Call to Order
Benjie Kincheloe called the meeting to order at 6:01 pm, on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 with its members attending onsite and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll Call
| Status | Name & Title |
|---|---|
| Present | Benjie Kincheloe, Chairman |
| Present | Robert Groszek, Vice Chairman |
| Present | Jeff Biel |
| Present | Julie Rivera, Town Council Liaison |
| Present | Luke Sherry, Town Engineer – CBBEL |
| Present | Tim King, Public Works Superintendent |
| Present | Wendy Schmidtke, Recording Secretary |
| Absent | Ben Eldridge, Town Manager |
| Absent | David Austgen, Town Attorney |
Minutes
Robert Groszek motioned to approve the minutes of January 13, 2026 and Jeffrey Biel seconded. Motion carried unanimously by roll-call.
| Member | Vote |
|---|---|
| Jeff Biel | Yes |
| Robert Groszek | Yes |
| Ben Kincheloe | Yes |
Claims
Fund #650 – $81,352.52
Robert Groszek motioned to approve the Storm Water Operating Fund Distribution and Jeff Biel seconded. Motion carried unanimously by roll-call.
| Member | Vote |
|---|---|
| Ben Kincheloe | Yes |
| Robert Groszek | Yes |
| Jeff Biel | Yes |
Fund #654 – $4,228.04
Jeff Biel motioned to approve the Storm Water Operating Fund Distribution and Bob Groszek seconded. Motion carried unanimously by roll-call.
| Member | Vote |
|---|---|
| Jeff Biel | Yes |
| Robert Groszek | Yes |
| Ben Kincheloe | Yes |
Update Items
A. Chris Wornhoff, 10708 W 133rd Pl
No update on this project.
B. Sleepy Hollow Ditch Cleanup
No new updates on this project that will likely start in the Spring. Mr. Groszek inquired if this work can be subbed out or hire summer help for ditch cleanup. Project would include not just cutting trees but recreating swales and drainage to ensure proper flow. It will be done internally starting at Parrish.
Public Works Projects (with 2024 Project Rank)
A. (8) Dewey Street Lateral, 14616 Dewey St
No updates on this project.
Additional Projects (with 2024 Project Rank)
A. (9) Woodland Shores Storm Sewer Improvements (Hinds, formerly Becker)
Mr. Sherry reported two easements needed. Easement discussions stalled at some point. Brought up at staff meeting last week – prepared easement documents but lack formal agreement. Staff will restart discussions with property owner. Question arose about whether Town Attorney or Town Manager initiates contact with property owners – appears Town Manager handles initial contact, then Attorney formalizes easement agreement. Still waiting on one easement.
B. (10) Schubert/Dodge Street Storm Sewer System
Board discussed breaking large project into phases. Mr. Groszek recommended including traffic signal at 141st intersection in project scope. Mr. Kincheloe noted need to consult with Clerk-Treasurer about 2026 budget before breaking into phases, and project will require bidding. Must balance against all other pending projects.
New Business
Bob Grosek inquired about drainage issues in Summer Winds and presented photos. Mr. Sherry will add to punch list if not already included and address with Plan Commission.
Public Comment
Desiree Csikos, 13660 Muir St – Mrs. Csikos questioned why the Muir Street project was removed from the agenda. Mr. Kincheloe explained item was removed because issue developed into something larger than stormwater and involves developer and other entities. Mrs. Csikos complained that nothing has been done and that the project is a danger to her children. Town Staff confirmed that the situation is being monitored.
Chris Morris, 13650 Muir Street – Mr. Morris introduced himself as the future owner of the Muir Street property in question and informed the Board he is addressing the situation and will provide updates on the progress.
Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 6:34 pm.
Next Storm Water Board Public Meeting: March 10, 2026 at 6:00 pm.
Town of Cedar Lake Storm Water Board
Prepared with the assistance of AI tools and reviewed by Town staff.