Public Meetings - Lake County, Indiana

The Lake County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) met on October 15, 2025, at 6:00 PM with a quorum of three members present. The board considered six variance requests, all related to accessory structures or a proposed fueling station. All items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the August meeting were approved by a voice vote with no opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 5 & 6 (Meet Petroleum/Terry Vaidik – proposed fueling station): - Vincent Morales (4731 Cleveland Street) expressed concern about potential contamination of his well water from gasoline spills and runoff, noting the absence of public water in the area. He also raised traffic safety issues. - Daniel Nieto (owner of 4700 Cleveland Street) supported the project, stating it would revitalize a blighted corner and bring business to the area. - Tommy Banks (4688 Cleveland Street) also expressed support for the gas station. - Heather Morales (4731 Cleveland Street) voiced concerns about disruption to her peace, brightness from lighting, and increased traffic. She noted the intersection is already dangerous. Discussion Items - Items 1 & 2 (Christopher R. Smetana – 14902 W. 93rd Avenue, St. John Township): Requested a variance for a 72’x36’ accessory building (3,712 sq. ft. vs. 1,525 sq. ft. permitted) and a height variance to 21 ft. 7 in. (20 ft. permitted). The attorney explained the building location is constrained by a septic system. The board noted the rural area and similar large structures nearby. No public comments. Approved. - Item 3 (Dan Mamula – 10411 Cline Avenue, Center Township): Requested a variance for a 30’x50’ accessory building (2,300 sq. ft. vs. 1,525 sq. ft. permitted) for personal storage. The board discussed a drainage easement on the property; the petitioner confirmed he would stay out of it. Approved. - Item 4 (Andrew and Stephanie Calarie – 12649 Monroe Court, Center Township): Requested a variance to place an accessory building in the side yard instead of the rear yard due to septic and topography. The board noted the hardship and made approval contingent on receiving approval for a second driveway from the county highway department. Approved. - Items 5 & 6 (Meet Petroleum/Terry Vaidik – 4705 Cleveland Street, Calumet Township): Requested variances to allow a 20-ft. setback (Cleveland St.) and 19-ft. setback (W. 47th Ave.) for a gas station canopy and fuel pumps, and a 6-ft. rear yard setback (required 20 ft.) for the fueling station building. The petitioner stated all other approvals (INDOT, stormwater) are pending. The board clarified that the use as a gas station is already permitted; the variances are only for setbacks. Public comments raised concerns about water contamination, lighting, and traffic. The petitioner responded that the engineer is designing stormwater treatment structures. Approved. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (25-V-33): Motion to approve the floor area variance passed unanimously. - Item 2 (25-V-34): Motion to approve the height variance passed unanimously. - Item 3 (25-V-40): Motion to approve the floor area variance passed unanimously. - Item 4 (25-V-41): Motion to approve the side-yard variance, contingent on submittal of a second driveway permit, passed unanimously. - Item 5 (25-V-42): Motion to approve the street setback variances passed unanimously. - Item 6 (25-V-43): Motion to approve the rear yard setback variance passed unanimously. - The meeting was adjourned after all items were disposed.

The Lake County Plan Commission convened on October 15, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. The meeting included a communications update on the terminated St. John annexation, two study sessions, staff-approved site development plans, and public comment. Communications - Randy Miner reported that on October 8, 2025, the Town of St. John town council voted to terminate their annexation proceedings without a second reading, and also released the associated water rights and easement agreement. He stated the issue is now "a dead issue for now." Minutes Approval - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved unanimously (5-0). Study Session 1: 25-SS-05 PC – Pond at 18759 White Oak Street, West Creek Township - Petitioner: Shane R. Botma, Owner - Request: Study session for a special exception to permit a pond that has already been excavated (dug for approximately 1.5 years). - Discussion: Botma explained that the pond was created to address stormwater flooding behind his horse barn and onto a neighbor's property. He stated he was unaware a permit was required and expressed willingness to comply. Commission members asked about engineering, as-built plans, and whether the pond is retention (holds water year-round). Botma confirmed it retains water continuously. - Outcome: The Commission directed Botma to file a formal application for a special exception for the pond. Staff noted that an engineer will need to provide elevations and reverse-engineer the design. No vote was taken; this was a study session. Study Session 2: 25-SS-06 PC – Rezoning at 14460 Grand Boulevard, Winfield Township - Petitioner: Matthew Pochron, Owner - Request: Study session for a rezoning from A-1 (Agricultural) to B-2 (Rural Business) to allow trailer rentals on a portion of a 9-acre parcel. - Discussion: Matt Pochron and his father described the business: renting trailers to small businesses and individuals, supporting local events, and donating to disaster relief. They proposed rezoning only 2 acres. Commission members raised concerns about: - Proximity to the Korean War Memorial and need for buffering. - Potential long-term impact of creating a business corridor along State Road 2. - The difficulty of limiting future uses if the property is rezoned B-2. - The fact that a shipping container is used as an office, indicating active business operations. - Commissioner Paul Hanson suggested exploring a variance of use or special exception that would run with the petitioner, not the land, to prevent broader commercial development. Attorney Christian Jorgensen noted that a variance of use is permissible but not typical. Commissioner Jim Metro requested staff and the attorney investigate options and report back. - Outcome: The study session was continued to the November 19, 2025 meeting (same time) to allow staff to research the feasibility of a use variance or other restrictions. No formal action was taken. Site Development Plans Approved by Staff - 25-SDP-19 PC: Verizon Wireless communications tower modification at 4900 Chase Street, Calumet Township. - 25-SDP-20 PC: Pilot Travel Centers – installation of EV chargers, electrical equipment, and canopies at 3231 E. 181st Avenue, Eagle Creek Township. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Hine (local resident) expressed strong opposition to the trailer rental business proposed in Study Session 2. He claimed the business previously stored 50 trailers and a NIPSCO bucket truck, creating an unsightly "junkyard." He raised safety concerns about trailers parked on a narrow road, stated that the Korean War Memorial advocates would oppose it, and noted that a future bike trail could be negatively impacted. He characterized the proposed rezoning as spot zoning and urged the petitioner to rent commercial space elsewhere. Key Outcomes - Study Session 1: The applicant was directed to file for a special exception for the pond. No vote taken. - Study Session 2: Continued to November 19, 2025; staff to investigate use variance or special exception options to limit future commercial expansion. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 6:15 p.m. (motion and second; all in favor).

The Lake County Council convened for the second reading of the 2026 budget, including ordinances for tax levies, appropriations, salaries, longevity, clothing allowance, per diem, and binding recommendations for Lake Ridge Fire and Solid Waste. A resolution for mental health fund distribution and township capital improvement plans were also reviewed. A major discussion centered on a proposed 2% across-the-board pay raise for employees, which ultimately failed. All other budget items passed. Discussion Items - Two Percent Pay Raise Proposal: Councilman Hamm moved to amend the salary ordinance to include a 2% raise for all employees excluding non-contract, non-mandated positions, offset by a reduction in the operating balance of $2 million (cost of 1% ≈ $1 million, so 2% = $2 million). Councilman Scott suggested offsetting the raise by eliminating vacant positions from January 1, 2025, which would save approximately $1 million, leaving a $1 million shortfall from operating cash. Councilmember Pam expressed concern about setting a precedent of dipping into cash reserves due to future revenue declines from SEA 1. Councilmember Linda Mulder noted that prior raises were funded through growth quotient, not operating cash. The assessors' office raised concerns that eliminating positions from January 2025 would hinder their hiring process, as they fill positions as qualified candidates appear. After debate, the motion for the 2% raise failed on a vote of 2–3 (Councilmembers Hamm and ? in favor; Linda Mulder, Bill Ski, Nee Meyer opposed). - Motion to Eliminate Vacant Positions from January 2025: A separate motion to eliminate positions vacant since January 2025, intended to help fund a raise, was also made and seconded. Councilmember Scott argued it was better to eliminate vacant positions than to risk layoffs. The assessors stated this would harm their ability to fill needed positions. This motion also failed 2–3 (Linda Mulder and ? in favor; Bill Ski, Nee Meyer, Hamm opposed). - Motion to Make Prior Position Eliminations (from January 2024) Effective Immediately: A motion was made to accelerate the elimination of positions that had already been cut from January 2024 vacant positions, making them effective immediately rather than at the start of 2026. The vote appeared to pass 3–2 (Linda Mulder, ?, and ? in favor; one opposed), though the clerk's roll call was partially garbled. Council later confirmed that those positions are eliminated through prior action. - Township Capital Improvement Plans: The council reviewed plans for Cedar Creek, West Creek, Ross, Hobart, North, Calumet, and St. John townships. This was a non-binding review, and no vote was required. Key Outcomes - Two Percent Pay Raise: Failed (2–3). - Elimination of Vacant Positions (January 2025): Failed (2–3). - Effective Immediately: January 2024 Vacant Position Eliminations: Passed (3–2). - Ordinance Authorizing Tax Levies (OR-1): Passed 5–0. - Ordinance for Appropriations, Forms 4A and 4B (OR-2): Passed 5–0. - Salary Ordinance for 2026 (OR-3): Passed 5–0. - Longevity Ordinance for 2026 (OR-4): Passed 5–0. - Uniform Clothing Allowance Ordinance (OR-5): Passed 5–0. - Per Diem Expense Ordinance for 2026 (OR-6): Passed 5–0. - Binding Recommendation: Lake Ridge Fire Department (OR-7): Passed 5–0. - Binding Recommendation: Lake County Solid Waste (OR-8): Passed 4–1 (one no). - Resolution for Distribution of Funds for Mental Health for Lake County for 2026 (R-1): Amount $84.8723 to regional, $15.1277 to headquarters. Passed 5–0. - Motion to Use Assessed Value of $35,006,432,662.00 for 2026: Passed 5–0. - Motion to Approve 16 Line Statement for Funds, Levies, and Rates for 2026: Passed 5–0. - Overall Budget Outcome: No pay raise included; previously eliminated vacant positions from January 2024 are effective immediately; the budget remains balanced without new positions or raises.

The Lake County Council held its regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. on October 14, 2025, in the Commissioners Court Room/Council Chambers at 2293 N. Main St., Crown Point, Indiana. The Council approved nearly all agenda items, including a $2.63 million drainage appropriation, multiple probation officer salary adjustments, numerous budget transfers and new line items, grant renewals, an amended Health Department fee ordinance, interlocal agreements with River Forest schools and the Town of New Chicago, and two citizen appointments. One council member voted no on the River Forest school interlocal, and a council member announced a legislative proposal to give local governments a role in electric utility rate oversight. Routine Approvals and Actions - Minutes: The September 9, 2025 regular meeting minutes were approved. - Breast Cancer Awareness Month: A resolution was read into the record and approved, recognizing October 2025 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It cited that about four million U.S. women have a history of breast cancer; about 15% of women diagnosed have a family history, while about 85% have no family history; 2025 American Cancer Society estimates of 316,950 women and 2,800 men newly diagnosed and 42,680 women dying; and the five-year survival rate climbing from 67.5% in 1985 to 91.2% today. Nicole Otis of the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides of Northwest Indiana thanked the Council and noted the annual walk is held the second Sunday in October at the Lake County Fairgrounds. - Drainage Board: Approved $2,625,065.46 from the Drainage Improvement Fund for Little Cal River engineering ($25,000) and construction ($2,600,065.46). During discussion, a council member raised stormwater flooding along the state line in Hanover Township; the Surveyor’s office responded that American StructurePoint had begun pre-meetings with IDEM and the Army Corps of Engineers regarding a significantly wet area, with preliminary designs being prepared. - Calumet Township Assessor: Approved a $20,000 transfer from Officials & Administrators to certification, office supplies, professional services, and travel line items. - Criminal Courts: Approved Revised 144 reducing two probation officer lines by $7,385 total. - Court Administrator: Approved creation of an Other Professional Services line item in the Jury Fee Fund and a $3,000 transfer from per diem petit jurors to that line. - Lake Superior Court IV: Approved Revised 144 reducing a probation officer line by $32,280. - Lake Superior Court County Division Room 1: Approved Revised 144 reducing a probation officer line by $16,162. - Lake Superior Court Division III: Approved a $3,392 appropriation in the Problem-Solving Veteran’s Court Fund for part-time pay and FICA, created an office supplies line item in the All Rise Mentor Court Network Fund, and transferred $4.35 from travel to office supplies. - Juvenile Court/CASA: Approved two FY2026 Indiana Supreme Court grant renewal applications for the Lake County CASA Program: a Capacity Building Grant and a Matching Grant. No CASA representative answered the Council’s question about the matching component. - Planning Commission: Approved Ordinance 2591 (Doug Lottes, owner; Nathan Vis, petitioner; 9/17/2025; A-1 to RR) and Ordinance 2592 (Mike Schilling, owner; Mike Skurka, petitioner; 9/17/2025; A-1 to R-1), both with favorable recommendations of 7-0. - County Highway: Approved denial of stop sign petitions for northbound and southbound Burr Street at 113th Avenue after the Highway Department study found the signs were not a necessary installation. - County Highway Fund: Approved a resolution permitting the Highway Department to pay outstanding 2024 invoices from the 2025 budget. - Sheriff: Created line items and approved appropriations in the Comprehensive Highway Injury Reduction Program Grant Fund ($60,950 total: $53,000 overtime and $7,950 officials/administrators) and in the FY25 SAFE Narcan and Essentials Bag Grant Fund ($3,090 for other supplies). - Prosecutor: Approved a resolution transferring $3,279.65 from the Prosecutor’s non-reverting R.I.C.O. Fund to the V.A.W. Stop Grant Fund. A council member noted the RICO fund should be abolished by ordinance next month after the transfer. - Criminal Division Public Defender: Approved a $6,000 transfer from Other Professional Services to Office Supplies. - Fairgrounds: Approved a $3,115 transfer from Maintenance & Service Contracts to Part-Time. - Parks & Recreation: Approved a new grant application for Veterans Memorial Parkway Trail Phase I Broadway Bridge Engineering (Group I-CMAQ). - Commissioners/Lake County 911: Approved a $447,000 E911 Operating Fund transfer among protective services, longevity, differential pay, office supplies, consultant fees, overtime, clothing, maintenance contracts, and other services. - HVAC: Approved a resolution permitting the HVAC Department to pay an outstanding 2024 invoice from the 2025 budget. - Health Department: Approved on first reading, then suspended rules and approved on second reading, an ordinance amending the ordinance establishing Lake County Health Department fees, Ordinance No. 1336A. - Hammond & Gary Courthouses: Approved a $1,200,000 appropriation for utilities and a $26,000 transfer from Service/Maintenance to Part-Time. - Government Center: Approved a $61,792 transfer from Skilled Craft Workers and Service/Maintenance to Part-Time. - County Commissioners: Approved the joint interlocal cooperation agreement with River Forest Community School Corporation for equipment and improvements for River Forest High School Athletics; the vote was 5-1 with one absent, with Councilwoman Christine Seed voting no and citing past citations regarding giving public funds to schools. Also approved a resolution to pay outstanding 2024 invoices, an appropriation reduction of $1,200,000 in PERF deductions, and a $100,000 transfer to unemployment compensation and postage. - County Council Purchasing Agency: Approved on first reading, suspended rules, and approved on second reading an ordinance repealing and rescinding Ordinance No. 1451B, which had established the Lake County Council as the Lake County Purchasing Agency. - Town of New Chicago Interlocal: Approved the joint interlocal cooperation agreement for the design, remodeling and operation of a municipal facility for the Town of New Chicago. Sue Pelltree of New Chicago thanked the Council on behalf of the town manager, mayor, and council, saying the town has “been hurting pretty bad since April” and this will help. Announcements - The Council congratulated Lake County Prosecutor Bernard Carter on his East Chicago Athletic Hall of Fame induction, Assessor LaTonya Spearman on being named Assessor of the Year for Indiana’s Northwest District, and Surveyor Bill Emerson Jr. and his office on receiving the 2025 Excellence in Stormwater Management Award from the Indiana Association for Floodplain and Stormwater Management. - The Council reminded that the Lake County veterans ceremony will take place Thursday, November 13, 2025, at noon in Building A on the second floor in front of the veterans memorial wall. Discussion Items - A council member discussed the $1.2 million utility appropriation approved earlier, noting residents and businesses are struggling with utility bills. He said he is working with state legislators to update Indiana Code Title VIII to include electrical utilities in municipal franchise and oversight provisions, similar to water, wastewater, and stormwater, so elected local officials have a seat at the table in rate negotiations. He acknowledged the proposal was unlikely to be met with cheers but said it was needed on behalf of residents. - Another council member responded critically, saying he had attended rate increase hearings and had not seen a utility receive anything but an increase; he expressed the view that regulators should be appointed by local communities. Public Comments & Testimony - Public comment was opened, but no public comments from attendees are recorded in the transcript. A reminder was given that a budget meeting was scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Key Outcomes - All items passed except the River Forest interlocal agreement, which passed 5-1 with one absent; Councilwoman Christine Seed cast the sole no vote. All other votes passed, with most recorded as six ayes and one absent member. - The Council reappointed Andrea Graciano to the County Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team as the educator representative and appointed Daniel Fagan to the Lowell Library Board for a full four-year term. - Next steps identified: the electrical utility franchise code proposal will be brought to legislators; the Prosecutor’s RICO fund is expected to be abolished by ordinance after the approved transfer; and the Council moved to a 1:00 p.m. budget meeting after adjournment.

The Lake County Board of Elections met on September 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM (as per the agenda) in the Commissioner's Courtroom. The agenda included call to order, roll call, approval of minutes, old business, new business, correspondence, counsel reports, purchase orders, setting next meeting date, public comment, public test, poll locations, and adjournment. No transcript or minutes were provided, so details of the proceedings are not available.

Introductory Paragraph The Lake County Contractors Licensing Board convened on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 3:15 PM UTC. The meeting was called to order with the pledge of allegiance and roll call, with members Jesse Murphy, Scott Cooper, Dre Tippy, and Steve Maggie present. The board reviewed and acted on seven contractor license applications, approving six and deferring one. Discussion Items - First Source Construction Management – President/Owner petitioner for a general contractor's license. Company located in Win Sport, Indiana, in business since 2016, with eight employees. Board reviewed bond, liability insurance, scope, and dates; everything appeared in order. Approved unanimously. - Reconstruction LLC – Owner/CEO petitioner for a general contractor's license. Company started in 2022 as a consultant, new entity in 2025. Just moved back from Florida. Scope, dates, and insurance were correct. Approved unanimously. - Benchmark Access and Equipment LLC – General manager petitioner for a general contractor's license. Company has five employees, in business just over two years. Scope, dates, and insurance were correct. Approved unanimously. - For You Incorporated – Owner petitioner for a general contractor's license. In business a little over 20 years, one employee. Business address is 670 Madison Street. Board reviewed liability insurance, workers' comp, and scope; everything appeared in order. Approved unanimously. - Thermal Dynamic Heating and Cooling LLC – Owner petitioner for an HVAC contractor's license. Company established in 2024, located in Norwich, currently one employee. Bond and insurance were not yet recorded. Board approved contingent on receipt of recorded bond and recorded certificate of liability insurance. Motion passed. - Pillerson Carpentry Incorporated – Petitioner for a specialty carpentry contractor's license. Company started about two months ago, currently two employees, specializing in residential custom home framing. Business address is temporary; board reminded petitioner to update license if location changes. Liability insurance, workers' comp, and scope were correct. Approved unanimously. - GC Concrete Incorporated – Garrett Lydal petitioner for a concrete contractor's license. Motion to defer was made and seconded; board voted to defer until the next month's meeting. Motion passed. Key Outcomes - Six contractor licenses were approved: First Source Construction Management, Reconstruction LLC, Benchmark Access and Equipment LLC, For You Incorporated, Thermal Dynamic Heating and Cooling LLC (with contingency), and Pillerson Carpentry Incorporated. - One application (GC Concrete Incorporated) was deferred to the next meeting. - No other business was brought before the board, and the meeting was adjourned.

The Board of Commissioners met on September 17, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. (as noted for regular meetings; the agenda lists 5:45 p.m. but the transcript indicates a morning start, likely a discrepancy). The meeting covered a large consent agenda with numerous contract approvals, discussions on a sheriff’s K9 purchase, a hiring freeze ordinance veto, and public comments regarding tree replacement in Heather Hills and health board legislation. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of August 20, 2025. - Approved specifications for IBM compatible personal computers; bids due October 15, 2025. - Authorized seeking proposals for moving voting machines for the November 4, 2025 special election. - Numerous contracts and agreements approved in omnibus votes, including: - Legal services for the Assessor (new firm, $7,500/month through Dec 31, 2025). - E-911 O365 renewal ($924/month) and ATT FatPipe device ($370.82/month). - Floodplain administration engineering with Christopher B. Burke Engineering ($15,200 for 2025). - Multiple road cut and utility agreements with Surf Internet, NIPSCO, IMEG Corp. across various townships. - Bridge inspection program with American Structurepoint ($880,055.72 total, 80% federally reimbursed). - Extension of crack seal contract for 2026. - Award of Calumet Township Septic Tank Elimination Project – Administration, Operations & Maintenance to Astbury Water Technology, Inc. ($11,250/month for one year, with options for longer contracts discussed). - Award for driveway culvert extension on 45th Avenue ($17,900) to Grimmer Construction. - Award for sidewalk replacement in Heather Hills Phase 2 ($420,883) to J & J Newell Concrete. - Award for tree removal in Heather Hills Phase 2 ($73,120) to Homer Tree Services. - Legal services proposal with Barnes & Thornburg for TIF matters. - First Amendment to Interconnection Agreement with NIPSCO for solar array upgrades ($120,000 paid in two installments). - Joint Interlocal Cooperation Agreement for River Forest High School athletics ($39,048.88). - Multiple change orders and supplements for highway projects (e.g., septic tank elimination, bridge replacements). - Contracts for health departments: Franciscan Health for electronic health record ($14,550 implementation + $8,051 annual), Ash Wittmer LLC for marketing ($47,400), corrected contract for infant safe sleep equipment ($14,250). - Property disposal requests for Prosecutor, Elections, Data, Superior Court. - Selection of Lochmueller Group for design engineering on Bridge No. 239 over Grand Calumet River (for future removal). - Poor relief appeal decisions for Calumet and St. John townships. - Council ordinances: per diem for PTABOA members, CHIRP grant fund, additional appropriation for Crown Point Community Library. - State Board of Accounts items, certificate of insurance, monthly staff reports. Public Comments & Testimony - Scott Sefton, a Heather Hills resident, expressed concern about the county’s failure to replace trees on 85th Avenue as promised after the first phase of sidewalk work. He criticized the quality of grass seed placed after tree removal and urged closer oversight on the upcoming tree removal contract (Homer Tree Services) and sidewalk project, fearing a repeat of past issues. - Jack Willensloan Nowak of Crown Point praised Highway Department’s Dwayne Alberson for responsiveness. She then addressed health board vacancies and poorly written legislation, requesting commissioners support amended legislation to clarify appointment and oversight responsibilities. She noted positive interactions with health department staff. Discussion Items - Sheriff’s K9 Purchase (Item 8.35): Commissioner expressed opposition due to liability concerns from prior dog bite incidents and lack of evidence of policy changes. The Sheriff’s representative stated a new revamped policy is in place but Commissioner requested a detailed presentation before approval. Motion to table the item passed unanimously (3-0). - Council Hiring Freeze Ordinances (Items 11.4 and 11.5): A motion to veto Ordinance 1511D (restricting hiring of new county employees until 9/30/2026) and its amendment was made, arguing the Council already has budgetary oversight and the restriction is unnecessary as the county is maintaining current levels. The veto passed 2-1, with one commissioner dissenting. - Calumet Township Septic Tank Elimination – Award Discussion: The highway engineer noted Astbury Water Technology’s bid of $11,250/month for one year, with potential savings for three-year ($9,250/month) or five-year ($8,750/month) contracts. The board approved the award of the one-year contract but left extended terms for negotiation. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved as amended with 22 additions. - Numerous contracts and agreements approved as listed in the consent calendar. - Sheriff’s K9 purchase tabled pending review of revised canine policies. - Hiring freeze ordinances vetoed (2-1). - Bids opened and taken under advisement for: West Point Acres sanitary sewer project (low bid $1,889,629 from Primer Construction), UPS cooling room project ($267,300 from Gatlin Plumbing, recommended approval subject to review), NG9-1-1 call handling system ($5,120,273 from AT&T, subject to verification), fuel island improvement project ($673,950 from Panjier Corporation, pending review), bridge repairs on Ridge Road ($155,000 from Ellis Construction), and Buckhill Estates storm sewer rehabilitation ($53,343 from LGS Plumbing, subject to engineer review – concern noted about low bids and potential change orders). - Public comments received and noted; commissioners acknowledged concerns regarding tree replacement and health board legislation.

The Lake County Board of Zoning Appeals convened on September 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. to hear eight petitions, including a set of five related variance requests from Lamar Advertising for a billboard upgrade, and one request for an accessory building. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, emergency exit announcement, and approval of the July minutes. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the July meeting were approved by a voice vote (motion, second, all ayes). Old Business - Petition 23-SC07 (Remanded Findings of Fact): The board addressed a court remand requiring revised findings of fact for a prior special exception. A draft was presented, and the four original voting members (Mark, Jim, Frank, and James) approved it by a voice vote (all ayes). The revised findings will be signed and submitted to the court. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Bortz, owner of the neighboring property at 10107 W. 109th Avenue, spoke against the Lamar Advertising petitions (items 3–7). He expressed concerns that the proposed digital LED billboard would reduce his property value, cause light pollution (flickering, changing colors) toward a planned home, and create traffic safety hazards. He urged the board to uphold existing ordinances and not allow the LED upgrade. - Sean Pennant, Real Estate Manager for Lamar Advertising, presented the company’s case for each variance. He noted that the existing static sign is non-conforming under the new UDO, that Lamar is willing to offer free public service advertising to the county, and that the new digital units have automatic dimmers to reduce light spillage. He also stated that the sign would be a safety improvement over the current tri-vision sign. Discussion Items - Items 1–2 (25-V-33 & 25-V-34 – Smetana): These two petitions for an accessory building variance were removed from the agenda because the property had not been properly advertised. The board agreed to reschedule upon proper advertisement. - Items 3–7 (Lamar Advertising – Hanover Township): The board considered five related petitions for a billboard at 10007 W. 109th Avenue in a Highway Service-2 (HS-2) zone. The requests were: - 25-UV-03: Variance of use to allow an off-premise advertising sign (prohibited in HS-2). - 25-V-35: Variance for sign height (40 ft vs. 24 ft permitted). - 25-V-36: Variance for dynamic display area (752 sq. ft vs. 48 sq. ft limit). - 25-V-37: Variance to allow back-to-back digital LED panels (only one contiguous display allowed). - 25-V-38: Variance to place a dynamic display within 200 ft of an R-3 residential district. Mr. Pennant explained that the existing sign (circa 10–15 years old) is structurally outdated and that Lamar wants to replace it with a new V-shaped monopole, maintaining the same location and height. He provided light meter readings (Daktronics) showing minimal light spillage at 200 ft (values of 0–2 foot-candles). Board members questioned light intensity, dimmer calibration, and safety. Mr. Bortz reiterated his opposition, noting that his planned home would be within 200 ft of the sign. The board discussed the light readings and noted that the sign’s orientation (facing east-west) minimizes impact on adjacent properties. - Item 8 (25-V-39 – Schaap): The petitioner, Ron Schaap, requested a variance to build a 42 ft x 64 ft accessory building (3,264 sq. ft) when 2,178 sq. ft is permitted. The property is 2.7 acres with an existing attached garage. No public comment was offered. The board asked about lot size and existing structures and then approved the request. Key Outcomes - Items 1–2: Removed from agenda; will be rescheduled after proper advertisement. - Item 25-UV-03 (Variance of Use): Motion to approve (including findings of fact) passed by voice vote (all ayes, no nays). - Item 25-V-35 (Sign Height): Motion to approve passed by voice vote (all ayes). - Item 25-V-36 (Dynamic Display Area): Motion to approve passed by voice vote (all ayes). - Item 25-V-37 (Back-to-Back Panels): Motion to approve passed by voice vote (all ayes). - Item 25-V-38 (200 ft from Residential Zone): Motion to approve passed by voice vote (all ayes). - Item 25-V-39 (Accessory Building): Motion to approve (42 ft x 64 ft building for personal use) passed by voice vote (all ayes). - The petitioner for items 3–7 was instructed to apply for site development permits following the variances. - The meeting adjourned without a separate public comment period (similar to the planning commission).

The Lake County Plan Commission met on September 17, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (noted as 11:15:00+00:00 in the instruction) to consider multiple subdivision approvals, zone changes, and study sessions. The meeting also included a lengthy public comment period where numerous residents voiced concerns about a proposed annexation by the Town of St. John and a potential large-scale residential development. The commission approved all new business items unanimously, discussed two study sessions, and took no formal action on the annexation topic beyond committing to monitor the situation. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The minutes from July were approved as submitted by a unanimous voice vote. - Site Development Plans Approved by Staff: Three staff-approved site development plans were noted without further discussion: a commercial fence (25-SDP-16 PC), an entrance and parking lot (25-SDP-17 PC), and a bathroom remodel at the Lake County Fairgrounds (25-SDP-18 PC). Public Comments & Testimony - Rose Kleine (12515 Calumet Avenue, Cedar Lake) expressed strong opposition to the proposed St. John annexation of a 166-acre property, arguing it is a game by the developer to allow a dense development (982 units) on unincorporated land. She questioned the legality of annexation under Indiana Code 36-4-3-4 and noted that adjacent property owners were not notified. - Denise Rodens (15949 West 121st Avenue, Cedar Lake) echoed concerns about traffic, drainage, schools, and emergency services. She stated that St. John representatives told residents they did not need to involve the county and urged the commission to require St. John to meet county standards before any annexation. - Kathleen Kerga (11806 West 117th Avenue, Cedar Lake) highlighted traffic dangers on 117th Avenue, citing accidents, and expressed fears that her well water would be compromised. She pleaded for the commission's help. - Donna Fathge (10729 Maple Lane, St. John) opposed the high density (5-6 units per acre) and warned that if annexed, the development would remain in unincorporated Lake County and become the county's problem. - Sherry Holt (11707 West 119th Court, Cedar Lake) asked whom residents could talk to about their concerns, stating that St. John council members told them they were not obliged to listen. She worried about traffic (estimated 1,500 additional cars) and the lack of infrastructure. - Bill Jackson (11632 Cedar Street, Cedar Lake) raised concerns about drainage, the application of data center rules if annexed, and contradictions between proposed wells and 900+ homes. He asked what happens if the two-year annexation delay is not met. - William Didman (7401 West 92nd Lane) recounted a previous experience with a St. John subdivision where the planning commission bypassed resident input. He argued that St. John should be required to appear before the county plan commission before annexation. - Sandy O. Jean (15202 113th Avenue, Dyer) stated that the crowd at the meeting was only a fraction of those affected. She described the proposed development as greedy and feared it would create a ghetto. - Stacey Deming (10683 State Line Road) emphasized the lack of clarity in the annexation process and expressed concern about the two-year delay tactic. She noted traffic on State Line Road is already problematic. - Matt Bucknowski (14284 West 115th Place, Cedar Lake) criticized St. John's lack of transparency and decorum. He argued that if the true need is water, the town should use its own contiguous property. He urged the commission to prioritize infrastructure before approving such development. - Vern (last name not given, a frequent attendee) praised the commission staff's hard work and suggested the public should get organized and hire an attorney to fight St. John's actions. He also recommended that more funding be allocated to the plan commission for additional compliance officers. Discussion Items - Communications: - Plan Commission Website Listing: The commission discussed adding members' names (without contact information) to the county website. Commissioner Tippy and others supported listing names only to avoid direct contact about petitions. A motion was passed unanimously to list only names. - Environmental Impact Statement Policy for Data Centers: Executive Director Ned introduced a policy to provide a pre-qualified list of consultants for environmental impact statements required for data center special exceptions. The policy was adopted unanimously. - St. John Annexation Discussion: Ned reported on a complaint about activity on a 168-acre property (formerly petitioned for zone change) and subsequent correspondence with the town of St. John. He received a letter from the property manager stating no activity, but later learned of a pending annexation. Commissioner Houston and others noted that any water treatment facility on the property would require a special exception from the plan commission. The commission agreed that the matter is under legal review and no action was taken, but they would monitor developments. - New Business: - 25-FS-04 PC (Lenting Resubdivision): A one-lot resubdivision to correct an encroachment. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved the final plat unanimously. - 25-W-05 PC & 25-PS-05 PC (Wille Brothers Subdivision): A waiver for a flag lot and primary approval for a one-lot subdivision for a cement mixing plant. The applicant noted that all agency comments have been addressed, with only INDOT final permit pending. Both items were approved unanimously. - 25-ZC-07 PC (Lottes/Vis Zone Change): Request to rezone 7.41 acres from A-1 to RR to allow a single residence. The applicant stated the change would limit the lot to one home, preserving rural character. A neighboring property owner (Patrick Ovachkov) expressed concerns about drainage and water displacement. The commission noted that drainage would be addressed at the plat stage. A favorable recommendation was approved unanimously. - 25-ZC-08 PC (Schilling/Skurka Zone Change): Request to rezone a 5-acre parcel from A-1 to R-1 for a one-lot residential subdivision. The applicant explained that neighboring properties have already subdivided, and this is necessary under current rules. No public comments were offered. A favorable recommendation was approved unanimously. - Study Sessions: - 25-SS-02 PC (LHA Properties/Cross Creek Ranch): A study session for an agritourism/agritainment proposal on 94 acres. Attorney Tim Kuiper presented plans for youth clubs, camping, fishing derbies, weddings, and other events. Commissioners expressed strong support, noting it is preferable to residential development and preserves open space. No formal vote; the applicant will submit a special exception application. - 25-SS-03 PC (Aaron Hacker - Fill): A study session for an after-the-fact fill permit on 11 acres. The fill was already placed and leveled, and a barn was built. The applicant acknowledged the need for a special exception. Commissioner Emerson asked about drainage review and the county surveyor's role; staff confirmed they will review the as-built survey and drainage impacts before the formal application. No action taken. Key Outcomes - Website Listing: Motion passed unanimously to list Plan Commission members' names only on the county website (no contact information). - Environmental Impact Statement Policy: Motion passed unanimously to adopt the list of pre-qualified consultants for data center environmental impact statements. - Minutes: Approved as submitted, unanimous. - 25-FS-04 PC (Lenting Resubdivision): Final plat approved unanimously. - 25-W-05 PC (Wille Brothers Waiver): Waiver for flag lot approved unanimously. - 25-PS-05 PC (Wille Brothers Subdivision): Primary subdivision approval granted unanimously. - 25-ZC-07 PC (Lottes/Vis): Favorable recommendation to County Council for zone change from A-1 to RR, approved unanimously. - 25-ZC-08 PC (Schilling/Skurka): Favorable recommendation to County Council for zone change from A-1 to R-1, approved unanimously. - Study Sessions: No formal votes; applicants will proceed with formal special exception applications for agritourism and fill permit. - St. John Annexation: No action taken. The commission will continue to monitor and awaits formal applications. Residents were advised to organize and hire legal counsel experienced in annexation matters.