Residents demand Waukegan council address illegal fireworks and hospital service issues

The City Council of Waukegan held a meeting on July 10, 2025, addressing several pressing community issues, including public safety concerns related to illegal fireworks, hospital management, and housing conditions.

One of the most urgent topics raised was the increasing problem of illegal fireworks in residential areas. A concerned citizen reported a 45-minute episode of fireworks near Ridgeland Avenue, which posed a danger to local residents. The speaker criticized the police response, noting that resources were concentrated at the lakefront for official fireworks displays, leaving other neighborhoods unprotected. The speaker emphasized the need for the city to develop a plan to address this issue before the next Fourth of July celebration, highlighting the potential risks to families, particularly those with children or individuals with special needs.

Another significant discussion centered on the management of the local hospital. Rayon Edwards expressed frustration over the hospital's outstanding debts to the city, including over $200,000 in water bills and $1.3 million in property taxes. He questioned the qualifications of the hospital's current CEO and raised concerns about the quality of care provided to the community, citing personal experiences and reports from healthcare workers. Edwards urged the council to ensure accountability and better service from the hospital, especially in light of potential public health emergencies.

Housing conditions also came under scrutiny, with multiple residents voicing their dissatisfaction with the treatment of tenants in local housing developments. Concerns were raised about inadequate living conditions, lack of communication regarding relocations, and the need for the city to prioritize tenant rights. Residents expressed a desire for more involvement in decisions affecting their living situations and called for the city council to take action to ensure fair treatment.

The meeting concluded with a call for the council to address these critical issues, emphasizing the need for improved public safety, healthcare accountability, and tenant rights in Waukegan. The discussions highlighted the community's demand for more responsive governance and better living conditions for all residents.