Towing has been at times a contentious issue in Waukegan. When Ann Taylor was mayor, her favorite towing company that backed her campaign got the lions share of the business. Now that Taylor is gone and business is divided fairly among the three companies, Alderpersons Lynn Florian and Thomas Hayes are working in effort to protect a political crony and send all tows to that one company.
The way towing works in Waukegan is the mayor’s office establishes zones which are used by the police, fire and public works when a tow is needed. One of three towing contractors, Lake County Towing, JR’s Wrecking Service or Whitmore’s is assigned to a particular zone.
During Ann Taylor’s term, an outsized portion of the towing business went to Lake County Towing owned by Ron Rogers. Over those 4 years, a whopping 74% went to Lake County Towing with the remainder divided among the other two. Ron Rogers was also a major supporter of Taylor’s election campaign.
Now that Mayor Sam Cunningham is in office, the towing jobs are apportioned much closer to an ideal 33% each. In just one year, the numbers bear this out well.
When Taylor was in the seat, neither Florian or Hayes had any interest in doing anything about towing while Ann’s favorite enjoyed the majority of the business.
In March of last year while Taylor’s term was coming to an end, a move was made in the city council to establish a fee structure for the towers. Alderman Hayes tried to inhibit the effort calling it “rushing the measure.” He also argued towing is not an issue which has much effect on residents.
Six months later and not to be outdone, Alderwoman Florian is now calling for an RFP from the towing operators. She is of course joined by Alderman Hayes in the maneuver. This is a complete reversal from the days of their allied politico, Ann Taylor, when one contractor was getting 74% of the business.
The fact is the towing is largely being allocated evenly under Mayor Cunningham. Florian and Hayes should stop trying to put politics ahead of the interests of the people and let the progress continue.