Note: President Thiel was absent. Vice President Parker presided.
Pledge of Allegiance
Mr. Parker called the meeting to order and led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll Call
| Status | Name & Title |
|---|---|
| Absent | Richard Thiel, President |
| Present | Greg Parker, Vice President |
| Present | Robert Carnahan |
| Present | Julie Rivera |
| Present | Nicholas Recupito |
| Present | Chuck Becker |
| Present | Mary Joan Dickson |
| Present | Benjamin Eldridge, Town Manager |
| Present | Jennifer Sandberg, Clerk-Treasurer |
| Present | Cheryl Hajduk, Recording Secretary |
Presentation — “Explore Everyday” Community Recognition Award
Centier Bank of Cedar Lake — 9728 W. 133rd Street, Cedar Lake, IN 46303
Mr. Parker read the award letter on behalf of President Thiel, who was absent. The letter, addressed to Janelle at Centier Bank, recognized the bank’s continued investment in the Cedar Lake community. Key points from the letter:
- Centier Bank has served Cedar Lake residents for over a decade through its in-store branch, followed by the opening of a standalone banking center on April 29, 2024 — a significant milestone in its commitment to the growing community.
- The bank has made a positive impact through active community involvement, financial education initiatives, and philanthropic efforts.
- The award was presented in recognition of Centier Bank’s continued dedication and investment in Cedar Lake, consistent with the Town’s “Explore Everyday” community vision. The letter was signed by Richard C. Thiel Jr., Redevelopment Commission President.
Mr. Carnahan added that the Cedar Lake Centier Bank branch recently donated a desk and chair to Project Love Food Pantry. The Centier Bank representative thanked the Commission, noting the bank’s involvement in community events including Summerfest, its Chamber membership, and 14 years of presence in Cedar Lake. A photo was taken with Commission members following the presentation.
Consent Agenda
Mr. Parker presented both consent items together.
1. Minutes: March 3, 2026 regular meeting minutes.
2. Claims: Fund #404 — $135.80; Fund #804 — $71,827.71.
Motion to approve the consent agenda (minutes and claims) made by Mr. Becker; seconded by Mr. Recupito.
| Member | Vote |
|---|---|
| Carnahan | Yes |
| Rivera | Yes |
| Recupito | Yes |
| Dickson | Yes |
| Parker | Yes |
| Becker | Yes |
| Thiel | Absent |
Motion carries, 6–0.
Reports
1. Town Council Report
Mr. Carnahan presented two items received by message.
Hanover Community School District — Tracy Haskell
Ms. Haskell submitted a written message indicating she would not be attending the meeting as she was receiving an award at a regional school board quarterly meeting. She shared the following upcoming Hanover School District events:
- April 14 — Middle School Art Show, 4:30–6:30 p.m.; High School Band Concert, 6:30 p.m.
- April 16 — Lincoln Elementary Talent Show, 6:30 p.m.
- April 17–18 — Middle School Spring Play, 6:00 p.m.; April 19, 2:00 p.m.
- April 29–30 — Third Grade Concert at Red Cedars, 6:30 p.m.
- May 2 — Prom.
- Spring sports underway at the high school: tennis, boys’ volleyball, baseball, softball. New turf ball field available to view.
MacArthur Middle School — Best Buddies Walk
Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 9:00 a.m., Lake County Fairgrounds. MacArthur Mustangs team goal: $1,000. All participants must register. Details and registration link available through the school.
2. Town Attorney Report
No report given.
3. Clerk-Treasurer Report
Ms. Sandberg reported that the annual TIF management report was filed timely on April 7, 2026, prior to the filing deadline.
4. Town Manager Report
No report given.
Written Communication
Ms. Sandberg reported no written communication was received.
Public Comment
Mr. Parker opened the floor for public comment. No public comment was received.
Adjournment
Mr. Parker adjourned the meeting at approximately 6:47 p.m.
Town of Cedar Lake Redevelopment Commission
Date Approved:
Prepared with the assistance of AI tools and reviewed by Town staff.