Public Meetings - Lake County, Indiana

The Lake County Council held its regular meeting on March 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Crown Point, Indiana. The council approved numerous routine items, passed two zoning ordinance amendments for decommissioning of battery storage and data centers, and heard extensive public testimony on utility issues, weather warning systems, and a proposed data center development. All votes were unanimous (7-0). Consent Calendar - Minutes of January 29 (Special) and February 10 (Regular) approved. - Resolution 26-18 recognizing March as National Women’s History Month. - Resolution 26-19 honoring Crown Point High School’s Ava Strayer (Indiana Girls Wrestling State Champion, second title, 33-0 record). - Superior Court IV transfer of $4,320 between line items. - Juvenile Court revised 144 reducing probation officer salary by $8,358. - Juvenile Court grant application: Indiana Supreme Court Family Recovery Court FY27 renewal. - Juvenile Detention Center grant application: Office of Court Services HOPE Court FY27 renewal. - Juvenile Court/CASA new line item and $5,000 appropriation for capacity building. - Local Roads & Streets: $402,000 appropriation for equipment lease (dump trucks) and $214,615.07 transfer to CEDIT fund. - Sheriff: $33,000 appropriation from Sheriff’s Grant Fund. - Community Corrections: resolution to pay 2025 invoices from 2026 budget and 2027 IDOC grant renewal. - Health Department: Ordinance establishing Opioid Settlement ENGAGE360 grant fund (passed 1st and 2nd readings). - Economic Development: Grant applications for FY2026 CDBG and HOME programs and resolution authorizing $2.2 million HUD agreement. - County Council: resolution to pay outstanding 2025 invoice. - Appointments: Veterans Memorial Parkway Commission (14 members, 2-year terms), Unsafe Building Authority (Scott Cooper reappointed), Data Board nominee (Commissioner Michael C. Repay). Public Comments & Testimony - Denise Conerly-Jefford (Interim GM, Gary Public Transit Corp.): Reported ridership doubling, need for expanded hours and Sunday service, challenges with electric buses and fleet age. Urged local investment in transit as a capital priority, not a donation. Provided budget documentation showing $42 million in federal funds and requested the council’s commitment to a local match. - Dr. Michaela Svenberg (Geary Education Coalition): Highlighted lack of working weather sirens in some communities and called for a countywide study. Also raised issues with NIPSCO rate increases, estimated billing, smart meter reliability, and electricity pricing; encouraged residents to file complaints with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission. - Tom Lincoln (Eagle Creek Township): Opposed the proposed data center cluster on agricultural land, describing it as heavy industrial. Called for independent third-party tier two studies on financial, safety, and environmental impacts within a 10-mile radius, and ironclad liability guarantees for landowners. Requested that the council treat the entire I-65 corridor development as one entity. - Terry Steagle (Highland): Urged a moratorium on data centers and comprehensive countywide planning. Proposed that data centers provide tangible community benefits, such as rooftop solar for residents to offset electricity costs. Emphasized protection of green space, pollinator corridors, and migratory routes. Discussion Items - NIPSCO Smart Meters and Delivery Charges: Councilman Brewer reported from a NIPSCO forum that delivery charges nearly equal usage costs and that residents were not informed they could opt out of smart meters. He raised safety concerns about remote shut-off and turn-on. Council President Seed noted a previous council resolution on delivery charges and said NIPSCO declined a north county forum. - Planning Commission Ordinances (BESS and Data Centers): Council passed Ordinance 2597 (Battery Energy Storage Systems – Abandonment, Decommissioning, Disposal) and Ordinance 2598 (Data Centers – Decommissioning Plan) on first and second readings. Planning Director Ned Kovacevic explained they add decommissioning provisions to existing ordinances. Councilman Niemeyer confirmed the ordinances do not approve any specific project and announced an April 16 open house at Lowell High School for the proposed data center, with state agencies and developers invited. Public comments from Lincoln and Steagle were entered into the record. - Parks & Recreation Appropriation: Council approved $515,000 for professional services, printing, insurance, utilities, and equipment. Councilman Niemeyer requested more strategic multi-year planning to reduce levy reliance, citing the SEA1 delay to 2029. Parks Director Jim acknowledged the need and noted a financial sustainability workshop in April. - Weather Warning Systems: Councilman Brewer expressed concern about lack of universal siren systems and changing weather patterns. Council staff promoted a free severe weather session on March 19 at IUN and a “Behind the Ballot” event on March 15. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (7-0) with no dissents. - Ordinance 2597 (BESS decommissioning) and Ordinance 2598 (Data Center decommissioning) adopted on second reading. - All appropriations, transfers, grants, and resolutions approved as presented. - Appointments confirmed as listed. - No action taken on the data center site plan; next step is the April 16 public open house and subsequent Plan Commission hearing.

Note: The agenda for this meeting was dated February 18, 2026, at 5:30 PM, but the provided information states the meeting took place on February 27, 2026, at 10:15 AM UTC. No minutes or transcript are available. The summary below is based solely on the agenda and does not reflect actual proceedings or decisions. New Business 1. 25-ZC-09 PC – Mason Zone Change – Request to rezone approximately 0.3 miles east of Mount Street on the south side of W. 173rd Avenue (4607 W. 173rd Avenue) in Cedar Creek Township from A-1 (Agricultural) to RR (Rural Residential) to allow a proposed residential subdivision. Previously deferred for failure to advertise. 2. 26-W-03 PC – Vanderzee Waiver – Request for a waiver from Title 154, Article 12, Chapter 40, Section (A)(4) limiting lot depth-to-width ratio to 3.5:1, for lots in Vander-Wold Estates in West Creek Township. 3. 26-PS-02 PC – Vanderzee Primary Approval – Request for primary approval of a two-lot subdivision (Vander-Wold Estates) at the same location. 4. 26-ZC-01 PC – Johnson Sunnybrook Farm Data Center Zone Change – Request to rezone approximately 0.2 miles east of Clay Street on the south side of E. 181st Avenue in Eagle Creek Township from A-1 to M-1 (Light Industrial) to allow a proposed data center. 5. Ordinance Amendment – Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) – Proposed amendment to Title 154, Article 8, Chapter 080 to add a requirement for abandonment and decommissioning throughout the life of BESS. 6. Ordinance Amendment – Data Centers – Proposed amendment to Title 154, Article 8, Chapter 090 to require a decommissioning plan for special exception applications and mandate decommissioning after 15 consecutive months of inactivity unless otherwise approved by Plan Commission. Study Sessions 1. 26-SS-03 PC – Rhinehart – Study session for a special exception to allow a two-unit house on an A-1 zoned property greater than one acre, located at 11880 White Oak Street in Hanover Township. 2. 26-SS-04 PC – Jabaay Ventures I, LLC / Priority Landscape, LLC – Study session for a rezoning from R-3 (One to Four-Family) and B-2 (Rural Business) to B-3 (General Business) to operate a landscaping business with snow removal, office use, and equipment/truck storage at the intersections of 45th Avenue and Hayes Street and 44th Avenue and Hayes Street in Calumet Township. Site Development Plans Approved by Staff 1. 25-SDP-24 PC – Lumen / Superior 4U – Fiber optic booster addition at 1620 W. 129th Avenue in Center Township. 2. 26-SDP-02 PC – D & F Land, LLC / Lamar Advertising – Off-premise LED advertising sign at 10007 W. 109th Avenue in Hanover Township. 3. 26-SDP-03 PC – Joe Giannini / Milmar Buildings – Commercial cold storage building at 10653 W. 181st Avenue in West Creek Township. Key Outcomes No decisions, votes, or directives are recorded in the available materials. The outcomes of the zone changes, waivers, ordinances, primary approvals, study sessions, and staff-approved site development plans are unknown.

The Lake County Board of Elections and Voter Registration met on February 24, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the Commissioners Courtroom, Crown Point, Indiana. Board members present: Kevin Smith (Chair), Michael Brown (Clerk), Mara Candelaria-Reardon, John Reed, and Michael Mellon. The meeting focused exclusively on hearing and deciding 17 candidate ballot access challenges (cases 45-2026-01 through 45-2026-17) filed against individuals seeking various local offices ahead of the 2026 primary election. The Chair opened with a reminder that the board’s decision is not final and can be appealed to superior court. Candidate Ballot Challenges Each challenge was heard in order of filing. Challengers typically alleged that the candidate lacked required voting history, proper residency, or correct certification by the party chair. The board followed a standard process: the challenger presented evidence (often voter history printouts), then the challenged candidate (if present) responded. Attorneys for both sides participated. 45-2026-01 & 45-2026-02 – Niemeyer vs Jones / Toth vs Jones (Cedar Lake Town Council Ward 1): Matt Jones failed to appear. The board unanimously (5-0) upheld the challenge and removed him from the ballot. The second challenge against Jones was deemed moot. 45-2026-03 – Niemeyer vs Wolgemuth (West Creek Town Board): Wolgemuth did not appear. The board unanimously upheld the challenge and removed him from the ballot. 45-2026-04 – Niemeyer vs Corcoran (Winfield Town Board): Corcoran failed to appear. The board unanimously upheld the challenge and removed him from the ballot. 45-2026-05 – Niemeyer vs Swift (Republican Convention Delegate District 12): Swift did not appear. The board unanimously upheld the challenge and removed him from the ballot. 45-2026-06 – Niemeyer vs McGill (Republican Convention Delegate District 12): McGill did not appear. The board unanimously upheld the challenge and removed him from the ballot. 45-2026-07 – Niemeyer vs Seaton (Calumet Town Board): Ms. Seaton appeared and argued that her temporary residence and voter registration were within the same precinct. The board heard testimony from Lori O'Day (Assistant Voter Registration Administrator) about a returned mail issue. After debate, the board voted to deny the challenge, keeping Seaton on the ballot. Discussion highlighted concerns about procedures for updating voter registration based on CAN 2 forms. 45-2026-08 – Repay vs Sund (Hanover Town Board): Darlene Sund appeared and explained she had voted Republican in a primary only to support her daughter’s candidacy. The board, constrained by state law requiring two consecutive primaries in the same party or chair certification, voted unanimously (4-0, with one member recused?) to uphold the challenge and remove Sund from the ballot. (Vote was 4-0? Transcript shows all present voted). 45-2026-09 – Repay vs Jawdat (County Council District 4): Chair Smith recused himself due to a conflict; Vice Chair Brown presided. Jawdat did not appear. The board unanimously upheld the challenge and removed her from the ballot. 45-2026-10 – Guernsey vs Price (Hobart Town Assessor): Mr. Price appeared. The challenge noted he had voted Democratic in a recent primary. Price had chair certification, but it was filed after his CAN 2 on the same day. The board determined that at the time of filing, Price did not know he was certified, and his CAN 2 check indicating chair certification was inaccurate. The board unanimously upheld the challenge and removed Price from the ballot. 45-2026-11 – Gomez vs Smith Jr (North Township Trustee): Samuel Smith Jr. appeared and admitted he mistakenly checked “no” to questions about being a prior candidate and filing campaign finance reports, despite having run for office multiple times. The challenger argued this was fraudulent. The board debated whether it was fraud or a scrivener’s error. The board voted (3-2) to uphold the challenge and remove Smith from the ballot. Members who voted to uphold considered that multiple omissions on a sworn statement went beyond a simple error. 45-2026-12 & 13 – Scott vs Jones & Haynes-Edwards vs Jones (Ross Township Trustee): Combined. Myesha Jones appeared with her attorney. The challenge was based on voting history, but she had chair certification. The board unanimously (5-0) denied the challenge, allowing Jones to remain on the ballot. 45-2026-14 – Johnson-Fletcher vs Hall (Calumet Town Trustee): Tanika Hall appeared. The challenge cited multiple errors on her CAN 12 (omission of spouse’s name, corporate officer status, etc.). Hall admitted rushing and filed an amendment. The board found the errors beyond scrivener’s errors and voted (5-0) to uphold the challenge, removing Hall from the ballot. 45-2026-15 – Schmitt vs Elzinga (Schererville Town Council 4th Ward): Dan Elzinga appeared. The challenge raised residency (he had lived in town only 28 days) and lack of primary voting history, but Elzinga had chair certification. The board voted (3-2) to deny the challenge, keeping Elzinga on the ballot. The minority vote (Brown and Smith) favored upholding. 45-2026-16 – Arce vs Gaines Jr (Precinct Committeeman – G2 20): The challenger was not present. Gaines Jr. had chair certification. The board voted (3-2) to deny the challenge, keeping Gaines on the ballot. 45-2026-17 – Perryman vs Cavazos (Precinct Committeeman – HO 22): Cavazos failed to appear. Perryman testified that Cavazos did not live in the precinct. The board voted unanimously (5-0) to uphold the challenge and remove Cavazos from the ballot. Key Outcomes | Challenge | Office | Challenger | Challenged | Decision (Vote) | |---|---|---|---|---| | 01-02 | Cedar Lake Council Ward 1 | Niemeyer/Toth | Matt Jones | Upheld (5-0) – removed from ballot | | 03 | West Creek Town Board | Niemeyer | Wolgemuth | Upheld (5-0) – removed | | 04 | Winfield Town Board | Niemeyer | Corcoran | Upheld (5-0) – removed | | 05 | GOP Convention Delegate D12 | Niemeyer | Swift | Upheld (5-0) – removed | | 06 | GOP Convention Delegate D12 | Niemeyer | McGill | Upheld (5-0) – removed | | 07 | Calumet Town Board | Niemeyer | Seaton | Denied (5-0) – remains on ballot | | 08 | Hanover Town Board | Repay | Sund | Upheld (5-0) – removed | | 09 | County Council District 4 | Repay | Jawdat | Upheld (5-0) – removed | | 10 | Hobart Town Assessor | Guernsey | Price | Upheld (5-0) – removed | | 11 | North Township Trustee | Gomez | Smith Jr. | Upheld (3-2) – removed | | 12-13 | Ross Township Trustee | Scott/Haynes-Edwards | Jones | Denied (5-0) – remains | | 14 | Calumet Town Trustee | Johnson-Fletcher | Hall | Upheld (5-0) – removed | | 15 | Schererville Council 4th | Schmitt | Elzinga | Denied (3-2) – remains | | 16 | Precinct Committeeman G2 20 | Arce | Gaines Jr. | Denied (3-2) – remains | | 17 | Precinct Committeeman HO 22 | Perryman | Cavazos | Upheld (5-0) – removed | Other Business - The board noted upcoming events: Campaign Finance Training on March 7, 2026, and a Behind the Ballot Open House on March 14, 2026. - No correspondence, counsel reports, or purchase orders were considered. - The next meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM. - The meeting adjourned shortly after 12:30 PM.

The Lake County Contractors Licensing Board met on February 20, 2026, to consider multiple contractor license applications. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call (members present: Councilman Charlie Brown, Dave Saderclist, Jesse Ripping, Scott Cooper, Sal Ospino, Steve Mager), and a moment of silence in memory of deceased inspector Bob Latinsky. No old business or communications were reported. The board then proceeded to new business, reviewing and voting on 14 license petitions. New Business: Contractor License Applications Each applicant appeared before the board; the board reviewed insurance, workers' compensation, bonds, and scope of work. All applications were approved unanimously by voice vote, with two conditional approvals. 1. Four Seasons Heating and Air Conditioning LLC – Alec Grip, Electrical Contractor. Business located in Bedford Park, IL; in business 50–60 years; approximately 1,500 employees. Insurance and workers' comp in order. Approved. 2. Hillcrest Incorporated – Eric Vandern, General Contractor. Located in Sheral, IN; in business about 30 years; 6 employees; residential custom homes. Insurance, bond, and scope in order. Approved. 3. K and K Builders Incorporated – Brad Kutzenberg, General Contractor. Located in Sminster; in business 48 years; remodeling. License previously held by father. Approved. 4. Premier Construction Group LLC – Robert Jovanowski, General Contractor. In business 3 years; bond and insurance in order. Approved. 5. Northwest Fence Incorporated – (project manager/office manager), Fencing Contractor. Located in Romeo Billing; 33 years; about 30 employees. Insurance and bond active. Approved. 6. C and G Concrete Creation LLC – Gordy Horn, Floor Covering Contractor. Located in Crown Point; 20 years; 2 owners (no employees); workers' comp exemption claimed. Motion approved contingent upon receipt of partner's exemption from workers' comp. 7. Assure Energy Solutions LLC – Mike Lunsford, Insulation Contractor. Located in Frankfort, IL; over 15 years; 39 employees. Insurance and workers' comp in order. Approved. 8. CJ Insulation – Jeff Huban, Insulation Contractor. Located in Yorkville, IL; 25+ years; 38 employees; commercial/residential. Bond and insurance in order. Approved. 9. Stands Painting and Decorating Incorporated – Mickey Jebtic, Painting Contractor. In business about 4 years; approximately 100 employees. Insurance and bond good. Approved. 10. Economy Signs Incorporated – Walter Sweat, Sign Installation Contractor. 42 years in business; insurance and bond recorded. Board noted license does not allow electrical work. Approved. 11. Southcom Refrigeration (d/b/a Premier Star, Indiana) – Joshua Dykesman, Plumbing Contractor. Project manager/estimator; company has 4 plumbers. Bond expired January 10, 2026; new bond required. Motion approved contingent upon receipt of new bond recorded in the county. 12. R.W. Collins Company – Dominic Piscopo, Demolition Contractor. Company 80 years; located in Bedford Park, IL; 40 employees. Insurance covers demolition and tank work. Approved. 13. R.W. Collins Company – Dominic Piscopo, Underground Tank Contractor (same company, separate license for underground storage tank removal). Approved. 14. Owner Acting as General Contractor – Rafael De La Paz Guzman, for property at 13505 West 81st Avenue, Dyer, IN 46311. Building own house; will hire licensed contractors. Insurance valid through February 2027. Approved. Key Outcomes - All 14 license applications were approved unanimously by voice vote. - Two conditional approvals: C and G Concrete Creation LLC (workers' comp exemption for partner) and Southcom Refrigeration (new bond recorded in county). - Meeting adjourned after no further business.

The Lake County Board of Commissioners met on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Commissioners' Courtroom, Crown Point. The meeting included approval of numerous routine contracts, bid openings, and a few discussion items. Public comments addressed health department operations and environmental concerns. Several items were deferred to the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Agenda Amendments: Items 3.9 (tree replacement bids) and 3.7 (duplicative of 3.12) were deleted; item 2.8 was added. Agenda approved as amended (3-0). - Minutes: Minutes of January 21, 2026 regular meeting approved (3-0). - Approvals (omnibus): The following items were approved without objection: - Specifications for bids (Items 5.1-5.10) - Addenda (Items 6.1-6.5) - Solicitations for proposals (Items 7.1-7.3) - Juvenile court contracts (8.1-8.14) - Data processing legal services (8.15) - Surveyor aerial mapping contract (8.16) - Assessor software license renewal (8.17) - Highway utility and road cut agreements (8.18-8.23) - Public defender contract (8.24) - Auditor consulting contract (8.25) - E-911 purchases and renewals (8.26-8.34) - Lake Superior Court legal services (8.35) - Sheriff's contracts and purchases (8.37-8.54) with discussion on 8.54 (boat repair) noted - Criminal court contracts (8.55-8.56) - Health department software agreement (8.57) - Highway items (8.58-8.59, 8.61-8.74) - Commissioners' contracts (8.75-8.79) - Elections equipment (8.80) - Superior Court legal services (8.81) - Highway addenda for Bridge 51 (8.82) - NIPSCO interconnection amendment (8.83) - Elevator repairs at Gary Courthouse (8.84) - Property disposals (9.1-9.2) - West Creek and Hanover Township assistance guidelines (10.2, 10.6) - Quit Claim Deed for Andy Young property (10.3) - Calumet Township appeal decisions (10.4) - Notice of public hearing for CDBG monies (10.5) - State Board of Accounts items (12.1-12.4) - Bonds and insurance (13.1-13.2) - Staff reports (15.1-15.2) - Certificates of insurance (16.1-16.4) - Deferred: Item 8.36 (Cintas floor mat agreement) was deferred pending review of other mat contracts. Item 10.1 (Health Department presentation) was deferred to March 11 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Jackie Sloan: Thanked the board and commended Health Department staff Sheila Paul for improving financial practices (e.g., charging for services). She requested three actions: confirmation of the health board balance per statute, an inquiry with the state on the details of an excellence award received by the health department, and endorsement of proposed legislative amendments to health statutes. She noted it was too late for the current session but hoped for future action. - Calvin Fulton (Hobart resident): Raised concerns about high E. coli levels (2,400 vs. state limit of 235) in Deep River near his property. He has been working with the City of Hobart since April 2025 and requested assistance from the commissioners to connect with agencies to address the issue. Discussion Items - Item 8.60 – Consultant Selection for Bridge Design: Commissioner moved to select Gonzalez for design engineering services for Bridge Structure 1018 (159th Avenue over Spring Run Ditch). Motion carried 3-0. - Item 8.54 – Sheriff's Boat Repair: Discussion on the need to replace the hybrid air/foam collar on the M3 patrol boat (cost $20,266.46). The sheriff's representative explained it is a maintenance item. The item was included in the omnibus approval. - Item 8.57 – Health Department Epic Connect Software: A commissioner questioned the need for Franciscan Health as the provider. Health Department staff explained it is for electronic medical records and they have an existing contract with Franciscan. Approved 3-0. - Utility Cut Fees: During approval of highway utility agreements, a commissioner raised the possibility of charging fees for processing utility permits and road cuts. The highway engineer noted that an ordinance would be required to establish fees. No formal action taken. - Item 11.5 – Bond Ordinance: Ordinance 1517B authorizing up to $7,000,000 in judgment funding bonds was approved (3-0) before the related resolution (10.7). - Item 10.7 – Final Order for 2026 Judgment Funding Bonds: Approved 3-0. - Item 10.8 – Amended Interlocal Agreement with City of Gary: For Howe Park and Gleason Clubhouse improvements; no new funding, only additional purpose. Approved 3-0. Key Outcomes - Award of Bid – Bridge 51 Deck Replacement: Motion carried to award the contract to Wreath Riley (low bidder) subject to engineer approval, with a formal contract to be presented at the March 11 meeting. (3-0) - All other bid openings (Items 3.1-3.6, 3.8, 3.10, 3.12) were taken under advisement for review and potential award at the next meeting. - Deferrals: Item 8.36 (Cintas) and Item 10.1 (Health presentation) deferred to March 11, 2026. - Next Meeting: March 11, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Agenda deadline: February 25, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Other - Commissioners paid tribute to the late Reverend Jesse Jackson. - Meeting adjourned.

The Lake County Drainage Board met on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the Lake County Government Center in Crown Point, Indiana. The Advisory Committee convened at 8:00 AM, followed by the Drainage Board at 9:00 AM. All three board members—Chairman Michael C. Repay, Jerry Tippy, and Kyle W. Allen Sr.—were present, along with Attorney Peter Katic and technical staff. The meeting covered current watershed projects, applications for drain work, MS4 water quality initiatives, bid openings, and financial approvals. The board acted on several recommendations from the Advisory Committee. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the January 21, 2026 meeting minutes by a 3-0 vote. - Permission to Open Bids/Proposals: Granted Attorney Katic permission to open bids and proposals, carried 3-0. Reports and Correspondence - Little Calumet River Basin Development Commission: The Surveyor reported that the commission's meeting would be held that evening and was open to the public. He thanked the commission for awarding funding for the Dyer Ditch project and for contributing to the Schoon Ditch project. - NIRPC Press Releases: Two press releases were received regarding the 2026-2030 Transportation Improvement Program and an amendment to Invest NWI. - INAFSM Legislative Reports: Reports for January 23 and February 6, 2026 were noted. Discussion included a proposal to eliminate certain elected county offices (not including the county surveyor), which did not advance out of committee. - INDOT Notice of Project Advancement: INDOT, in cooperation with IDOT, will proceed with improvements to the I-80/94 Borman Expressway in Lake County, Indiana, and Cook County, Illinois. - Kankakee River Watershed: The Kankakee River Basin Yellow River Basin Development Commission Technical Advisory Committee will meet on February 20, 2026; the draft Flood Preparedness and Response Plan was distributed. The Surveyor was appointed to the planning team. - Clearing & Snagging Crew: A report from Assistant Drainage Administrator Brown was submitted regarding monthly crew activity. - Current Projects – Little Calumet River Watershed: - Hart Ditch Stabilization: Austin Equipment is working; no action items. - Schererville Ditch Maintenance: Delta III invoice 13148 for $82,178.64 was recommended by the Advisory Committee and approved. - Schoon Ditch Maintenance: A Gariup invoice remains under review. - Current Projects – Kankakee River Watershed: - Brown Levee Ditch Maintenance: A change order from Delta III for hauling spoil in the amount of $29,525 was approved. The Advisory Committee noted the ditch had not been cleaned in about 100 years, and the spoils were too organic/soupy to bank. Two Delta III invoices—$106,496.25 and $155,078.25—were also approved. - Collective Motion: After individual approvals, the board approved agenda items 5A through 5E as a block (3-0). Applications and Petitions - 493-11-25-I-III Turkey Creek Lateral 5, New Elliott: Applicant David Kubik requested a temporary pathway to remove junk and debris. IDEM was contacted and documented the project as a net positive. No action was taken by the board. - 498-01-26-I-II-III Beaver Dam Ditch, Crown Point: I-65 Beacon Hill Partners, agent DVG Team, Inc., proposed an access drive and dumpster enclosure within the 75-foot drainage easement. The CBBEL review recommended approval with no conditions. The board approved the application. - 500-02-26-I-III Bull Run Ditch, St. John: NIPSCO proposed to install a 4-inch plastic gas main under the regulated drain via directional bore at a minimum depth of 5 feet. An ASI review was presented; the transcript does not record a formal motion on this application. MS4 Water Quality - Juvenile Detention Center Restoration: Three proposals were opened and found to be in proper legal order: - Delta 3 Inc.: $122,935.50 - Dyer Construction Company Inc.: $172,655.20 - Austin Equipment: $187,879.00 The board approved awarding the contract to Delta 3 Inc. based on the Surveyor's and engineer's recommendation (3-0). - 2025 Beaver Dam Lateral 14 Structure Location and Rehabilitation Project: Final payment/retainage to Delta 3 in the amount of $10,935.00 was approved with a favorable recommendation from the Advisory Committee. - Soil and Water Conservation District Invoices: Two invoices were approved: $5,000 for public education/outreach services (MCM 1) and $20,000 for the 2025 Agricultural Cover Crop Cost Share Program. Financial Approvals - Ernie Niemeyer Ditch & Levee: Two invoices totaling $400 from Tom Larson were approved for the relocation of two beavers and removal of dams—one at the Hayden Property and one at the Hunting Area (Duncan Property), each $200. Both were in the regulated drain and were favorably recommended by the Advisory Committee. Bids and Proposals - Beaver Dam Lateral 14 – Lake County Fairgrounds: Five bids were received from 10 invitees for the tile reconstruction project. The bids were: - Austin Equipment Inc.: $49,522.00 - Delta 3 Inc.: $290,608.00 - Gough Inc.: $327,776.91 - Grimmer Construction Inc.: $468,800.00 - LGS Plumbing Inc.: $470,048.00 The board discussed the time-sensitive nature of the project and the importance of responsiveness over low price. A motion to allow award to the lowest most responsive bidder pending review carried 3-0. Public Comments - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes and permission to open bids (both 3-0). - Approved reports and correspondence items, including the Schererville Ditch invoice and Brown Levee change order/invoices. - Approved application 498 (Beaver Dam Ditch) with no conditions. - Awarded Juvenile Detention Center Restoration to Delta 3 Inc. for $122,935.50. - Approved final payment of $10,935.00 for the Beaver Dam Lateral 14 rehabilitation project. - Approved $25,000 in invoices to the Lake County Soil and Water Conservation District. - Approved $400 in beaver/dam removal invoices. - Authorized award of the Beaver Dam Lateral 14 fairgrounds project to the lowest most responsive bidder pending review. - The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 11, 2026, with the Advisory Committee at 8:00 AM and the Drainage Board at 9:00 AM in the Commissioners Courtroom.

The Lake County Drainage Board Advisory Committee convened on February 18, 2026, at 8:00 AM in the Commissioners Courtroom. The meeting focused on reviewing project updates, approving payments, and making recommendations to the Drainage Board. Eight of eleven townships were represented: Cedar Creek (Alvis Call), Senator (David Hugender), Eagle Creek (John Jurers), Over (Mike Hannagan), North (David Medina), Ross (Tekwa Austin), St. John (Jeffrey Hewitt), West Creek (High Walk), and Winfield (Cody Retals). Three townships were absent. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the January 21, 2026 meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote. Township Reports - Eagle Creek Township reported that the Brown Levee project has removed sediment and is awaiting drying. They inquired about cleaning the Brown Ditch from its source to termination and asked about changing the designation of a portion of the ditch. The administrator noted that renaming would be confusing given historical designations. - West Creek Township requested attention to the Marshall property north of the co-op after March 31 and asked to schedule a meeting to discuss a compiled report. - No other townships had reports. Administrative Reports (Daniel Gossman) - Little Calumet River Watershed: The Little Calumet River Basin Development Commission approved cost-sharing for the Dyer Ditch project. NIRPC press releases, INAFSM 2026 legislative reports, and an INDOT/IDOT notice on I-80/94 Borman Expressway improvements were noted. Hart Ditch stabilization is underway with no action items. An invoice of $82,178.64 from Delta III for the Schererville Ditch maintenance was recommended and approved. The Schoon Ditch invoice from Gariup remains under review. - Kankakee River Watershed: The Kankakee River Basin Development Commission Technical Advisory Committee meeting is scheduled for February 20, 2026, with a draft flood preparedness plan. A change order request from Delta III for $29,525.00 for additional spoil removal on the Brown Levee Ditch was recommended and approved (unanimous). Two Delta III invoices totaling $261,574.50 ($106,496.25 and $155,078.25) for the same project were also recommended and approved (unanimous). Applications and Petitions - 493-11-25-I-III Turkey Creek Lateral 5 (New Elliott): Applicant David Kubik proposed a temporary pathway to remove junk and debris. IDEM was notified and supports the net-positive removal. The committee recommended holding the application for one month to allow weather cooperation before moving forward. - 498-01-26-I-III Beaver Dam Ditch (Crown Point): Applicant I-65 Beacon Hill Partners LLC (Agent: DVG Team, Inc.) requested permits for an access drive and dumpster enclosure within a drainage easement. After review, approval was recommended and granted by voice vote. - 500-02-26-I-III Bull Run Ditch (St. John): Applicant NIPSCO proposed installing a 4-inch gas main under the regulated drain via directional bore. Review comments remain unaddressed; no action was taken, and the item will be revisited next month. MS4 Water Quality - Capital Projects: The Juvenile Detention Center Restoration project will have bids opened at the Drainage Board meeting at 9:00 AM. The final invoice from Delta III ($10,935.00) for the Beaver Dam Lateral 14 structure location and rehabilitation project was recommended and approved (unanimous). - Funding Invoices: Two Lake County Soil and Water Conservation District invoices were recommended and approved: $5,000 for public education/outreach (MCM 1) and $20,000 for the 2025 Agricultural Cover Crop Cost Share Program. Financial - Kankakee River Watershed: Payments of $200 each (total $400) to wildlife specialist Tom Larson for beaver relocation and dam removal at the Ernie Niemeyer Ditch & Levee (Hayden Property and Hunting Area) were recommended and approved (unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - Kathy Larue, St. John Township Trustee, thanked the committee and specifically acknowledged Jeff Hewitt for his service. No other public comments were received. Key Outcomes - Advisory Committee recommended approval of all presented invoices and change orders, including: - Delta III payment for Schererville Ditch ($82,178.64) - Brown Levee Ditch change order ($29,525.00) - Two Delta III invoices for Brown Levee Ditch ($106,496.25 and $155,078.25) - Beaver Dam Lateral 14 final invoice ($10,935.00) - Two Soil and Water Conservation District invoices ($5,000 and $20,000) - Beaver relocation payments ($400 total) - Application 498 was approved; Application 493 was held over; Application 500 was deferred. - Bids for the Beaver Dam Lateral 14 reconstruction at the Lake County Fairgrounds will be opened at the Drainage Board meeting later in the day. - The next meeting is scheduled for March 11, 2026 (one week earlier than usual, due to a conference).

The Lake County Board of Zoning Appeals met on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, election of officers for the year, and consideration of one variance of use petition. The board approved the petition with a condition requiring demolition of the existing house within 90 days of occupancy of the new house. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the December 2025 meeting minutes. - Elections were held for board officers for 2026. After discussion, the existing slate (president and vice president) was retained without change, and the board unanimously approved the slate. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke for or against the petition. Discussion Items - Petition 26-UV-01 BZA – Cynthia A. Erbert, Owner/Petitioner - Request: A variance of use from the Unincorporated Lake County Unified Development Ordinance to allow construction of a second detached house on the same lot at 1606 Belshaw Road, Cedar Creek Township. The owner occupies the existing 160-year-old house and will live in it while the new house is built, then demolish the old one. - The petitioner, Cindy Ebert, explained she and her daughter need to stay in the existing home during construction. - Board member Steve asked about enforcement to ensure demolition occurs after the new house is occupied. Discussion noted that a 90-day condition after occupancy is standard and that failure to comply would be a violation enforceable by the building department or through legal action. The board decided not to require a surety bond. Key Outcomes - The board approved the variance of use (26-UV-01) with a stipulation that the existing house must be demolished within 90 days after the new house receives a certificate of occupancy. The motion was made and seconded; all members voted in favor. The meeting then adjourned.

The Lake County Plan Commission met on February 18, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. The meeting covered several agenda items including agenda adjustments, approval of December minutes, a study session for a landscaping business rezoning, public comments on a proposed data center rezoning, two ordinance amendments for decommissioning requirements, a study session for a two-unit dwelling, and approval of site development plans. The meeting lasted over three hours. Agenda Adjustments - Item 25-ZC-09 (Roy W. and Sandra S. Mason zone change) was removed from the agenda due to the petitioner's failure to advertise, as required for public hearing. - Study session item 26-SS-04 PC (Jabaay Ventures I, LLC) was moved to the beginning of the study session portion to accommodate the petitioner's other meeting obligations. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The December 2025 meeting minutes were approved without discussion. - Site Development Plans Approved by Staff: Three plans were acknowledged as permits issued: 25-SDP-24 PC (fiber optic booster addition for Lumen/Superior 4U, Inc.), 26-SDP-02 PC (off-premise LED advertising sign for D & F Land, LLC/Lamar Advertising), and 26-SDP-03 PC (commercial cold storage building for Joe Giannini/Milmar Buildings). No objections were raised. Study Session – Jabaay Ventures I, LLC (26-SS-04 PC) - Request: Owner-initiated rezoning from R-3 (One to Four-Family Dwelling) and B-2 (Rural Business Zone) to B-3 (General Business Zone) for a landscaping business, snow removal services, office use, and equipment/truck storage. The property is located at the northwest quadrant of 45th Avenue and Hayes Street, and northeast/northwest quadrants of 44th Avenue and Hayes Street in Calumet Township. - Presentation: The petitioner's attorney explained that the property had been used for heavy equipment storage (formerly known as the Cleary property) for over two decades under the mistaken belief it was zoned B-3. A previous study session was held in April 2025, and after a survey, two parcels were missing from the legal description, necessitating a new study session. Aerial imagery from 2008, 2013, and later years showed consistent B-3-type use. The area includes many B-2 and B-3 uses along Grant Street, a truck thoroughfare. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners noted the request fits the character of the area. No public testimony was taken as this was a study session. The commission offered favorable feedback, directing the petitioner to proceed with the rezoning application. Public Comments & Testimony (on 26-ZC-01 – Johnson Sunnybrook Farm, LLC Data Center Rezoning) - Tom Lincoln (16321 Colorado Street, Eagle Creek Township, 22 acres, 3.3 miles from site): Opposed the rezoning. Expressed concerns about aquifer contamination from diesel fuel, industrial chemicals, and biocides; potential dewatering of domestic wells; lack of first responder knowledge of chemicals; and the rural character of the area. He distributed written remonstrance. - Crystal Chandler (748 Mohawk Drive): Urged the commission and public to educate themselves on data center impacts, check personal contributions to AI demand, and take action by calling representatives and attending public hearings elsewhere. - Stephanie Barranco Lincoln (16321 Colorado Street): Opposed rezoning, stating she moved from industrial Whiting to Hebron for agricultural quality of life. She recommended repurposing existing vacant industrial land for data centers instead of rezoning farmland. - Jim Lopez (129 Center Street, Lowell, network engineer): Opposed, noting Lowell already has power outages and water warnings. He stated data centers use more power than Hebron and Lowell combined, questioned guarantees that NIPSCO rates and infrastructure won't be strained, and requested an independent impact study. - Unnamed resident (265 Navajo Trail, Lowell): Requested the commission not vote favorably until a thorough, good-faith assessment is conducted, and expressed concern that the petitioner's team scoffed at public input. - John Jurzer (4103 East 217th Avenue, Eagle Creek Township, township board member, three-generation farmer): Opposed, citing cumulative industrial impacts (quarry, solar plant, cold storage) and noise. Requested reconsideration. - Ted Watecki (17907 Colorado Street): Raised concerns that the nearby Dinwiddie 345kV substation may lack generators needed for completion, and that his well was affected by nearby construction. Asked for research before approval. - Tom Weston (18445 Candace, Lowell, computer programmer): Opposed, mentioning NIPSCO's new remote-shutoff meters and potential rolling blackouts. He argued data centers serve AI and surveillance that drain resources. - Pam Kokas (4804 East 181st Avenue, corner of Clay and Route 2): Opposed, citing increased semi traffic, noise, and dust from existing industrial uses near her home. - Ryan Timer (16190 Clay Street, electrical contractor for data centers): Spoke as a resource for residents but stated he does not want the data center in his backyard. He recommended using industrial land further north for revitalization. - Terry Steagle (spoke during general public comment later): Encouraged the commission to add green space corridors, fence-line air and noise monitors, and a dedicated website for compliance data to future data center ordinances. Discussion Items – Data Center Rezoning (26-ZC-01 PC) - The petitioner (Sentinel Data Centers) presented the project via a slide presentation: rezoning 160 acres from Agricultural (A-1) to Light Industrial (M-1) to build a hyperscale data center campus (500 MW capacity). Key claims: $5B investment, 2,500+ construction job years, 250+ permanent jobs, air-cooled design with minimal water usage, low traffic impact (mostly cars), full noise ordinance compliance, and proximity to the existing Dinwiddie 345kV substation. The project is near other industrial uses (solar farm, concrete plant, battery storage, NIPSCO substation, quarry, etc.). - After public comments, the petitioner's representative, David Westland, proposed holding one or more public forums (town hall style) to answer questions and requested a deferral to allow time for such meetings. Commissioner Tippy and others supported the idea, with Commissioner Tippy offering to use the county auditorium. - Motion to defer: Passed by a vote of 5-1. The item will automatically appear on the next month's agenda; no re-advertisement is required for the public hearing, but the public forum will be advertised separately. The Commission emphasized transparency and community engagement. Key Outcomes – Ordinance Amendments - Ordinance to Amend BESS Regulations (Battery Energy Storage Systems): Adding a requirement for abandonment and decommissioning plans, including surety bonds updated every five years. Passed favorably to County Council by voice vote (all ayes). - Ordinance to Amend Data Center Regulations: Adding specification for decommissioning plan requirements (previously only required a plan without criteria). Includes 15-month inactivity trigger for decommissioning, restoration to pre-development conditions or repurposing, and surety bond updates. Passed favorably to County Council by voice vote (all ayes). Study Session – Danielle Rhinehart (26-SS-03 PC) - Request: Special Exception for a two-unit house (duplex) on an A-1 zoned property greater than one acre at 11880 White Oak Street, Hanover Township. Petitioner seeks to build an addition to her existing home to create accessible living space for her elderly parents. - Discussion: The petitioner explained that her parents are in their 70s with medical issues and can no longer maintain their home. A standard 590 sq. ft. addition is too small. Staff noted that A-1 zoning allows a duplex via special exception, which is a better path than a variance for size. Commissioners were supportive, noting the use as in-law quarters. The commissioner asked about future rental potential, and it was clarified that the owner may rent the second unit if she occupies one. - Outcome: The study session concluded favorably; the petitioner was encouraged to proceed with the special exception application. General Public Comment - Terry Steagle (continued from earlier): Emphasized the need for green space corridors, pollinator habitats, and environmental buffers in large-scale development. He also suggested requiring fence-line air and noise monitors with public data access. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned after a motion and second. Key Outcomes Summary - Deferred: 26-ZC-01 (Johnson Sunnybrook Farm data center rezoning) – deferred to allow public forums; vote 5-1. - Favorable Recommendation to County Council: BESS decommissioning ordinance and Data Center decommissioning ordinance (both unanimous). - Favorable Direction: Jabaay Ventures rezoning study session – proceed with application. - Favorable Direction: Danielle Rhinehart special exception study session – proceed with application. - Approved as Listed: Site development plans (three items).