Town of Cedar Lake
Park Board
Regular Meeting Minutes

Pledge of Allegiance

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

Meeting Called to Order: 5:30 p.m.

Roll Call

Announcements

Mr. Jostes welcomed Jenna Norman to her first Park Board meeting as Administrative Assistant.

Mr. Jostes announced that Paul Rodriguez has resigned from the Park Board. Mr. Rodriguez cited increasing demands on his time. Mr. Jostes thanked Mr. Rodriguez for his service, noting he has been a member since the formation of the current Board — approximately four years — and served as President for the past two years. The Board expressed gratitude for his contributions and leadership.

Note: With Mr. Rodriguez's resignation, Mr. Jostes presided as Vice President. The Board functioned with three voting members throughout the meeting (Jostes, Brannon, Marquardt).

Consent Agenda

1. Minutes: April 2, 2026 regular meeting.
2. Claims: Parks & Rec General Fund — $39,928.92; Park Impact Fee Fund — $0.00; Parks & Rec Non-Reverting Fund — $3,384.24; Clubhouse Non-Reverting Fund — $4,047.63. Total Expenditures: $47,360.79.
3. Donations:
   • Mindi Ray — 5 Easter baskets for the Easter event
   • Leo's Garden — donated and planted a cherry tree for the Arbor Day event ($415.39)
   • JMA Architects — $500 Movies in the Park sponsorship
   • Fraternal Order of Eagles #2529 — $250 Movies in the Park sponsorship

Mr. Jostes thanked all donors on behalf of the Board.

Motion to approve the consent agenda made by Ms. Brannon; seconded by Mr. Marquardt.

Motion carries, 3–0.

Old Business

1. Founders Creek Trail

Mr. Jostes reported that following receipt of a cancellation letter from NIRPC regarding the current grant cycle, the Board and staff have decided to remove this item from the active agenda in the short term. The Parks Department will reapply and anticipates restarting the project at the beginning of 2027. The item will be revisited in the fall.

Motion to table the Founders Creek Trail item and remove it from the active agenda, with the intent to revisit in fall 2026, made by Ms. Brannon; seconded by Mr. Marquardt.

Motion carries, 3–0.

2. Potawatomi Park Improvements

Ms. Ray introduced Luke Sherry (CBBEL) to present a conceptual phasing plan for Potawatomi Park, which the Board has been working to develop as an accessible park space including a beach. The Polk Street parcel adjacent to the park has been acquired and the existing structure demolished. Mr. Sherry presented three phases with cost estimates:

• Phase 1 — Stormwater / Drainage (~$217,000): Construction of detention basins to intercept overland flow that currently erodes the park grounds and beach area. Includes storm sewer installation and restoration of eroded gullies. Mr. Sherry noted this phase should precede beach installation to avoid undermining any improvements.
• Phase 2 — Beach Installation (~$57,000): Installation of a beach area. Costs could scale up or down depending on the size and scope selected.
• Phase 3 — Parking Lot (~$440,000): Full parking lot on the Polk Street parcel with retaining walls to address significant grade changes. Topography is the primary cost driver.

Total estimated project cost across all phases: approximately $700,000.

Short-term option discussed: a small number of parking stalls on the Polk Street parcel, with a drain connecting to an existing storm sewer along the north side of Polk Street. Mr. Sherry described this as straightforward to implement and a logical first step. Ms. Ray noted the full parking lot design should be considered even for a small initial phase to ensure future expansion does not require tearing up early infrastructure.

Mr. Sherry also noted a possible future partnership with the Stormwater Board, which is exploring a storm sewer alignment through the Meyer Manor Terrace / Schubert-Dodge area that could potentially route through the park. This remains conceptual and would be an opportunity to share costs.

The Board acknowledged the sticker shock of the full conceptual plan and agreed it would be approached in phases. The item is deferred to the June meeting for further direction after Board members have had time to review the materials.

Motion to defer Potawatomi Park Improvements to the June 4, 2026 meeting for further direction made by Ms. Brannon; seconded by Mr. Marquardt.

Motion carries, 3–0.

3. Fleet Decals

Ms. Ray presented updated options for fleet decals on the Parks Department pickup trucks, as well as a mockup for a full wrap of the new enclosed trailer. Discussion:

• Pickup Trucks: The Board selected Option D — a Parks and Recreation banner across the tailgate, approximately 8 inches by 12 inches. The trucks already carry small Parks emblems on the corner panels; the tailgate badging will provide more visible identification. Mr. Banhart recommended a smaller, cleaner badge (rather than a full tailgate banner) citing durability and ease of replacement; Option D as presented represents a clean banner format. Ms. Ray confirmed she can price the selected option and work within her department head spending authority for the three trucks.
• Enclosed Trailer Wrap (~$3,100): The Board discussed but did not act on the trailer wrap. While Mr. Jostes and Ms. Ray expressed support for the branding and protection value, Ms. Brannon suggested the $3,100 expenditure could be revisited at end-of-year budget review if a surplus exists. Ms. Ray agreed the wrap is not an immediate need and offered to bring it back as a standalone agenda item closer to budget season.

Motion to approve fleet decal badging (Option D, approximately 8 by 12 inches) for the three Parks Department pickup trucks, with cost to be determined and within the Superintendent's department head spending authority, made by Mr. Marquardt; seconded by Ms. Brannon.

Motion carries, 3–0.

New Business

1. Shades Park — 7105 W. 134th Avenue

Ms. Ray reported that following the Town Council's direction to transfer the Shades parcel to the Park Board as a community green space, the Parks Department is now ready to begin clearing the heavily vegetated lot. A quote of $6,500 has been received for tree removal, stump grinding, hauling, and bush hogging the parcel, preserving one large oak tree. Two small sheds at the rear of the property will be removed by the Parks crew using the dump trailer after heavy clearing is complete.

Ms. Ray recommended funding all phases of the Shades Park project from the Park Impact Fee fund, noting the project qualifies as conversion of a parcel into a new park space. Ms. Brannon recognized Parks crew member Chris Titus for conducting a cleanup of the site during a town cleanup week, including removal of poison ivy, in advance of formal project work.

Motion to proceed with vegetation clearing at the Shades Park parcel (7105 W. 134th Avenue) at a cost not to exceed $6,500, funded from Park Impact Fees, and to establish this as a new park space, made by Ms. Brannon; seconded by Mr. Marquardt.

Motion carries, 3–0.

2. Park of the Red Cedars Walking Path — Use and Rules

Ms. Ray presented proposed use rules and signage for the Park of the Red Cedars walking path, almost ready to undergo construction. Under Ordinance No. 1498 (Park Use and Rules), the Park Board has authority to designate rules for specific facilities. Proposed rules:

• No bicycles
• No skateboards
• No rollerblades or inline skates
• No e-bikes
• No motorized vehicles

Signage: four aluminum signs at major path entry points, in the same format as existing park rules signs, estimated at approximately $400 total. Ms. Ray noted the path will terminate at a paved apron near the existing millings area (adjacent to the Summerfest/Farmers Market parking area) rather than connecting to the pool house sidewalk, due to slope compliance considerations.

Entry points that will receive beefed-up paving to accommodate occasional vehicular access (vendors, maintenance): Yacht Club Road gate, Morse Street main gate, and the millings apron.

Motion to approve the Park of the Red Cedars walking path use rules as presented and to authorize purchase of approximately four aluminum rule signs at a cost not to exceed $400, made by Mr. Marquardt; seconded by Ms. Brannon.

Motion carries, 3–0.

Reports

Superintendent Report — Mindi Ray

Ms. Ray highlighted active projects and recent accomplishments:

• Lynnsway Shelter: Currently under construction.
• Potawatomi Park Lookout Point: Renovated with commercial railing.
• Robin's Nest Park: Four-bay swing set expansion in progress; stormwater mitigation work nearly complete, after which wood chip installation and timber playground boarders can proceed to open the expanded play area.
• Community Garden: Second raised bed completed. Volunteer coordination underway; supplies to be gathered for the growing season.
• Arbor Day Saplings — Nursery: Approximately 20 bare-root saplings remaining from the April 24 Arbor Day event. Board directed that the saplings be temporarily planted as a nursery in the Robin's Nest park space until they can be placed permanently. Ms. Ray will coordinate with the Tree Board. Direction given; no formal vote required.
• Water Main Seeding — Town Grounds: Approximately 40 yards of fill dirt needed to bring the water main area on Town Grounds to proper grade before seeding can occur. The Parks crew regraded the area and began cleanup work on their own initiative. An agreement is in place with the Director of Operations that once fill dirt can be sourced at no cost from an available source, Parks will provide the seed and do the planting. The dirt source has been identified; however, current wet conditions make the site inaccessible without risk of sinking trucks and equipment. The project will proceed once conditions allow.
• Sue Landske Memorial Park Sign: The park entry sign replacement is on hold pending resolution of a damaged electrical box belonging to the Cedar Lake Chamber of Commerce. Ms. Ray is working with Chamber Director Lynn Spinks to determine whether the Chamber will repair, replace, or decommission the meter. Sign placement may also be adjusted to move it further from the road and electrical equipment.
• Picnic Tables — Mother's Day Tea: Three picnic tables to be moved to the museum lawn area on Saturday, May 9 for the Park Foundation Mother's Day Tea.

Recreation Coordinator Report — Greg Wiesemann

• Fitness Programs: Stay Fit and Active class averaging 22 participants. Senior Gathering held; farmer's market vendors participated. Bingo averaging 35 participants per session.
• Spring Soccer: Photos completed. Two final match days remaining. Season enrollment reached 198 participants, up from 150 the prior season. Summer soccer camp canceled this year due to walking path construction timing and uncertainty; concern about heavy equipment near children during camp dates.
• Movies in the Park: Returning this season with three films; public vote on selections coming soon via social media.
• Blood Drive: Wednesday, May 13. Residents can register at redcross.org.
• Arbor Day: Tree planting ceremony drew approximately 30 attendees; well-received by the community.
• Yoga by the Lake: Returning Thursday, June 10. Social media post received over 120 reactions.
• Lakeside Artists Guild: Returning Saturday, June 6 for five consecutive Saturdays.
• Blueberry Festival Bus Trip: September 4, 2026. Departs and returns to Town Grounds. $30 per resident, $33 per non-resident. Parking at Plymouth High School; golf cart transport available for those unable to walk. Currently 8 registrations; minimum of 35 required; 27 spots remaining.

Maintenance Foreman Report — Josh Banhart

• Storm Damage: Significant storm cleanup throughout the park system, including tree falls at Potawatomi Park, large branches at Monon, and approximately six dump trailer loads of debris park-wide.
• Robin's Nest Drainage: Crew working on drainage improvements beneath the swing set area to ensure proper flow. Nearly complete.
• Clubhouse Chimney: Replaced in-house following a lightning strike.
• Community Garden: Second raised bed built; topsoil and grass seed placed around garden and low spots on Town Grounds.
• Town Grounds Restrooms: Men's restrooms painted and refreshed.
• New Full-Time Crew Member: Onboarding and training in progress; helping offset storm damage workload.
• Pine Tree Removal: Pine tree near nearest stormwater outlet on Town Grounds removed.

Town Council Liaison Report — Julie Rivera

Ms. Rivera had no formal report. She encouraged the Parks Department to continue its strong work and expressed enthusiasm for the senior bus trips. Ms. Brannon asked Ms. Rivera about a comprehensive plan inquiry Ms. Ray had submitted to the Town Council; Ms. Rivera indicated she read the email that day and will work with staff to schedule a follow-up meeting to address Ms. Ray's questions.

Park Foundation Report

A Park Foundation representative reported on recent and upcoming activities:

• Plastic Cap Project: Just over 661 pounds collected. Karen Kil offered 1,000 pounds to fund two benches, with the Foundation covering the cost and the donor's name to be placed on the benches.
• Business Showcase (April 18): Hats, keychains, and T-shirts sold.
• Farmer's Market Table — May 13: Selling merchandise and signing up volunteers.
• Mother's Day Tea — May 9: Children decorating pots and planting flowers; cookies, lemonade, water, and tea served.
• Father's Day Event — June 20: Children making paper airplanes with prizes for varied categories; hot dogs, chips, water, and lemonade served.
• Summerfest Bingo — July 3: Foundation hosting bingo from noon to 11:00 p.m.
• Fall Festival — September 12, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.: Foundation would like to partner with the Parks Department. A formal letter will be submitted to the Town. Date already secured with the Parks Department.
• Legacy Foundation Grant: Foundation applying for a $5 million grant. Project has not yet been identified; the Foundation intends to meet with the Park Board to identify and align on a proposal before submitting.

Written Communication

No written communication was reported.

Public Comment

Sarah Gores — 13546 Beach Place

Ms. Gores introduced herself as a resident of Offshore Estates, a small subdivision of six homes located approximately three minutes north of Town Hall. She stated that as the HOA is in the process of transferring ownership to the six homeowners, the residents have collectively expressed interest in donating a flat parcel of HOA outlet property to the Town for use as a community park. While the transfer is approximately a year away, the residents are unanimously in support of exploring a donation to benefit the broader community. Ms. Gores asked how to formally submit a proposal for the Board's consideration. Mr. Jostes directed her to contact Ms. Ray with parcel information (GIS parcel number, acreage, maps, and a timeline) to prepare the proposal for a future agenda item.

Lori Wyra — 14909 Carey Street

Ms. Wyra, who performs in a local band covering music from the 1950s through 1990s, asked about the process for submitting performance proposals for Town events such as the Fall Festival and Summerfest. Ms. Ray clarified that Summerfest is a private event that manages its own entertainment booking, and that the Fall Festival has historically been a Park Foundation event. Ms. Ray noted the Parks Department is newly exploring a partnership with the Park Foundation for Fall Festival 2026. Ms. Ray offered her card so Ms. Wyra can submit her band's contact information for consideration as the Parks Department and Foundation plan the event.

No further public comment was received.

Adjournment

Motion to adjourn made by Mr. Marquardt; seconded by Ms. Brannon.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 6:41 p.m.

Next Meeting: Thursday, June 4, 2026 at 5:30 P.M., Cedar Lake Town Hall Meeting Room.