Chicago City Wire

City of Waukegan City Council met Aug. 4

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

Mayor; Samuel D. Cunningham, Jr, City Clerk; Janet E. Kilkelly, City Treasurer; Dr. John R. Schwab and Corporation Counsel; Michael Castaldo, Jr, were present.

1. Opening Items

Procedural: A. Roll Call 

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

ABSENT: None.

Procedural: B. Invocation by Pastor Linda Ervin First Seek God Ministry / Pledge of Allegiance

Procedural: C. Mayor's Comments - At this time, Mayor Cunningham shared his comments.

2. Resolutions/Proclamations/Presentations/Appointments

Action: A. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Martinez to approve Resolution 25-R-209 - “A Resolution Recognizing and Thanking Information Systems Technician First Class (IW/SW) Emily Decelles for Her Dedicated Service to the United States Navy and Our Nation”

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

Information: B. Community Development Block Grant Program Expansion Presentation.

3. Audience Time

Tyrone Harris: Addressed the adoption of Market Street and the continuation of cleaning it up. He requested the support for the installation of new security cameras due to current ones being non-functional. He also announced upcoming West Side Reunion at Bowen Park on Saturday 8-09-25, inviting everyone to attend, with book bags and school supplies to be distributed at 11:00am.

Patricia Simmons: A resident of the West Street spoke about her concerns regarding the installation of three speed bumps in proximity on her street, acknowledging their importance but raising issues about vehicles wear and tear, potential delays for emergency vehicles, and the recent addition of a new street sign. She asked about the city’s safety plans related to speed bumps, their purpose, available repair funds, and the overall strategy for traffic safety.

Rayon Edwards: Began by offering a good evening and he stated that while he was a strong supporter of current administration, he now feels disappointed. Particularly with Alderman Felix for being put in charge of a committee despite allegations of bullying towards a young woman, for which no apology or outreach was made, he also expressed disappointment in Alderman Newsome for previously opposing alcohol licenses but voting yes on preapproved licenses with alcohol on the agenda.  Stated that this community deserves an explanation and does not need more alcohol-selling establishments. Additionally, he raised concern about rising towing and storage fees in the city and called for a cap on those cost.

Azul Maria Daniel: A Waukegan resident who moved to Waukegan three years ago from Chicago. She explained her background of raising chickens as a hobby in Chicago where it is permitted when moving to Waukegan, they believed they would be able to continue their said hobby. Until recently where they received a notice from the city notifying them to remove the chickens or a fine would be faced. Expressed concern on why the city does not allow them but neighboring cities do. Asked the City Council to reconsider an ordinance allowing residents to keep chicken and hens as pets.   

Antonio K Daniel: Addressed the City Council, to continue to speak on the remarks his wife had previously made about raising back yard chickens. Explained that building and designing a space for their flock was more than just a hobby-it was an educational experience supported by multiple classes he took. He shared how raising chickens had a meaningful impact on his family- including the youngest members of the family while they helped care for their flock. He expressed sadness over having to say goodbye to their chickens. He cited neighboring cities that allow backyard chickens and the benefits that they bring to the community. He asked council to reconsider the current ordinance.

Laura Delgado: Addressed the council in Spanish. Repeated by Margaret Carrasco.

Margaret Carrasco: Welcomed the City Council and Mayor to Fiestas Patrias and shared their goal of making it the largest parade in Illinois. Formally requesting the city recognize the day of the parade as Fiestas Patrias Day in Waukegan.They extended an open invitation to all business and organization to participate in the parade, expressed their desire to make history with a mayor-led ribbon cutting, and propose renaming a street in Waukegan to Tonatico. On behalf of the organization, the speaker presented the mayor with this year’s parade T- shirt and submitted a request for a resolution.

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 Florian, second by Ald Guzman to approve Consent Agenda items  4.  A - D  &  F,  excluding item  4. E.

Action (Consent): A. Motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from Monday, July 21, 2025

Action (Consent): B. Motion to approve and ratify Regular Payroll dated July 25, 2025, in the total amount of $2,207,538.09.

Action (Consent): C. Motion to approve and ratify Misc. Payroll (PD HBB & CT Cashout & Final Payout) dated July 25, 2025, in the total amount of $84,651.20.

Action (Consent): D. Motion to approve vendor payments dated August 4, 2025 in the total amount of $5,135,555.82.

Action: E. Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Martinez to approve an Intergovernmental Agreement Between the City of Waukegan and the Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 for Public Safety Services for the 2025-2026 School Year.

Ald Florian raised concerns regarding the overall cost factor, including to those who do not live in the Waukegan School District, many being residents from her 8th Ward and Ald Hayes' 9th Ward. She further shared that she doesn't feel it is fair for the city to supplement SROs for District 60 when their budget is larger.

Ald Guzman agreed partially, sharing that District 60 should be paying more, and that if the city does supplement, it should be far less.

Ald Turner shared that he doesn't have children in the Waukegan School District, but has paid taxes into the district. Shared that it doesn't seem fair, but he isn't crying over it.  Shared that this program is a good one, and asked for clarification on the overall dollar amount. Deputy Police Chief Mandro shared the total amount - $146,666.00.  Ald Turner called for the question.

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

NAY: Ald Guzman.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action (Consent): F. Resolution approving engineering services from Infrastructure Engineering Inc. per Sec. 2-458(i)(4)(Professional Services) for the Metra Station Retaining Wall for a not to exceed amount of $121,000.00. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on August 4, 2025.]

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

Report A. Monthly Treasurer Report - Dr. John R. Schwab

6. Old Business

7. New Business

8. Ordinances

9. Closing Items

Alderperson Time

Ald Newsome: Thanked everyone for joining her in 5th ward meeting everyone from the community to the council that joined her. Gave thanks to CBDG for the presentation that was given during the ward meeting. Allowing the community to see Waukegan can do for them.

Ald Turner: Noted that Public Works employees typically take their time off during the summer months, as they are needed to be fully available during winter season. Residents were asked to remain patient with public works. In the 6th ward there are currently ten homes on the CDBG waitlist. They are encouraged to reach out to CDBG for updates. Mario Perez received a special mention due to the great work he is doing in the 6th ward. As well as residents planning block party are reminded to submit their applications 30 days in advance. Last everyone is invited to stay engaged with neighborhood policing efforts.

Ald Donnenwirth: Began by thanking city staff and employees for their continued communication. It was noted that the 7th ward has 15 homes on the CDBG waitlist. Residents are encouraged to reach out the program for updates. Condolences were expressed for retired officer who recently passed away and everyone was asked to keep the officer’s family in their thoughts and prayers.

Ald Florian: Spoke about calls of concern regarding use of ATVs, electric scooters, by kids in the street. Spoke about efforts to beef-up an ordinance pertaining to these types of vehicles and their use/restriction. Shared an article from the Lake County New Sun regarding Lake County Partners, and Lake County being the 10th best county in the U.S. for doing business. Shared facts from the article. Shared a few highlights pertaining to the 2024 Audit. Spoke about consideration of an update pertaining to the City of Waukegan Ethics Ordinance.

Ald Hayes:  A concern was addressed regarding student safety with a strong message that it is ultimately the responsibility of the school to ensure students protection.  While the city is willing to support when needed, it was emphasized that school administrators must manage their budget to prioritize safety. The issue was framed as a responsibility not political debate.  It was also announced that the City Engineer will be leaving, which raised concerns about the importance of having qualified and capable replacement.  Broader concerns were expressed about the need to ensure all the right people are in the right place to serve this community.

Ald Bolton: Thanked all departments and volunteers for their hard work and dedication to keeping the neighborhoods clean. It was announced that on August 16th at 631 McAllister, there will be a school supply giveaway, as well as a summer barbecue and an event called African Taste. The Waukegan Police Department is currently hiring- applications are due by August 11th, and testing will take place the week of September 8th. Interested applicants can apply online at Waukeganpolicejobs.com. NICOR recently held a block party to give back to the community. A special thank you was also given to Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church for presenting a Certificate of Appreciation

Ald Guzman: Thanked everyone who attended the 2nd ward meeting despite scheduling issues. The main topics discussed included plans for speed bumps, updates from public works director about upcoming projects and praises were given to the public works team despite their busy schedule. Residents were asked to be patient. Hydrant flushing is set to begin soon. There are currently 7 homes on the waitlist for CDBG assistance, and they were encouraged to reach out to CDBG for updates. Lastly, Marshall Parkway complaints were addressed, work will begin next year.

Ald Martinez:  Congratulations to the Leaf Avenue residents for coming together to start a neighborhood watch program. Mr. Saul Cruz was introduced as the captain of the program, and meetings will be held at his home with more information to follow. Officer Luka was thanked for her support of the program. There will also be a collaboration with Public Works for an alley cleanup on Grand Ave. Quonset Pizza was recognized for celebrating their 10-year anniversary of ownership under Mr. Johnson & Mr. Shadden. Special thanks were given to the Public Relations team in Waukegan. A warm welcome was extended to Josh May and Mayor Cunningham for attending. Congratulations were also given to Miss Nina for her successful marketplace pop-up.  Lastly it was mentioned that mattresses need to be properly covered according to LRS guidelines.  Gave contact information to reach him at 847-390-2689. Encouraged residents to be a good neighbor.

Ald Felix: A recent concern was addressed regarding the appointment to a committee chair position, with clarification given that the role was accepted in good faith and with a commitment to serving the community.  The focus remains on developing stronger revitalized downtown Waukegan and working towards the community’s best interest. Residents are encouraged to reach out directly with any questions or concerns to foster open and constructive dialogue. An upcoming Ward Meeting will be held on August 27th at Alani Banquets, and all are welcome to attend. Updates on the rebuild Waukegan project were shared affirming that efforts are still underway. In addition, an engineering- related issue was acknowledged and addressed during the meeting.

10. Closed Executive Session

Action: A. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Guzman to go into closed session for purposes of considering settlement of pending litigation 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(11) at 8:51 PM.

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

Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Bolton to return to Regular Session at 9:41 PM.

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

11. Adjournment

Procedural: A. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Guzman to Adjourn at 9:42 PM.

VOICE VOTE: MOTION APPROVED

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