Public Meetings - Lake County, Indiana

The Lake County Board of Commissioners met at the Commissioners' Courtroom in Crown Point, Indiana, to act on an amended agenda covering routine approvals, 2027 contract specifications and extensions, public bid openings, county-owned property disposal, Council ordinances, and staff reports. All votes were 3-0 unless otherwise noted. Note: the printed agenda lists the meeting as Wednesday, October 21, 2026, but the provided meeting timestamp is 2026-10-26 15:45:00+00:00; this summary uses the provided date. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as amended by additions 2.1–2.4, including the Calumet Step Construction Project 1 Package C substantial completion certificate; the United Consulting design-engineering agreement for replacement of Bridge 22 (Mississippi Street over Vanatta Ditch); the seventh lease amendment with Tigers Group, LLC at $1,968.00 per month from January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2030 for the Ross Township Assessor's Office; and the Ice Miller lobbying engagement for $72,000.00, described as a housekeeping matter because that agreement was terminated. - Approved minutes from the August 19, 2026 and September 16, 2026 regular meetings. - Approved 2027 specifications and vendor selections, including highway aggregates, fuel, culverts, timber, traffic signs and accessories, signal monitoring, street lighting, tires, sheriff gasoline and oil bids, and IBM-compatible personal computers. - Approved contract actions 8.1–8.94 in omnibus votes. Notable items included LCEC radio licensing renewals; multiple highway utility, road-cut, and bridge change orders; a $750,000.00 debris-monitoring services agreement under exigent circumstances; a $70,000.00 Baker Tilly engagement for payroll costing and general ledger reconciliation; fairgrounds heating, roof, and painting contracts; Otis Elevator door-protection installations; Health Department termination of Alexandra Smar's contract retroactive to October 5, 2026 and a new $65,000.00 annual contract for Rita Gillis as Youth Program Coordinator; and a $25,000.00 amendment to Public Defender attorney Amishi Sanghvi's contract. - Approved the county-owned property disposal (9.1), Calumet Township poor relief decisions (10.1), 2027 regular meeting and executive session dates (10.2), the Calumet Step substantial completion resolution (10.3), Council ordinances 11.1–11.15 (including 2027 tax levy, appropriation, salary, longevity, clothing allowance, per diem, and binding recommendation ordinances), State Board of Accounts voucher registers (12.1–12.3), staff reports from Weights and Measures and the Treasurer (15.1–15.2), and made Sheriff's Department agreements 16.1–16.3 matters of public record. Discussion Items - During consideration of Sheriff's Department renewals (8.30–8.44), a commissioner asked whether all of the agreements were one-year renewals or extensions. The county attorney said the standard contract includes language for 30-day or 60-day notice/termination and acknowledged the upcoming administration change. - A commissioner asked the purpose of the Rita Gillis contract; the Health Department responded that it was for the Youth Program Coordinator position. - A commissioner asked whether the Public Defender contract amendment was for an ongoing case; the response was that Attorney Amishi Sanghvi had taken on additional trial court case responsibilities beyond probation revocation matters. Bid Openings and Actions - 3.1 Fairgrounds Drainage Improvements: four bids were read: Dyer Construction $627,532.53; Grimmer Construction $638,637.00; Gariup Construction $847,500.00; and Goff Incorporated $706,863.56. The board voted to take the item under advisement. - 3.2 Stony Run Estates Phase 2 Storm Sewer Rehabilitation: two bids were read: Gariup Construction $298,840.00 and Austgen Equipment $400,965.00. The board approved the recommendation. - 3.3 2027 Lobbying Services: one proposal was received from Dant Advocacy at $6,500.00 per month plus reimbursements. The board took it under advisement. - 3.4–3.6 Culvert replacements on 145th Avenue, 85th Avenue, and 137th Avenue: multiple bids were read, with Dyer Construction submitting the lowest apparent bids. The board approved recommendations for these items. Public Comments & Testimony - Rick Anderson, representing RJ Anderson Construction, requested the immediate temporary suspension of demolition and construction at the Hobart Township Assessor's Office while the county addresses a pending protest and request for reconsideration. He stated RJ Anderson submitted the low bid of $334,850.00 on July 15, 2026, received a contract dated August 19, 2026, and was later disqualified for not being an approved pre-qualified Lake County responsible bidder based on an ordinance that was rescinded and repealed in 2022. He said the August 26 protest had not been answered on its merits, and an October 19, 2026 attorney acknowledgment set a 10-day response period that coincided with the start of work. Citing Indiana Code 36-1-12-4, he asked the county to identify the legal authority for the disqualification, provide minutes or memoranda, and halt work except for site safety pending an expedited written response. He stated RJ Anderson reserves all rights and remedies. Key Outcomes - All motions were approved by 3-0 votes. - Bids were opened publicly; the board took some items under advisement and approved recommendations for others. - The board received RJ Anderson Construction's protest and suspension request; no immediate ruling was announced on the record. - The next regularly scheduled meeting is Wednesday, November 18, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.; the agenda deadline is Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

The Lake County Plan Commission met on October 23, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. local time (8:30 p.m. UTC) to address agenda adjustments, approve routine items, deliberate on land-use applications, and discuss enforcement and regulatory updates. Key actions included approvals for two subdivisions, a special exception recommendation for a battery energy storage facility, and tabling a data center ordinance amendment for further review. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the special meeting on August 27, 2026, were approved by voice vote. Commissioner Coates and Commissioner Miller abstained due to absence. Communications - Agenda adjustments: Items 3 through 8 under New Business (Clark Street Ridge waivers and primary approval) were deferred due to improper advertising; they will reappear on the November 18, 2026 (or 19th) agenda. - Two agenda order changes were approved: moving Item 9 (Plank Estates) before Old Business, and moving Item 1 (Trkulja Subdivision) before Old Business. - Commissioner Tippy announced the hiring of Butler, Fairman & Seafort as an engineering firm to enforce ordinance items, special exceptions, and zoning conditions beyond normal operations. The firm has begun contract negotiations and intends to review historical issues such as the quarry. Discussion Items - Trkulja Subdivision (26-FS-08): Final approval for a two-lot commercial subdivision. No changes from preliminary design. Approved unanimously. - Plank Estates (26-PS-10): Primary plat approval for a two-lot residential subdivision. Commissioners required a shared-driveway agreement acceptable to the county attorney as a condition of approval. Approved unanimously. - Martinez Subdivision (26-PS-09): Primary plat approval for a two-lot commercial subdivision. Also conditioned on a county attorney-approved shared-driveway agreement. Approved unanimously. - Foundry Works Energy Storage (26-SE-06): Special exception for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Eagle Creek Township. The petitioner presented solutions to address stormwater runoff and contamination containment, including lining detention basins with impermeable clay, installing shut-off valves, and committing to soil/water testing. After discussion, the commission voted to send a favorable recommendation to the BZA with conditions: (1) installation of a liner in the basin serving the battery area, (2) re-notification of adjacent property owners and a public comment period during future site plan review. Motion passed unanimously. - Data Center Ordinance Amendment (Item 11): Proposed amendment to replace Chapter 90 regarding data centers. Commissioners expressed concerns about enforceability and requested review by the newly hired engineering firm and a future zoning consultant. To comply with statutory 60-day hearing requirements while allowing time for review, the commission voted to table the ordinance. If not brought off the table at the next meeting, it will die and require re-advertisement. Motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Trkulja Subdivision final approval granted. - Plank Estates primary approval granted with shared-driveway condition. - Martinez Subdivision primary approval granted with shared-driveway condition. - Foundry Works BESS special exception forwarded to BZA with conditions (unanimous). - Data center ordinance amendment tabled for further review. - Commissioners requested an end-of-year consultant review summary from staff. Public Comments - The meeting transcript concluded before the public comment period began; no public comments were recorded.

The Lake County Board of Zoning Appeals met with four of five voting members present. Although the agenda and transcript identify the meeting as Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., the supplied meeting timestamp is 2026-10-23 20:15:00+00:00; this summary uses that supplied date. The board reordered the agenda, approved a residential side-yard accessory building variance, and then approved a battery energy storage system (BESS) special exception subject to Plan Commission conditions. The agenda lists the residential petitioners as Kenneth J. and Beth D. Puent; the transcript occasionally transcribes the surname as "Pruant" or "Pruent." The BESS owner is identified as Van Kalker Family Limited Partnership, which the transcript also renders as "Van Calker." Communications and Agenda Reordering - Staff noted that only four of the usual five BZA members were present to decide cases, and applicants were offered the option to defer if they preferred a full board. - The board voted unanimously (all aye) to flip the agenda, hearing petition 26-V-23 (Puent) before 26-SE-06 (Van Kalker/Foundry Works). Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was offered for or against the Puent variance. - Kristen Woodward (Eagle Creek Township resident, 4941 East 165th Ave, Hebron) opposed further approval pending review. She argued the Foundry Works rezoning failed mandatory notice and application requirements: Lake County UDO section 154-8-080B11 requires mailing notices to county officials, township trustee, soil and water conservation, 911, sheriff, fire departments, and municipalities within 1.5 miles; she said records showed only neighboring property owners were notified at rezoning. She also said section 154-8-080B9 required a preliminary emergency response plan at rezoning, not only at the special exception stage. She said Eagle Creek Township has executed firefighting service agreements with Hebron, Lowell, Shelby, and Lakedale, while the applicant's emergency documents named only Hebron and Lowell; she noted Shelby's contract expressly requires responses to all alarms. She cited the October 15, 2026 White County Circuit Court decision in Snyder v. White County Commissioners and the Indiana Supreme Court's Town of Beverly Shores Planning Commission v. NRIT decision, and formally requested no further approval until county council reviews the deficiencies and determines corrective action. She asked that her submitted documents be made part of the record. - AJ Martin (1615 Colorado Street, Eden) raised safety and community concerns. He questioned how remote monitoring would function during power, storm, or Wi-Fi outages; what future fire department equipment needs might be; and why soil testing would occur only after an event rather than periodically. He stated that families in the Tri-Creek school area do not want the project this close to their homes until it is fully engineered. - Dr. Andy Anderson, superintendent of Tri-Creek School Corporation, expressed support: the district would welcome Foundry Works into the community if Lake County officials determine all expectations and the approval process have been met, noting the company offered financial support responsive to district concerns. - Chris Law, president/CEO of the Lake County Economic Alliance and Lowell resident, expressed support, citing union labor, work with the county planning commission, inclusion in the county's TIF district at that intersection, and economic development benefits for South Lake County. Discussion Items - Puent variance (26-V-23): Kenneth Puent, owner/petitioner of 525 S. Lakeview Drive in Cedar Creek Township, testified he sought a variance to demolish a current structure in the side yard that is in violation of the setback and to rebuild essentially on the same space, correcting the setback by moving or angling it into compliance. The board had no questions, and the public had none. - Foundry Works BESS (26-SE-06): Applicant representatives Ryerson Burkritz, Lance, and Jim Griffin presented. Key project facts included a proposed $300 million investment; union construction jobs through a letter of intent with the Northwestern Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council; a community benefit agreement; local grid capacity benefits at no cost to Lake County; lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry with no nickel, manganese, or cobalt; NFPA 855 compliance; an Indiana Department of Homeland Security permit in process; two-phase first responder training with continuous refreshers; segmented, externally accessible, non-walk-in enclosures; remote monitoring; landscape screening with tree spacing cut in half beyond ordinance requirements; stormwater basin redirection above the topographic contour to reduce off-site flooding; lined basins with shutoff valves; and third-party testing and removal of potentially contaminated water. The applicant also said the project would be deconstructed if the neighboring NIPSCO substation is decommissioned. - Board discussion: One board member noted the high cost of firefighter gear and decontamination, encouraged the applicant to support the fire department as well as schools, and asked about first responder preparedness. The applicant responded that the local fire department had not identified specific unmet equipment needs, that the project would have two to three on-site personnel at the operations and maintenance building, and that 24/7 monitoring would continue remotely. - Procedural response: Jim Griffin responded to Woodward's objections by stating the applicant noticed a discrepancy between the County Council-passed BESS ordinance and its UDO codification. After discussions with county officials identified as Ned and Christian Bartholomew, the applicant says they confirmed the County Council version controlled, and that the mailings and documents Woodward cited were required only at the special exception stage, not the rezoning. He stated certificates of mailing for the special exception were shared with the county. Key Outcomes - Approved 26-V-23, the Puent variance, to allow an accessory building in the side yard for personal use, including findings of fact; the motion passed by voice vote with all ayes. - Approved 26-SE-06, the Foundry Works Energy Storage special exception for a Battery Energy Storage System in a CD district, including findings of fact and the conditions adopted in the Plan Commission recommendation; the motion passed by voice vote with all ayes. The applicant was instructed that the next step is site development plan approval as required by the conditions. - The meeting adjourned after the agenda was completed.

On October 21, 2026, the Lake County Drainage Board Advisory Committee met at 8:00 AM in the Commissioners Courtroom. The committee reviewed a full agenda including emergency obstruction removal contracts, routine maintenance approvals, several applications for work within regulated drains, and updates on current projects. All actions taken were recommendations to the Lake County Drainage Board for final approval. Township Reports & Correspondence - Eagle Creek Township representative John Jores reported a drainage issue at 165th Avenue and Clay Street: a tile cut during road raising has caused water to stand on about two acres of farmland, leading to mosquito complaints. The matter was referred to Dwayne for follow-up. - Kathy LaRue of Hanover Township thanked the Surveyor’s Office for addressing an issue in unincorporated Lake County south of Dyer. - Schererville representatives noted plans to clean brush on the Shilling Ditch from its confluence with Dyer Ditch to Route 30, to be done with the next Dyer Ditch phase. Also, Hartsdale Ponds are low enough to investigate remaining pump work, and the SCADA system project is progressing quickly. - Jim, representing St. John Township, reported reaching out to a landowner regarding an unresolved issue; phone tag delayed follow-up. - Under the Little Calumet River Watershed, the committee noted the Little Calumet River Basin Development Commission’s meeting that evening and a DNR Certificate of Approval for the Indiana Harbor Canal. - Under the Kankakee River Watershed, a State Line Bridge Removal Ceremony was announced for October 28, 2026, with the Governor expected. The actual bridge removal was delayed to early November. The committee also noted the passing of Bill Price, a long-time member of the Kankakee River Basin Commission. - On Bull Run Ditch, a tree cut by a property owner fell into the ditch and became an obstruction; the owner was notified by certified mail and must remove it. Discussion Items - The committee discussed the Hanover Ditch Reconstruction Report and responses from property owners (agenda item 3C). No votes were taken; the item remains pending. - Extensive discussion occurred on emergency obstruction removal contracts (8A1). The committee debated whether amounts exceeded bidding thresholds, with clarification that emergencies were properly declared. A new state program was introduced: a company called BreeTech will conduct drone evaluations of storm debris at no cost, and a state contractor will remove debris with only 6% local reimbursement. The committee expressed concerns about timing, bidding fairness, and potential delays. The emergency contractor agreement, drafted with FEMA reimbursement language and not to exceed $750,000, was approved. - An update was provided on the Little Calumet River-funded Kaiser Ditch structure removal project in Merrillville, which is ongoing and not part of the emergency work. - For the 2026 Turkey Creek Maintenance Phase 1, funding from the Little Calumet Commission is pending, but the committee approved plans and advertising for bids. Key Outcomes (Recommendations to Drainage Board) - Approved a two-year extension for St. John Ditch application 445-04-24-I-III. - Approved change order for Spring Street Ditch culvert replacement (Ellis Construction), estimated between $15,000 and $17,500. - Approved payment to Ellis Construction of $221,524.02. - Approved final payment to Gariup of $67,187.90 for Schoon Ditch Maintenance. - Approved final payment to Dyer Construction of $19,292.70 for Dyer Ditch Stabilization Phase 1. - Approved application 524 (Family Express Corporation, Turkey Creek) for storm sewer discharge and parking lot construction. - Approved application 525 (NIPSCO, Ernie Niemeyer Creek & Levee) for tree trimming and animal guard installation. - Approved application 526 (NIPSCO, Kaiser Ditch) for utility pole replacement. - Approved application 527 (Project Purple, Beaver Dam Ditch) for boring sanitary and water mains. - Approved application 528 (Surf Internet, Schoon Ditch) for directional bore fiber optics. - Approved the 2027 MS4 agreement with Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District for the Cover Crop Program ($20,000). - Approved invoices from KDM Services for emergency obstruction removal: Schoon Ditch ($263,815) and Turkey Creek Lats 6 & 7 ($36,645). - Approved the Emergency Contractor Agreement (not to exceed $750,000) incorporating FEMA reimbursement requirements. - Approved payments to Tom Larson for beaver relocation and dam removal: Dyer Ditch ($400), Cady Marsh Ditch ($400), and Turkey Creek Lat 6 ($200). - Approved Blood Hound invoice of $2,421 for investigative work at 8724 Marquette St, Schererville. - Approved plans and advertising for bids for 2026 Turkey Creek Maintenance Phase 1 (Liverpool to Broadway), subject to pending funding from the Little Calumet Commission. The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:00 AM. The next meeting is scheduled for November 18, 2026.

The Lake County Board of Elections convened on October 20, 2026, with all members present. The meeting covered several administrative items including voter registration corrections, vendor contracts, and election preparations. Public comment raised concerns about early voting location changes in East Chicago. Public Comments & Testimony - Benito White Arnold of East Chicago expressed concerns about confusion caused by relocating the early voting location in East Chicago. He noted the building has undergone multiple name changes and that residents have not been adequately notified. He requested direct notifications to all voters in East Chicago, similar to the notification sent for precinct 28, and urged that polling location decisions be made by the people rather than precinct committee organizations. Discussion Items - Voter Registration Unmerge: Donna reported a clerical error merging a Lake County voter with a Madison County voter due to matching name and date of birth. The board signed the County Authorization Letter (CAL) to unmerge them. Motion carried unanimously. - Incomplete Voter Registrations: Biliana Mikich reported 152 incomplete registrations (down from 154). The board voted to reject these pending the October 24 deadline for applicants to provide missing information. An amended motion to allow pending the deadline carried unanimously. - Vendor Contract for 2026 General Election Movers: The contract for moving voting machines and ADA equipment, previously approved by commissioners, was presented for board signature. Prices: $40 per machine pickup, $60 per ADA location delivery, and $250 per hour per crew for election night supplies. Motion to sign carried unanimously. - Appeal Update: Counsel reported that Christina McNeely's appeal (related to Hammond school candidates) was voluntarily dismissed. - Purchase Orders Over $1,000: The board approved the presented purchase orders. Motion carried unanimously. - Next Meeting and Training Discussion: The next meeting is set for October 31, 2026 (Halloween) at 10 a.m. Discussion emphasized the importance of in-person training for first-time poll workers and inspectors. Online training has been going well, with minor YouTube issues. - Voter Turnout Update: Staff reported that as of 15 days out, in-person early voting is up approximately 6,400 compared to the same point in the 2022 election, while mail voting is down (2,057 now vs. 4,658 in 2022). Overall turnout is up by about 4,000. Key Outcomes - Approved the voter registration unmerge request (unanimous). - Approved rejection of incomplete voter registrations pending the October 24 deadline (unanimous on amended motion). - Approved signing the vendor contract for the 2026 General Election movers (unanimous). - Approved purchase orders over $1,000 (unanimous). - Noted voluntary dismissal of the Christina McNeely appeal. - Scheduled next board meeting for October 31, 2026, at 10 a.m.

The Lake County, Indiana contractor licensing board met on October 16, 2026, at 15:00 UTC to review contractor license applications. No agenda or minutes were included in the source material. The board approved six licenses by voice vote, with all motions carrying and no opposition noted. License Approvals - Premier One Sheds Incorporated – Petitioner Tim Donnahue, owner, said the company has been in business since 2019. The board verified bond, scope, and paperwork, then approved the license. - Pinnacle Concrete Incorporated – Petitioner identified in the transcript as Rigo Berto/Ricaberto Martinez, specialty concrete contractor. Approved by voice vote. - Falls Mechanical Installation Incorporated – Petitioner Brian Crow, project manager, specialty insulation contractor; the company does commercial mechanical piping. Approved by voice vote. - South Bend Roofing and Siding Company Incorporated – Petitioner James Spillman, president and partner, specialty roofing contractor. Spillman said the company has 112 years in business, eight employees, and does residential and commercial roofing. Approved by voice vote. - Vital Signs LLC – Petitioner Steve P. Jacobs, owner, specialty sign installation contractor. The company has been around 35 years and has three employees. The board reminded Jacobs that the sign license does not allow electrical work; Jacobs said outside electricians would handle electrical connections and that for wall signs they push a whip through and leave it. Approved by voice vote. - Genesis Plumbing Pros – Petitioner David Takata, owner, plumbing contractor. Takata said he is currently the only employee, the business has 27 years in electrical work but started plumbing in February 2026, and his Indiana plumbing contractor license expires in December 2027. Approved by voice vote. Post-Meeting Discussion After adjournment, an attendee asked how to get a home investigated for demolition. Board members said to contact the licensing office for unincorporated Lake County, that Mr. Bauer would conduct the initial investigation, and that title searches are necessary to ensure all interest holders are notified. Board members also noted that municipalities have more demolition grant funding than unincorporated areas; the discussion included the observation that Cal Township has many properties needing cleanup. Key Outcomes - Six contractor licenses were approved by voice vote with no recorded opposition. - No additional formal business was brought before the board, and the meeting adjourned.

On October 13, 2026, the Lake County Council convened for a budget workshop and second reading of the 2027 budget at 2293 N. Main St., Crown Point, IN. The council approved all budget ordinances on second reading, accepted an assessed value of $36,212,967,428, and repealed Ordinance 1430A. It also rejected an assessor reorganization motion and discussed reorganization requests from the coroner and veterans services offices. All votes passed 6–0 with one member absent, except for the assessor motion, which failed. Consent Calendar and Routine Approvals - Approved a weights and measures position salary reduction to $34,013 (department 5005). - Approved a legal services reduction of approximately $210,000, resulting in about $300,000 in total cuts across the two actions. - Approved on second reading: the tax levy ordinance (OR-1), appropriations ordinance (OR-2), salary ordinance (OR-3), longevity ordinance (OR-4), uniform clothing allowance ordinance (OR-5), per diem expense ordinance (OR-6), Lake Ridge Fire budget (OR-7), Lake County Solid Waste budget (OR-8), Crown Point Library budget (OR-9), and the mental health fund distribution resolution (R-1). - Approved the 2027 assessed value of $36,212,967,428.00 and the 16-line statement for funds, levies, and rates. - Suspended rules and adopted on second reading an ordinance repealing Ordinance 1430A (the 2019 procedure for approving transfers within major budget classifications). Public Comments & Testimony - The Lake Ridge Fire Chief asked whether his department’s requested $350,000 increase was included in the district’s approved $1.6 million budget (up from $1.4 million the prior year). Council members replied that this allocation decision belongs to the fire district, and he should raise the issue at its meeting. Discussion Items - Assessor reorganization: Assessor Latanya requested elimination of one position ($48,000 salary) and redistribution of those funds to staff, including varied salary increases. Council members debated whether combining this with the already-approved 4% across-the-board raise was appropriate and suggested splitting savings with the general fund. The motion failed. - Coroner reorganization: Coroner David presented a plan to eliminate the level system and pay all deputy coroners equally at $56,696, requiring an additional $6,464 per deputy. He also requested funds for training and a raise for the chief deputy. No vote was taken. - Veterans services: Jason requested dissolving a $48,000 position to raise his salary from $63,164 to $79,000 and two assistant VSO salaries from $48,576 to $54,000, producing estimated taxpayer savings of $27,832. Council members raised concerns about percentage increases and document control; no motion was made. - Policy discussion: Council members discussed a potential formal policy that would return 50% of eliminated-position salaries to the general fund and avoid raises on long-vacant positions, but no resolution was adopted. Key Outcomes - All second-reading ordinances and the repeal ordinance passed 6–0 with one member absent. - The assessor’s reorganization motion failed; coroner and veterans reorganization requests were not approved. - No reorganization policy was adopted; council members indicated future requests need clearer documentation.

The Lake County Council held its regular meeting on October 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Crown Point, Indiana. The meeting covered a wide range of fiscal and policy items, including approvals of appropriations, transfers, ordinances, and resolutions. Notable actions included a resolution declaring October 2026 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a resolution supporting United Steelworkers Local 12775’s petition for NIPSCO staffing improvements, and the adoption of updated stormwater management and dormant fund ordinances. Public comment focused on utility regulation and the need for legislative reform. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the minutes of the September 8, 2026 regular meeting. - Awards/Resolutions: - Resolution 2656: Proclaiming October as National Substance Abuse Prevention Month – passed. - Resolution 2655: Proclaiming October 2026 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month – passed; read into the record. - Surveyor – Ordinance: Approved on first and second reading the Lake County Stormwater Management Ordinance. (Votes: 6-1 absent) - Drainage Board – Appropriation: Approved $750,000 from the Drainage Improvement Fund (1790) for Little Calumet River Construction. (Vote: 6-1) - Coroner’s Office: - Appropriation of $10,000 for furniture and fixtures (Coroner Facility Fee Fund 4273). - Transfer of $10,000 in County General Fund from pathology supplies to other equipment. - Calumet Township Assessor: Transfer of $22,000 in County General Fund from technicians to assessor certification, other professional services, and furniture and fixtures. - Criminal Courts: Approved Revised 144 adjusting a probation officer salary from $59,642 to $45,548 (effective 10/19/2026). - Superior Court IV: - Transfer of $3,750.29 in County General Fund (various line items). - Transfer of $4,500 in the Drug Court Fund. - Superior Court County Div. Rm. 3: - Appropriation of $325 in the Veteran Court Fund. - Created new line items and approved a $1,000 transfer in the VTC All Rise Mentor Court Network Fund. - Juvenile Court: Transfer of $1,200 in the Juvenile Mental Health Problem Solving Court Grant Fund. - Juvenile Court/C.A.S.A.: Approved grant applications for 2027 CASA Matching Grant and Capacity-Building Grant (both renewals). - Sheriff: - Created new line item and $52,000 appropriation in Sheriff’s Sale Program & Service Fund for petroleum products. - Created new line items and $142,177 appropriation in FY25 JAG Non-Reverting Fund. - Transfer of $103,000 in Public Safety CAGIT Non-Reverting Fund to petroleum products. - Ordinance establishing the 2027 CHIRP Grant Fund (passed first and second reading). - Jail: Created new line item and $370,000 transfer in Misdemeanant Co. Jail Housing Fund for food and lodging. - Criminal Div. Public Defender: Appropriation of $60,000 in Supplemental Public Defender Fund. - Commissioners/Lake County 911: Transfer of $415,000 in E911 Operating Fund for overtime, telephone, and utilities. - County Council – Resolutions: - Resolution 1: Transfer $78,205.18 from Local Roads & Bridges Matching to CEDIT Fund – passed. - Resolution 2: Amend resolution 21-33 on dormant funds – passed. - County Council – Ordinances: All passed on first and second reading: - Amending Ordinance 1459B (dormant funds). - Amending Ordinance 1459C (dormant funds). - New ordinance declaring a fund dormant. - County Council – Consulting Contracts: Approved contracts with Law Office of Thomas O’Donnell and Law Office of Ray L. Szarmach, P.C. Public Comments & Testimony - Gary Common Council Member Dan Washington (identified by context) spoke at length about NIPSCO and state utility regulation. He argued that Indiana Code 8-1-39 and related laws have allowed utilities to avoid investing in workforce and infrastructure, resulting in poor storm response and rising rates. He urged local governments to pressure state legislators to repeal or amend those codes, and called for passage of the supportive resolution for NIPSCO staffing. He also mentioned Senate Bill 1 and potential local income tax implications. Council members responded, noting that changes to Title VIII of the Indiana Code could create franchise agreements for electric utilities similar to water utilities. Discussion Items - NIPSCO Staffing Resolution (Resolution 3): Ryan Baker, President of USW Local 12775, and Vice President Pierce Kelly presented the resolution. Baker stated that linemen numbers have dropped from 230 to 180, a 20% reduction, and that attrition has not been backfilled. He emphasized that out-of-state contractors should supplement, not replace, local workers. Council members asked about the reasons for the decline and about company practices regarding shareholder dividends. Councilman Brewer expressed support and noted previous conversations with union members. After discussion, the resolution passed 6-1 absent. - Attorney Contract Remarks: Councilman Brewer publicly recognized Linda Garcia and Shauna Levinson for their integrity in acknowledging a reduced workload and declining to take unnecessary payments. Key Outcomes - All agenda items were approved with votes ranging from unanimous to 6-1 (one absent). - The NIPSCO staffing resolution passed, directing support for a petition to investigate staffing levels at the utility. - The Lake County Stormwater Management Ordinance and three dormant fund ordinances were adopted on second reading. - Public comment highlighted ongoing concerns about utility regulation and the need for legislative action at the state level.

The Lake County Board of Elections convened at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, in the Commissioners Courtroom in Crown Point, Indiana. The meeting covered ADA compliance complaints for an early voting site, approval of polling location changes, a request to add a Sunday for early voting, adoption of resolutions, the 2027 meeting schedule, and purchase orders. All five board members were present either in person or by proxy. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from August 18, 2026 and September 1, 2026 were approved by a 5-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment period was held for items outside the agenda. Testimony was given during agenda item 5.1 (see below). Discussion: ADA-Compliant Early Voting Location (Item 5.1) - Attorney Tracy Coleman, representing client Patty Joe Gibson King, filed a complaint regarding the East Chicago early voting location at Carrie Gosh Early Learning Center. They argued that past ADA issues (steps, ramps) discouraged voters with disabilities and proposed alternative sites: the Lake County Courthouse at 3711 Main Street or the East Chicago Public Library at 2401 East Columbus Drive. - Election Director Michelle Feynman reported that after inspections, the school will use the front entrance (no stairs, no children present), making it ADA compliant. She noted that both the school and the library are equally accessible. - Clerk Brown expressed a personal preference for libraries in Gary, Hammond, and East Chicago, but stated he would support the decision of the precinct committee persons and chairs. He emphasized that changing the location mid-cycle (primary to general) could cause voter confusion, as early voting starts one week later on October 6. - Board member Brandenburg noted that the complaint had been helpful in prompting a deeper review of accessibility, and that the legal obligation for ADA compliance would be met regardless of location. A motion to dismiss the complaint was made and seconded, passing 5-0. Discussion: Poll Location Approvals (Item 5.2) - CCT 5 Change: First United Methodist Church's elevator was out of service. CCT5 will move to Cedar Creek Township Community Room (combined with CCT6). Voters will be notified by postcard and a sign at the church. Approved 5-0. - EC 25, 28, 31 Change: The former E.C. School Administration Building has no water or heat. The precincts will move to E.C. Block Junior High School. Approved 5-0. - All other locations: Lake Station 1 & 2 had a name change (from Boys and Girls Club / Carl Hulk School to Carl Hulk School only) as the Boys and Girls Club no longer rents the facility. The remainder of the precincts were approved 5-0. - Note: These changes are for Election Day voting (November), not early voting. Clerk Brown clarified the timeline difference. Discussion: Early Voting Request (Item 5.3) - Both county chairmen requested adding Sunday, October 25, 2026 to the early voting schedule. Hours would be 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM at the Crown Point location and 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM at satellite sites. - Staff raised concerns about having enough bipartisan workers to staff all 11 satellite locations. Director Feynman stated they would first offer the shift to existing early voting workers, then to staff (with overtime), and if needed, reach out to county chairs for additional poll workers. They have until October 25 to resolve staffing. - The request was approved unanimously (5-0). Board member Brown expressed support for additional Sunday voting in future elections. Discussion: Resolutions (Item 5.4) - Resolution 2026-09: Combined polling places, precinct boards, and voting machines for precincts with 500 or fewer registered voters (same list as primary). Approved by roll call vote (5-0). - Resolution 2026-10: Establishes 18 deputy election commissioners per political party (total 36), rules for deputies, and process for expedited delivery of tally cards. Approved by roll call vote (5-0). Discussion: 2027 Board Schedule (Item 5.5) - The schedule follows the third Tuesday of each month, with two adjustments: December meeting moved to December 14 (avoiding December 21), and the provisional meeting moved to 2:00 PM on a Thursday (due to Veterans Day). Approved 5-0. Discussion: Public Test of Voting Systems (Item 5.6) - The board recessed to conduct the public test of voting equipment (IEC-9 and IEC-10) downstairs. Results will be documented and sealed. Discussion: Purchase Orders (Item 8.1) - Purchase orders over $1,000 were approved. Clerk Brown was absent for this vote; the remaining four board members voted unanimously in favor (4-0). Next Meeting & Adjournment - The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 20, 2026 at 10:00 AM in the Commissioners Courtroom. The meeting recessed to conduct the public test. Key Outcomes - 5.1: Motion to dismiss the ADA complaint regarding Carrie Gosh Early Learning Center passed 5-0. The location will remain for the general election with ADA compliance measures in place. Discussion indicated future consideration of library locations. | - 5.2: Poll location changes for CCT5 (moved to Cedar Creek Community Room), EC 25/28/31 (moved to Block Junior High School), and other precincts approved 5-0. | - 5.3: Additional early voting day on Sunday, October 25 approved 5-0. | - 5.4: Resolution 2026-09 (combined precincts) and Resolution 2026-10 (deputy commissioners) approved by roll call 5-0 each. | - 5.5: 2027 board schedule approved 5-0. | - 8.1: Purchase orders over $1,000 approved 4-0 (Clerk Brown absent).