Alderman Felix probes liquor license applicants after past violations at Toluca's

The City of Waukegan Community Development Committee convened on April 18, 2025, to discuss several key issues, including the management structure of a local business and an amendment to a conditional use permit for a banquet hall.

One of the primary discussions centered around the management of a new establishment, La Quintin. The applicant clarified that she would oversee employee management and ordering, while her husband, Edwin Lagunas, would focus solely on marketing. This clarification was crucial, especially given the establishment's previous issues with compliance, which had led to a business license violation at a former location, Toluca's. Alderman Felix expressed concerns about ensuring that La Quintin would operate within the law, emphasizing the importance of avoiding past mistakes. The committee ultimately voted with a negative recommendation for the liquor license application, reflecting ongoing apprehensions about the business's management practices.

In another agenda item, the committee reviewed a request from Delia Dela Cruz, owner of Club Lehi Bodega, to extend the hours of operation for her banquet hall located at 701 Pine Street. Dela Cruz explained that her original license limited her to operating until 11:00 PM, a decision she did not fully understand at the time of application. The committee members sought clarity on the reasons behind the initial time restriction, noting the absence of minutes from the original meeting where the license was granted. The discussion highlighted the need for transparency and consistency in the licensing process.

As the meeting concluded, the committee's recommendations and concerns will be forwarded to the city council for further consideration. The outcomes of these discussions will play a significant role in shaping the future of local businesses and their compliance with city regulations.