The City of Waukegan Planning and Zoning Commission convened on September 11, 2025, to discuss various community concerns, particularly focusing on the Allendale STAR program and its impact on local youth. The meeting featured testimonies from several community members, including staff from Allendale, who emphasized the importance of providing support and housing for at-risk youth.

The session began with a commitment from Allendale's leadership to enhance communication with the Ramirez family, who live adjacent to the Allendale facility. CEO Jason expressed a desire for regular meetings, suggesting a frequency of monthly or quarterly gatherings to ensure ongoing dialogue and address any concerns. This initiative aims to foster a collaborative relationship and improve transparency regarding the operations of the STAR program.

Deborah McIntosh, a long-time employee at Allendale, passionately advocated for the program, highlighting its success in helping young people transition into productive citizens. She underscored the urgent need for supportive housing for youth aged 14 to 17, stating, "They’re kids. They’re looking for somewhere to live." McIntosh called for community understanding and cooperation, emphasizing that the focus should be on the well-being of the children rather than property concerns.

Vanessa Young, another Allendale staff member, echoed these sentiments, urging the Ramirez family to consider giving the program a second chance. She noted the positive changes in leadership at Allendale and expressed confidence in their commitment to the youth they serve. Young also shared her personal connection to the community, reinforcing the need for compassion and support for vulnerable children.

Other community members, including Parvin Vakili and Daisy Zuluaga, also voiced their support for the STAR program. They highlighted the necessity of providing safe spaces for youth and the potential for early intervention to prevent future issues. Zuluaga specifically pointed out that early support can significantly improve outcomes for young people facing challenges.

The meeting concluded with a call for unity and understanding among community members, emphasizing the shared responsibility to support at-risk youth. The commission plans to continue discussions on the STAR program and its integration into the community, with a focus on ensuring that all voices are heard and considered in future planning efforts.