Public Meetings - Lake County, Indiana

The Lake County Council held its regular meeting on January 13, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM. The meeting included presentations, discussions on a bond ordinance, approval of a collective bargaining agreement, adoption of a mileage rate, deferral of economic incentive ordinances, and numerous citizen appointments to various boards and committees. Health Department Presentation (Health First Indiana Update) - The Lake County Health Department presented updates on its Health First Indiana programs, highlighting maternal and child health initiatives, 114 prenatal referrals affecting over 2,000 families, and community outreach. Council members praised the department's work and the effective use of funds. Discussion Items Bond Ordinance for Judgments and Settlements - Discussion centered on a general ordinance authorizing the issuance of up to $7 million in bonds to fund certain judgments and settlements. Costs of issuance were detailed: county attorney ($28,000), council attorney ($8,000), municipal advisor (Center Dalton, $45,000), bond counsel (Greenberg Traurig, $60,000), paying agent (Regions Bank, $3,000), and underwriter counsel ($10,000). The expected final par amount is between $6.1 million and $6.2 million, with a preliminary rate of 5%. Council members questioned the need for multiple outside professionals given existing in-house legal and financial staff. The ordinance passed on first reading by a vote of 5-1 (Councilman Niemeyer voting no). Collective Bargaining Agreement - The 2026 Collective Bargaining Agreement between Lake County Government and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 21 was approved on first reading by a vote of 6-1 (one absent). Mileage Rate Ordinance - The 2026 Lake County Mileage Rate was set at $0.725 per mile. The ordinance passed on first reading (6-1), rules were suspended (6-1), and it passed on second reading (6-1). Deferral of Economic Incentive Ordinances (2A and 2B) - Ordinances concerning Project Labor Agreements and responsible business practices for projects receiving economic incentives were deferred to a special meeting on January 29, 2026 at 2:00 PM. Councilman Cid noted the original public hearing advertisement was missed, taking responsibility for the oversight. Citizen Appointments Numerous appointments were made to boards and committees: - Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team: Shanda Hanft (survivor) and Michelle Arnold (health department) for 2-year terms. - Lake Ridge Fire Protection District: Tim Kuiper and Tanya Tribble for 4-year terms. - Lowell Library Board: Dana Foland for a 4-year term. - Parks and Recreation Board: Michael Toth for a 4-year term. - County Economic Development Commission: Nicholas Triana (reappointed) for a 2-year term; also appointed member nominations for Crown Point (John Jordan), Gary (Jordan Wilson), Griffith (Michael Ball), Hobart (Deborah Rockymore), Lowell (Manny Fausto), Munster (George Shinkan), and Schererville (James Katona). - County Plan Commission: Randy Niemeyer and Charlie Brown (proxy) for 1-year terms. - Data Processing Board: Charlie Brown, Randy Niemeyer, and Scott Schmal (administrator) for 1-year terms. - Grant Oversight Committee: Christine Cid, Pete Lindemulder, and Ronald G. Brewer, Sr. for 1-year terms. - Lake County Child Abuse Prevention Council: David Hamm for a 1-year term. - Insurance Review Board: David Hamm and Scott Schmal for 1-year terms. - Northwestern Indiana Regional Plan Commission (NIRPC): Randy Niemeyer for a 1-year term. - Real Estate Disposal Committee: Christine Cid and Pete Lindemulder for 1-year terms. - Solid Waste District Board: Christine Cid, Pete Lindemulder, and Ronald G. Brewer, Sr. (proxy) for 1-year terms. - Data Board Nominees (for other county offices): Linda Midkiff (Auditor), David J. Pastrick (Coroner), Jerri Floyd (Assessor), Michael A. Brown (Clerk), John M. Sedia (Judge, Superior Court), Priscilla Kirrin (Treasurer), Commander Brad Bosse (Sheriff), Regina M. Pimentel (Recorder), Bill Emerson (Surveyor), and Hogir Saeed (Prosecutor). No nomination for County Commissioner at this time. Key Outcomes - Approved: Collective Bargaining Agreement (6-1), Mileage Rate Ordinance (6-1 on all readings). - Passed on First Reading: Bond Ordinance for up to $7 million (5-1). - Deferred: Economic incentive ordinances (2A and 2B) to January 29, 2026 special meeting. - Appointed: All citizen nominations and councilmanic posts as listed. - No Public Comments: The public comment period was opened with no speakers. The meeting adjourned following public comments.

The Lake County Contractor's Licensing Board convened on December 19, 2025, at 3:00 PM (UTC). The board approved the 2026 meeting and testing schedule, deferred the election of officers to the next meeting, and unanimously approved seven contractor license applications. Communications - The board approved the 2026 meeting dates for the Contractor's Licensing Board, the Unsafe Building Hearing Authority, and the testing dates for the Licensing Board. Motion carried unanimously. - The board discussed appointing a president and vice president for the upcoming year. Due to only four members present, the election was deferred to the next meeting. New Business: License Applications Each application was reviewed and approved unanimously. The following applicants received their respective licenses: - Artisan Quality Construction Inc. – Jennifer Schroeder, General Manager. Company since 2018, 9 employees. General Contractor license approved. - Blackburn Builders LLC – Joshua Blackburn, Owner/Managing Member. Company since November 2018, no employees (only spouse). Subcontracts all work. General Contractor license approved. - Homes for Life LLC – William Jansma, Sole owner. In business about 5 years, no employees. General Contractor license approved. - Larson Danielson Construction Company Inc. – Brian Larson, President/Part Owner. Company 117 years old, averages 200 FTE employees. General Contractor license approved. - Patriot Remodeling LLC – Michael Rogers, Owner. No employees, subcontracts all work. General Contractor license approved. - Raffin Construction Company – James Raffin, Part Owner/Vice President/Project Manager. Company since 1916, based in Chicago, working in East Chicago, IN. General Contractor license approved. - RJ Construction Inc. – Isaac Johnson, Owner/President. Company since 1973, sole employee (himself). Residential work. General Contractor license approved. - TKM Services LLC – Thomas Gibson, Plumbing contractor. Company merged from TK Maintenance. Has state plumbing endorsement. Plumbing Contractor license approved. Key Outcomes - All eight license applications (seven general contractor, one plumbing contractor) were approved unanimously by the board. - The 2026 meeting and testing schedule was adopted. - The election of board officers for 2026 was postponed until the next meeting.

The Lake County Board of Commissioners met on December 17, 2025, at 10:00 AM in Crown Point, Indiana. The agenda was amended with multiple additions, deletions, and corrections before adoption. The board approved a large slate of routine contracts, services, and agreements via omnibus votes, deliberated on a few specific items, and heard one public comment. All motions passed unanimously (3-0). Consent Calendar - Agenda Amendments: Approved additions including Prosecutor’s 2026 bond for Bernard Carter, Commissioner’s corrected notice of joint executive session, HVAC unit replacement for Hobart Township Assessor ($13,450.00), multiple Election contracts (e.g., Michael E. Tolbert, Carly A. Brandenburg, Boss Reporters), Highway counter offer for Clark Street Culvert ($28,105.00), Superior Court legal service agreements (John Cantrell, $31,122.00 annually), Calumet Township Septic Tank Elimination project (3-year contract, $12,250.00/month), Highway addenda and wash station replacements, Coroner vehicle ($45,740.28) and radios ($59,214.24), and various maintenance agreements (Otis Elevator $57,702.90, Johnson Controls for Jail $59,589.68 and Juvenile Center $24,822.32). Deletions included Public Defender Brett R. Galvan ($50,000.00), Health Dept contracts with Indiana University ($75,000.00), Purdue Ext. ($22,365.00), and Franciscan CHW ($128,000.00), and repetitive stair replacement addenda. (Items 2.1–2.30) - Specifications for Bids: Approved plans for Building B second floor toilet upgrades, ADA Site Improvements, Jail laundry electrical upgrades, and (added) Community Crossing Matching Grant for Ridge Road rehabilitation (bid due Jan 21, 2026). (Items 5.1–5.3, 8.54) - Omnibus Contract Approvals (all passed 3-0): - Recorder: Software/hardware support renewal ($5,524.47), equipment service ($1,600.00), record storage, and microfilm contract. (8.1–8.4) - Coroner: Pathologist contracts (Shiping Bao $102,000.00; Zhuo Wang $393,000.00), medical waste disposal ($27.08/container). (8.5–8.7) - Commissioners: Purdue extension services, roof repairs at Jail ($46,832.00), stair replacement addenda, legal services (Derrick Julkes $2,000/month; Joseph S. Irak PC), wastewater management ($4,200.00/month). (8.8–8.14) - Juvenile Court: Housing contract with Jasper County, mental health services ($DL Consulting). (8.15–8.16) - Auditor: Sidwell software maintenance ($13,403.52). (8.17) - E-911: AT&T PSAP agreement, desktop poles ($11,894.10), TV refresh ($12,100.00), NAS device ($10,400.72), monitors ($51,454.00), ProQA licensing ($263,790.00). (8.18, 8.66–8.70) - Clerk: Legal services ($55,000.00), professional consulting ($10,800.00). (8.19–8.20) - Highway: Multiple utility agreements, road cut permits, bridge amendment ($39,825.00), aggregate/stone awards, cold patch awards, fire alarm services, ice control, mulch seeding, top soil, traffic signs, vegetation management, gasoline/diesel ($313,535.30), legal services (Niquelle Winfrey $4,000/month). (8.21–8.26, 8.53, 8.55–8.65, 8.110–8.115) - Surveyor: Contract renewals with Turning Point ($140/hr, not to exceed $35,328.00) and DLZ Indiana. (8.27–8.28) - Elections: KnowInk service maintenance, Microvote contract, and added contracts for Tolbert and Brandenburg ($90/hr, not to exceed $26,730.00 each), and Boss Reporters. (8.29–8.30, 8.136–8.138) - Data: Bucher Tech printer service agreement. (8.31) - Assessor (excluding 8.35): Income Works license ($57,855.00), legal services (Ricardo Hall $13,000/month; Angela Jones $175/hr; Ayn Engle $250/hr), Suburban Cash Register service ($969.12). (8.32–8.34, 8.36–8.37) - Health Dept: Multiple contracts including Sounds of Sarah ($25,125.00), Community Healthcare Network ($34,470.00), Purdue Extension NEP ($197,700.00), Hope Alliance ($200,000.00), Victory 4 Kidz ($90,960.00), Young Ladies with a Purpose ($60,000.00), Boys and Girls Club NWI ($200,000.00), St. John Fire Dept ($199,720.00 and $64,900.00), Mental Health America ($25,000.00 and $65,000.00), Griffith PD CIT ($125,000.00), Natalie Demik/CoreNurse ($73,000.00), Michael Benko ($56,000.00), John Cantrell legal ($3,000/month), and amended FetchEH contract ($36,000.00). (8.38–8.50, 8.105–8.109) - Superior Court: Legal services (Steven Kurowski $31,122.00 annually; Andrew Tanzillo $15,561.00; The Region Lawyers $15,561.00). (8.95–8.97) - Sheriff: Legal services (John Kopack $180,000; Jewell Harris for Sheriff $80,000 and for Corrections Merit Board $20,000; J. Justin Murphy $9,000), Motorola LPR subscription ($86,863.00), WatchGuard in-car video ($39,600.00), and 75 portable radios ($130,837.50). (8.98–8.103, 8.117) - Plan Commission: Legal services (Joseph Irak $25,000.00). (8.104) - Ross Township Assessor: Cleaning contract ($250/month). (8.116) - Commissioners: Pest control (Monroe Pest Control $195/month; Ace Exterminating for multiple locations), Altorfer Power Systems ($50,016.00/year), Per Mar Security (various burglar/fire alarm monitoring), donation to Purdue University Northwest ($19,735.00 for tree inventory), Baker Tilly managed services ($702,000.00), Granicus subscription ($31,991.05), and added items: HVAC for Hobart Assessor ($13,450.00), wash stations at Highway garage ($5,800.00), toilet-sink at Juvenile Center ($5,350.00), Coroner van and radios, Otis Elevator maintenance, Johnson Controls service agreements. (8.118–8.130, 8.133–8.135, 8.143–8.149) - Property Disposal: Approved for Auditor, Prosecutor, and Superior Court. (9.1–9.3) - Commissioner Items: Approved 2026 meeting schedule (with correction: March 11 instead of March), executive sessions, Calumet Township poor relief decisions, corrected joint executive session notice. (10.1–10.5) - Council Items: Approved Ordinance 1515A (Autism Trauma and Injury Prevention Grant Fund), 1515B (Part-Time Pay Rate), and 1515C (2026 Holiday Schedule). (11.1–11.3) - State Board of Accounts: Approved payroll voucher registers and hand cuts. (12.1–12.3) - Bonds/Insurance: Approved 2026 public official bonds for Clerk (Michael A Brown), Commissioners (Repay, Tippy, Allen), Assessor (LaTonya Spearman), Coroner (David Pastrick), Highway certificate, Prosecutor (Bernard Carter), Recorder (Regina Pimentel). (13.1–13.7) - Staff Reports: Weights & Measures monthly report (10/16/25–11/15/25) approved. (15.1) - Matters of Public Record: Approved Sheriff mental health nurse practitioner contracts (Roshanda Grayson-Thomas, Susan Campos, Lynda Nathan; each $165,850 annually), corrected joint executive session notice, updated employee insurance enrollment form, Health Officer renewal for Dr. Vavilala (2026–2029), and road salt purchase request. (16.1–16.7) Public Comments & Testimony - Shade Care Skill (representing Shine Recovery and For the Love of the Arts) thanked the board for past support and asked about opioid settlement funds. She noted a January 12, 2026 deadline to apply for an additional $200,000 for recovery housing and requested a response before that date. The board did not provide an immediate answer. Discussion Items - Assessor Cyclical Reassessment Contract (Item 8.35): Assessor LaTonya Spearman renegotiated the contract terms, saving the county $600,000 compared to the original bid. She requested the return of the original bid bond and submission of a new bond based on the revised contract value. The board approved the contract. - Sheriff Portable Radios (Item 8.102): A commissioner inquired whether the purchase of 75 Motorola APX portable radios ($130,837.50) had been competitively bid. Staff confirmed three quotes were received. The item was approved. - Baker Tilly Managed Services Agreement (Item 8.133): When asked, staff clarified that the $702,000 contract covers the new software system. Approved. - Health Officer Renewal (Item 16.6): A commissioner asked if this was a contract approval; staff confirmed the Board of Health recommended it. Approved. - Bid Openings and Awards: - 3.1 Gasoline for Sheriff: Two bids received; awarded to lowest bidder Petroleum Traders Corporation at $2.2606/gallon for 325,000 gallons. - 3.2 Facade Improvements: Four bids received (lowest $292,720); taken under advisement. - 3.3 Roof Deck Replacement Phase I: Four bids received (lowest $198,800); taken under advisement. - 3.4 Furniture for Superior Court Room 1: Three bids received; awarded to lowest bidder Upright Interiors ($55,549.32), pending review. Key Outcomes - All motions passed 3-0. - The board approved dozens of contracts, agreements, and routine items for 2026, including significant savings on the cyclical reassessment contract ($600,000) and continued support for public health, safety, and infrastructure. - The sheriff’s department will proceed with radio replacements and vehicle/equipment purchases. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with an agenda deadline of January 7, 2026.

The Lake County Drainage Board met on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, in the Commissioners' Courtroom at the Lake County Government Center in Crown Point, Indiana, with WebEx virtual access for the public. The agenda scheduled the Advisory Committee for 8:00 a.m. and the Drainage Board for 9:00 a.m.; actions below reflect the Drainage Board's votes. The board approved routine reports and payments, acted on three drainage applications, opened bids for the 2025 Dyer Ditch Maintenance Phase I, and adopted the 2026 meeting schedule. Consent Calendar The following routine items were approved without dissent: - Approved the November 19, 2025, meeting minutes. - Approved the agenda request to open bids/proposals. - Accepted reports and correspondence under agenda item 5, including the Little Calumet River Basin Development Commission meeting notice, the monthly Clearing & Snagging crew activity report, the Kankakee River Basin Development Commission November report (with drone inspection links), and the IDNR weekly drought assessment. - Approved one-year engineering consultant contract renewals: Christopher B. Burke Engineering (Little Calumet River Watershed) and American Structurepoint Inc. (Kankakee River Watershed). - Approved MS4 contract renewals with DLZ Indiana, LLC (Assistant Deputy Surveyor) and Christopher B. Burke Engineering (MS4 coordination/inspections). - Approved a $1,200 payment to Tom Larson for wildlife relocation and dam removal at Sprout Ditch (Silverstone Crossing, Merrillville). - Approved a $600 payment to Tom Larson for wildlife relocation and dam removal at Ernie Niemeyer Creek & Levee (241st Ave, Lowell). - Approved the proposed 2026 Drainage Board meeting schedule, noting the March 2026 meeting is not the third Wednesday. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment was offered. Discussion Items - Foss Ditch & Foss Ditch Lateral 1 (south of 133rd Ave, Crown Point): Staff reported that a proposed subdivision's developer has stockpiled material within the 75-foot drainage easement and must submit an application to the Drainage Board. The developer pushed back, arguing the planned maintenance is unnecessary because the area contains wetlands and would be expensive; the board disagreed, stating the ditch is silted in and that plans have been designed and permitted with IDEM. The board will forward the matter to the item contacts. - Schoon Ditch (Munster) – Update: A pre-construction meeting was held with Gary Up Construction. Work begins Monday, December 22, 2025, coordinated with the School Town of Munster, the Town of Munster, Munster Parks Department, NIPSCO, and Community Hospital. Temporary daily lane closures on Fisher Avenue (between the hospital and high school) are planned from December 22 through January 5, 2026; students return January 6. The remainder of the project extends east from Columbia to the Hart Ditch over the following months. - Hanover Ditch (121st and State Line) – Update: The board is seeking IDEM approval to restore the regulated drain's original function in a flooded wet area north of 121st. Staff has contacted IDEM's Justin Turner and is also reaching out to state legislators. - MS4 Capital Project – Juvenile Detention Center Restoration: A mandatory pre-bid meeting was held December 16, 2025, with all three contractors attending. The site will use geo-grid to maximize pervious area, with secured driving areas and regrading to restore intended drainage. Bids are due in January. Applications & Petitions - 485-09-25 Main Beaver Dam Ditch (St. John, between 93rd and 101st Ave) – The Gates of St. John, Units 32-40 (LBL Development; agent McAlpine Consulting; 601 residential units on 100 acres): Approved with conditions, including the IDNR construction floodway permit and compliance with the 'foil' (fill) layer requirements as outlined in the engineer's review. - 493-11-25 Turkey Creek Lateral 5 (141 71st Ave, New Elliott; applicant David Kubik): The property owner installed a temporary path to remove junk and debris; the debris has been removed. No action is needed at this time; staff is working with the owner to remove the path material and restore the area to grass. - 496-11-25 McConnell Ditch Lateral B (Cedar Lake / West Creek Twp.; applicant Town of Cedar Lake; agent Nies Engineering): Approved the 36-inch PVC sanitary main with no conditions, per the engineer's reviews. The board noted the project is in an unincorporated area but is a Town of Cedar Lake project. Vote: 3-0. Bids & Awards - 2025 Dyer Ditch Maintenance Phase I (Dyer/Schererville, St. John Twp.): Four bids were opened and found in proper legal order: - Ostrich Equipment: $549,982.00 - Delta 3: $613,787.00 - Dyer Construction: $444,716.24 - Gary F Construction: $537,500.00 The board voted 3-0 to approve the bid opening and award to the lowest and/or most responsive bidder, pending engineer review. Key Outcomes - Approved 485-09-25 with conditions (IDNR floodway permit and fill-layer compliance). - Approved 496-11-25 with no conditions (3-0). - Took no action on 493-11-25; temporary path removal and grass restoration remain pending. - Awarded the 2025 Dyer Ditch Maintenance Phase I bid to Dyer Construction ($444,716.24, the lowest bid), pending engineer review. - Approved $1,800 in combined payments to Tom Larson for beaver relocation/dam removal. - Approved the 2026 meeting schedule; the next meeting is Wednesday, January 21, 2026, with the Advisory Committee at 8:00 a.m. and the Drainage Board at 9:00 a.m. in the Lake County Commissioners' Courtroom.

The Lake County Drainage Board Advisory Committee met on December 17, 2025, at 8:00 AM in the Commissioners Courtroom. With only 5 of 11 members present, the committee lacked a quorum and could not take formal votes, but it discussed pending items, heard reports, and prepared recommendations for the full Drainage Board meeting later that morning. Reports & Correspondence - Foss Ditch & Foss Ditch Lateral 1 (Center Twp.): Assistant Drainage Administrator Chris Brown reported activity within the 75-foot drainage easement from a subdivision. The developer has not submitted a formal application; the committee will follow up to require one. - Eagle Creek Township: John Juris noted that Delta 3 Mike began tree removal on Brown Library Ditch 3. He also raised a tile drain issue on Dave Wolf’s farm near 231 and Montgomery, where a landowner halted cleaning. Contact information will be shared to pursue a petition. - West Creek Township: Heidi Law reported beaver dams between 169th and 185th Avenues; she will note the locations. - Little Calumet River Basin Development Commission: The commission meeting is that evening; the board successfully secured funding for several projects. - Kankakee River Watershed: The November 20 Kankakee River Basin & Yellow River Basin Development Commission report and video links were provided. A weekly drought assessment from the Indiana DNR was noted. - Schoon Ditch (Munster): A 5,000–6,000 foot ditch cleaning project will begin Monday, December 22, with partial road closures. The contractor will work during winter break (Dec 22 – Jan 5) to avoid school traffic, coordinating with the town, school, parks, hospital, and NIPSCO. - Hanover Ditch: Progress continues on a design to restore drainage to farmland; the board has contacted IDEM and Senator Demeyer for assistance. Discussion Items - Main Beaver Dam Ditch – The Gates of St. John (Units 32–40): This 100-acre development in St. John includes 601 single-family and multi-family units, 2.28 miles of roads, and utilities. The applicant (LBL Development, agent McAlpine Consulting) has submitted three ASI reviews. Engineer Jim (from StructurePoint) recommended approval contingent on IDEM construction and floodway permits and FEMA compliance. No action was taken due to lack of quorum. - Turkey Creek Lateral 5 (New Elliott): Applicant David Kubik installed a temporary path to remove debris from a recently acquired property. The committee is coordinating for removal after weather improves; no action needed. - McConnell Ditch Lateral B (Cedar Lake): The Town of Cedar Lake (agent Nies Engineering) seeks to install a 36-inch PVC sanitary main. Two CBBEL reviews resulted in a recommendation for approval. No action taken. - Silt Sock on Agricultural Land: A committee member asked if silt socks could be omitted on farmland where spoil is redistributed. Staff explained that silt socks are required by regulation and must be removed by the contractor after grass establishes; final inspection ensures removal. MS4 Water Quality - Juvenile Detention Center Restoration: A mandatory pre-bid meeting was held December 16; all three contractors attended. The project includes installing geo-grid at the entrance and filling an unused pond to restore pervious area. Proposals will be opened at the January 2026 meeting. - Contract Renewals: The committee will recommend renewing the Assistant Deputy Surveyor contract with DLZ Indiana, LLC, and the professional coordination services contract with Christopher B. Burke Engineering, LLC, both for MS4 and subdivision inspections in unincorporated areas. Financial - Little Calumet River Watershed – Sprout Ditch: Recommend payment of $1,200 to Larson Wildlife for beaver relocation and dam removal. - Kankakee River Watershed – Ernie Niemeyer Creek & Levee: Recommend payment of $600 to Larson Wildlife for similar services. Contracts & Bids - 2025 Dyer Ditch Maintenance Phase I (Dyer/Schererville): Bids will be opened at the Drainage Board meeting later that day. - Engineering Consultant Contracts: The committee will recommend one-year renewals with Christopher B. Burke Engineering (Little Calumet River Watershed) and American Structurepoint Inc. (Kankakee River Watershed). Proposed 2026 Meeting Schedule - The schedule has been reviewed with the County Commissioners. The March 2026 meeting will be on the second Wednesday (instead of the third) due to a commissioner conflict. The next meeting is January 21, 2026. Public Comments - No members of the public addressed the committee. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken due to lack of quorum. All recommendations will be forwarded to the full Lake County Drainage Board meeting later that morning. - The contractor for Schoon Ditch is set to begin work December 22, with a January 5 deadline to accommodate school schedules. - The committee will pursue a formal application for the Foss Ditch development and continue outreach to IDEM for the Hanover Ditch project.

The Lake County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) met on December 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The meeting was called to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Key actions included approval of October minutes, deferral of a variance petition due to lack of proper advertising, and discussion of procedural changes for special exception study sessions. Communications - The BZA was informed that for 2026, the start time for meetings will be pushed back half an hour to 6:30 PM. - A committee needs to be formed to appoint officers (chairman and vice chairman) for 2026. Two members volunteered: Frank and Jim. Discussion Items - Petition 125-SE-07 (Aaron Hackard): A request for a special exception to allow deposit of solid fill on property located at 13535 Iowa Street, Center Township. This petition was deferred by the Planning Commission and did not require BZA action. - Petition 25-B-49 (Richard J. Oostman): A variance request for a 40x40 accessory garage (1,600 sq ft requested vs. 1,525 sq ft permitted) at 1412 West 115th Place, Hanover Township. The petitioner failed to advertise as required. The BZA voted to defer this item to the next month's meeting with proper advertising. The motion passed unanimously. - Study Sessions for Special Exceptions: Discussion about the need for BZA members to attend study sessions for special exceptions (where the BZA makes the final decision). The chairman indicated intent to change the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to require BZA attendance at these study sessions, but noted this will take time and require Planning Commission and Council approval. - Site Visit: A site visit for an unspecified case is scheduled for the following day. Attorney Joe Irak and Tim Kuiper will be present. BZA members were advised not to attend in large numbers to avoid constituting a public meeting. - Motocross Track Case: Attorney Christian reported that Attorney Estrada is handling the case, but due to a staff departure, Christian may become more involved. Key Outcomes - October Minutes: Approved as presented. - Deferral of Petition 25-B-49: Motion to defer to next month due to lack of proper advertising passed unanimously. - Procedural Change Announced: The chairman will work to amend the UDO to require BZA member attendance at study sessions for special exceptions. - Future Meeting: The meeting adjourned with no further business. The next scheduled meeting is in January 2026.

The Lake County Plan Commission met on December 17, 2025 at 5:30 PM. The meeting included approvals of routine items, several zone change requests, a special exception deferral, and a study session for a proposed data center. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved as presented. - 2026 Meeting Schedule: Approved with BZA meetings starting at 6:30 PM (motion, second, unanimous). - Nominating Committee: Appointed Commissioners Jim, Frank, Bill, and Jessica to select officers for next year. - Longspur Battery Storage Update: A letter providing an update on the battery storage facility was received and noted. Public Comments & Testimony - 25-ZC-10 (Dadlow): Jacob Parker (13010 W. 173rd Ave) spoke in favor, stating the subdivision would improve property values and bring new residents. - 25-ZC-11 (Kleefisch): Bill Hathaway (15625 Hendricks) expressed concerns about potential for more than two lots, drainage, septic feasibility, and possible wetland status. He urged careful evaluation before rezoning. - 25-ZC-12 (James): Martin Zabrigan (4752 W. 141st Ave) questioned how access would be provided for lots given the dead-end road. The petitioner clarified access would be from Clark Street. Discussion Items - Old Business: 25-SE-07 (Aaron Hacker) – Request for special exception to deposit solid fill. The petitioner requested a 30-day deferral, citing an upcoming site visit by staff. The commission granted the deferral unanimously. Commissioner Tippy noted the need for a robust report on the scope of work already done. - New Business: 25-ZC-09 (Mason) – Removed from agenda due to improper advertising. - New Business: 25-ZC-10 (Dadlow) – Zone change from A-1 to RR for a proposed 3-lot subdivision on 18 acres. Staff noted required minimum lot size (4.5 acres) and major subdivision rules (two points of access). Petitioner acknowledged potential need for variances. Favorable recommendation to County Council (motion, second, unanimous). - New Business: 25-ZC-11 (Kleefisch) – Zone change from A-1 to RR for 29 acres, proposed 2-lot subdivision. Petitioner committed to limiting to two lots. Staff noted wetlands and drainage would be addressed at subdivision stage. Favorable recommendation (motion, second, unanimous). - New Business: 25-ZC-12 (James) – Zone change from A-1 to RR for 32 acres, up to 5 lots (4 new). Staff clarified right-of-way dedication requirements. Petitioner stated access from Clark Street. Favorable recommendation (motion, second, unanimous). - New Business: 25-ZC-13 (Niementomski) – Zone change from A-1 to R-1 for a single-family home. No public comment. Favorable recommendation (motion, second, unanimous). - New Business: 25-XP-02 (Unity Church) – One-year extension of primary plat approval (expiring Jan 15, 2026) to Jan 15, 2027. Approved unanimously. Study Session: 25-SS-07 – Johnson Sunnybrook Farm (Sentinel Data Centers) - Presentation: The developer proposed a 500 MW hyperscale data center on 160 acres near SR-2 and Clay Street. Estimated $5B total investment, 2,500+ construction jobs over 5 years, and 250+ permanent on-site roles. The project would use air-cooled systems (no cooling towers), on-site well/septic, and comply with the 55 dB noise ordinance. Power would be supplied by NIPSCO under a special contract, with the developer bearing all costs. The site is near existing industrial uses (battery storage, concrete plant, NIPSCO substation). - Commission Discussion: - Commissioner Niemeyer emphasized transparency, urging the developer to make materials publicly available and avoid NDAs with elected officials. The developer confirmed NDA is only with NIPSCO and committed to openness. - Questions addressed backup generators (diesel, sound-attenuated), water usage (minimal), and the need for an on-site substation (owned by NIPSCO). - The developer noted the project will follow the county's new special exception ordinance, including an environmental impact assessment. - Outcome: No vote; study session only. The developer will proceed to formal rezoning application if they choose. Key Outcomes - 25-SE-07 (Hacker): Deferred 30 days pending site inspection. - 25-ZC-09 (Mason): Deferred due to improper advertising. - 25-ZC-10 (Dadlow): Favorable recommendation to County Council (unanimous). - 25-ZC-11 (Kleefisch): Favorable recommendation to County Council (unanimous), with petitioner commitment to limit to two lots. - 25-ZC-12 (James): Favorable recommendation to County Council (unanimous). - 25-ZC-13 (Niementomski): Favorable recommendation to County Council (unanimous). - 25-XP-02 (Unity Church): One-year extension approved (unanimous). - Study Session: No action taken. The commission received information and provided feedback; next steps are formal rezoning application and public hearings. Public Comment (General) - A member of the public (Caster Ship) humorously requested a compliance officer from Santa and noted elevator repairs needed. No other comments.

The Lake County Council met on December 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM in Crown Point, Indiana, to consider a wide range of financial transfers, grant approvals, ordinances, resolutions, and appointments. The meeting lasted approximately 45 minutes of public session followed by an executive session. Key actions included approval of $135,000 for the Coroner’s Office, passage of a resolution recognizing December as National Human Rights Month, and debate over the number of contracted attorneys. A public comment from Gary Public Transportation Corporation highlighted service expansion and requested a recurring annual investment of $4 million. Consent Calendar - Minutes – Approved minutes from the November 18, 2025 regular meeting (motion passed 7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Denise Diller (GPTC) – Representing Gary Public Transportation Corporation, Diller provided an extensive update on achievements since receiving county funding. She reported that GPTC expanded its service area from 54th Avenue to 102nd Avenue, added 20 buses (up from 10 in 2023), purchased 11 paratransit vehicles, and saved $900,000 on personnel through consolidation. New LED lighting at the 35th Street terminal saved $94,000 in utilities. GPTC partnered with NIPSCO for lighting upgrades, with Indiana University and Calumet College for student transit, and with a local company for motorized bike sharing. Diller stated that 70 riders per bus were traveling to Amazon facilities. She requested the council consider a recurring investment of $4 million per year for four years to support transit as an economic development engine. She noted the RDA encouraged fleet expansion but did not commit operational funding. Discussion Items - Coroner’s Office Transfer ($135,000) – Coroner David Niemeyer personally appeared to request a transfer from various line items to purchase eight Motorola radios (with charging, programming, and mapping) for deputy safety, plus a replacement van for the 2007 vehicle. Council discussed group purchasing options; the coroner had already obtained a discounted bulk price. Motion passed 7-0. - Contract Attorney Review – During consideration of four consulting contracts, Council members raised concerns about the number of attorneys retained by the council (four total) and potential duplication of tasks. Councilman Randy Brewer questioned each attorney about their roles. Tom O’Donnell and Ray Szarmach both cited institutional knowledge and quick turnaround on ordinances and resolutions. Shana Levinson handles litigation and appeals. Linda Garcia-Marmolejo maintains ordinance codification and legal research. Councilman Charlie Brown expressed worry about conducting such discussions in public, but council attorney affirmed it was proper. After debate, contracts were approved as follows: O’Donnell (5-2), Szarmach (5-2), Levinson (4-3), Garcia-Marmolejo (5-2). Opponents cited fiscal responsibility and overlapping duties. - Economic Revitalization Area Declaration – Declaratory Resolution for Venture One LLC passed 7-0 without further discussion. - Project Labor Agreement Ordinance – Ordinance requiring Project Labor Agreements for projects receiving economic incentives was deferred to the January 13, 2026 meeting. - Mileage Rate Ordinance – Deferred to January 13, 2026, pending federal rate setting. Key Outcomes - Resolutions Passed (all 7-0): - Recognizing December as National Human Rights Month. - Approving $287,500 transfer from CEDIT Fund (4012) to 2025 SRF Bond Debt Service Fund (4359). - Authorizing transfers to Group Employee Benefits Self Insurance Accrual Fund, Non-Reverting Self Insurance Liability Fund, and Jail Inmate Medical Fund. - Requesting statewide 911 and enhanced prepaid wireless telecommunications service charge be placed on the Indiana General Assembly’s 2026 legislative agenda. - Ordinances Passed (all 7-0 on final reading): - Part-Time Employee Pay Rate Ordinance for 2026. - Holiday Schedule Ordinance for calendar year 2026. - Grant Approvals: - Juvenile Court: Indiana Department of Corrections Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI) grant renewal. - Juvenile Detention Center: Indiana Office of Court Services Improvement Grant Program – Lake County Community Corrections Juvenile Grant renewal. - Sheriff: U.S. Department of Homeland Security/Indiana DNR 2026 Marine Patrol Assistance Grant renewal. - Financial Transfers: - Coroner’s Office: approved $135,000 transfer. - County Assessor: approved $50,000 transfer and $14,400 appropriation. - Calumet, Center, Ross, St. John Township Assessors: each approved a -$3,600 appropriation reduction. - Criminal Courts: approved $45,879 transfer. - Superior Court IV: approved $1,800 transfer. - Motor Vehicle (B): approved $180,000 transfer from various line items to overtime for snow removal. - Public Works: approved $24,000 transfer to overtime. - Sheriff: resolution to pay outstanding 2023 and 2024 invoices from 2025 budget. - Criminal Division Public Defender: approved $7,000 transfer to office supplies. - Health Department: Ordinance establishing the Lake County Health Department’s Autism Trauma and Injury Prevention Grant Fund as a non-reverting fund, passed on second reading (7-0). - Appointments: - Board of Zoning Appeals: Charles Gamblin appointed (replacing Bob Zubrick who resigned for medical reasons). - County Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team: Judge Julie Cantrell and Eric Zegaczewski reappointed. - Contractors Licensing Board: Sal Espino (Plumbing) and Dave Soderquist (Electrical) reappointed. - County Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals: Carly A. Brandenburg and Kenneth Barksdale reappointed. - Lake County Redevelopment Commission: Councilwoman Christine Cid and John Brezik reappointed. - Northwest Indiana Community Action Corporation (CoAction): Councilman Pete Lindemulder appointed, with Councilman Tim Brown as proxy. - Contractors Licensing Board (Council appointment): Councilman Charlie Brown appointed. - Garner Scholarship Committee: Councilman Pete Lindemulder and Councilwoman Christine Cid appointed.

The Lake County Contractor’s Licensing Board convened on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 3:00 PM. Members present included Dave Sodercruz, Justin Grippy, Scott Cooper, Saddle Screen, and Steve Nyker. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and a roll call. Communications included a list of proposed 2026 meeting dates for the license board and testing dates, with a note that the June meeting may be rescheduled from the 26th to the 19th due to Juneteenth; no action was taken. License Applications Considered - Amps & Boltz Electric Incorporated – Christopher Krause, petitioner for an electrical contractor license. The company is based in Falperezo, exclusively residential service and repair, not new construction. Insurance certificate recorded and dates verified. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - DR Horton Midwest – Petitioner Wade Muna (name as stated in transcript), for a general contractor license. The company is a nationwide builder primarily residential, with an office in Portage, Indiana. Board noted need for foreign corporation registration with the state; representative indicated they have a local office. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - DW Brunius Construction LLC – David Brunius (petitioner), for a general contractor license. Company based in St. John, operating since 2011, three employees. Scope correct. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Frank J. Schaefer Incorporated dba Schaefer General Contracting Services – Chad Van Meter, petitioner for a general contractor license. Company headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, 33 employees, operating since 1954, commercial industrial only. Insurance and bond recorded; registered as foreign corporation in Indiana. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - LCR Basements LLC – Daniel Mickro, petitioner for a general contractor license. Company brand new this year, two owners, exclusively residential remodeling, licensed and insured. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Siegel Construction Incorporated – Petitioner name unclear from transcript (stated as “Pop Love the bed again”), for a general contractor license. Company based in Highland Park, Illinois, started 2008, commercial work (dental offices), registered as foreign corporation. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Midwest Refrigeration – Ryan Matthew Gifford, petitioner for an HVAC contractor license. Company moved to Griffith, Indiana, in 2012–2013, approximately 100 employees. Insurance certificate recorded, dates good. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Mitchell Construction Custom Decks Incorporated – Scott Mitchell, petitioner for a specialty carpentry contractor license. Company started in 1978, incorporated in January of this year, 12 employees, based in Frankfort, Illinois. Insurance and scope correct; registered as foreign corporation. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Odyssey Home Remodeling LLC – John Pitlock, petitioner for a specialty contractor license (grouping). Based in Naperville, Illinois, 18 employees, residential, operating eight years in the area. Bond recorded, but foreign corporation registration not provided. Motion to approve contingent upon receipt of foreign corporation registration from the state of Indiana. Passed unanimously. - Standby Design LLC – Charles Stanford, petitioner for a plumbing contractor license. Company based in Miraville, one employee, started this year, residential and light commercial. Insurance and bond recorded. State plumbing contractor license was missing from application; petitioner was asked to provide it. Motion to approve contingent upon receipt of state plumbing contractor license. Passed unanimously. - Cowboys Excavating LLC – Petitioner Josh God (name as stated in transcript), for a specialty demolition contractor license. Company has 2 employees, 18 years in business, scope correct. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Timber Masters LLC – Mark Dusk, petitioner for a tree trimming contractor license. Company based in Cherville, 8 employees, 33 years in business. Bond ending November 28, needed update; petitioner also needed to initial the application to indicate awareness of building requirements (board noted “strike the no” and initial). Motion to approve contingent upon updated bond and initialed application. Passed unanimously. - Greg Brunsma – Owner acting as general contractor for project at 8722 Sheffield Avenue, Dyer, Indiana 46311. Brunsma is building his own home, with experience in roofing and trim; subcontractors will be licensed. The property is a long lot with history of attempted subdivision. Motion to approve passed unanimously. Key Outcomes All motions to approve licenses (13 in total) were passed unanimously, with three approvals made contingent on providing additional documentation (foreign corporation registration, state plumbing license, updated bond and application clarification). The board also reviewed preliminary 2026 meeting dates and requested members provide feedback before the next meeting. No other old or new business was discussed.