use Permit and Variance for the establishment of a motor vehicle repair and service facility at 701 Belvidere (Zoning Calendar #2765 & 2772). [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on January 21, 2025.]

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: H. Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Donnenwirth to approve a Resolution Authorizing an Amendment to the Customer Services Agreement with Motorola Solutions, Inc. for Two-Way Radio Equipment in the amount not to exceed $1,314,533.64 [This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee on January 21, 2025]

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: I. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Newsome to approve a Resolution reallocating funds for the procurement of radio devices for the Waukegan Fire and Police Departments in the amount of $508,798.23. [This Matter was presented to the Finance and Purchasing Committee on January 21, 2025.]

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: J. Motion by Ald Donnenwirth, second by Ald Guzman to approve a Resolution approving the award of the window replacements bid at Fire Station #2 to the lowest responsible bidder, All American Exterior Solutions, in the amount not to exceed $48,100.00. [This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee on January 21, 2025]

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: K. Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Newsome to approve a Resolution approving an agreement with Robinson Engineering per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) for the design engineering services for lead service line replacements for a not to exceed amount of $120,000.00. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on January 21, 2025.]

Ald Turner asked why we are re-engaging Robinson when we already initially involved them. Mayor Taylor shared that this is a different contract. Ald Turner raised the concern of no bid for this new contract. Engineering Director Jesus Alquicira provided explanation. 

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: L. Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Donnenwirth to approve a Resolution approving an agreement with Robinson Engineering for the plan preparation for lead service line replacements per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) for a not to exceed amount of $75,000.00. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on January 21, 2025.]

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: M. Ordinance creating a Class C Retail Package Sales liquor license for Hart Sport Inc located at 2435 Washington St. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on January 21, 2025.]

HELD OVER IN COMMITTEE

Action: N. Motion by Ald Bolton, second by Ald Felix to approve an Ordinance creating a Class C Retail Package Sales liquor license for Vayusut Inc DBA Tobacco Shop located at 438 N Green Bay Rd. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on January 21, 2025.]

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

NAY: Ald Hayes, Ald Newsome, Ald Florian.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: O.  Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Felix to approve an Ordinance Amending Various Provision of the Waukegan Liquor Control Ordinance and Ordinance 18-O-46 Regarding Class C-1 Licenses [Sponsor: Ald. Guzman - To be voted on if passed out of Committee of the Whole]

Ald Hayes stressed why this is the biggest mistake the City Council has made if this is approved at the City Council level.  Ald Hayes added that the first ward Alderperson supports pushing these through even when many have stressed the issues with liquor businesses in the 1st Ward.  Ald Hayes continued to stress how does this help the City of Waukegan move forward.

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

NAY: Ald Hayes, Ald Newsome, Ald Florian.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: P. Motion by Ald Martinez, second by Ald Guzman to approve an Ordinance Amending Section 3-10 of the Waukegan Code of Ordinances Regarding Class P Coffee Shop Licenses [Sponsor: Ald. Martinez; To be voted on if passed out of Committee of the Whole]

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

NAY: Ald Newsome.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

8. Ordinances

9. Closing Items

Alderperson Time

Ald Hayes: Pass - No Comment.

Ald Bolton: Congrats to Ald Newsome for receiving the Dreamer Award at the Waukegan Township Dreamer Breakfast. Shared appreciation to the City of Waukegan Engineering Department for their efforts regarding lead line replacement. Shared her contract information for those who need assisting, and does answer the calls and has a report from her phone provider to approve it.

Ald Guzman: Shared congratulations to the incoming President of the United States being sworn in as 47th President, and hopes everyone can work together and move forward. Shared concerns regarding Vista Hospital issues, including long wait times and not answering to the taxpayers when they plea for public funding.  Shared issue with Interim-Finance Director Schultz not respecting Elected Officials when being called, and stated that Elected Officials should be respected when they call up Department Heads. [Ald Hayes interjected that respect is earned].  Asked everyone to please lookout for flashing lights from buses, and while children are crossing.

Ald Martinez: Thanked Pastor for invocation. Shared that he attended the Waukegan Township Dreamer Breakfast, and that it was the who's who's of Waukegan. Shared his contract information for those who need to get in contact with him, and asked everyone to be safe, mindful, and good neighbors.

Ald Felix: Shared that he attended the Waukegan Township Dreamer Breakfast. Stressed that he doesn't take anything personal, and thanks his fellow Alderpersons for their support and stated he is advocating for the economy of the community and his ward. Congratulations to Ald Newsome for receiving the Dreamer Award at the Waukegan Township Dreamer Breakfast. Congrats to incoming President, but stated that many are scared in the community and stressed the resources that are here for the residents, and asked them to not fear. 

Ald Newsome: Pass - No Comment.

Ald Turner: Asked residents to be aware of those walking in the street as it is cold and dark. Shared that he has a ramp that was made, and if anyone needs it free of charge please contact him directly and he will assist. Shared that he still has two winter coats that still need a home, and to please contact him directly if needed. Shared that we are likely to get some snowfall, and if you need assistance as you are elderly or physically impaired, he can assist. Shared concerns regarding PADs, and asked for clarification.

Ald Donnenwirth: Thanked Human Resources Director Daphne Hanna-Brooks for her assistance. Asked everyone to staff safe as it is cold.

Ald Florian: Shared congratulations to a Waukegan District 60 Principal for being named principal of the year.  Shared heartfelt thoughts to all of those in California for their losses with wildfires. Shared that she has spent the last 5 days at the hospital with her husband, as he is dealing with a medical concern.

10. Adjournment

Action: A. Motion by Ald Martinez, second by Ald Donnenwirth to ADJOURN at 9:32 PM.

VOICE VOTE: MOTION APPROVED

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