Chicago City Wire

City of Waukegan City Council met Sept. 15

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

Mayor; Samuel D. Cunningham, Jr, Deputy City Clerk; David A. Patterson, City Treasurer; Dr. John R. Schwab and Corporation Counsel; Michael Castaldo, Jr, were present.

City Clerk; Janet E. Kilkelly, was absent.

1. Opening Items

Procedural: A. Roll Call

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

ABSENT:  None.

Procedural: B. Invocation by Fr. Thomas Alatzakis - St Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church - 1400 N. O'Plaine Rd, Waukegan, IL 60048 / Pledge of Allegiance

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

2. Resolutions/Proclamations/Presentations/Appointments

Proclamation: A. Proclamation: Hispanic Heritage Month in Waukegan - September 15 - October 15

Proclamation: B. Proclamation: Fire Prevention Week, October 5-11, 2025 “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home

Information: C. Presentation: Rebuild Waukegan Washington Street Update

3. Audience Time

Aime Bracamontes: Introduced herself as the Executive Assistant to the Chamber of Commerce. Shared exciting news regarding an upcoming community event. The fall festival is scheduled for Saturday, October 18 2025 and will be held downtown Waukegan. This event is designed to bring the community together in a family friendly day. If any local business is interested in participating or getting involved are encouraged to reach out by email at Waukeganchambers.com or by calling Waukegan Chambers. Thank you for your time.

Chuck Ruckstales: Spoke regarding 1% grocery tax. Disagrees with the grocery tax and thinks we should not have it. Compared Gurnee to Waukegan in grocery sales tax.

Kesha Adams: Spoke on behalf of Dr. Sylvia England invited council out to fish fry Friday from 11am to 1pm as well as dinner from 4pm to 7pm at 503 N Genesee St at the African American Museum. All are welcome to attend.

Rayond Edwards: Addressed the community and the council. Spoke directly to Alderman Felix on a statement made by him regarding businesses. Spoke regarding liquor licenses that are being approved and disagrees with them. Address Alderman Hayes directly regarding allegations made.

Clyde McLemore: Introduced himself as founder and president of BLM. Invited Council out to the ribbon cutting of a new center that will be opening in our community on September 24. Thanked the supporters of the BLM nonprofit that have made this possible.

Esther Herran: Spoke on recent studies regarding May 5th regarding people not knowing the true meaning of it. Spoke on the 5 de Mayo history.  

Margaret Carrasco: Spoke directly to Attorney Castaldo. Spoke on how a formal email will be written to him for a written complain that will be filled. Addressed Att. Castaldo to give information to the public on an investigation performed by the state attorney’s office regarding an Alderman. Spoke regarding businesses being open in Waukegan. As well as spoke on a few FOIA’s that were submitted that involved city employees. Spoke on liquor license allegations as well.

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 Bolton to approve Consent Agenda items 4. A-D, & G-L, excluding items 4. E & F.

Action (Consent): A. Motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from Tuesday, September 02, 2025

Action (Consent): B. Motion to approve vendor payments dated September 15, 2025 in the total amount of $1,999,217.21.

Action (Consent): C. Motion to approve and ratify Regular Payroll dated September 5, 2025, in the total amount of $2,145,148.80.

Action (Consent): D. Motion to approve and ratify Misc. Payroll (PD HBB & CT Cashout, Retro, & Final Payout) dated September 5, 2025, in the total amount of $46,912.65.

Action: E. Ordinance amending the Unified Development Ordinance (Zoning Calendar #2791). [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on September 2, 2025.]

HELD OVER BY ALD NEWSOME

Action: F. Resolution amending the Fee and Fine Schedule of City Code in conjunction with amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on September 2, 2025.]

HELD OVER BY ALD NEWSOME

Action (Consent): G. A resolution approving a settlement and release of all claims for Police Department Workers Compensation claim number 240129W013 / 24 WC 03041 / 003123.022B for the amount not to exceed $204,974.00. [This matter was presented to the Government Operations & Oversight Committee on September 2, 2025.]

Action (Consent): H. A resolution approving a settlement and release of all claims for Police Department Workers Compensation claim number 240731W008 / 24 WC 23172 / 003123.0093 for the amount not to exceed $59,591.29. [This matter was presented to the Government Operations & Oversight Committee on September 2, 2025.]

Action (Consent): I. Resolution approving the purchase of a 2025 Peterbilt 548 Dump Truck from JX Truck Center for a not to exceed amount of $174,526.14 per Sec. 2-458(i)(3)(Joint Purchasing) through Sourcewell. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on September 15, 2025.]

Action (Consent): J. Resolution approving the purchase of a 110 Gallon Airless Striper Truck from M-B Companies Inc. for a not to exceed amount of $242,885.05 per Sec. 2-458(i)(3)(Joint Purchasing) through Sourcewell. [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on September 15, 2025.]

Action (Consent): K. Resolution approving the purchase of a 2025 Ford Transit Cargo Van from Kunes Auto Group for a not to exceed amount of $50,710.95 per Sec. 2-458(i)(7)(Good Faith Waiver). [This matter was presented to the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee on September 15, 2025.]

Action (Consent): L. Ordinance Amending Chapter 3, Sections 3-14, 3-40, & 3-79 in the City of Waukegan Code of Ordinances, adding the Finance Department as the administrative agency in lieu of the Office of the City Clerk [This matter was presented to the Finance & Purchasing Committee 

Consent Agenda Vote:

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

NAY: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

5. Reports and Communication

6. Old Business

7. New Business

Action: A. Motion by Ald Newsome, second by Ald Turner to approve an Ordinance continuing the 1% Grocery Tax at the municipal level. [This matter was presented to the Finance and Purchasing Committee on August 18, 2025]

Motion to adopt an Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances, Waukegan, Illinois, to create a municipal grocery retailer's occupation tax and a municipal grocery service occupation tax.

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

NAY: Ald Martinez.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: B. Motion by Ald Turner, second by Ald Martinez to approve an Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances, Waukegan, Illinois, to create a new class G liquor license [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on September 02, 2025]

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

NAY: Ald Newsome.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: C. Motion by Ald Felix, second by Ald Turner to approve an Ordinance increasing the number of Class A Tavern Liquor License and video gaming license by one for Dejavu Bar & Grill - 17 N Genesee St. [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on September 02, 2025]

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

NAY: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Newsome, Ald Donnenwirth.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: D. Motion by Ald Donnenwirth, second by Ald Guzman to approve an Ordinance creating a Class C-1 Retail package sales & Gasoline liquor license for 3201 Waukegan Gas LLC located at 3201 Lewis Ave [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on September 02, 2025]

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

NAY: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Newsome.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

Action: E. Motion by Ald Martinez, second by Ald Turner to approve an Ordinance creating a Class C-1 Retail package sales & Gasoline liquor license for WASHINGTON & LEWIS BP located at 1900 WASHINGTON ST [This matter was presented to the Community Development Committee on September 02, 2025]

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

NAY: Ald Florian, Ald Hayes, Ald Bolton, Ald Newsome.

ABSENT: None.

ABSTAIN: None.

MOTION APPROVED

8. Ordinances

9. Closing Items

Alderperson Time

Alderman Hayes: A concern was raised regarding the liquor licenses being approved by the City Council tonight. Strong opposition to the approval of anther night club establishment in downtown Waukegan, echoing concerns previously raised. It was emphasized that the Alderman should consider that rebuilding Waukegan involves more than just improving infrastructure. Equal attention must be given to the type of business being attracted to the city ensuring they align with the positive long-term vision for the community.

Alderman Florian: Gave thanks to Public Works for their hard work during the Dumpster Drive. Mentioned how beautiful the Fiestas Patrias parade was. Also gave thanks to everyone who helped make it happen. Especial thanks to the Juntoz organization as well as the Waukegan Police and Fire Department. Also emphasized that unfortunately immigration is a civil issue not a criminal issue. Special thanks to the state attorney for proving immigration resource information. Appreciation was also given to the Building Department for their efficiency and support in streamlining the permit approval process.

Alderman Donnenwirth: Gratitude was expressed to the city employees for their continued hard work and dedication in addressing community issues. Special thanks were extended to the Waukegan Police Department, with recognition to Chief Navarro for his leadership. Information was shared regarding upcoming Dumper Drive that will take place in the 7th Ward aimed at supporting local cleanup efforts. Appreciation was also given to the Building Department for their efficiency and support in streamlining the permit approval process.

Alderman Turner: His input was provided on liquor licenses that are being approved. A 9/11 ceremony was hosted. Special thanks to the 1st responders and city employees for attending the event. Thanked public works for their hard work that is being done in the 6th ward. 6th ward upcoming meeting information was provided. Provided contact information for any questions or issues within the community please feel free to reach out at 847-445-3788

Alderman Newsome: Thanked public works for the 5th Ward dumpster drive that was hosted on September 13th and thanked them for providing information on what was accepted and was not accepted as well as provided resource information to where waste can be disposed.

Alderman Felix: Thanked our community members for this past parade for going out and attending and being able to celebrate not only Hispanic Heritage month but Waukegan Pride. Emphasized that the rebuild Waukegan campaign is not just about the infrastructure but as well as the image that Waukegan is trying to show. Please be advice of parking ordinance that will start to be enforced throughout the city. You can visit waukeganil.gov website for more information. A summary of what is intended for rebuild Waukegan and the meaning behind it was given by  Public Works director.  

Alderman Martinez: Reminded everyone that the Waukegan Homecoming Parade is coming up on September 26th at 5:30pm. Please go out and support our Waukegan Football team at their upcoming homecoming game after the parade at 7pm. Please be aware that leaf season is upon us. Hispanic Heritage month was also briefly mentioned as well as the upcoming grocery tax of 1%.

Alderman Guzman: Congratulated everyone who worked on the Fiestas Patrias Parade, Especially the JUNTOZ organization for putting everything together, Waukegan Police, Fire and Public Works were also thanked for their services. 2nd ward will be hosting their dumper drive on Saturday September 20th on 12th Greenfield. Willow Rd was also discussed.  

Alderman Bolton: Thanked all the individuals that have participated in adopt a road program. If anyone is interested, please reach out at 224-607-8445. An operation clean sweep with be held on 10/11 located at 8th and Adams. As well as 1st ward meeting will be held on October 9th at the boys and girls club at 6pm-7:30pm. Mentioned new business that will opening BLM that will host its ribbon cutting on September 24th.

10. Adjournment

Procedural: A. Motion by Ald Florian, second by Ald Guzman to ADJOURN at 9:19 PM.

VOICE VOTE:  MOTION APPROVED

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