At the City of Waukegan’s last city council meeting on April 15, the city’s nine alderpersons voted unanimously in favor of the budget proposed by Mayor Ann Taylor, marking a significant milestone in the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance public services and foster economic growth.
With a balanced budget of $245 million for the fiscal year, Waukegan is poised to make substantial investments in infrastructure, public safety, and community development without imposing new taxes on its residents or taking on new debt.
According to Interim Finance Director Don Schulz, a key focus of the budget is strengthening public safety, with investments aimed at bolstering both the fire and police departments. Over the past year, the city has expanded its firefighting capabilities, adding three new firefighter paramedics. Additionally, three police social workers have been budgeted to assist in handling mental health-related incidents, further enhancing public safety initiatives. The budget also increased the police headcount by nearly 15% since 2021.
Infrastructure improvement remains a top priority for Waukegan, with nearly $40 million allocated for capital projects such as street repairs, sidewalk upgrades, and bridge replacements. A significant portion of these funds will also go towards replacing lead-service line pipes and upgrading the water utility plant, underscoring the city’s commitment to ensuring a safe and reliable water supply for its residents.
According to Schultz, the city’s fourth balanced budget in a row will help ensure its bond rating increases again later this year. Taylor, who announced her re-election campaign earlier this month, has said that the city is focused on paying back past inherited debts and not taking out any more general obligation debt.
Taylor said the budget underscores commitment to fiscal responsibility while investing in initiatives promoting economic growth and enhancing residents’ quality of life. The budget also includes funding for enhanced amenities along the lakefront and upgrades to the city’s animal control operations.
The budget passed after an unusual request by 1st Ward Alderperson Dr. Sylvia Sims Bolton, who tried to delay a vote on the budget until June. Bolton’s motion failed 8-1, with only Bolton supporting the motion. City staff said that the delay tactic by Bolton would disrupt city services and stop the city’s ability to complete vital road projects.
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