Public Meetings - Lake County, Indiana

The Lake County Drainage Board met on November 19, 2025, at 9:00 AM Central Time in the Commissioners Courtroom, with virtual participation via WebEx. The meeting covered routine approvals, detailed discussion of a major tile reconstruction project, a revised cost agreement for a homeowners association, and approval of contracts and payments. The Advisory Committee had met earlier at 8:00 AM, and its recommendations were presented to the Board. Consent Calendar - Agenda Amendments: The agenda was amended to correct the location of item 6A492 (Main Beaver Dam Ditch) from Highland/North Twp. to Crown Point/Ross Twp., and to add item 9A1 (plans for dire ditch maintenance from Deer Creek Drive South to near US 30). Approved unanimously (3-0). - Minutes: Approved minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting (3-0). - Reports: Reports accepted from the Little Calumet River Basin Development Commission, clearing/snagging crew activity, and the Kankakee River watershed (including a meeting notice for December 12, 2025). - Financial Approvals: - Beaver relocation payments ($200 for Turkey Creek/Oak Ridge Prairie, $800 for Main Beaver Dam Ditch/101st Ave) to Tom Larson (3-0). - Beaver relocation payments ($400 each for Ernie Niemeyer Creek & Levee and Fuller Ditch) to Tom Larson (3-0). - Delta III invoice 12953 for $25,448.87 for inspections on Hanover Tile (3-0). - Contracts Renewed: - One-year emergency beaver relocation contracts with Tom Larson and Bob Jensen (3-0). - Ernie Niemeyer Creek & Levee annual maintenance contract with Wunderink Riverside Farms for $12,000 (3-0). - Legal services contract renewal for Attorney Peter Katic for the Lake County Drainage Board (3-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public came forward to speak. Discussion Items - Hanover Tile Reconstruction (121st Ave & State Line Rd, Hanover Twp.): Rachel Sparks of American Structurepoint presented a reconstruction report for a tile originally installed in 1887 but now failing, causing chronic flooding. Three alternatives were described: - Alternative 1 (recommended): Full tile reconstruction along the original legal path (with a minor shift to avoid a building), including a control structure to manage pond water at elevation 710. Estimated cost $3.5 million, including $1.5 million in potential wetland mitigation (1.5:1 ratio). The tile would be solid wall through wetlands to reduce mitigation. - Alternative 2: Similar but connecting to an existing tile section about three-quarters of the way to the outlet; would still require mitigation. - Alternative 3: A surface ditch and culvert option, which would require significant mitigation and thus higher costs. - Multiple property owners have expressed desire to drain the area completely. However, IDEM staff indicated that completely draining the 20-acre uncontrolled flood area would require appealing to higher levels. The Board discussed the high cost relative to land values and the statutory requirement that benefits must exceed costs. After debate, the Board voted to direct staff to pursue Alternative 1 and attempt to achieve complete drainage (beyond the 710 elevation) by appealing to regulatory agencies, if necessary. Motion carried 3-0. - 2025 Schererville Ditch Maintenance – Stonebridge Estates HOA: The HOA’s share of the ditch maintenance project was initially estimated at $465,000. After a meeting with the HOA, staff developed a reduced alternative (north bank only) at $253,986.31, which still includes removal of sheet pile and riprap on the south side (accepted by the Town of Schererville). The HOA can assess up to $500/lot annually and has no reserve, so a multi-year repayment plan is expected. The Board approved the reduced amount and authorized staff to negotiate financing terms (3-0). - Current Projects: - Hart Ditch Stabilization (North of Fran Lin, Munster): Contractor will start after Thanksgiving; discussion about extending the project further north with the same contractor, subject to later approval. - 2021 Main Beaver Dam Ditch Maintenance – update provided. - 2024 Hart Ditch Bank Stabilization – ongoing. - 2024 Turkey Creek Lateral No. 6 – spoil pile regrading. Key Outcomes - Vote on Hanover Tile Reconstruction: Directed staff to proceed with Alternative 1 (full tile reconstruction) and pursue complete drainage of the pond area, including regulatory appeals if needed (3-0). - Vote on Schererville HOA Amount: Set the HOA’s required payment at $253,986.31 and authorized negotiation of a payment plan (3-0). - Vote to Award Bid for Schoon Ditch Maintenance: Awarded the 2025 Schoon Ditch Maintenance Project (Calumet Ave to Hart Ditch, Munster) to Gary Up Construction for $647,500 (3-0). Staff thanked for coordination with multiple stakeholders. - Vote on NIPSCO Application (492-11-25): Approved with no conditions for a utility pole relocation on Main Beaver Dam Ditch (3-0). - Vote to Remove Petition 126-04-22: CP Prairie, LLC’s petition regarding 2612 E. 109th Ave was removed from the agenda at staff’s request; the petitioner may file a new petition (3-0). - MS4 Capital Project: Approved plans for Juvenile Detention Center restoration and maintenance, with bids due at the December 17, 2025 meeting (3-0). - MS4 Agreements: Approved $5,000 agreement with Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District for public outreach (3-0). Renewed legal services contract with Robert B. Golding for MS4 (3-0). Ordinance No. 1500A updates were noted as in progress, with amendments to ordinance requiring County Council approval. - Plans for Advertising: Approved plans for the 2025 Dire Ditch Maintenance project for advertisement, with bids to be opened at the December 17 meeting (3-0). - Meeting Adjourned: The next scheduled meeting is Wednesday, December 17, 2025, with Advisory Committee at 8:00 AM and Drainage Board at 9:00 AM.

The Lake County Drainage Board and Advisory Committee met on November 19, 2025, at the Lake County Government Center, with virtual participation via WebEx. The meeting covered routine approvals, project updates on the Hanover Tile reconstruction and Stonebridge Estates HOA, and several contract awards. All votes were unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Hanover Tile Reconstruction (5C2): Rachel from American Structurepoint presented options for reconstructing the historic tile at 121st Avenue and State Line. The recommended alternative (full reconstruction with control structure) is estimated at $3.5 million, including $1.5 million in potential wetland mitigation. No action was taken; the board will decide on a public hearing later. - Stonebridge Estates HOA (5D5): A revised cost estimate for ditch maintenance adjacent to the HOA was provided. If limited to the north side, the HOA's responsibility would be $253,900 (down from $467,000). The HOA has not yet responded. Discussion included the HOA's ability to assess members up to an additional $500 per year. - Hart Ditch Stabilization (5D4): The project will commence after Thanksgiving, now that the 45th Avenue bridge construction is complete. Expected duration 2–3 months, weather permitting. - Juvenile Detention Center Restoration (7A1): Plans for remediation and restoration within Crown Point city limits were approved to solicit bids. - MS4 Updates (7B1–3): Approved $5,000 agreement with Lake County SWCD for public outreach; renewed legal contract with Robert Golding at $90/hour not to exceed $5,500; received an update on Ordinance No. 1500A revisions (no action needed). Key Outcomes - Agenda Amendment: Added item 9A1 (Dyer ditch plans from Deer Creek Drive south toward US 30). Approved. - Minutes: Approved October 15, 2025, minutes. - Application 492 (NIPSCO): Approved for work within Beaver Dam Ditch in Highland/North Twp. - Petition 126 (CP Prairie): Removed from agenda due to lack of applicant response. - Financial Items: Approved beaver relocation payments: $200 & $800 (Little Calumet watershed) and $400 & $400 (Kankakee watershed); approved $25,448.87 invoice to Delta III for Hanover Tile inspections. - Dyer Ditch Plans (9A1): Approved plans to advertise for bids due December 17, 2025. - Schoon Ditch Maintenance (11A1): Awarded contract to Gary Up Construction for $647,500. - Beaver Control Contracts (11A2–3, 11B1–2): Approved one-year emergency contracts for Tom Larson and Bob Jensen for both watersheds. - Ernie Niemeyer Creek Annual Maintenance (11B3): Renewed contract with Wunderink Riverside Farms for $12,000. - Legal Services (11C1): Renewed contract with Peter Katic for Drainage Board legal services.

The Lake County Board of Zoning Appeals convened on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 (agenda time 6:00 p.m.; meeting timestamp 2025-11-19 13:45:00+00:00). The board approved eight requests, denied one special exception, and deferred one solid-fill petition that had been carried from the Plan Commission. All votes were voice votes; no numerical tallies were recorded. Transcript spellings vary for some names/case numbers (e.g., Doka vs. Bilka, 25-B-48 vs. 25-V-48); agenda names and case numbers are used below. Consent Calendar - Approved the September 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote. - Received the 2026 projected meeting dates for the Board of Zoning Appeals and Plan Commission; the planning committee is expected to act on them at the December meeting. - Agreed to move petition 25-V-48 (Mike Bilka backyard-cottage variance) to the first agenda item because it is related to special exception 25-SE-04. Public Comments & Testimony - 25-SE-05 (Nedić short-term rental): Lauren Ayer, Ashton Hospes, Gianni Strike, and Sharon Dirks opposed the request. Ayer cited a September 14 police incident and said the owners intended to run the property as a full-time Airbnb; Hospes said neighbors would reconsider living in the area; Strike said the neighborhood felt unsafe; Dirks simply stated opposition. The chair noted five letters of remonstrance on file from the Plan Commission hearing. - 25-SE-06 (Cross Creek Ranch agritourism): Robert Panzer, an adjacent neighbor, expressed 100% support, saying the property is well-maintained and the community needs a place for children and nature-oriented events. - 25-V-45/46 (Martin accessory building): Stephen Gow and Lisa Gowell, adjacent neighbors, and Lynn Tamondi, who owns property behind the site, raised concerns about stormwater runoff, flooding, loss of sunlight for a 20-year garden, noise, and visual impact. They asked for water diversion and a row of trees but did not ask to stop the project. Discussion Items - 25-SE-04 / 25-V-48 – Mike Bilka, Eagle Creek Township: Special exception to allow a backyard cottage in an A-1 zone and variance to allow 2,200 sq ft (ordinance limit: 49% of principal dwelling floor area or 580 sq ft, whichever is less) within an existing accessory building. Counsel said the property is about 10 acres, the barn was an unfinished shell, and the owner wants to finish part for personal use. The board confirmed one of the two residences must remain owner-occupied and the building was not already converted. - 25-SE-05 – Darko Nedić & Sarah Nedić, Hanover Township: Special exception for a non-owner-occupied short-term rental in an R-2 zone. Petitioner's attorney acknowledged earlier problems with long-term renters, said a property management company was hired, and stated the home would be partially blocked off for owner use. The board noted that long-term rentals are allowed as of right and that an owner-occupied short-term rental would not require board approval. Public opposition was significant. - 25-SE-06 – LHA Properties / Cross Creek Ranch (C/O Timothy Kuiper), Center Township: Special exception for agritourism-agritainment in an A-1 zone. The board noted that alcohol sales and some events require separate county approvals and that the exception is not a blank check. Adjacent neighbor Robert Panzer supported the request. - 25-SE-07 – Aaron Hacker, Center Township: Special exception for deposit of solid fill. The petition was deferred by the Plan Commission and was not acted upon by the board. - 25-V-44 – Victoria L. & Joseph A. Marcinov, St. John Township: Variance to allow a 30' x 45' accessory building (1,878 sq ft requested vs. 1,525 sq ft permitted) for personal use. No public comment; approved. - 25-V-45 / 25-V-46 – Benjamin & Samantha Martin, Center Township: Variances for a 96' x 48' accessory building with a 408 sq ft porch (requested floor area 7,344 sq ft vs. 3,267 sq ft permitted) and for building height of 25 ft vs. 22 ft permitted. A board member calculated that the new building itself is about 4,600 sq ft, with the 7,344 sq ft figure representing all accessory structures. The petitioner said the building will be set 10 feet from the property line and drainage will be directed away from neighbors. - 25-V-47 – Lindsey Kolakoski, St. John Township: Variance to allow a 1,680 sq ft secondary suite (ordinance limit: 49% of principal dwelling or 580 sq ft, whichever is less). The petitioner bought her parents' home to care for them; relocating utilities from the middle of the house would be a major project. - 25-UV-04 – Sarah Lawson (owner) & Mike Michalski (petitioner), Winfield Township: Use variance to construct a second detached house while the owner occupies the existing house until the new construction is complete. The petitioner provided an affidavit that the old house will be demolished within 90 days after occupancy of the new home. The board indicated this condition has been used previously. Key Outcomes - Approved 25-SE-04 (backyard cottage special exception) and 25-V-48 (2,200 sq ft variance) by voice vote. - Denied 25-SE-05 (non-owner-occupied short-term rental) by voice vote. - Approved 25-SE-06 (agritourism-agritainment) by voice vote. Findings of fact were included in the motion. - Deferred 25-SE-07 (solid fill) by prior Plan Commission deferral; no board action. - Approved 25-V-44 (Marcinov 30' x 45' accessory building) by voice vote. - Approved 25-V-45 (Martin 96' x 48' accessory building with 408 sq ft porch) and 25-V-46 (25-ft height) by separate voice votes. - Approved 25-V-47 (Kolakoski 1,680 sq ft secondary suite) by voice vote. - Approved 25-UV-04 (Lawson/Michalski second detached house) by voice vote, with the condition that the existing dwelling be removed within 90 days after occupancy of the new home and a demolition permit obtained. - Next steps: approved applicants may proceed with county permitting; the planning committee will consider the 2026 meeting schedule in December.

The Lake County Plan Commission met on November 19, 2025 at 5:30 PM to consider several agenda items including subdivision extensions, waivers, special exception recommendations to the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA), and a study session on a rezoning request. The meeting was called to order with a quorum present. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The minutes from the September meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Orchard Estates Extension (25-XP-01): Patrick Rivers (neighbor) expressed concerns about sewer line construction through his backyard but received assurance from the petitioner that directional boring would be used. No opposition to the extension. - Short-Term Rental (25-SE-05): Multiple residents of Emerald Crossing subdivision voiced strong opposition to allowing a non-owner-occupied short-term rental at 15018 W. 104th Avenue. Lauren Hare described a prior incident where a bullet from a long-term renter nearly struck her infant son. Other neighbors cited safety, noise, and property value concerns. Written comments from several residents were also submitted. - Agritourism (25-SE-06): Robert Banzer (neighbor) spoke in support of Cross Creek Ranch's agritourism plans, noting prior cattle auctions on the property caused no issues. - Solid Fill (25-SE-07): Multiple neighbors (Joe Haddock, Brian Lennock, Rich Miller, Dan Rohley) testified against Aaron Hacker's after-the-fact fill permit, alleging extensive fill dumping (60+ truckloads), drainage damage, and a pattern of non-compliance. Dan Rohley, a 26-year BZA member from Crown Point, called for a comprehensive review. - Study Session (25-SS-06): Vern (no last name) spoke against the proposed rezoning for trailer rentals, claiming the applicant operates 50 trailers across two properties and that it constitutes spot zoning harming the veterans memorial. - General Public Comment: A resident raised concerns about data center development in Hobart, urging county oversight. Vern also addressed the study session issue. Discussion Items 1. 25-XP-01 PC – Orchard Estates Extension: Doug Homeyerworth (engineer) requested a one-year extension of primary plat approval. Staff offered no objection. Public comment was addressed. Approved unanimously. 2. 25-W-08 PC & 25-PS-06 PC – Purkey Acres Waiver and Primary Plat: Glenn Crockett explained the need for a flag lot to create two equal 5-acre lots from a 10-acre remnant. All agency approvals obtained. No public comment. Both approved unanimously. 3. 25-SE-04 BZA – Bilka Backyard Cottage: Doug Bredinger requested a special exception for a backyard cottage in an existing pole barn on A-1 land. No public comment. Unanimous favorable recommendation to BZA. 4. 25-SE-05 BZA – Nedic Short-Term Rental (Non-Owner-Occupied): Kevin Warner (attorney) presented the request. Staff clarified property lacks homestead exemption, and non-owner-occupied short-term rentals require a special exception. After extensive public opposition and discussion of prior incidents, the Commission voted to recommend an unfavorable recommendation to the BZA (motion, seconded, all in favor). 5. 25-SE-06 BZA – Cross Creek Ranch Agritourism: Tim Kuiper described plans on a 93-acre parcel rezoned to A-1 earlier in 2025. Highway Department recommended a traffic study; petitioner argued it was unnecessary. Public supported. Commission voted 8-1 to recommend favorable to BZA (Commissioner Alverson dissented on traffic grounds). 6. 25-SE-07 BZA – Hacker Solid Fill: Tim Kuiper presented an after-the-fact special exception request. Staff noted outstanding issues including drainage plan, permits for other structures, and ongoing litigation. Neighbors detailed extensive fill volumes and drainage problems. Commission deferred the matter to the next meeting to allow comprehensive review (unanimous). 7. 25-SS-06 PC – Pochron Study Session (Rezoning to B-2): Matthew Pochron and his father presented to rezone from A-1 to B-2 for trailer rentals. Attorneys confirmed no alternative exists. Commissioners expressed concerns about spot zoning and undesirable uses; some suggested restrictive conditions and screening. Study session concluded with direction to explore conditions and return with a formal application. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): Orchard Estates extension (25-XP-01), Purkey Acres waiver and primary plat (25-W-08, 25-PS-06), favorable recommendation to BZA for Bilka backyard cottage (25-SE-04). - Approved (8-1): Favorable recommendation to BZA for Cross Creek Ranch agritourism (25-SE-06). Commissioner Alverson dissented. - Denied (unanimous): Unfavorable recommendation to BZA for Nedic short-term rental (25-SE-05). - Deferred (unanimous): Hacker solid fill special exception (25-SE-07) deferred to December 2025 BZA meeting due to unresolved issues. - No action: Study session on Pochron rezoning (25-SS-06) – information gathered; applicant to consider conditions before formal application.

The Lake County Council convened its regular meeting on November 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM in the Commissioners Court Room/Council Chambers, Crown Point, Indiana. The meeting covered a wide range of items including resolutions, ordinances, budget revisions, transfers, grant applications, and citizen appointments. Notable discussions included the approval of the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority budget, a failed motion to eliminate vacant positions, and the introduction of a report on county organizational needs. Public comments raised concerns about the health department's responsiveness and vaccine availability. Consent Calendar / Minutes - The council approved the minutes from the September 4, 2025 Budget Workshop, September 16, 2025 First Reading, October 14, 2025 Regular Meeting, and October 14, 2025 Second Reading, all by unanimous voice vote. Awards/Resolutions - November as National Hospice and Palliative Care Month – Council adopted Resolution recognizing Hospice of the Calumet Area. Council members expressed personal appreciation for hospice services. Approved unanimously. - Hobart High School JROTC Raiders – Resolution honoring the team for capturing individual and overall team titles at the 2025 Indiana Raiders State Championship. Students were recognized individually. Approved unanimously. - Tom Clark and Lake County Veterans Museum – Resolution recognizing contributions in honor of Veterans Day (previously read at a ceremony). Approved unanimously. Acknowledgments/Announcements - Prosecutor Bernard Carter was congratulated on his induction into the East Chicago Athletic Hall of Fame on September 21, 2025. He shared personal remarks about the role of sports in character development. - County Council employee Carol Cody was recognized as Volunteer of the Year by The Blind Social Center of Gary. Center representatives described the organization’s mission and thanked Cody for five years of service. Auditor – Ordinance (Item 5A) - Council unanimously approved an ordinance establishing the Auditor’s SRF Construction Fund to track SRF Construction activity. The ordinance passed first and second reading after suspension of rules. Surveyor (Items 6A, 6B) - Transfer: Approved a transfer of $18,500 from equipment repair and maintenance accounts to professional services for the Surveyor’s Corner Perpetuation Fund. - Grant Application: Approved a grant application to the Indiana Office of Technology for the IGIO SEED project – Address Point and Centerline Cleanup. Criminal Courts (Items 7A, 8A, 8B) - Revised 144: Approved a reduction in a Probation Officer salary from $60,607 to $40,548, effective November 24, 2025. - Revised 144 (Dept. 4002): Approved an increase in a Probation Officer salary from $50,669 to $56,628, effective November 2, 2025. - Transfer: Approved a transfer of $9,587 from professional services, travel, and mileage to part-time and other professional services. Juvenile Court (Items 9A, 9B, 9C) - Approved transfers from other services to supplies and clothing accounts totaling $12,000 from the General Fund, $157.19 from the Family Recovery Court Grant Fund, and $4,000 from the Juvenile Mental Health Problem Solving Court Grant Fund. Juvenile Court/CASA (Items 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) - Ordinance: Approved an ordinance amending the 2025 Salary Ordinance to establish pay increases for five positions and create one new position in the Juvenile CASA Department. Passed first and second reading. - New Line Item: Created line 61130 (Technicians) in the General Fund. - Appropriation (10C): Withdrawn per agenda. - Transfer: Approved $35,000 transfer from part-time to professionals and technicians. Sheriff (Items 11A, 11B, 11C) - Appropriation: Approved $7,000 from the Sheriff’s Firearm Training Fund for other equipment. - Transfer: Approved a $100,000 transfer from protective services and lateral pay to overtime, professionals, and technicians. - Transfer (CHIRP Fund): Approved a $7,950 transfer from official salaries to overtime. Jail (Item 12A) - Approved a $60,000 transfer from protective services, supplies, and testing to holiday pay and professional services. Prosecutor (Items 13A, 13B) - Transfer: Approved a $20,000 transfer from office/clerical and group insurance to part-time from the Pre-Trial Diversion Fund. - Ordinance: Repealed Ordinance 1435B, which created the Prosecutor’s Violence Against Women Stop Grant Fund. Passed first and second reading. Health Department (Items 14A, 14B, 14C) - Transfer: Approved transfer of $28,000 from paraprofessionals to official/administrators in the County Health Fund. Councilman Niemeyer asked for confirmation that the payment was for former administrator Nick's accrued time and salary adjustment; Health Department confirmed it excluded comp time. - Grant Applications: Approved four new grant applications: (1) Engage 360: Building Bridges from Opioid Settlement Fund, (2) Engage 360: Youth Empowerment (same fund), (3) Indiana Department of Health Injury Prevention – Water Safety & Drowning Prevention, (4) Injury Prevention – Autism Elopement Kits. - Revised 144: Reduced an Information Technology Technician salary from $84,179 to $65,000, effective November 3, 2025. County Council (Items 15A through 15G, plus additions) - New Line Item: Created line 63830 (Matching Funds) in the CEDIT Non-Reverting Fund. - Appropriation: Approved $50,000 from the CEDIT Non-Reverting Fund for matching funds. Don Popovic thanked the council, noting the funds would provide a good foundation. - Resolution (Item C): Noted as “No Action” on agenda; withdrawn. - South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority Budget: After discussion with SSCVA representatives, council approved the recommended tax rate, tax levy, and proposed budget for 2026. Discussion included the Gary Air Show (fully sponsored with $550,000 budget), legal costs for ongoing litigation ($300,000), and a note that Lake County’s innkeepers tax is the lowest among top five Indiana counties. Approved after suspension of rules and second reading. - Citizen Appointments: David Pastrick was reappointed to the County Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team (forensic pathologist/coroner position). David Innes was reappointed to the Alcohol Beverage Board. - Revised 144 (Auditor): Added to agenda late. Council approved reducing the Comptroller of Finance salary from $168,000 to $1, effective immediately. Councilwoman Hamm explained the original salary was based on the previous employee’s qualifications, and the position now requires a candidate with comparable skills. Passed 6-1. - Discussion/Action Item – Elimination of Vacant Positions: Councilman Niemeyer moved to eliminate all vacant positions not covered by collective bargaining agreements dating from January 1, 2025, and back. Discussion included concerns from Councilman Bilski about level 3 assessor vacancies that may remain unfilled for training periods. Hobart Township Assessor Lena explained typical timelines for level certification. The motion failed on a 3-3 vote (Brown, Bilski, Hamm voted no; Lindemulder, Niemeyer, Cid voted yes). - Report Introduction: Councilman Niemeyer entered into the record a press release and the “Lake County Organizational Needs Report” compiled by former Comptroller Dan Saserski, CPA. The report details deficiencies in internal controls, technical expertise, recruitment/retention, and political patronage. Niemeyer stated the report was requested to address issues leading to the state’s “unauditable” designation and loss of bond rating. He expressed that the comptroller’s skills were not valued, leading to his termination. Public Comments & Testimony - Barbara Cotellas (Hobart) requested that a council member serve as liaison to the Health Board meetings. She criticized the Health Officer for unresponsiveness regarding querstions about data center emissions and noted that health board meetings often start late. She also stated that vaccine costs have increased from $10 to $25, but Health Department later countered that they did not receive raises and insurance may cover costs. Council thanked her for input. Key Outcomes - Approved: Multiple transfers, revised 144s, ordinances, grant applications, and budget approvals as listed above. All votes passed 6-1 (one member absent) unless noted. - Failed: Motion to eliminate vacant positions from January 1, 2025, and back (3-3). - Appointed: David Pastrick to Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team; David Innes to Alcohol Beverage Board. - Public Record: Lake County Organizational Needs Report and associated press release entered into the record. - Next Steps: SSCVA budget approved; convention center expected summer/fall 2028; litigation expected to conclude by summer 2026. - Announcements: County serving as food drop-off site through Friday; financial director to speak on Senate Enrolled Act 1 at a forum on November 20.

The Lake County Board of Elections met on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM in the South Room/Media Room at 2293 N. Main Street, Crown Point, Indiana. The meeting was called to order with all members present (Clerk Brown, Ms. Candelaria Reardon (by proxy), Mr. Mellon, Mr. Reed, and Chairman Smith). The board addressed provisional ballots, amended the agenda, consolidated multiple complaints against a respondent, and granted a continuance for a hearing. Provisional Ballots - Ballot 1 (D14): Voter moved from Lake Central to Hanover district, not allowed to vote due to district change. Board unanimously voted not to count. - Ballot 2: Voter moved from Hammond to Shareville 17, registered too late for the election. Board unanimously voted not to count. - Ballot 3 (Shareville 32): Voter claimed registration eight weeks ago but was not found in the system—not registered. Board unanimously voted not to count. - Ballot 4: Voter registered one day after the close of registration (Oct 6 vs. Oct 7). Board unanimously voted not to count. - Signature Mismatch Provisional: A voter whose signature was questioned on Election Day responded quickly, stating her signature may have changed. Board members reviewed the documentation and unanimously voted to count the ballot. Agenda Amendment - Chairman Smith noted that three items (2025-09 Krasinski v. St. John Early Voting, 2025-13 Patel v. Mongerie, and 2025-15 McIntyre v. CL Poll Worker) were listed on the agenda but had been referred to council for review. Mr. Fetch moved to amend the agenda to remove those items, seconded by Clerk Brown. The motion carried unanimously, and the agenda was amended. New Business: Consolidation and Hearing on Complaints Against Mr. Purcell - The board consolidated four complaints (2025-10 Ruge v. Purcell, 2025-11 Callard v. Purcell, 2025-12 Bridgeman v. Purcell, 2025-14 Blum v. Purcell) on a motion by Mr. Fetch, seconded by Clerk Brown. The motion carried unanimously. - Respondent Mr. Purcell was not present, though he was notified. Complainants Mary Blum (2025-14) and Laura Bridgeman (2025-12) were present and testified under oath. - Ms. Bridgeman presented additional material: a police report filed after Mr. Purcell posted a photo of her on Facebook following his initial post offering $100 for “no votes.” She expressed concern for her job as a teacher. - Ms. Blum stated she warned Mr. Purcell that his actions were illegal, citing the election code, and that he responded he would fight it in court. - Counsel noted that the statute at issue (IC 3-14-3-19) makes it a Level 6 felony to induce or procure another person to vote. Counsel had contacted Mr. Purcell, who claimed the post was intended as satire and had a disclaimer. The board, however, noted that Mr. Purcell did not appear to present that defense. - Mr. Fetch moved to refer the matter to the Lake County Prosecutor’s office for violation of election law. Mr. Mellon expressed concern about the prosecutor’s track record and suggested a fine, but no legal mechanism for the board to impose a fine was identified. The motion to refer passed by voice vote with no opposition. New Business: Continuance Request - 2025-08 Barnhart v. Cavazos: Complainant Suzy Barnhart requested a continuance of her hearing scheduled for November 18, 2025, because she was invited by the Indianapolis Colts to a Gold Star family ceremony honoring her fiancé, to be held at the same time in Indianapolis. The board granted the continuance and directed the parties to coordinate with staff to set a new date. Key Outcomes - Provisional ballots: Four ballots not counted; one signature mismatch counted (all unanimous). - Agenda amended: Removed three items (2025-09, 2025-13, 2025-15) as they were under council review. - Consolidated complaints against Mr. Purcell: Four complaints consolidated and referred to the Lake County Prosecutor’s office for alleged violation of election law (IC 3-14-3-19). - Continuance granted: 2025-08 Barnhart v. Cavazos continued to a date to be coordinated. - Next meeting: Scheduled for Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM in the County Council Conference Room, due to Veterans Day affecting the usual council meeting schedule.

The Lake County Board of Elections met on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM in the Commissioner's Courtroom, Crown Point, Indiana. All five board members were present: John Reed, Mike Mellon, Mike Brown, Mark Candelaria Reardon, and Matt Fetch (serving as proxy for Chair Kevin Smith). The meeting covered approval of minutes, a contentious discussion on precinct consolidation, a school corporation reorganization plan, a disputed polling location change, mover contracts, routine approvals, and early voting updates. Several votes were along party lines, reflecting increasing partisan division. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Motion to approve the minutes of the Board Meeting of September 16, 2025, passed unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Old Business - Secretary of State Order Consolidating and Establishing Precincts for Lake County, Indiana: Board member Mike Brown expressed concerns that the Secretary of State made changes to precinct consolidations that were not in the agreement between the board and the state, and that unauthorized persons made recommendations. He made a motion to correct all unauthorized changes. The motion passed 3-2 along party lines (Brown, Candelaria Reardon, and Fetch in favor; Reed and Mellon opposed). The minority party (Republican) had submitted their objections to the Secretary of State after the original 3-2 vote, which led to the disputed changes. New Business - Tri-Creek School Corporation Reorganization Plan: The school corporation submitted a plan changing its districts from Cedar Creek to Creek West Creek (Districts 1, 2, and 3). It was approved by the Indiana Board of Education. The board noted that the map is not contiguous (unusual), but the school corporation is not required to follow contiguity rules. The board voted 5-0 to accept the report as an acknowledgement. - County Authorization Form (Precinct Key): Along with the reorganization plan, the board approved (5-0) the county authorization form to update the statewide voter registration system. Board member Mike Brown also noted that Gary School Board districts were removed from the record since they are no longer elected. - Primary 2026 Request for Polling Location Changes: A request to move two precincts (G326 and G43) from Patcher Park Pavilion to Love Feast Church (2456 Chase Street, Gary) was submitted by the Democratic Party chair (Mike Brown). The Republican Party proposed an alternative location: Frankie Woods McAuliffe Academy (3757 West 21st Avenue, Gary). The Democratic chair argued the church is safer and more convenient, while the Republican chair highlighted the school's free rent and ADA compliance. Board members expressed differing views on using schools versus churches. Ultimately, the board decided to defer the decision to the next meeting (November 1, 2025) to allow the Republican chair to present their proposal in person. The deferral motion passed 5-0. - Movers Contract: Two mover contracts (Free Movers and Bill's Movers) came in at the exact same price. The contracts were approved by the Lake County Board of Commissioners. The board voted 4-0 with one abstention (Matt Fetch, who serves as attorney to the commissioners) to accept the contracts. - Correspondence: A legal notice placed in the newspaper was accepted as part of the record (5-0). - Purchase Orders: The board approved purchase orders as presented (5-0). Key Outcomes - Vote on Secretary of State Precinct Order: Motion to correct unauthorized changes passed 3-2 (Brown, Candelaria Reardon, Fetch in favor; Reed, Mellon opposed). - Tri-Creek Reorganization Plan: Accepted 5-0. - County Authorization Precinct Key: Approved 5-0. - Polling Location Change (Gary): Deferred to next meeting (November 1, 2025) by a 5-0 vote. - Movers Contracts: Approved 4-0 (Fetch abstained). - Correspondence and Purchase Orders: Approved 5-0 each. - Next Meeting: November 1, 2025 (Inspector Saturday) – Commissioner's Courtroom, 10:00 AM. - Early Voting Update: Early voting is ongoing for Lake Central School Corporation referendum and Hanover Community School Corporation referendum. Three early voting locations are open. Inspector training is scheduled for Saturday, November 1, 2025, and Wednesday, October 29, 2025.

The Lake County Contractors Licensing Board convened on October 17, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners Court Room, Building A, 3rd Floor. The board considered 12 new business items for contractor licenses. All applications were approved, with one initially deferred and later approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - No substantive discussion beyond standard questioning of applicants regarding their positions, company history, employee counts, and scope of work. Key Outcomes - TSWT Acquisition, Inc. dba Tri-State Water, Power, and Air – Justin Guzik, Electrical Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). - Devine Builders, Inc. – Patrick Devine, General Contractor: Initially moved to defer (motion carried), later approved by voice vote (all ayes) after additional questioning. - Krusinski Construction Co. – Steven Wayne Beck, General Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). - Majestic Roofing & Remodeling, LLC – Lester Blumberg, General Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). - Quality Homes – Steven Wroughton, General Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). - Seasons Construction Management, LLC – Corey Grieger, HVAC Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). - Advantage Paving Solutions, Inc. – Jeff Swanson, Specialty/Asphalt-Paving Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). - GC Concrete, Inc. – Garret Lytle, Specialty/Concrete Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). - Andrew McCann Lawn Sprinkler Co. – Thomas Harper, Specialty/Lawn Irrigation Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). - J3 Ventures, Inc. dba Certapro Painters of Schererville – Mark Powers Jr., Specialty/Painting Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). - Consiglio Technologies, Inc. – Joseph Consiglio, Specialty/Sign Installation Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). - TSWT Acquisition, Inc. dba Tri-State Water, Power, and Air – John Hinds, Plumbing Contractor: Approved by voice vote (all ayes). Additionally, the board approved a second application from Devine Builders, Inc. (Patrick Devine) for a General Contractor license after an initial deferral. All votes were unanimous, with no dissenting votes recorded.

The Lake County Board of Commissioners met on October 15, 2025, at the Commissioners' Courtroom in Crown Point, Indiana. Commissioners Tippy and Repair were present; Commissioner Allen was absent. The meeting covered a lengthy consent agenda, several additions and deletions, public comments, and discussions on key contracts and community concerns. All votes were 2-0-1 unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approved the amended agenda with 2 additions and 2 deletions (including deletion of sheriff's patrol dog purchase and extended warranty on Video Ray Sub). - Approved minutes of September 17, 2025. - Approved specifications for bids (items 5.1–5.12) for highway materials, cyclical reassessment, juvenile detention EIFS repairs, new jail roof, and East Stair replacement. - Approved seeking quotes from at least three vendors for fire protection, seeding, top soil, traffic accessories, traffic signs, and vegetation management (items 7.1–7.6). - Approved numerous contracts and change orders for surveyor, public defender, commissioners, fairgrounds, highway, sheriff, E-911, data, HVAC, and other departments (items 8.1–8.58, with several grouped motions). Key approvals include: - Surveyor: Cloudpoint Geospatial GIS service ($45,500, reimbursed up to $30,000). - Highway: Award to Grimmer Construction for West Point Acres sanitary sewer ($1,889,629, $200,000 under estimate). - Highway: Design engineering for Bridge 51 (161st Avenue) over Cedar Creek with DLZ ($151,000). - Sheriff: Various subscription renewals for digital forensics tools (Berla, Plum Scout, Cellebrite, Skyfire AI, Magnet Forensics, Tech Smith). - Sheriff: Lease with Griffith Aviation for aviation unit hangar ($3,595/month). - E-911: VMware Foundation renewal ($18,336). - Data: Contracts with AT&T for internet and special construction. - HVAC: Award to Gatlin Plumbing for EMA building 2 heating equipment ($18,200). - Commissioners: Plumbing work for G-pod cell ($5,350), change order for UPS/generator project ($18,843), contract with Gatlin for UPS room cooling ($267,300). - Approved poor relief appeal decisions from Calumet Township (items 10.1–10.2). - Approved council items (ordinances 11.1–11.10) including Health Department fee amendment, repeal of purchasing agency ordinance, tax levies, appropriations, salary, longevity, clothing allowance, per diem, Lake Ridge Fire, and solid waste. - Approved state board of accounts items (12.1–12.3) and economic development voucher register (12.5). - Approved highway certificate of insurance update (item 13.1). - Accepted monthly reports from Treasurer and Weights & Measures (items 15.1–15.2). - Approved INDOT LPA corrections and sign modernization project (items 16.1, 16.3) and retired officer service weapon request (16.2). Public Comments & Testimony - Shadi Karaskiel (Shine Recovery Cafe): Thanked commissioners for support and asked about billboards advertising marijuana dispensaries on I-94, noting marijuana remains illegal in Lake County. Commissioners stated they do not regulate highway billboards; state likely does. She also noted that two of her organization's proposals (Shine Recovery home and Flourish Community Hub) were not read during the bid opening; the county acknowledged and said they would check. - Jessica Mullen (resident of Heather Hills subdivision): Expressed disappointment over planned removal of 93 trees by the highway department. Commissioner Tippy and Highway representative Dwayne confirmed that most trees would be removed due to sidewalk impacts, but replacements will be planted with species suited for narrow rights-of-way. Mullen was told a replacement list from Phase 1 was being finalized. Discussion Items - E-911 Next Generation 911 Call Handling System (Item 8.39): The county opened bids from AT&T for three options. The recommended award is AT&T Motorola VESTA Next (cloud-based) at $2,953,565 over five years, the lowest bid. This cloud solution includes real-time translation, transcription, and video capabilities and is expected to save the county approximately $600,000 per year compared to the current contract. The other two options (Motorola VESTA on-premise at $2,961,700 and Carbyne Apex at $5,120,273) were not selected. The motion to award carried 2-0-1. - Interlocal Agreement with Town of New Chicago (Item 8.57): The agreement provides $400,000 from the Lake County General Fund for design, remodeling, and operation of a municipal facility for New Chicago. Commissioner Repair expressed concern about using general fund money, but Commissioner Tippy noted the funds were originally ARPA money from Commissioner Allen and Councilman Brown that had been moved to the general fund. New Chicago has already invested over $700,000 in design. The motion passed 2-0-1. - Heather Hills Tree Removal (Public Comment): Commissioners discussed the highway department's decision to remove 93 trees. Highway staff confirmed that trees are evaluated based on impact to sidewalks; trees not currently affecting sidewalks will remain. Replacement trees will be selected and planted. Bids Received - IBM Compatible Personal Computers (Item 3.1): Two quotes received – Bucher Tech ($11,117.64) and Electronic Strategies Inc. ($10,090.23). Taken under advisement. - Movers for Voting Machines – Special Election Nov. 4, 2025 (Item 3.2): Two quotes received. Commissioners split the contract between both vendors for the two school corporations. Motion carried. - Proposals to Utilize Opioid Settlement Funds (Item 3.3): Over 20 proposals were received, including requests from Hope Alliance of NWI ($2,000), Crown Counseling ($200,000), Recovery Museum ($109,186), Geminus ($200,000), and many others. The total requests exceeded available funds. All proposals were sent to the opioid settlement steering committee for recommendation, with awards expected in December. - Lake County Fairgrounds Midway Window Replacement (Item 3.4): Bids received from six contractors with base bids ranging from $380,000 (Restore Works) to $548,400 (Pangiere). Alternate bids also submitted. Taken under advisement. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items approved unanimously (2-0-1). - E-911 NG-911 system awarded to AT&T Motorola VESTA Next for $2,953,565 over five years. - Interlocal agreement with Town of New Chicago for $400,000 approved. - Opioid settlement fund proposals forwarded to steering committee for December award. - Window replacement bids for fairgrounds taken under advisement. - Commissioners acknowledged the next regular meeting on November 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with agenda deadline November 5, 2025.