Waukegan Mayor Ann Taylor suggested Thursday that City Clerk Janet Kilkelly act in the “best interests” of city residents in the wake of Kilkelly’s 15-count indictment on charges of official misconduct and manipulation of funds, but stopped short of calling for her resignation.
Kilkelly was in her office Thursday and Friday, according to a City Hall staffer, but attempts to reach her for comment Friday were unsuccessful.
Taylor issued a statement saying she was disappointed about the indictment, hours after learning of the charges against the clerk while both were at a Women’s History Month lunch Thursday in Waukegan. They sat at different tables.
Saying in her statement she believes “in our justice system and due process,” Taylor did not ask for Kilkelly’s resignation but indicated the indictment is a potential distraction to both the clerk’s ability to do her job and run her office.
“A multi-count felony indictment is a considerable distraction to the duties of the clerk’s office and incompatible with the best interests of Waukegan’s residents and businesses,” Taylor said in the statement. “It is my hope that Clerk Kilkelly puts the interests of Waukeganites first.”
Though Waukegan’s clerk is an elected position chosen by the voters, Taylor said she will do what is within her authority to ensure the clerk’s office continues to run smoothly while Kilkelly deals with the charges against her.
“I will confer and work with the City Council to determine if any actions need to be taken by the City to ensure that the duties of the clerk’s office continue to be performed and the public-facing services of that office continue to be provided to Waukegan residents,” the mayor said.
During City Council meetings, Kilkelly plays an active role. The council next meets at 7 p.m. Monday at City Hall.
Kilkelly was indicted Wednesday by a Lake County grand jury on 15 counts of official misconduct and misappropriation of funds, according to a news release from the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Acting contrary to a city ordinance, Kilkelly provided credits to businesses applying for liquor and gaming licenses which were not in good standing, according to the release. Only license holders in good standing can receive the credits.
Nowhere in the release is it alleged Kilkelly took money for herself.
Kilkelly is also an elected member of the Waukegan Park District Board of Commissioners.
