Claims Docket — February 17, 2026
Packet Page 1
| Fund / Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| All Town Funds | $271,600.53 |
| Wastewater Operating | $114,069.61 |
| Water Utility | $31,963.01 |
| Stormwater | $5,061.44 |
| Payroll (2/12/26) | $435,527.28 |
| January Remittances | $292,687.18 |
Uniform Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement
Packet Pages 2–4 — State Form 54266 (R2 / 9-24), Form 236, State Board of Accounts
"A public servant who knowingly or intentionally (1) has a pecuniary interest in; or (2) derives a profit from; a contract or purchase connected with an action by the governmental entity served by the public servant commits conflict of interest, a Level 6 Felony." Ind. Code 35-44.1-1-4(b).
As defined by IC 35-31.5-2-261, "public servant" means a person who: (1) Is authorized to perform an official function on behalf of, and is paid by, a governmental entity; (2) is elected or appointed to office to discharge a public duty for a governmental entity; or (3) with or without compensation, is appointed in writing by a public official to act in an advisory capacity to a governmental entity concerning a contract or purchase to be made by the entity.
A public servant has a pecuniary interest in a contract or purchase if the contract or purchase will result or is intended to result in an ascertainable increase in the income or net worth of the public servant or a dependent of the public servant. IC 35-44.1-1-4(a)(3).
A "dependent" means the spouse of a public servant; a child, stepchild, or adoptee of a public servant who is unemancipated and less than eighteen (18) years of age; or an individual more than one-half of whose support is provided during a year by the public servant. IC 35-44.1-1-4(a)(1).
Section 3 — Contract Identification
The form requires the following information for each contract:
- Full legal name and address of contractor
- Full name and address of "dependent" (if applicable)
- Governmental entity that is a party to the contract
- Relationship of public servant to contractor
- Specific ownership interest and/or job title
- Start and end date of contract
- Total dollar amount of contract
- Specific financial interest and/or dollar amount derived
- Date of public meeting and name of governmental entity that accepted the contract
Section 4 — Purchase of Goods or Services
For purchases not involving a contract, the form requires identification and description of each purchase, total dollar amount, vendor name, governmental entity making the purchase, ownership interest, purchase date, financial interest derived, and date of public meeting.
Governmental entity: Town of Cedar Lake. County: Lake.
Filing Requirement
Within fifteen (15) days after final action on the contract or purchase, copies of this statement must be filed with both: (1) The Indiana State Board of Accounts by uploading at https://gateway.ifionline.org/sboa_col/; and (2) The Clerk of the Circuit Court of the county where the governmental entity took final action on the contract or purchase.
Note: The submitted form contains handwritten entries that were partially legible in the OCR scan. The form is signed and dated for presentation at this meeting.
Resolution No. 1387 — A Resolution Establishing a Grant Application and Management Policy
Packet Pages 5–6
WHEREAS, the Town seeks to ensure proper oversight, fiscal responsibility, and clear procedures for applying for and managing grants; and
WHEREAS, this policy applies to all grants pursued by the Town, including federal, state, regional, and private sources;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Town Council of the Town of Cedar Lake:
Section 1. Purpose
To establish clear procedures for the application, acceptance, and administration of grants.
Section 2. Grant Application Procedures
A. General
Town staff may identify and prepare grant applications that support Town goals, ensuring compliance, reporting, timelines, and financial commitments are considered.
B. Grants Requiring Matching Funds
- Town Council approval is required before applying for any grant requiring matching funds or in-kind contributions.
- Requests must detail the match amount, purpose, and potential operational or financial impacts.
- Grants creating new financial obligations must receive Council approval prior to acceptance.
C. Grants Not Requiring Matching Funds
- Staff may apply without prior Council approval.
- Staff shall provide the Town Manager timely updates on all such grants, including funding amount, purpose, status, and conditions.
Section 3. Grant Acceptance and Oversight
All grant acceptance must comply with Town policies and applicable laws. Staff are responsible for compliance, reporting, and documentation.
Section 4. Effective Date
This policy is effective upon adoption and remains in effect until amended or rescinded by the Town Council.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this ___ day of __________, 2026 by the Town Council of the Town of Cedar Lake.
Acknowledgment and Acceptance
This is accepted by the Town of Cedar Lake, Lake County, Indiana, after action at the Public Meeting of the Town Council of the Town of Cedar Lake, Lake County, Indiana.
Nicholas A. Recupito, Town Council President
Rich Thiel, Town Council Vice President
Greg Parker
Mary Joan Dickson
Chuck Becker
Robert H. Carnahan
Julie Rivera
ATTEST: Jennifer N. Sandberg, Clerk-Treasurer
T & J Consolidation — Plat of Survey and GIS Information
Packet Pages 7–8
Plat of Survey
Prepared by Torrenga Surveying, LLC (John Stuart Allen, Registered Land Surveyor No. LS29900011), 907 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana 46321. Job No. 2025-0500.
The survey depicts the T & J Consolidation — Lot 1 at 12644 Wicker Avenue, Cedar Lake, Indiana. The property is located in the NE quarter of Section 20, Township 34 North, Range 9 West, Lake County, Indiana. The subject parcel encompasses approximately 76,154 square feet (1.748 acres).
Parcel 1 Legal Description
Lots 9, 10, and 11 in Block 2, in Cedar Gardens, as per plat thereof, recorded in Plat Book 24, Page 37, in the Office of the Recorder of Lake County, Indiana, and that part of vacated 127th Avenue as evidenced by Vacation Ordinance No. 1056, lying south of and adjacent to Block 2 of said Cedar Gardens, all in the Town of Cedar Lake, Lake County, Indiana.
Parcel 2 Legal Description
A parcel of land in the North half of the Northeast quarter of Section 20, Township 34 North, Range 9 West of the Second Principal Meridian, Lake County, Indiana. Said parcel is also a portion of unimproved 127th Avenue (platted as South Street), in Cedar Gardens Subdivision.
The property is located in Flood Zone X (Unshaded) as determined by the Flood Insurance Rate Map for the Town of Cedar Lake, Community Panel 18089C0238E, effective January 18, 2012. Tracts located in Flood Zone X (unshaded) are areas determined to be outside the 0.2% annual chance flood hazard.
Note: This page contains a detailed survey drawing showing lot dimensions, utility easements, and building locations. The drawing shows 15-foot utility easements, existing structures, and measurements referenced to the Cedar Gardens subdivision plat.
GIS Parcel Information
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Site Address | 12644 Wicker Ave, Cedar Lake, IN 46303 |
| Owner | Serrano, Luis E |
| Mailing Address | 1927 Spruce Cir, Munster, IN 46321 |
| Parcel Number | 45-15-20-229-019.000-014 |
| Tax Code | 014 |
| Legal Description | Cedar Gardens Bl. 2 Lots 9, 10, 11 & Vac. adj. 127th Ave |
Town of Cedar Lake Firefighter/EMT/Paramedic Training Reimbursement Agreement
Packet Pages 9–14
This Agreement is made and entered into the 17th day of February, 2026, by and between the Town of Cedar Lake, Lake County, Indiana, a Municipal Corporation ("Town") and Brandon Zimmerman ("Applicant").
Recitals
The Applicant has made application for a Firefighter/EMT/Paramedic employment position. The Town makes a substantial investment of time and money in providing equipment and training for newly hired personnel to the Cedar Lake Fire Department. The Town is entitled to expect a reasonable return on such investment in terms of commitment of time and devotion to duty.
Covenants
Training Obligations (Section 2)
The Applicant agrees to participate in all training requested, which may include: Indiana Firefighter Training/Certification; Indiana EMT Training/Certification; Indiana Paramedic Training/Certification; and similarly related training and certification programs.
Liquidated Damages (Section 4)
If the Applicant terminates employment within the first sixty (60) months:
- If training has started or completed at Town's expense: The greater of actual expenses incurred or $10,000.00 in liquidated damages.
- If training has not started or was completed at Applicant's own expense: The greater of actual expenses incurred or $3,500.00 in liquidated damages.
- All sums due are payable within 30 days of termination and bear interest at 8% per annum.
Paycheck Deduction (Section 5)
Amounts owed shall be deducted from the Applicant's final paycheck, with any remaining balance continuing as an obligation.
Disability Exception (Section 6)
Liquidated damages shall not be assessed if the Applicant fails to complete training or terminates employment due to a disabling illness or injury verified by a competent physician approved by the Town.
Basic Qualifications (Section 8)
The Applicant acknowledges meeting: U.S. citizenship; high school diploma or equivalent; no felony convictions; valid Indiana driver's license; weight proportionate to height.
Required Testing (Section 9)
Physical agility test; oral interview with Fire Chief; extensive background search; psychological test; and any other testing procedures required by the Town.
Military Service / Leave Extension (Section 11)
If the Applicant is called to active military duty, has probation extended, or is granted temporary leave, the 60-month period is extended by the duration of the absence.
Not a Contract of Employment (Section 13)
This Agreement shall not be construed as a contract of employment. If the Town determines the Applicant has not satisfactorily completed all testing, it is not required to extend a final offer of employment.
This Agreement has been approved by the Cedar Lake Town Council by affirmative vote at a duly noticed regular public meeting held on the 17th day of February, 2026.
Signature lines for: Fire Chief, Applicant, Town Council President, Town Clerk-Treasurer
Stash Construction — Permit Fee Refund Request
Packet Page 15
January 30, 2026
To: Town of Cedar Lake Town Council, 7408 Constitution Ave., Cedar Lake, IN 46303
Stash Construction is requesting a refund for the permit fee associated with permit number 25-817, for the property located at 12708 Alexander St., Cedar Lake, IN 46303, issued on October 23, 2025.
The permit was obtained to perform a roof replacement and interior damage repair for the homeowner. The job was cancelled because the homeowner received insurance funds for the project, cashed the funds, and spent them elsewhere. The homeowner has informed Stash Construction that she does not have the means to make up for the spent funds.
Sincerely,
Kristy Hesseltine
Office Administrator
Stash Construction
Shades Subdivision Improvements Project, Phase 2 — Change Order No. 1
Packet Pages 16–29
Change Order Summary
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Date of Issuance | January 28, 2026 |
| Owner | Town of Cedar Lake |
| Contractor | Rieth Riley Construction Co., Inc. |
| Engineer | Christopher B. Burke Engineering, LLC |
| Engineer's Project No. | 230324 |
| Original Contract Price | $1,540,184.18 |
| Change Order Amount | $69,162.55 |
| Revised Contract Price | $1,609,346.73 |
| Original Substantial Completion | December 29, 2025 |
| Revised Substantial Completion | July 2, 2026 |
| Revised Ready for Final Payment | July 23, 2026 |
Description
This change order represents unit price increases for project pay items due to the project being delayed into the 2026 construction season as a result of utility delays outside of the Town's control. This change order also represents the extension of contract times into 2026.
Summary of Adjusted Items
| Item | Description | Unit | Original Price | Revised Price | Authorization Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mobilization and Demobilization | LS | $95,500.00 | $107,050.00 | $11,550.00 |
| 2 | Construction Engineering | LS | $47,660.00 | $50,090.00 | $2,430.00 |
| 5 | PCCP, Remove | SYS | $60.00 | $62.00 | $378.00 |
| 9 | Excavation, Common | CYS | $33.00 | $35.50 | $7,500.00 |
| 13 | Compacted Agg. No. 2 for Undercut | TON | $44.00 | $46.25 | $753.75 |
| 14 | Compacted Agg. No. 53 for Undercut | TON | $40.00 | $42.25 | $753.75 |
| 19 | Maintenance of Erosion Control Devices | LS | $10,000.00 | $10,500.00 | $500.00 |
| 21 | Compacted Aggregate No. 53 Base | TON | $43.00 | $45.25 | $7,875.00 |
| 22 | Milling Asphalt, 2 in | SYS | $3.30 | $3.50 | $882.00 |
| 23 | HMA Patching, Type B | TON | $155.00 | $159.00 | $600.00 |
| 24 | HMA Intermediate, Type B | TON | $92.00 | $100.00 | $6,960.00 |
| 25 | HMA Surface, Type B | TON | $98.00 | $108.00 | $9,400.00 |
| 27 | Restoration, Type I (Topsoil, Seeding, & ECB) | SYS | $12.50 | $12.80 | $862.50 |
| 28 | Restoration, Type II (Topsoil, Seeding, & TRM) | SYS | $22.87 | $23.30 | $58.05 |
| 29 | Swale Grading, Undistributed | LFT | $20.00 | $20.50 | $125.00 |
| 34 | HMA for Approaches, Type B | SYS | $168.00 | $180.00 | $7,332.00 |
| 36 | Compacted Aggregate for Approaches, 6 in | TON | $152.00 | $158.00 | $36.00 |
| 40 | Structure Backfill, Type 1 | CYS | $35.00 | $49.95 | $10,016.50 |
| 60 | Traffic Control | LS | $20,000.00 | $21,150.00 | $1,150.00 |
| Total Change Order No. 1 | $69,162.55 | ||||
Rieth-Riley Cost Escalation Documentation
Packet Pages 18–19 — Letter from Tyler Platusic, Project Manager, dated December 11, 2025
Rieth-Riley provided backup documentation for escalation costs. All pay item increases are projections. Labor costs projected to increase 5%, equipment 3%, and trucking 3%. Material costs for asphalt and stone are also projections from vendors.
| Category | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Labor | $13,685.00 | Baseline $219k; increases mandated by CBA |
| Equipment | $3,845.00 | Baseline $77k; yearly increases by rental house |
| Trucking | $9,260.00 | Baseline $185k; increases by brokers, partially mandated by CBA |
| Material — Asphalt | $17,490.00 | ~$7.22/Ton due to yearly aggregate and liquid asphalt escalation |
| Material — Stone | $4,225.00 | $1/Ton due to yearly aggregate increase |
| Added Supervision | $5,307.55 | ~5 weeks of Superintendent/PM time |
| Subcontractors | $15,350.00 | See subcontractor quotes below |
| Total | $69,162.55 |
Subcontractor Escalation Quotes
Modern Edge — Restoration (November 19, 2025)
Escalation pricing for 2026: Restoration – ECB w/ Seed: $2.00/SYS; Restoration – TRM SC250 w/ Seed: $9.65; Topsoil for Restoration Seeding 4": $97.00/CY. Total subcontractor escalation: $990.00.
DLZ Industrial, LLC — Surveying Services (September 15, 2025)
Proposal No. BH25013100 – REV 1. Lump sum fee of $43,000 for surveying services: Site Control (2 visits, $9,200); Storm Sewer (3 visits, $10,200); Curb/PCCP Shoulder Layout (5 visits, $23,600). Total subcontractor escalation: $2,640.00.
CE Hughes Milling, Inc. — Milling (September 10, 2025)
DBE/WBE Certified. Milling Asphalt 2 in: 4,410 SYS at $0.95; Milling Asphalt 4 in (portion): 4,775 SYS at $0.95. Production estimate: 2 days with 5' mill. Total subcontractor escalation: $340.00.
South Lake Stone — Aggregate (September 12, 2025)
2026 FOB Pricing: No. 2 INDOT Limestone: 335 Tons at $15.70 ($5,259.50); No. 53 INDOT Limestone: 3,835 Tons at $12.70 ($48,704.50). Total: $53,964.00.
Rieth-Riley Material Services — Asphalt (Purchase Order)
Interstate - Chicago 28: 118 TN at $425.00/TN. Escalator: Add $75 after 11/15/2025. Total: $50,150.00.
High Star Traffic (TCS, LLC) — Striping (September 11, 2025)
Proposed change order for escalation costs. Removed original line items and replaced with 2026 pricing: Thermoplastic Solid White 4" Recessed: 2,865 LF at $1.87; Thermoplastic Solid Yellow 4" Recessed: 2,640 LF at $1.87; Stop Line White 24": 26 LF at $13.98. Total subcontractor escalation: $340.70.
Ziese & Sons Excavating, Inc. — Excavation (December 11, 2025)
Extra cost for material increases and mobilization in 2026 vs 2025. Unit Price Add: $14.93/CY at 670 CY = $10,003.00. Total subcontractor escalation: $10,003.00 (rounded to $11,005.00 including other items).
Construction Schedule
Packet Pages 28–29
Revised construction schedule: April 1 – July 2, 2026 (66.5 working days). Key milestones:
- Traffic Control & Site Protection: April 1, 2026
- Tree Removal / Milling: April 1–2, 2026
- Ziese & Sons Excavation: April 2 – May 13, 2026
- PCCP Removal / Common Excavation: May 7–22, 2026
- Aggregate Base Placement: May 8–29, 2026
- H3 Concrete (curb/gutter/shoulders): June 5–22, 2026
- Milling 2" / HMA Patching / Intermediate / Surface: June 23–30, 2026
- Striping: June 30 – July 2, 2026
- Restoration (soil/seed/trees): June 23–29, 2026
Shades Subdivision Improvements, Phase 2 — Pay Request No. 1
Packet Pages 30–35
Engineer's Recommendation Letter
From Christopher B. Burke Engineering, LLC, dated February 5, 2026. CBBEL Project No. 230324.
CBBEL has reviewed Pay Request No. 1 in the amount of $5,544.96 submitted by Rieth Riley Construction Co., Inc. dated 9/18/2025 (revised version received 2/5/2026). Based on completed, measured, and observed work to date, CBBEL recommends payment as follows:
| Item | This Estimate | To Date |
|---|---|---|
| Value of Work Completed | $6,161.07 | $6,161.07 |
| Less Retainage (10%) | $616.11 | $616.11 |
| Balance | $5,544.96 | $5,544.96 |
| Less Previous Payments | n/a | n/a |
| Amount Due This Payment | $5,544.96 | $5,544.96 |
Work completed to date: Construction Engineering at 12.3% ($6,161.07 of $50,090.00 revised value). All other line items are at 0% utilization. Overall project is 0.38% complete.
Signed by: Thomas J. Gordon, Construction Engineer, CBBEL.
AIA Document G702 — Application and Certification for Payment
Packet Page 33
Application No. 1. Period to: 12/1/2025. Contract for: Asphalt Paving and Other Site Related Work. Contract Date: 2/26/2025.
- Original Contract Sum: $1,540,184.18
- Net Change by Change Orders: $69,162.55
- Contract Sum to Date: $1,609,346.73
- Total Completed & Stored to Date: $6,161.07
- Total Retainage: $616.11
- Total Earned Less Retainage: $5,544.96
- Current Payment Due: $5,544.96
- Balance to Finish Including Retainage: $1,603,801.77
Notarized by Diana M. Buikema, Notary Public, Lake County, Indiana. Commission expires January 12, 2033.
Waiver of Lien to Date
Packet Page 35
Rieth-Riley Construction Co., Inc. waives lien rights for $5,544.96 paid for Asphalt Paving and Other Site Related Work at Shades Subdivision - Phase 2. Signed by Zachary Sassman, Assistant Secretary, on February 4, 2026.
Contractor's Affidavit — Subcontractor Status
| Subcontractor | Scope | Contract Price | This Payment | Balance Due |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rieth-Riley (self-performed) | Asphalt paving and other site related works | $838,882.85 | $23.77 | $838,859.08 |
| CE Hughes | Subcontractor | $8,174.40 | $0.00 | $8,174.40 |
| DLZ | Subcontractor | $40,600.00 | $5,521.19 | $35,078.81 |
| H3 | Subcontractor | $166,047.10 | $0.00 | $166,047.10 |
| Homer Tree | Subcontractor | $16,300.00 | $0.00 | $16,300.00 |
| Modern Edge | Subcontractor | $44,046.25 | $0.00 | $44,046.25 |
| TCS (High Star) | Subcontractor | $19,317.13 | $0.00 | $19,317.13 |
| Ziese | Subcontractor | $475,979.00 | $0.00 | $475,979.00 |
| Total | $1,609,346.73 | $5,544.96 | $1,603,801.77 | |
Construction Moratorium Waiver Requests
Packet Pages 36–40
Request 1: Olga Franceschini & Marino D. Fernandez
February 6, 2026
Re: Request for Waiver to Construction Moratorium (Resolution 1349) for New Single-Family Residence on Parcel #45-15-23-401-004.000-043
Requesting a waiver for a proposed single-story, 3,500 sq ft footprint wood-frame residence with partial unfinished basement and crawl space, and attached garage, intended as a primary residence. Located at 13132 Morse St., Cedar Lake, IN 46303 (1.89 acres).
- Project Scope: Single home connecting to existing town sewer on Morse St.; estimated disturbance less than 1 acre; erosion control measures included; compliant with zoning and building codes.
- Infrastructure Impact: No impact on city water system (will use a well); negligible strain on sewer systems.
- Supporting Documents: Plat of survey showing house layout and easements for access and utilities.
Request 2: Krzysztof Bies & Malgorzata Pawlikowska Bies
February 6, 2026
Re: Request for Waiver to Construction Moratorium (Resolution 1349) for New Single-Family Residence on Parcel #45-15-23-401-007.000-043
Requesting a waiver for a proposed single-story, 1,900 sq ft footprint wood-frame residence with partial unfinished basement and crawl space, and attached garage, intended as a primary residence. Located at 7009 W. 129th Pl., Cedar Lake, IN 46303 (5.00 acres).
- Project Scope: Single home connecting to existing town sewer on Morse St.; estimated disturbance less than 1 acre; erosion control measures included; compliant with zoning and building codes.
- Infrastructure Impact: No impact on city water system (will use a well); negligible strain on sewer systems.
- Supporting Documents: Plat of survey showing house layout and easements for access and utilities.
Note: Page 40 contains a GIS map image showing the locations of both parcels (45-15-23-401-004.000-043 and 45-15-23-401-007.000-043) in relation to surrounding properties.
Access and Utility Easement Agreement
Packet Pages 41–46 — Recorded as Instrument No. 2026-002830, Lake County Recorder, January 26, 2026
Effective December 15, 2025, between Marty Zaborski of 13107 Morse St., Cedar Lake, IN 46303 (Servient Owner) and Olga Franceschini/Marino D. Fernandez (3150 N. Lakeshore Dr. #27F, Chicago, IL 60657) and Krzysztof Bies/Malgorzata Pawlikowska Bies (13932 Catherine Dr., Orland Park, IL 60462) (Dominant Owners).
Recitals
The Servient Owner owns Parcels #45-15-23-451-001.000-043 and #45-15-23-451-002.000-043 (Servient Parcels). The Dominant Owners own adjacent Parcels #45-15-23-401-004.000-043 and #45-15-23-401-007.000-043 (Dominant Parcels). The easement area is 20 feet wide, approximately 115.03 feet along the west line of Servient Parcel 451-001 and 93.00 feet along Servient Parcel 451-002, along the projection of Morse Street.
Key Provisions
1. Grant of Easement
A shared, perpetual, non-exclusive easement for vehicular and pedestrian ingress/egress and for utility installation including: sewer lines and structures (Town of Cedar Lake); water lines (Town or private well, with provision for future municipal connection); gas and electric (NIPSCO); telecommunications, cable, fiber optic, or stormwater drainage.
2. Restrictions on Use
No buildings or structures within the easement area without mutual consent. No excavation or grade alterations endangering utilities. Minimum 5 feet horizontal separation for other pipes/conduits. Sewer pipes below water pipes.
3. Maintenance and Restoration
Dominant Owners responsible for initial establishment and general maintenance. If Servient Owner uses the easement, they share maintenance pro-rata. Causing party restores to pre-installation condition.
4–8. Additional Provisions
Indemnification for negligence; covenant running with the land; recording in Lake County Recorder's office; governed by Indiana law; entire agreement with amendments requiring written, recorded consent.
Notarized by Michelle Carter, Notary Public, Lake County, Indiana (Commission No. NP0718035, expires January 21, 2027).
Exhibit A: Plat of survey showing the servient and dominant parcels and the easement area (page 46 — scanned image).
Amendment to Access Easement Agreement for Inclusion of Utilities
Packet Pages 47–51 — Recorded as Instrument No. 2026-002831, Lake County Recorder, January 26, 2026
Effective December 15, 2025, between Olga Franceschini/Marino D. Fernandez (First Party/Servient Owner) and Krzysztof Bies/Malgorzata Pawlikowska Bies (Second Party/Dominant Owner).
This amends the Original Agreement dated March 8, 2024, recorded as Instrument No. 2024-507601, to include utility rights. The easement area is 20 feet wide, approximately 316.45 feet along the southern line of the Servient Parcel (45-15-23-401-004.000-043), along the projection of Morse Street.
Key Amendments
- Section 1 — Utility Easement: Grants shared, perpetual, non-exclusive utility easement for sewer (tying to existing manhole per Sheet C1.2), water (Town or private well with future municipal connection provision), gas/electric (NIPSCO), and other utilities.
- Section 2 — Reaffirmation: Original access easement for vehicular and pedestrian ingress/egress remains in full force.
- Section 3 — Restrictions: Same as the main easement agreement.
- Section 4 — Maintenance: Each party maintains utilities on their parcel at their expense.
- Sections 5–9: Indemnification; covenant running with land; recording; Indiana law; entire agreement.
Parks & Recreation Superintendent — Job Description Update
Packet Pages 52–66
Cover Letter from Mindi Ray, CPRP
February 6, 2026. After review by legal counsel and the Park Board, the Park Board recommended approval of the Park Superintendent Job Description at its February 5, 2026 meeting.
Ordinance No. 1449
An Ordinance amending Town Ordinance No. 1064, establishing job employment descriptions for the Town of Cedar Lake, creating a Full-Time Parks and Recreation Superintendent position and a Full-Time Parks Crew Worker position.
Originally passed and adopted February 21, 2023.
Proposed Position Description — Parks & Recreation Superintendent
Proposed revision dated 12/1/2025 (Pages 61–66)
Class Title: Parks and Recreation Superintendent (Salary Exempt Employee)
Department: Department of Parks and Recreation
Key Changes from Current Description
The proposed revision (Rev. 12/1/2025) modifies the supervisory reporting structure. The current version (Rev. 1/31/2023) states the Superintendent works under the "guidance and direction of the Board of Parks and Recreation and the direct supervision of the Town Manager." The proposed version changes this to work "under the guidance and direct supervision of the Board of Parks and Recreation" only, removing the Town Manager from the direct supervision line.
Other notable changes in the proposed version include:
- Findings and recommendations report to the Park Board for review and approval (previously to Town Manager for review and Park Board for approval)
- Budget collaboration is with Park Board and Clerk Treasurer (previously with Town Manager and Staff)
- Capital project development assists the Park Board directly (previously assisted Town Manager)
- Added duties: maintain park assets list and ensure insurance coverage; purchase supplies with Park Board approval for items exceeding $5,000; schedule professional services with Park Board approval
- Cost estimate communication goes to Town Administrative Department (previously to Town Manager)
- Added effective date/revision history: 01/20/26
General Purpose
Performs complex professional and administrative work in planning, developing, scheduling, directing, and implementing year-round town-wide park system and recreational programs. Provides leadership, direction, and general administrative oversight to the Parks and Recreation Department.
Essential Duties (22 items in proposed version)
Including: annual operational plans; department administration; employee recommendations; short and long-range planning; Park Board presentations; monthly reports and budgets; public policy development; regulatory relationships; grant applications; public relations and social media; programming for all ages; recruitment and staffing; policy development; asset management; purchasing; work procedures; citizen communication; cost estimates; new park planning; inter-departmental coordination; scheduling professional services.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in parks/recreation or related field; 4–6 years related experience; CPRP or CPRE certification preferred; Indiana Parks and Recreation Association membership; valid Indiana driver's license; CPR/First Aid within 6 months of hire.
Town of Cedar Lake Organization Chart
Packet Page 67
The organizational structure flows from Citizens to Town Council, then to:
- Town Manager — overseeing:
- Operations Manager/Building Commissioner (Permits, Inspections, Public Works, Water, Wastewater Dept.)
- Parks Department
- Information Technology
- Fire Department
- Police Department
- Clerk-Treasurer — overseeing:
- Human Resources
- Utility Billing
120Water LCRI Renewal Quote — 2026
Packet Pages 68–71
Customer: Cedar Lake Water Works, IN (8550 Lakeshore Drive, PO Box 707, Cedar Lake, IN 46303). Quote created January 30, 2026; expires April 30, 2026. Contract period: 3/22/26 through 3/21/27.
| Item | Unit Price | Qty | Term |
|---|---|---|---|
| PWS Platform (Full application with Inventory, Program and Event Management, Workflows, Communications, and PTD; includes 120Water Academy access) | $9,500.00/yr | 1 | 12 months |
| LCRI Pro Managed Services Package (coaching and guidance across LCRI compliance) | $3,000.00/yr | 1 | 12 months |
| LCR Sampling (end-to-end sampling program management) | $5,000.00/yr | 1 | 12 months |
| Sample Manager MVP (software for managing water quality sampling) | $5,000.00/yr | 1 | 12 months |
| 1 Bottle Lead & Copper Test | $36.36 each | 10 | 12 months |
| 1 Bottle 1L Compliance Kit | $46.20 each | 13 | 12 months |
| Annual Subtotal | $22,500.00 | ||
| One-time Subtotal | $964.20 | ||
| Total Contract Value | $23,464.20 | ||
Subject to Master Services Agreement at https://120water.com/master-services-agreement/. Subscriptions are non-cancelable before end of term. Contact: Will Bischoff, [email protected].
Cedar Lake Police Department — Statistical Reports
Packet Pages 72–80 — Data period: 1/1/2018 to 1/31/2026
Calls for Service Analysis
| Month | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 600 | 672 | 765 | 745 | 859 | 1,248 | 917 | 655 | 767 |
| February | 582 | 782 | 733 | 692 | 685 | 1,145 | 1,072 | 751 | |
| March | 633 | 825 | 602 | 956 | 926 | 1,186 | 1,099 | 855 | |
| April | 652 | 891 | 350 | 835 | 844 | 1,209 | 1,050 | 846 | |
| May | 837 | 838 | 723 | 850 | 1,104 | 1,071 | 1,180 | 930 | |
| June | 846 | 821 | 763 | 940 | 946 | 1,255 | 1,169 | 923 | |
| July | 933 | 842 | 806 | 956 | 1,006 | 1,087 | 1,043 | 892 | |
| August | 837 | 901 | 888 | 877 | 1,060 | 1,091 | 1,001 | 787 | |
| September | 828 | 826 | 728 | 782 | 974 | 945 | 819 | 704 | |
| October | 860 | 742 | 682 | 829 | 977 | 1,060 | 895 | 741 | |
| November | 744 | 743 | 642 | 743 | 917 | 970 | 663 | 784 | |
| December | 705 | 710 | 641 | 818 | 1,020 | 954 | 597 | 690 | |
| Total | 9,057 | 9,593 | 8,323 | 10,023 | 11,318 | 13,221 | 11,505 | 9,558 | 767 |
January 2026 Calls Per Day: 24.74
Annual Totals Summary — All Categories
| Category | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | Jan 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calls for Service | 9,057 | 9,593 | 8,323 | 10,023 | 11,318 | 13,221 | 11,505 | 9,558 | 767 |
| Traffic Stops | 2,970 | 4,003 | 2,490 | 4,150 | 4,490 | 6,356 | 4,762 | 3,546 | 310 |
| Warnings | 2,370 | 3,424 | 2,101 | 3,367 | 4,547 | 6,675 | 4,420 | 2,987 | 294 |
| Citations | 1,217 | 1,341 | 1,515 | 1,792 | 1,915 | 1,951 | 1,841 | 1,312 | 99 |
| Law Incidents | 6,578 | 5,937 | 6,278 | 6,304 | 6,745 | 6,982 | 6,881 | 5,699 | 419 |
| Arrests | 310 | 343 | 268 | 309 | 321 | 271 | 261 | 256 | 30 |
| Arrest Offenses | 476 | 604 | 485 | 568 | 609 | 459 | 402 | 336 | 33 |
Town Ordinance Enforcement — January 2026
Warnings (27 total)
| Offense | Count |
|---|---|
| Abandoned Vehicle on Roadway | 1 |
| Abandoned Vehicle | 17 |
| Abandoned Vehicle (alternate code) | 1 |
| Nuisance — Accumulated Rubbish | 1 |
| Off-Road Vehicles | 1 |
| Parking — Signs/Postings | 1 |
| Parking — Snow Emergency | 1 |
| Snow Emergency Parking — Roadway | 4 |
| Total | 27 |
Citations (31 total)
| Offense | Count |
|---|---|
| Abandoned Vehicle on Roadway | 1 |
| Abandoned Vehicle | 21 |
| Abandoned Vehicle (alternate code) | 1 |
| Nuisances — Accumulation | 4 |
| Parking — Snow Emergency | 3 |
| Unauthorized Accumulation | 1 |
| Total | 31 |
Cedar Lake Car Seat Safety Event
Packet Page 81
Date: Friday, March 6, 2026, 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM (CDT)
Location: Cedar Lake Fire Department, 7208 Constitution Ave, Cedar Lake, IN 46303
Contact: (219) 488-1380 or (219) 488-1381
This is a needs-based program that provides car seat safety education and assistance to families. Requirements: child must be present at the appointment; expecting mothers must be at least 34 weeks pregnant (exceptions for twins, triplets, etc.); car seats may be available for qualifying families; must be Indiana residents.
Cedar Lake Fire Department — January 2026 Reports
Packet Pages 82–83
Monthly Summary Report — January 2026
Average Daily Calls for Service: 7.57. Total for Month: 227 calls.
| Category | Count | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| EMS Calls | 191 | 84.1% |
| Fire Calls | 25 | 11.0% |
| Accident Calls (PI) | 11 | 4.8% |
| Total | 227 | 100% |
EMS Call Breakdown
Lift Assist: 58; Sick Person: 32; Fall: 23; Psych: 14; Breathing: 10; Chest Pain: 9; Unconscious: 9; Bleeding: 6; Seizure: 4; Assault: 4; Unknown: 4; Heart Problems: 3; Stroke: 3; Overdose: 2; Diabetic: 2; Trauma: 2; Full Arrest: 1; Abdominal: 1; Back Pain: 1; Choking: 1; Headache: 1; Miscellaneous: 1.
Fire Call Breakdown
Structure: 7; Alarm: 4; CO Alarm: 4; Standby: 2; Assist: 1; Gas IN: 1; Gas OUT: 1; Mutual Aid: 1; Odor: 1; Smoke In: 1; Utility: 1; Washdown: 1.
Training Report — January 2026
Total Hours Logged: 474
| Category | Sessions | Hours | % of Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| EMS | 73 | 331 | 70% |
| Driver/Operator | 25 | 48 | 10% |
| Firefighter | 17 | 50 | 10% |
| Administrative | 5 | 22 | 5% |
| Special Operations/Technical Rescue | 3 | 14 | 3% |
| Fire Officer | 1 | 8 | 2% |
| HAZMAT | 2 | 2 | 0% |
| Total | 126 | 474 (rounded) |
Parks & Recreation Department — 2025 Annual Report
Packet Pages 84–100 — Prepared by Mindi Ray, Superintendent of Parks and Recreation
Mission
"The Cedar Lake Parks and Recreation Department provides recreational opportunities for residents of all ages in the Town of Cedar Lake, with emphasis on safety, affordability and fun."
2025 Team
Mindi Ray, Superintendent; Greg Wiesemann, Recreation Coordinator (joined January 15, 2024); Sharon D'Apice, Administrative Assistant; Josh Banhart, Maintenance Foreman; Chris Titus, Crew Worker; Jackie Behn, Crew Worker; Jerry Porter, Crew Worker; Bill Westerhoff, Crew Worker.
Monthly Highlights
January 2025
124 Active Members; 19 Renewals; 9 Clubhouse Rentals. Draft notes received from Indiana DNR for 5-Year Master Planning. Programs: Senior Fitness, Senior Gatherings, Spring Soccer planning. Maintenance: Snow markers installed; playground inspections; preventative maintenance on trucks and equipment.
February 2025
10 Clubhouse Rentals. Advertised public meeting for 5-Year Master Plan. Programs: Senior Exercise, Senior Gatherings, Spring Soccer Registration, Summer Program Planning, Red Cross Blood Drive, Purdue Extension Permaculture Class, Agents of Discovery approved, STEM Class. Flag duties at Town Hall and Chamber assigned.
March 2025
47 Members; 13 Clubhouse Rentals. Final edits for 5-Year Master Plan submission. Programs: Senior Fitness, Senior Bingo (new), Spring Soccer final preparations, Art Classes, Hanover School Penguin Plop participation, Soccer Coach/Referee Training, Movies in the Park planning.
April 2025
51 Members; 9 Clubhouse Rentals. 5-Year Master Plan submitted April 14, 2025. Programs: Community Easter Egg Hunt, Earth Day Awareness and Giveaway, Senior Fitness/Gatherings/Bingo, Spring Soccer season began, Art Classes, Summer/Fall program planning, Teen Advisory Group call-out. Attended IPRA Maintenance Expo.
May 2025
61 Members; 13 Clubhouse Rentals. Programs: Storm clean-up. Lion's Club Recognition Plaque installed. Community Garden and sidewalk expansion to Pool House completed. Project punch lists created for Gazebo sites. Picnic tables placed. Town grounds prepared for rental season and Farmers Market.
June 2025
65 Members; 11 Clubhouse Rentals. 5-Year Master Plan adopted by Park Board. Programs: Senior Fitness/Gatherings/Bingo, Movies in the Park series, Lakeside Artist Guild Summer Concert Series, Fall Soccer Registration, Yoga at the Lake, Next Generation Soccer camps.
July 2025
68 Members; 11 Clubhouse Rentals. Sidewalk poured at Old Gazebo site. Landscaping established at Old and New Gazebo sites. Kindness Rock Garden established at Kiwanis Park. Dirt work at shelter construction locations. Cleared overgrown vegetation at Polk Parcel. Daily maintenance of park spaces.
August 2025
73 Members; 13 Clubhouse Rentals. First Annual Senior Picnic. Fall Soccer practices begin. Shipshewana Bus Trip. Staff Appreciation Picnic. Lakeside Artist Guild Concerts. Lake County Health Department's Health Fair. National Night Out Event collaboration identified.
September 2025
73 Members; 8 Clubhouse Rentals. Bands, Brews, and Bugaboos (21+ event). Fall Soccer games begin. Lake County Parks "Party in the Park" participation. Hanover High/Cedar Lake Parks Soccer Recognition Event. Trunk or Treat preparations. Fitness Premier Gym partnership discussions.
October 2025
79 Members; 11 Clubhouse Rentals. Trunk or Treat Event. Fall Soccer concludes. Art Classes. Agents of Discovery 2nd Mission launched. Co-hosted Farmers Market Dog Costume Contest. Memorial Bench installed at Meyer Manor Park. Graded and overseeded Potawatomi Park.
November 2025
79 Members; 13 Clubhouse Rentals. Chamber of Commerce Parade of Lights participation. Red Cross Blood Drive. Spring Soccer planning. Holiday decorations at Town Hall and park trees. Leaf clean-up began.
December 2025
79 Members (Exercise Class); 17 Clubhouse Rentals. Senior Christmas Musical. Visit with Santa Event. 2026 program planning. Christmas lights at Town Hall. Snow removal. New barricades constructed. Safety training planning for 2026.
Note: Pages 99–100 contain photographs of 2025 park improvements. These are image-heavy pages from the annual report brochure.
Office of Building, Zoning, and Planning — January 2026 Permit Reports
Packet Pages 101–102
Report of All Other Permits — January 2026
| Category | Count | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Permits | 23 | $571,133 |
| Church Permits | 1 | $46,100 |
| Industrial Permits | 1 | $0 |
| Total Other Permits | 25 | $617,233 |
Permit types included: Remodel, Other, Electrical, Addition, Deck, and Pool.
Report of All New Construction Permits — January 2026
| Category | Count | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Residential New Construction | 2 | $866,776 |
| Industrial New Construction | 1 | $1,800,000 |
| Total New Construction | 3 | $2,666,776 |
Total Value of All Permits (January 2026): $3,284,009.
Town Engineer Report — February 17, 2026 Town Council Meeting
Packet Pages 103–108 — Christopher B. Burke Engineering, LLC (CBBEL Project No. 060015.00001)
From: Luke J. Sherry, PE, CFM, Town Engineer. Dated February 11, 2026. Reporting period: January 15, 2025 through February 11, 2026.
1) Cedar Lake Dredging and Sediment Dewatering Facility Project
Dewatering has continued; CBBEL remains on-call. The Town received $2 million as part of the Part B Special Needs Fund for the Monsanto Class Action Lawsuit, applied for in July 2023 to aid in additional sediment removal and partially fund Alum treatment for the lake. The Town is currently deliberating on how to best use these funds. No change from previous report.
2) MS4 Coordination
CBBEL staff completed Quarter 4 2025 MS4 construction site inspections and initiated Quarter 1 2026 inspections. Staff continue to respond to construction site complaints and meet with developers on site compliance questions.
3) NIRPC/State Legislature/INDOT/IDNR Updates
Two projects accepted into the 2024–2028 TIP:
- 133rd Avenue Road Raise (Robin's Nest to Colfax Avenue): Programmed FY26, PROTECT funds — $454,504.00 federal / $113,626.00 local match.
- Founders Creek Multi-Use Path: Design in 2026 ($72,685 federal / $32,000 local); Construction in 2028 ($1,422,430 federal / $355,608 local). Five of six required easements obtained; alternative alignment being pursued for the remaining property.
4) Other Funding Opportunities
USDOT BUILD Grant
Not being pursued due to $5M minimum project cost and $1M match requirement.
Community Crossing Grant, 2024-2 (Shades Phase 2)
Awarded to Rieth-Riley at February 18, 2025 meeting. CCMG funds totaling $770,092.09. NIPSCO gas relocation completed July–September 2025. Construction delayed to Spring 2026. Change order for unit cost increases is on this meeting's agenda. Pre-construction meeting scheduled for March 4th. Project must be closed out by June 2026.
Community Crossing Grant, 2026-1 (Shades BC)
Application submitted for 145th Avenue between Morse and Colfax plus portions of Bell, Sherman, Fairbanks, Windsor, Hobart, Wheeler, and 146th Avenue. Not selected for funding (over $237M in applications vs. $100M allocated). Senate Bill 179 currently in House Committee on Roads and Transportation would provide additional $75 million. Note: SB179 would require adoption of a wheel tax for CCMG eligibility starting June 2026.
INDOT Safety Project NOFA
Three applications submitted October 11, 2025 ($50M state allocation):
- Signage/Striping at Lake Shore Drive & Cline Avenue, Hilltop & 129th, Lake Shore & Hilltop ($28,000; Town share $2,800) — Awarded, but funding will not be pursued due to environmental assessment costs making it not cost-effective.
- Parrish Avenue Signage/Striping/Pavement Restoration from 125th to 126th Place ($162,000; Town share $16,200) — Awarded. Coordinating with INDOT on extending the February 2027 letting date for environmental assessment review.
5) Town Street Committee & Roadway Items
141st Avenue Corridor
Preliminary design/cost estimate finalized. Improvements postponed to coincide with future development. CCMG funding not being pursued. No change.
133rd Avenue Road Raise
Coordinating with NIPSCO on utility relocates and INDOT on final design. Revising Stage 3 design plans per INDOT comments. Final tracings due March 16, 2026. Letting now scheduled July 8, 2026 (was November 2025). No change.
Shades AA/AB Paving Projects (CCMG 2025-01)
Awarded funding of $342,000 total. Contract awarded to Milestone Contractors North, Inc. for $693,240.00. Construction began in August and is now complete. Final pay application approved at January 20th meeting. CBBEL working on closeout paperwork.
Railroad At-Grade Sidewalk Crossing
PE agreement received from Norfolk Southern/AECOM for 141st Avenue near Hanover Central Middle School ($24,612.00). Three other crossings on hold. No change.
Road Impact Fee
CBBEL provided June 2024 memorandum. Town soliciting proposals from engineering firms; CBBEL preparing submittal in response to January 14th RFP.
Community Development Block Grant — Utopia ADA Improvements
Awarded to J&J Newel Concrete Contractors, Inc. at December 16, 2025 meeting. Bid: $94,006; CDBG allotment: $93,955. Construction expected early Spring 2026. Must be completed by June 30, 2026.
6) Water Utility
CBBEL providing on-call assistance for Water Master Plan implementation and processing NOIs through IDEM for Monastery Woods and Centennial Townhomes Developments.
7) Plan Commission
- CL Gateway PUD (M&L's Adventures): Multi-tenant restaurant/retail at 10715 W. 133rd Avenue. Review letter February 2, 2026. February voting session.
- Modern Heating & Cooling — Lakeview Business Park Lot 9: 1.5-acre office/warehouse. Review letter February 2, 2026. February voting session.
- Wedding Development — Lakeview Business Park Lot 13: Concrete facility with parking. Review letter February 3, 2026. February voting session.
8) Stormwater Management Board
- 7513 W. 136th Avenue, Woodland Shores: Parcel owner sold property. Tabled until new owners appear at Storm Board meeting.
- Meyer Manor Terrace/Lake Shore Drive Storm Sewer: Significant project with multiple pipe materials, blind connections, and failing pipes. Conceptual phasing plan and costs presented at February meeting. Additional funding sources may be needed.
- 10708 W. 133rd Place, Hanover Plat C: Storm sewer cleaned. Drainage issues related to blocked culverts under Norfolk Southern Railroad. Monitoring during rain events. No change.
- 50/50 Rear Yard Drainage Program: Draft guidelines prepared. Cost share capped at $5,000 for homeowner. No vote made. No change.
9) Building Department
Ongoing site plan and as-built reviews. Development reviews and inspections in: Summer Winds, Rose Garden Estates, Centennial Villas/Estates, Beacon East, Beacon West (Phases 5–7), Lakeside, Lakeview Business Park, Oak Brook, and Railside.
Ordinance Updates: Updated floodplain ordinance sent January 31, 2023. Draft Stormwater Ordinance and Technical Standards Manual updates completed; to be provided for Town review. No change.
CBBEL Project Status Report and All Projects Schedule
Packet Pages 109–111 — Updated 2/11/26
| Job No. | Description | Budget | Status Summary | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 060015.00001 | Town Council | n/a | Report for 2/17/26 meeting completed | 2/12/26 |
| 060015.00002 | Plan Commission | n/a | Plan reviews, LOC inspections, meetings ongoing | Ongoing |
| 060015.00003 | Stormwater Management Board | n/a | Reviewing items as requested | Ongoing |
| 060015.00006 | Stormwater Cost of Services Study | n/a | Ongoing ERU calculation review for parcels | Ongoing |
| 220178 | Cedar Lake Dredging Project | $71,620 (annual) | Dewatering continued; $2M Monsanto funds deliberation; on-call | Ongoing |
| 230324 | Shades Subdivision, Phase 2 | $198,850 | Awarded to Rieth-Riley; change order approved; pre-construction March 4th; construction Spring 2026 | Ongoing |
| 230510 | 133rd Road Raise & Watermain | $145,150 | Revising plans per INDOT comments; letting July 8, 2026; construction late 2026 | Ongoing |
| 060015.00005 | Shades AA/AB Paving Projects | $62,380 | Construction fully complete; final pay approved January; closeout paperwork underway | Ongoing |
| 060015.00005 | Utopia ADA Ramp/Sidewalk Improvements | $20,000 | Awarded to J&J Newel Concrete; construction Spring 2026 | 6/30/26 |
| 090043 | MS4 Coordination | $19,400 (annual) | Quarter 1 2026 inspections begun | Ongoing |
All Projects Schedule
The schedule shows the following projects with construction timelines spanning 2025–2026:
- 133rd Road Raise (DES No. 2301117): Construction in 2026 (mid-to-late year)
- Utopia ADA Improvements (CDBG 2025): Construction Spring 2026, deadline June 30, 2026
- Shades Subdivision, Phase 2 (CCMG 2024-2): Construction April–July 2026
- Shades AA/AB Subdivisions (CCMG 2025-01): Construction completed 2025