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City of Waukegan City Council met April 7

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

City Clerk; Janet E. Kilkelly, and Corporation Counsel; Stewart J. Weiss were present.

Mayor; Ann B. Taylor, & City Treasurer; Dr. John R. Schwab were absent.

1. Opening Items

Procedural: A. Roll Call

PRESENT:  Ald Newsome [5th Ward], Ald Turner [6th Ward], Ald Donnenwirth(seated at 7:11PM) [7th Ward], Ald Florian [8th Ward], Ald Hayes [9th Ward], Ald Bolton [1st Ward], Ald Guzman [2nd Ward], Ald Martinez [3rd Ward], Ald Felix [4th Ward].

ABSENT: Mayor Taylor.

Special Order of Business - Seat Chair/Pro-Tem Mayor:  Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Hayes to seat Alderman Edith L. Newsome as Chair/Pro-Tem Mayor for the April 07, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting

VOICE VOTE:  MOTION APPROVED to seat Ald Newsome as Chair at 7:09 PM.

Motion by Ald Guzman, second by Ald Florian to seat Ald Donnenwirth at 7:11 PM

VOICE VOTE: MOTION APPROVED

Procedural: B. Invocation by Apostle Dr. Ernest Taylor (Ministry of Word of Life Ministries International) / Pledge of Allegiance

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

2. Resolutions/Proclamations/Presentations/Appointments

Information: A. Proclamation - “Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in Waukegan - April 24, 2025"

Information: B. Proclamation - “Public Library and Library Workers Recognition Week in Waukegan, April 6-12, 2025”

Information: C. Proclamation - "National Telecommunicators Week in Waukegan, April 13-19, 2025"

Information: D. Recognition of the 2024-25 Waukegan Boys’ Varsity Basketball Team

3. Audience Time

Marriam Janette: Standing in solidarity with Club La Bodega, and shared her support.

Rayon Edward: Stated free at last. Shared excitement for new administration that’s coming in. Directed comments towards Ald. Keith E. Turner and Victor M. Felix. Wished the best for the all the Alderman and hopes the city can finally move forward. 

Jennifer Cordova & Tiffany Varzatti: Shared appreciation for the National Library Week proclamation and recognition. Invited the community to three events coming up. First event is a meet and greet with library board trustees. The second event will be a fundraiser at Culver’s in Waukegan. The third event will be the annual fundraiser at the Waukegan Public Library. Hopes to see everyone there.

Brotha Blanks: Stated it’s National Poetry Month. Shared a poem with the residents and City Council. Extended gratitude towards Ald. Dr. Sylvia Sims Bolton for being the first to recognize them under this administration. Shared the issues in the 1st Ward, including McAlister Ave needing paving. Shared that unfortunately, we have moved to a city of no accountability under this administration regarding the conditions in the 1st Ward. Shared how difficult it has been to get engineering specs in the 1st Ward, but shared that once he brought it forward to City Council, he was able to have them emailed to him. Encouraged the Alderpersons to have more accountability regarding these matters.

Esther Herran: Discussed concerns regarding sidewalks throughout the city. Stated some sidewalks look terrible and it will cost more money for taxpayers to get them fixed. Stated Waukegan needs to do better when working on the sidewalks.  

Jack Dye: Discussed his wife and him have been personally attacked by accusations of spreading privileged information. Stated he request the City of Waukegan to investigate the unethical conduct of Ald Jose A. Guzman to determine his primary residence. Discussed that 2nd Ward Ald. Jose A. Guzman allegedly leaves in the 7th Ward and not in the 2nd Ward.

Edwin Lagunas: Thanked the City Council for allowing him to speak again. Stated saying yes to reopening La Cantina is saying yes to a space where the community can connect. Reopening will benefit not only La Cantina but also the City of Waukegan. Stated they understand the importance of operating a responsible and safe establishment.

Robert Ritacca: Shared La Cantina has been going through the process to get their liquor license for the past 6 months. Stated that Chief of Staff George Bridges Jr. allegedly told them they would have a decision by April 7th. Thanked Corporation Counsel Stewart J. Weiss for having a conversation with him. Asked City Council to please consider their application and grant them the ability to have a liquor license.

Margaret Carrasco: Stated according to many residents who are members of the Waukegan Park District Fieldhouse they allege Chief of Staff George Bridges Jr is allegedly misusing his work hours and playing pickle ball at the Fieldhouse. Questioned if this is timecard theft and fraud. Directed comments towards 4th Ward Ald Victor M. Felix.

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 Bolton, second by Ald Martinez to approve Consent Agenda items 4.  A-B, D, & F, excluding  4.  C  &  E.

Action (Consent): A. Motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from Monday, March 17, 2025

Action (Consent): B. Motion to approve and ratify Regular Payroll dated March 21, 2025, in the total amount of $2,009,170.56.

Action: C. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Guzman to approve and ratify Misc. Payroll (PD HBB & CT Cashout, LCL 150 Safety Shoes, Tools, & Uniform Allowance, Retro Pay and Final Payouts) dated March 21, 2025, in the total amount of $81,133.80.

Ald Guzman raised the same questions for C & E, regarding Retro Pay & Final Payouts. Sherri Martinez from Finance Department provided clarification.

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action (Consent): D. Motion to approve and ratify Regular Payroll dated April 04, 2025, in the total amount of $2,038,074.95

Action: E. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Bolton to approve and ratify Misc. Payroll (PD HBB & CT Cashout, IAFF Uniform Allowance & Stipend, Retro Pay and Bonus Pay) dated April 04, 2025, in the total amount of $121,242.12.

Lengthy discussion regarding check made payable to Chief of Staff George Bridges Jr regarding extra work as Interim-Building Commissioner.  Questions raised by certain Alderpersons, including Ald Turner.  Words of support from certain Alderpersons thanking COS Bridges Jr for his work and communication.

Motion by Ald Turner to vote on the check separately, however, died due to a lack of second. Ald Turner shared that he cannot vote for this item, as it includes the check. Shared that this is not against COS Bridges Jr, but he cannot support the item.

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

NAY: Ald Turner.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action (Consent): F. Motion to approve vendor payments dated April 7, 2025 totaling in the amount of $3,101,691.35.

Consent Agenda Vote:

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

NAY: None

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None

MOTION APPROVED

5. Reports and Communication

6. Old Business

7. New Business Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Martinez to omnibus vote New Business items 7. A, C, E-G, I, K, & N-O, excluding items 7. B D H J L & M.

Action (omnibus): A. Resolution approving 457(b) Plan pricing enhancements for Empower and Nationwide [This matter was presented to the Government Operations & Oversight Committee on April 7, 2025]

Action: B. Motion by Ald Felix, second by Ald Turner to approve An Ordinance increasing the number of Class A Tavern Liquor Licenses by one for Toluca’s Restaurant and Cantina INC. – 1415 Washington Street. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on April 7, 2025.]

Ald Hayes shared that he asked for the application to be amended, as discussed in the Community Development Committee. Ald Hayes asked that the application be amended, and resubmitted, as they do not have the proper amendments currently on file. Ald Felix shared that we can amend, as we have with others. Ald Hayes shared that there are inconsistencies. Corporation Counsel Weiss explained the way to go about amending if they want to add the nightclub endorsement, as well as the amendments for the applicant to clean up their applications overall (e.g. hours of operations, nightclub, etc.) Ald Hayes stated some of the answers were inconsistent during committee, and Corporation Counsel Weiss explained that some of the boxes that were checked/not checked.

The following amendments were brought forward: Nightclub Endorsement, Hours of Operation, and to re-submit an application. Motion by Ald Felix, second by Ald Guzman to amend:

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

NAY: Ald Hayes.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED to amend.

Ald Florian asked if we can clarify that the former owner cannot be a manger, due to prior issues. Corporation Counsel Weiss cited that the City of Waukegan's liquor code has strong requirements on who can/cannot be the licensee, including those who had a conviction, and explained including that currently, the person legally responsible is the licensee and manager on the application. Ald Guzman asked for clarification regarding State vs City of Waukegan Liquor Ordinance. Corporation Counsel Weiss stated that the City of Waukegan has a strong ordinance, and explained. Ald Guzman expressed that he isn't sure why a DUI would matter for a liquor owner.  Ald Florian shared why she believes it is very important if you have a DUI, you should not have a liquor license, as you have already over-served yourself, and you shouldn't over-serve your customers.

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

NAY: Ald Newsome, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED as amended.

Action (omnibus): C. Resolution ratifying the contract to award the low bid to Dynegy through NIMEC membership. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee at a Special Meeting on April 7, 2025.]

Action: D. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Martinez to approve An Ordinance increasing the number of Class C – Retail Package Sales Liquor Licenses by one Lake Liquors – 2233 N. Lewis Avenue. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on April 7, 2025.]

Ald Hayes and Ald Bolton explained the reasoning behind their vote of support, citing speaking to the applicant prior to City Council Meeting.

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

NAY: Ald Newsome, Ald Florian, Ald Hayes.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED as amended.

Action (omnibus): E. Resolution approving a settlement and release of all claims for Fire Department Workers Compensation claim number 230810W037 for an amount not to exceed $82,630.14. [This matter was presented to the Government Operations & Oversight Committee on April 7, 2025.]

Action (omnibus): F. Resolution adopting the National Incident Management System. [This matter was presented to the Government Operations & Oversight Committee on April 7, 2025.]

Action (omnibus): G. Resolution approving the renewal of the insurance package as proposed by Alliant Insurance Services Inc. for an amount not to exceed $4,491,969.00. [This matter was presented to the Government Operations & Oversight Committee on April 7, 2025.]

Action: H. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Hayes to approve a Resolution approving roadway improvements on Thaxter Avenue by Morris Contracting Solutions, Inc. per Sec. 2-458(i)(7)(Good Faith Waiver) for a not to exceed $125,000.00. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee at a Special Meeting on April 7, 2025.]

City of Waukegan Engineer Jesus Alquicira provided clarification to the Alderpersons. 

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

NAY: None

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None

MOTION APPROVED

Action (omnibus): I. Resolution approving the purchase of office furniture per Sec.2-458(i)(3)(Joint Purchasing) with Warehouse Direct through OMNIA Partners for an amount not to exceed $61,968.26. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee at a Special Meeting on April 7, 2025.]

Action: J. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Martinez to approve An Ordinance amending Chapter 18 pertaining to addressing. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee at a Special Meeting on April 7, 2025.]

Ald Guzman shared his concerns regarding the fines and fees associated with this ordinance, and clarification was provided by COS Bridges Jr, including the suggested fine of up to $250.00.  There was an agreement that further discussion and clarification is needed to amend and address concerns.  Ald Hayes shared this should come back to the general council meeting.

HELD OVER BY ALD FELIX

Action (omnibus): K. Resolution Authorizing the City of Waukegan to Enter into Easement Agreements and a Release of Recapture Agreement for Public Utilities Along River Road [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee at a Special Meeting on April 7, 2025.]

Action: L. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Guzman to approve a Resolution approving a Professional Services Agreement with Deigan Group for Environmental Services at 200 E Sea Horse Drive (Former Johnson Motors Site/OMC Plant 1/BRPSite) [This matter was heard before the Community Development Committee on April 7, 2025]

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

NAY: None

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None

MOTION APPROVED

Action: M. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Bolton to approve a Resolution authorizing the approval of a contract with Leopardo Companies, Inc. for the demolition and renovation of Police Department Training Room Bathrooms per Section 2-458(i)(3)(Joint Purchasing) for an amount not to exceed $211,417.47 [This matter was heard before the Community Development Committee on April 7, 2025]

Ald Guzman shared his concerns, citing wanting a new police station.  Ald Turner shared agreement to wanting to have a new police station, but cited the high cost concern, and shared that this will be several years down the road anyway at this point.  Ald Martinez shared that we shouldn't have second thoughts on this, and something like this should be a given and they need to have this bathroom accessible and comfortable for the officers. Ald Donnenwirth shared these bathrooms are very old, and were there before he was an officer, and are still there. Ald Guzman shared that he agrees and wants this done, but wants the officers in a better position in a new facility - wants the fire under someone to get this moving. Chief Navarro shared the issues that the Police Department is dealing with, including struggles with litigation coming forward. Ald Guzman understood, but shared that we need to have something prepared. Chief Navarro agreed.

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

NAY: None

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None

MOTION APPROVED

Action (omnibus): N. Resolution approving the purchase of two 2024 F-150 SuperCrew Cabs for the Police Department Truck Enforcement Unit [This matter was heard before the Community Development Committee on April 7, 2025]

Action (omnibus): O. Resolution approving the purchase SAWIII statis weighing system for truck enforcement [This matter was heard before the Community Development Committee on April 7, 2025]

New Business omnibus vote:

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

NAY: None

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None

MOTION APPROVED

8. Ordinances

9. Closing Items

Alderperson Time

Ald Newsome: Reminded residents of Earth Week in the 5th Ward - Weds 23rd, at Greenwood & Delaware where the 5th Ward dumpster will be located. Shared her contact information for anyone who may have questions regarding clean-up. Monday, April 21, for two weeks - LRS will allow residential yard waste bags for pick-up. LRS phone number is 844-633-3577.

Ald Turner:  Shared that he has proposed handshake deals for two locations for potential City of Waukegan Police Stations, but the support was not there. Shared that Chief Bridges Jr does a good job, and he is not making this an attack on him, regarding the payment for the Building Commissioner work, simply a matter. Shared that it has been a pleasure to working with him. Thanked Corporation Counsel Weiss for their work, and thanked them for their efforts. Shared that his Earth Week Clean-Up and Dumpster is April 23rd at Hickory Street underneath the powerlines. Explained that he will have a 6th Ward Meeting soon, and the date is TBD. Spoke about car burglary issues in the 6th Ward, and shared that it is happening. Encouraged residents to lock their doors, including car doors. Shared that we need should listen to our dogs barking, as they are normally barking at something. Encouraged residents to be safe, and hopes that we catch these people doing this. 

Ald Donnenwirth: Encouraged residents to lock their car doors, as car break-ins are on the rise. Shared his Dumpster Collection Day as well. 7th Ward Meeting date coming soon, TBD.

Ald Florian:  Shared that she attended the Boys and Girls Club Gala in Lake Forest, had the pleasure of representing the City of Waukegan. She shared details of the events, and the efforts done by the Boys and Girls Club. Shared that her dumpster is Thursday the 24th at Bevier Park. Shared that Kristi Long, CEO of United Way Lake County, will be retiring, and there will be an event for the occasion hosted at the College of Lake County, Eleanor Murkey Community Center, the afternoon of the 24th. Shared that on Saturday the 26th - Christian Neighbors is doing a clean-up as well, and the event keeps growing throughout the city. Encouraged residents to reach out to her if they need more information on the clean-ups.

Ald Hayes: Commented on the vote this evening regarding La Cantina, and how the application was brought forward and how it passed - shared his dissatisfaction on how it was passed after being told it would be one individual running it, and then the former manager's wife applied.  Shared that we are becoming a city of carve-outs. We are weakening the laws that are on the books and the credibility to enforce these laws.  Shared that it will backfire on us if we do not think of the City of Waukegan as a whole. Stated that we approved it one time, and if we keep doing this it might be done again and we need to look at this going forward, and make sure that we look at this more globally, in regards to the city as a whole.

Ald Bolton: Reminded residents that April 21st the Earth Clean-up will be at 8th and Adams.  Shared comments that McAlister is on the schedule to be repaved and it will not be neglected. Acknowledged UMMA on their efforts to feeding hundreds of residents in our community. Shared that she attended on April 3 the promotions of Commanders and Sargent's and it was a great event. Shared youth career opportunities throughout the community - shared the contact information: 773-815-5227 Harvest for You. Spoke about 'Illinois Solar for All" and the opportunities for our residents to have solar - shared their contact information: 888-970-4732

Ald Guzman:  Shared how his 2nd Ward Meeting went, and that it was a small group discussing Willow Rd. Shared the efforts that went into notifying residents, and only a handful showed up. Discussed the current issues at Willow Rd, and what he would like to see happen regarding opening up that road. Shared that he will be having a 2nd Ward Meeting on April 19th. Shared that he is happy with the discussions regarding the weight station, regarding heavy vehicles coming into the town. Shared that the 1st and 2nd ward will have their Earth Clean-Up on Monday April 21, with the Dumpster being on Benny Ave. Asked residents to be careful driving, and to watch for children. Congratulated the Bulldogs on their successful basketball season.

Ald Martinez: Congratulated the Waukegan Highschool on their successful basketball season. 3rd Ward Earth day clean-up will take place on Tuesday, April 22nd. Dumpster will be located at Weiss Field on Lewis Ave. Shared the multiple roads being worked on in the 3rd Ward. Thanked Public Works Director Chris Garland for his work and efforts. Shared that he has a tentative 3rd Ward Meeting scheduled for Saturday May 17 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM at Brookside Campus. Encouraged residents to check their sub-pumps with all of the rain, and asked residents to unclog their sewer drains. Shared that he attended a National Kidney Foundation event, and the Zion Public Library Heath Fair. Congratulated all the winners in the last election, and thanked COS Bridges Jr for his serve as the COS, and shared a personal story. Shared his contact information with residents who need to get ahold of him. 

Ald Felix: Addressed Ald Hayes comments, and shared feedback. Thanked COS Bridges Jr for his work and assistance within the City of Waukegan. Shared that his Earth Day Dumpster Clean-up will be at Butrick and Washington April 22nd. Thanked everyone for their support in his ward, and encouraged residents to reach out of they need assistance with their business efforts.

10. Adjournment

Procedural: A. Motion by Ald Bolton, second by Ald Donnenwirth to ADJOURN at 9:36 PM.

VOICE VOTE: MOTION APPROVED

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