Town of Cedar Lake
Board of Safety
Regular Meeting Minutes

Pledge of Allegiance

Mr. Stick called the meeting to order and led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Roll Call

Public Comment

Mr. Stick called for public comment three times. No public comment was received at the opening of the meeting.

Agenda Amendment

Motion to amend the agenda to move the promotion of Captain Todd Konradi from the rank of Captain to the rank of Battalion Chief to the beginning of the meeting made by Mr. Kaper; seconded by Ms. Littles.

Motion carries, 4–0.

Fire Department — Promotion

Promotion of Captain Todd Konradi to Battalion Chief

This item was taken out of regular agenda order and addressed first, with family members present for the ceremony. Chief Mager confirmed all certifications are in order for the promotion and that the position is within budget.

Chief Mager delivered the following promotion tribute:

Chief Mager acknowledged the families present and thanked them for their sacrifices in sharing Todd with the fire service for more than 25 years, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. He noted that while promotion within the fire service typically represents a significant leap in responsibility, this promotion is different — because Battalion Chief Konradi has already been performing the duties. In 2024, when the department needed a battalion chief to handle EMS operations and serve as shift officer, then-Captain Konradi stepped up and performed those responsibilities for the past year and a half without the formal rank. Chief Mager described the role as one requiring ongoing hard decision and the qualities of mentor, leader, manager, problem solver, and innovator. He cited empathy, honesty, courage, and grit as qualities Konradi continues to demonstrate, and noted the number one priority for all firefighters — physical and mental well-being — as a standard Konradi exemplifies.

Battalion Chief Konradi’s son and daughter pinned his badge.

Motion to promote Captain Todd Konradi from the rank of Captain to the rank of Battalion Chief made by Ms. Littles; seconded by Mr. Villalobos.

Motion carries, 4–0.

Approval of Minutes

Minutes of the May 13, 2026 Regular Meeting and the May 13, 2026 Work Session were presented for approval.

Motion to approve the May 13, 2026 Regular Meeting minutes and May 13, 2026 Work Session minutes made by Ms. Littles; seconded by Mr. Kaper.

Motion carries, 4–0.

VIPs — May 2026 Report

• 1 call-out; 10 details
• 2 hours on call-outs; 33 hours on details; 11 hours miscellaneous administration
• Total: 46 hours for the month

Police Department

Communications

• Farmers Market Storm Response: During a thunderstorm at the June 10 Farmers Market, Deputy Chief Brittingham directed traffic in the rain and Sergeant Kilgore left his post to assist vendors in taking down their tents. Chief Gruszka praised both for their above-and-beyond community service.
• Special Olympics / Cop on a Rooftop: The Department’s participation at Dunkin’ Donuts on May 15 raised $730+ for Special Olympics. Good turnout.
• Corporal Huppenthal — Notable Arrest: While on routine patrol, Corporal Huppenthal observed a northbound vehicle on US 41 traveling at approximately 135 miles per hour. He pursued and stopped the vehicle; charges filed include reckless driving and speeding citations. A cocaine paraphernalia item was also discovered. Chief Gruszka prepared a formal letter of commendation for Corporal Huppenthal.
• Dog Recovery: Sergeant Moake located and returned a missing dog named Daisy, owned by resident Ashley Barnes, after Daisy had been missing for five days. Ms. Barnes publicly expressed gratitude on social media.

Finances

The Department is operating at slightly over 41% of total annual budget, consistent with the point in the fiscal year. Larger-than-typical purchases in this period include Lexipol licensing, PoliceOne platform renewal, and an extended warranty on the generator at the public safety facility. Fuel budget is on track; pricing is locked in via annual bid at a flat rate.

Staffing

Letter of Resignation — Officer Shaun Meyer

Chief Gruszka reported with regret the receipt of a letter of resignation from Officer Shaun Meyer, effective June 15, 2026. Chief Gruszka described Officer Meyer as one of the department’s better officers and a significant loss. Deputy Chief Brittingham read the resignation letter into the record:

“Chief Gruszka and the Cedar Lake Police Administration: Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from the Cedar Lake Police Department effective June 15, 2026 at the end of my working day. I would like to thank you, Deputy Chief Brittingham, Commander Kidd, the administration, and Administrative Assistant Sarah [Moore] for all that you have done for me and others at this department. Because of you, and some others, this decision to move to another police department has been extremely difficult — quite honestly, one of the toughest decisions I have faced in a long time. I have served under several administrations over my 10 years in law enforcement, and the current administration has been my favorite. My decision has nothing to do with the department or the officers working here. I have decided to leave largely due to the better pay and benefits the department I am going to has to offer. These benefits better align with my future goals for myself and my family. During the next two weeks I am fully committed to ensuring a smooth transition of my responsibilities, and I will ensure all current paperwork and relevant documents are organized so my successor can easily take over. I wish nothing but the best. Sincerely, Shaun Meyer.”

Chief Gruszka noted Officer Meyer’s role as Training Coordinator was particularly significant. The Sergeant position vacated by Fisher and the officer position vacated by Meyer represent two simultaneous openings.

Motion to accept the letter of resignation from Officer Shaun Meyer, effective June 15, 2026, made by Mr. Kaper; seconded by Ms. Littles.

Motion carries, 4–0.

Applications / Eligibility List Update

34 applications received for the open police officer position. 24 were scheduled for the written exam and physical agility test; 18 appeared; 14 passed. Interview process begins June 11–12. Chief Gruszka noted at least one applicant may have prior academy training (to be confirmed). After the new hire process concludes, the Department will begin a promotional process for the vacant Sergeant position. In the interim, the Corporal is performing shift leadership duties.

Training Report

Full training report is included in the Board packet. Chief Gruszka highlighted firearms training: the entire department has now qualified with the new red dot optic-equipped duty firearms. Sergeant Kilgore and Sergeant Miller led the training. Chief Gruszka noted it was his first experience shooting with red dot technology and that after a brief adjustment period he achieved one of his highest qualification scores since the academy. The Department also completed additional firearms training on June 9–10; Deputy Chief Brittingham reported that all officers performed well. Red dot optics are now installed and in use on all duty firearms.

Mr. Kaper noted that at a prior meeting the red dot adoption was described as optional; Chief Gruszka confirmed all officers have since adopted the technology department-wide.

Equipment

EV reimbursement from the state is pending; Chief Gruszka anticipates receipt within the next one to two weeks, after which the two additional patrol vehicles can be ordered. Deputy Chief Brittingham reported the Town mechanic has returned to active duty and immediately began servicing police vehicles, reducing the need for outside shops. A patrol vehicle that was damaged in a no-fault accident has been repaired and returned to service.

SRO Vehicle Wrap: The wrapped SRO vehicle has been completed and is back at the station. Mr. Stick confirmed he observed it on the road and Chief Gruszka confirmed it looks great. Chief Gruszka plans to send a photo to the Board.

Monthly Activity Report — May 2026

• Calls for service: 1,028 (increase from April; attributed to start of summer season)
• Traffic stops: 409  •  Warnings: 357  •  Citations: 150
• Law incident reports: 583
• Arrests: 20  •  Charges filed: 24
• Ordinance violation warnings: 79  •  Ordinance violation citations: 25

Lexipol Policy Updates — Police

No police Lexipol policy updates this month.

Other — Police Department

Employee Assistance Plan — Annual Utilization Review

The Franciscan Health Employee Assistance Plan provided an annual utilization report. Six clients accessed the EAP service during the covered period (a portion of 2025 and into 2026). The full report is included in the Board packet. Chief Gruszka expressed satisfaction that employees are using the available service. Mr. Kaper asked whether the historical reluctance among first responders to seek mental health support is breaking down; Chief Gruszka indicated there is still work to do in that area and noted he has something in development — expected to be ready within a month — to bring to the Board for consideration.

E-Bike Update

Chief Gruszka reported that e-bikes have become a growing enforcement and community education issue across Indiana municipalities. Key points:

• Most parents are purchasing Class 1 or Class 2 bikes (limited to 20 mph); Class 3 (up to 28 mph) purchases are more problematic when made for younger riders.
• The primary violations are not equipment-related but rules-of-the-road failures: riders failing to use the street, running stop signs, and riding on sidewalks.
• E-bikes are required to operate on the street, not sidewalks, regardless of rider age; Indiana statute treats them as bicycles for road rules purposes.
• Riders under age 14 should not be operating e-bikes per applicable statute.
• Chief Gruszka obtained educational materials from Munster PD and is developing a community education program.
• Deputy Chief Brittingham has already posted e-bike rules of the road on social media.
• Newsletter inclusion was discussed; the current newsletter may already be set, but the fall edition is a target.

Ms. Littles raised a concern about e-bikes on sidewalks based on a personal incident while walking dogs; she suggested including the rules in utility bill notices. Chief Gruszka agreed with the utility bill or newsletter approach for broader reach.

District 1 Awards Banquet — May 29, 2026

Officer Dills received the District 1 Life Saving Award at the banquet held May 29 at Blue Chip Casino. Chief Gruszka, Deputy Chief Brittingham, and Commander Kidd attended. Chief Gruszka noted the recognition by District 1 officers reinforces the significance of Officer Dills’ actions.

Protecting Canine Heroes Open House — June 8, 2026

The 4th Annual Protecting Canine Heroes Open House was held Sunday, June 8 at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Good attendance. In attendance from the Department: Chief Gruszka, Deputy Chief Brittingham, Officer Tomko, K9 officer and K9 Johnny, and Administrative Assistant Sarah Moore.

Fire Department

Communications

Chief Mager reported that multiple staff members attended two school field days and a school event, including activities with students. Chief Mager personally attended one field day and noted the enthusiasm of staff was matched by that of the students. He thanked the Department for these community engagement appearances.

Finances

May 2026 purchase orders: $9,566.44. As of May 31, the fiscal year is 41% complete and 34% of the Fire Department budget has been utilized — on track.

Motion to accept the Fire Department financial report made by Mr. Kaper; seconded by Mr. Villalobos.

Motion carries, 4–0.

Staffing

The Fire Department promotion of Captain Todd Konradi to Battalion Chief was addressed earlier in the meeting. No other staffing changes.

Training Report

Total training hours for May 2026: 310. Training focus areas: driver operator certification (joint with Lowell Fire Department) and EMS continuing education. Full report in Board packet.

Equipment

• Ford Explorer Hybrid 1250: All warranty repairs completed; vehicle returned to service June 9, 2026.
• Engine 1212 (Hanover Township): Pump repair vendor has approximately 80% of necessary parts on hand. Chief Mager is waiting for all parts to arrive before beginning repairs to avoid additional downtime.

Monthly Activity Report — May 2026

• Total incidents: 229
• EMS calls: 182
• Fire-related calls: 28
• Vehicle accidents: 19

Lexipol Policy Updates — Fire Department

Chief Mager presented Lexipol policy updates for the Fire Department. All are driven by external regulatory changes: OSHA standard updates, NFPA standard revisions, Indiana legislative changes, and DEA requirements. No changes were generated internally by the Department; one policy (702) includes an additional Lexipol recommendation. Chief Mager reviewed each policy by number and title and recommends adoption of all updates.

• Policy 103 — Policy Manual: Ongoing maintenance; verbiage and punctuation.
• Policy 201 — Emergency Action Plan and Fire Prevention Plan: OSHA.
• Policy 203 — Training Policy: OSHA.
• Policy 313 — Confined Space Rescue: OSHA.
• Policy 315 — Trench Rescue: OSHA.
• Policy 318 — Hazardous Materials Response: OSHA.
• Policy 321 — Child Abuse: Indiana legislative change.
• Policy 500 — Patient Care Reports: Indiana legislative change.
• Policy 504 — Controlled Substance Accountability: DEA requirements.
• Policy 600 — Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Training: NFPA.
• Policy 603 — Emergency Action Plan and Fire Prevention Plan Training: OSHA.
• Policy 604 — Hazard Communication Program Training: OSHA.
• Policy 605 — Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Training: OSHA.
• Policy 606 — Hearing Conservation and Noise Control Training: OSHA.
• Policy 611 — Respiratory Protection Training: OSHA.
• Policy 614 — Live Fire Training: NFPA.
• Policy 702 — Vehicle and Apparatus Inspections, Testing, Repair and Maintenance: Lexipol recommendation; adds definitions (ambulance, EMS first response vehicle, fire apparatus), references vehicle event data recorders, updates NFPA references, adds flexibility for department adaptation. Mr. Kaper asked for detail; Chief Mager explained the primary changes involve clarifying definitions and incorporating data recorder/black box references for newer apparatus. Chief Mager recommends adoption; Lexipol’s legal review team vetted all changes.
• Policy 900 — Illness and Injury Prevention Program: OSHA.
• Policy 903 — Communicable Diseases: Indiana legislative change.
• Policy 907 — Respiratory Protection Program: OSHA.
• Policy 908 — Personal Alarm Devices: NFPA.
• Policy 909 — Health and Safety Officer (HSO): OSHA.
• Policy 915 — Hazardous Energy Control: OSHA.
• Policy 916 — Hazard Communication: OSHA.
• Policy 1004 — Fire Officer Development: NFPA.
• Policy 1020 — Wellness Program: NFPA.

Motion to accept all Fire Department Lexipol policy updates as presented made by Mr. Villalobos; seconded by Mr. Kaper.

Motion carries, 4–0.

Other

Town Council Liaison Report

No formal Town Council liaison report.

Staffing / Retention Discussion

Chief Gruszka raised the topic of police officer retention informally, noting both Officer Fisher and Officer Meyer are departing and that he has heard rumors of additional officers considering leaving. Key points from the discussion:

• Chief Gruszka met with a council member on June 10 to discuss the retention issue and options for addressing it.
• Competing departments are offering higher base pay plus long-term benefits (e.g., Hammond PD offers health/dental insurance after 15 years of service) that Cedar Lake currently cannot match.
• Deputy Chief Brittingham noted the upcoming state property tax reform is expected to reduce the Town’s budget by approximately $800,000 in the coming year, further constraining salary options.
• The Board acknowledged that salary and benefits are set by the Town Council, not the Board of Safety, and committed to forwarding the public’s concerns to the Council.
• Chief Gruszka noted the generational shift in policing culture: officers today are more willing to change departments multiple times in a career, unlike prior generations who typically completed careers at one department.

Public Comment

Jerry Connor — 10330 Paramount Way

Mr. Connor addressed the staffing and retention concerns raised during the meeting. He noted the recently advertised Fire Department Firefighter/Paramedic starting wage of $25.58 per hour and questioned whether that rate is competitive enough to attract quality candidates. He expressed concern that the Department is trading experienced officers for new hires who will take years to develop institutional knowledge and community relationships, describing the situation as “trading down.” He urged the Town and Board to treat the salary gap as an urgent matter before departures accelerate. Mr. Kaper acknowledged that salaries are set by the Town Council and committed to ensuring these concerns are communicated to the Council.

John Hojek — 14550 Garden Way

Mr. Hojek, who identified himself as having fire service and police experience (including patrol and SWAT team service, currently retired and working part time), offered two comments:

• E-Bike Registration Idea: Mr. Hojek proposed that the Town consider a registration/sticker program for e-bikes, similar to the existing golf cart registration program. A small sticker on the bike frame would allow officers to confirm registration and simultaneously provide the registered rider with the rules of the road at the time of registration. He noted this could also deter bike theft. Chief Gruszka acknowledged the suggestion.
• Staffing and Retention: Mr. Hojek drew on his experience in other departments to underscore the severity of the recruitment crisis, noting that Lansing, Illinois is actively recruiting Indiana firefighters with $5,000 sign-on bonuses and a starting salary of approximately $115,000. He described the City of Burbank’s 48-on/96-off scheduling model as a successful retention tool that has attracted recruits including a lateral hire from St. John, Indiana. He noted that when he took his career firefighter exam, approximately 3,000 candidates competed; modern testing pools are a fraction of that size.

Mr. Kaper reiterated for the record that this Board does not set salaries and that the Council approves the budget within state-imposed constraints. Chief Gruszka confirmed he has been actively exploring retention ideas and consulting with other departments.

No further public comment was received. Mr. Stick declared public comment closed.

Adjournment

Mr. Stick declared the meeting adjourned at 6:48 p.m.