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Waukegan committee reopens debate on helium balloons and possible plastic bag restrictions
Summary
Committee members discussed concerns about helium balloon sales amid supply pressures and revisited interest in a plastic-bag restriction; members suggested a public survey and discussed business and restaurant impacts but took no formal action.
Chairman Florian raised two environmental concerns April 6: continuing retail sales of helium balloons and a possible city reconsideration of a plastic bag restriction.
The chair said he had noticed helium balloons at a local Jewel store and warned that global supply pressures affecting the Strait of Hormuz could limit helium availability, noting the gas is used in medical procedures. He suggested the committee should encourage businesses to stop selling helium balloons that escape into the environment.
The chair also highlighted plastic pollution, saying, "74% of the pollution in Lake Michigan is plastic," and urged the committee to consider revisiting a ban or fee on single-use plastic bags to reduce microplastic runoff into the lake.
Alderman Felix recommended starting with a resident and stakeholder survey—distributed online and via newsletters—to gauge support and inform any policy. Alderman Bolton asked about how businesses would handle large existing stocks of plastic bags and how restaurants would be regulated for takeout packaging. Alderman Guzman raised concerns about passing costs to consumers and about enforcing rules for restaurants and takeout containers.
No policy or ordinance was proposed or adopted at the meeting; members agreed a survey might be a useful first step and indicated willingness to share outreach through their communication channels. The committee adjourned at 6:33 p.m.
