Committee rejects S.B. Friedman advisory contract for Parking Lot B; oversight dispute cited

The Waukegan Community Development Committee voted 3-2 on March 3, 2025, not to recommend approval of a $29,500 professional services agreement with S.B. Friedman Development Advisors for advisory services related to Parking Lot B at 131 North County Street.

The item drew most of its debate not over the scope of work but over who should oversee the consultant. Alderman Felix proposed naming Chief of Staff George Bridges as the primary point person to shepherd the request for qualifications and any resulting contract, saying, "The only thing that I suggest is the person that, I would feel comfortable overseeing these things is our chief of staff, George Bridges." Felix added that, in her view, having the chief of staff coordinate would ensure cross‑departmental follow‑up.

Planning and zoning staff pushed back, saying routine approvals and pre‑permit approvals historically flow through the planning department and that inspections and related work involve multiple departments. A planning and zoning staff member said, "The approvals prior to that came through the planning department, as do most developments. They come through the planning department process and then when they're ready for permit the permits go in...my staff is part of the approval process but the building department has inspections and that kind of thing."

Chief of Staff George Bridges addressed the committee after the suggestion was raised, saying he was not aware of any ordinance change and that he would "work with any of our team members" and "fit in wherever they need me." The proposed amendment to name the chief of staff as point person did not receive a second and was not adopted.

City counsel (Stu) reminded the committee that the item had been held over once already and that a majority vote would be required to delay consideration further. On roll call the motion to recommend the agreement failed with Aldermen Martinez, Donenworth and Felix voting no and Aldermen Florian and Hayes voting yes. The committee chair said, "This will go to city council with a negative recommendation."

Because the rejection was a committee recommendation rather than a final contract award, the matter will next appear before the full Waukegan City Council for final action.

Ending: The committee record shows opposition centered on process and oversight rather than the consultant firm or dollar amount; the item will advance to council with a negative committee recommendation.