Alderperson Keith Turner’s Plan to Revoke Tree Preservation Ordinance Gets Axed

At the October 19 Committee of the Whole Meeting, the members of the City Council considered various changes to the codes and ordinances of the city, including the oversight of major community events, but the hottest topic was the City of Waukegan’s Tree preservation ordinance.

For months, Alderperson Keith Turner has railed against the Tree Preservation Ordinance in Waukegan, much to the chagrin of environmental groups, businesses, and residents who care deeply about the city’s environmental efforts and beautification efforts to increase property values.

Previously, at the August 21 meeting of the Waukegan City Council, Turner said that he believed there should be no tree preservation ordinance in Waukegan and that individuals should have the right to cut down any tree they wish. Turner, an announced candidate for Mayor of Waukegan in 2025, had pointed out on multiple occasions and on social media that individuals were issued fines for not getting a permit to remove trees on their properties.

The City of Waukegan’s Planning and Zoning Director, Noelle Kischer-Lepper, stated during the Committee of the Whole meeting that updates to the tree preservation ordinance would be part of the City’s Unified Development Ordinance, which was still being worked on by staff.

Public comment at the meeting was also loaded with community activists and environmental groups who railed against the possibility of trees not being protected in Waukegan. Activists stated trees are vital in Waukegan as it is an urban environment and that trees help reduce heat from pavement, reduce stormwater runoff, prevent erosion, help keep groundwater clean, and reduce the risks of flooding, all while increasing property values.

Turner realized he did not have sufficient support to revoke the tree preservation ordinance. He completely changed his tune and said he wanted to now keep the tree preservation ordinance, but place a cap on fines.

Looking Forward

On Monday, November 6, the City Council will meet and consider modifications to the salary ordinance proposed by Alderman Jose A. Guzman of the 2nd ward. Mayor Ann Taylor vetoed this legislation, and it would take six yes votes to override Mayor Taylor’s veto.