Town of Cedar Lake
Town Council
Public Meeting Minutes

Pledge of Allegiance & Moment of Silence

Roll Call

Public Comment

Kevin Toth, 9725 B W 129th Place, discussed amending ordinance 1449 at the last meeting for the parks superintendent duties. He stated there was discussion about that and the amendment being part of State Statute. He stated they were amending that to bring it up to par with State Statute. He could not figure out how anyone could vote no. Mr. Parker stated he could not understand it either. Mr. Toth asked about the two pay requests for the 2022 A and B from the construction funds. He asked what they are still paying for and if they own the buildings. He asked them to explain the status of the buildings. He asked if they are still in the BOT. Mr. Parker stated they still owe but he cannot answer the other questions. Mr. Toth continued to voice concerns with paying the builder and asked if the buildings were turned over to them. He again asked what they are still paying for. Mr. Parker stated his understanding is they still owe money on the construction. Ms. Sandberg stated according to the police one it is for technology, IT, AV, and telecom. For the fire building, it is from the plumbing systems line. Mrs. Dickson stated it might be because of the flooding. Mr. Toth voiced concerns with hearing things about repairs to be done like siding issues and other things. He is wondering how that is to be accomplished. He asked if anybody knows the status of the building. Mr. Eldridge stated the buildings have not been turned over to the Town. It is the recommendation of Barnes and Thornburg that they can do that now. The Council has not made that decision to take that step yet. The warranties on the building are expired. Anything that breaks in the buildings is now on them to take care of. The siding issues are being addressed. They had a meeting with the contractors a couple weeks ago. They got up on the roof and secured the loose siding. They are going back to the manufacturer to find out the proper way to fix the siding. To find if it is defective or there was an issue with install. Mr. Toth asked about both buildings still being in the BOT. Mr. Eldridge stated that is correct. Mr. Toth asked if the Building Corporation will purchase them eventually. Mr. Eldridge stated he was not sure how that works. Mr. Austgen stated it would be a deed conveyance. Mr. Austgen offered a suggestion. He stated any actions related to payments or claims on their docket tonight or otherwise be stayed and held pending a report to them from their staff and department heads on exactly what the status is. There is still some money from the bond issue financing. They knew there were siding issues and warranty issues of some sort on the property. Getting a good comprehensive report is probably warranted at this point.

Carol Kerr, 9900 W 129th Place, asked about IT getting a clip on. Mr. Thiel stated this comment period was for agenda items. Mrs. Kerr asked about the public comment before the agenda. She asked how she or others would know. She asked why they did not explain each thing and let comments occur and then they vote on it. She stated once they vote on it, they have no say. She continued to voice concerns. Mr. Thiel stated all of the ordinances and stuff are in the packet. Mrs. Dickson stated it is online. Mrs. Kerr questioned that she is supposed to read the packet at home and try to understand what each of these things are. Mrs. Dickson stated if she does not understand something than she can come and ask them. Mrs. Kerr stated she has a question on every one of them. She stated it does not make sense to her.

Consent Agenda

1. Minutes

November 18, 2025 & December 2, 2025.

2. Claims

All Town Funds: $383,855.50; Wastewater: $116,149.97; Water Utility: $41,085.04; Storm Water: $3,012.51; Payroll (3/12/26): $417,205.52; February Remittances: $230,553.83.

3. Donations

Schillings Brothers Lumber & Hardware, Inc. - $400 for Equipment for Fire Department; Nicholas Recupito – Three (3) Officially Licensed America 250th Anniversary Flags.

4. Manual Journal Entries

February 1, 2026 – February 28, 2026.

A motion to waive the reading of the minutes and accept the consent agenda as listed was made by Greg Parker with second by Chuck Becker. Mr. Carnahan asked about the six PSAP claims. One is number 86 for $15,214.26, number 87 for $15,214.25, and number 88 for $15,214.26 for a total of $45,642.77. On page 3 there is another one. For number 86, $15214.25, number 87 for $15,214.26, and number 88 for $15,214.25 for a total of $45,642.76. He asked why there are six claims and supposedly paying $30,428.51. Ms. Sandberg stated each month. Each month the claim is split between the General Fund and LOIT Public Safety Fund. The Town of Schererville never bills the Town at the beginning of the year until they have finished their true-up report. Just this month the Town received the true-up report. Schererville told the Town they would be getting a reimbursement from last year. Ms. Sandberg stated she believes she told them that would be a little over $40,000. She could not recall the exact amount. Mr. Parker stated it is per their agreement though. Ms. Sandberg stated yes. They are getting the reimbursement back but they do owe for January, February, and March. Mr. Carnahan stated that is a three-month bill. Ms. Sandberg stated it is a January, February, and March bill. Mr. Carnahan asked about another bill for plow and ambulance supplies. Maintenance vehicle highway paid $325.19, wastewater $49.21, water operations $44.44 and $89.21, and storm water $33.22 and $5.10. He asked why they are paying for ambulance supplies. Ms. Sandberg said she could not tell him definitively as she has not looked at that specific claim but she is assuming it has to do with the ambulance that was passed down to public works. That is technically no longer an ambulance. It is now a public works vehicle. Mr. Carnahan stated on the cash summary they have the three items there for Strack and Van Til. He asked David if he said they need to do an ordinance to get this off. Mr. Austgen asked Bob exactly what is it. Mr. Carnahan stated it is Strack and Van Til LLC project funds for $30.84, Strack and Van Til LLC capitalization interest of $0.50, and Strack and Van Til LLC bond fund of $46,237.31 that is constantly on here. He did not think it needed to be on there. Mr. Austgen stated it does not. He stated he would take a quick look at it and make a recommendation next month.

Motion carries, 5–0.

Ordinances/Resolutions

1. Ordinance No. 1525 – An Ordinance Amending Town Code 71.09, "Through Streets; Placement of Stop Signs"

Mr. Parker read Ordinance No. 1525 by title only. Mr. Thiel asked where the stop signs are for. Mr. Kubiak stated he believed Lakeside. Chief Gruszka confirmed they are for Lakeside Subdivision. The streets in question butt up to a park.

A motion to approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 1525 was made by Chuck Becker with second by Greg Parker.

Motion carries, 5–0.

A motion to suspend the rules and allow for a second reading was made by Chuck Becker with second by Mary Joan Dickson.

Motion carries, 5–0.

Mr. Parker read Ordinance No. 1525 by title only.

A motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1525 was made by Chuck Becker with second by Mary Joan Dickson.

Motion carries, 5–0.

2. Ordinance No. ___ – An Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 1449 – Parks Superintendent Job Description

Mr. Thiel stated he did not have an ordinance. Mr. Parker stated 1388 is on his. Ms. Sandberg stated that one is a resolution. Mr. Thiel asked if it was 1449. Ms. Sandberg stated 1449 was from 2023. Mr. Thiel asked if they had a new ordinance number for this one. Ms. Sandberg stated she did not see a new ordinance in their packet. Mr. Austgen stated this ordinance was introduced a month ago. Mrs. Dickson stated two weeks ago. Mr. Parker stated it is confusing. Mr. Thiel agreed. Mrs. Dickson stated it would have had a number at the last meeting. Ms. Sandberg stated there was no ordinance in the last packet. Mr. Eldridge asked if there should be an amendment to the original ordinance 1449. Ms. Sandberg stated yes, you would be amending 1449. Mr. Eldridge stated there was no amended ordinance to 1449. Mrs. Dickson stated an ordinance amending ordinance 1449 is what it says on the job description. She asked if it needed another ordinance. Mr. Becker stated they had one reading last time. Ms. Sandberg stated what the town has done traditionally is adopt job descriptions by way of ordinance. The last time the parks and recreation superintendent job description was 1449 in 2023, right before they filled the position. Mr. Austgen stated they could call it 1449-A. It will distinguish the two. He does not know if that messes. Ms. Sandberg stated 1449 was 2023 and they are already in 1520s. Mrs. Dickson asked if they should make it 1526. Ms. Sandberg asked who drafted it. Mr. Austgen stated that does not matter. What they need is a number and the number comes from sequence and however you maintain the book. Mrs. Dickson asked if 1526 is next or not. Ms. Sandberg stated she would assume so but she would have to triple check and make sure it has not been assigned to anything coming up. Mr. Austgen stated Council can act on it and leave a clarification of ordinance number to be determined by the Clerk-Treasurer. Mr. Parker read the following: Town of Cedar Lake, Lake County, Indiana, Ordinance Number to be determined. An ordinance amending town ordinance number 1064 being an ordinance establishing job employment descriptions for the Town of Cedar Lake. Repealing all ordinances and Town Code sections or portions thereof in conflict herewith and all matters related here too. Creating a full-time parks and recreation superintendent and a full-time for the Town and all matters related thereto. Mr. Thiel asked Mr. Austgen for clarification and if it is the second reading. Mr. Carnahan stated yes. Mr. Austgen stated no. Mr. Thiel stated he wanted to make sure. Mr. Eldridge asked for clarification. He stated what was read in at the last Council meeting was different than what the Park Board approved. He asked if that changed anything. Mr. Austgen stated he did not know what the Park Board approved. They would not have done anything but send a recommendation. If there is clarity needed to what the manager has to say, you can add as amended to your motion to act to adopt.

A motion to adopt the ordinance with all the discussion had with the attorney as amended and clarification on the ordinance number per Clerk-Treasurer was made by Chuck Becker with second by Greg Parker.

Motion carries, 5–0.

3. Resolution No. 1388 – A Resolution Approving the Disposal of Town Owned Real Estate Located at Sheridan Road & 127th Place

Mr. Thiel explained this is a town owned parcel on 127th near another parcel that had a garage that was torn down by unsafe. This parcel is to the east along with the other item. They are going to be selling the parcels. Mr. Parker read Resolution No. 1388 by title only. Mr. Austgen clarified that the word Sheridan is correct in the tax record reviewed.

A motion to approve Resolution No. 1388 was made by Chuck Becker with second by Mary Joan Dickson.

Motion carries, 5–0.

4. Resolution No. 1389 – A Resolution Approving the Disposal of Town Owned Real Estate Located at W 127th Lane

Mr. Parker read Resolution No. 1389 by title only. Mr. Thiel explained this is pretty much the same thing as explained in the first one.

A motion to approve Resolution No. 1389 was made by Chuck Becker with second by Greg Parker.

Motion carries, 5–0.

5. Resolution No. 1390 – A Resolution Approving the Disposal of Town Owned Real Estate Located at 12930 Fulton Street

Mr. Parker read Resolution No. 1390 by title only.

A motion to approve Resolution No. 1390 was made by Chuck Becker with second by Mary Joan Dickson.

Motion carries, 5–0.

New Business

1. Approval of Location to Plant Donated Tree on Town Grounds in Celebration of Arbor Day April 24, 2026

Mr. Eldridge stated they are going to put a cherry tree by the Lion's Den behind Town Hall. Permission was given to remove a crab apple tree there and another pine tree closer to the storm water inlet. They will be replacing the pine tree that was damaged in a storm a year or two ago. The cherry tree will be there at that location. The tree was donated by Leo's. A brief discussion continued.

A motion to approve was made by Chuck Becker with second by Robert Carnahan.

Motion carries, 5–0.

2. Notice to Abate for Grass/Weeds Citation

Mrs. Dickson stated this is what they do annually. Mr. Austgen stated it is. Mr. Carnahan discussed the Town citing property owners and they do not maintain the Town's. He does not think it is fair. Mr. Austgen stated it is done because there is statutory language. It requires repeat notices if you do not do this. It is for internal planning purposes. This way you do not have to go through a legal process every time.

A motion to approve was made by Chuck Becker with second by Mary Joan Dickson.

Motion carries, 5–0.

3. Seeking Approval to Proceed with Permanent Signage Placement on Bandstand for Lakeside Artist Guild

Mr. Eldridge stated he asked about that today. The Park Board has determined that they would pay for the sign and staff would install the sign on the bandstand. The Town is partners with the Lakeside Artist Guild. Mr. Thiel asked about the design. Mr. Carnahan asked about the Summerfest banner. Mrs. Dickson stated there would be no interference.

A motion to approve was made by Robert Carnahan with second by Chuck Becker.

Motion carries, 5–0.

4. Disbursement Request No. 30 of Funds from 2022A Construction Fund in the Amount of $12,242.72 & 5. Disbursement Request No. 24 of Funds from 2022B Construction Fund in the Amount of $12,130.23

Mr. Thiel asked Ms. Sandberg for discussion. Ms. Sandberg stated as she reported when Mr. Toth was up, this is for the A and B series. According to the documents submitted, for the Police Building, it looks like it was out of Telecom/AV/IT line. For B, the Fire Building, it is out of Plumbing Services. Mr. Parker asked Mr. Austgen to go over his recommendation on the items. Mr. Austgen recommended that any action taken be to stay payment pending issuance of a report to them by staff, your administrative staff, on all of the open items related to those two properties. Mr. Carnahan made a motion to defer this item until they get further information. Mr. Parker asked if that would work too. Mr. Austgen stated it would, he just needs them to give more specific instructions. Mr. Becker asked if that would make them late with the payment. Mr. Thiel asked Ms. Sandberg if that messes anything up with disbursements. Ms. Sandberg stated if they tell her not to pay it, she does not pay it. Whether or not GM can come back at them, she does not know. Mr. Carnahan asked Dave if he thought they could come back at them. Mr. Austgen stated they can do anything they want. Mr. Carnahan stated yeah, I know. Mr. Austgen stated look how long this project has taken. He asked if they really thought for a month time they are coming back here. Mr. Parker stated to Mr. Carnahan it was probably not a good motion. Mr. Carnahan removed his motion. Mr. Parker asked for Mr. Austgen to say again what the motion should be. Mr. Austgen responded to stay the distribution of funds for payment on the outstanding claims presented pending report from their administration. Mr. Parker asked if they would have to have two motions for the 2022A and 2022B. Mr. Austgen stated they do not have to. Mr. Parker asked if they could do a motion for the two of them. Mr. Austgen stated they would be the same motion. Mr. Eldridge noted Mrs. Haase had her hand raised. Mrs. Haase reported that the two invoices are their final payments for both 2022A and 2022B. What is remaining on the budget, is what belongs to them as Town directed contingencies. These are the final payments on both of them. She believes Town Manager Eldridge has sent the certificate of completions to Mr. Austgen's office to be reviewed. Given the outstanding issues, she did not feel comfortable advising or recommending to Mr. Eldridge that they be signed unless the attorney agreed. These are just the final two payments. These would be the last payments out of the construction funds. Mr. Parker stated all the more reason why they need a report to make sure everything is the way it is supposed to be. Mr. Austgen stated nothing has changed about his recommendation. Hold, get report, get status update, and get a better report than there was tonight. Mr. Thiel asked if it would be better to defer than a motion to stay. Mr. Austgen stated they could do either one. Mr. Thiel stated he thinks it would be a little cleaner.

Mr. Carnahan made a motion to defer items 4 and 5 with a second by Greg Parker.

Motion carries, 5–0.

6. Discussion and Approval of Pre-Approved Funds for Public Works Department to Purchase a Street Sweeper

Mr. Thiel stated Mr. Kubiak had an idea in mind. It would not be a new street sweeper. Mr. Kubiak stated the goal is to shop around for a refurbished or used Elgin street sweeper. It is basically a broom and a dust pan. It cleans up. It has the least amount of vacuum and dust. That is what they are shooting for. When a used one arrives, they need to be able to act quickly to get it or it is gone. A couple have come across and they have entertained the idea but by the time you call back it is gone. This is in an effort to give them a way to secure it quicker. They would still be included in what is happening. This would allow for a deposit or whatever is needed. Mr. Parker stated this came from a street committee meeting. The other one is functioning at this time. Mr. Thiel stated getting the new one would mean selling the other on GovDeals. Mr. Carnahan stated as long as it is running, they would probably get a good dollar. Discussion continued on selling the existing street sweeper. Mr. Thiel asked if this is going to be a not to exceed amount. Mrs. Dickson stated yes. Mr. Kubiak stated the idea is if something comes up in the range. They have seen a few come in for the $60,000 to $70,000 price. Mr. Thiel stated if he is looking around $60,000 to $70,000, is a not to exceed $80,000 okay. Just so they are not tied if something is a $1,000 more. Mr. Becker asked what about $90,000. Mr. Kubiak stated whatever they are comfortable with. Mrs. Dickson asked what is a comfortable not to exceed. Mr. Kubiak replied he has seen $55,000, $68,000, and $79,000. It is all over the place. He stated he has not taken the time to drive and see and compare. He has not physically seen anything. Mr. Parker stated it is hard to seal the deal on a piece of equipment when you have to wait for approval. A brief discussion continued. Mr. Carnahan asked about the cost of a brand new one. Mr. Kubiak stated $359,000.

A motion to approve a not to exceed amount of $90,000 was made by Chuck Becker with second by Robert Carnahan.

Ms. Sandberg asked about the funding source. Mr. Thiel stated this was the discussion of Monsanto. Mr. Becker stated yes. Ms. Sandberg confirmed this would be 100% from the Monsanto Fund. Mrs. Dickson asked if it should be added to the motion. Mr. Thiel asked Mr. Austgen. Mr. Austgen discussed it being added for clarity. The motion is not to exceed $90,000 with funds coming from Monsanto for the street sweeper.

Motion carries, 5–0.

7. Approval of Town Hall as Polling Location for Election on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 and Tuesday, November 3, 2026

A motion to approve was made by Greg Parker with second by Mary Joan Dickson.

Motion carries, 5–0.

8. Approval and Pre-Payment for Police Department Purchase of Tesla, Model 3, in the Amount of $49,130

A motion to approve was made by Mary Joan Dickson with second by Chuck Becker.

Motion carries, 5–0.

Discussion

1. The Museum at Lassen's Resort Ice Truck Pavilion

Mr. Eldridge stated this is discussion already had. This is for final approval for the pavilion to be where they originally designed for it to be. The Council was okay with that. He will reach out to Julie tomorrow and let her know she can proceed with permitting.

Reports

1. Town Council

Mr. Carnahan reported Project Love Food Pantry will be open tomorrow. He stated a resident is upset with the fact that Shane's Bar has had nothing done. The resident wanted to know what the Town Council has discussed. Mr. Carnahan stated he responded that it has not been discussed by the Town Council only Plan Commission and Unsafe. Mr. Carnahan stated he is bringing it to the Town Council. The resident stated it is an eyesore. Mr. Thiel agrees. He knows there was discussion in the past about the owners acquiring adjacent parcels to extend parking. He has not heard anything more. Mr. Thiel asked Ben to reach out to the Building Department and the gentlemen who owns it. Too much time has passed since the last communication. Mrs. Dickson stated she wanted to clear up a matter regarding a meeting quorum and voting quorum. She said it was stated at the safety board meeting. She said she stated at the safety board meeting on February 11th that she was not an attorney. It was a personal opinion that the Town Council is an elected board and that is why their decisions and quorums fall under the State Statute of 36-5-29.2. In the creation of boards and commissions in Cedar Lake it is also stated that the BZA and Plan Commission have a quorum of their membership not of what is attending at the meeting. The other boards and commissions fall under Roberts Rules of Order. She suggested that they state the steps and clear this up. Make sure all boards have the quorum of the membership. For instance, if there are seven members, four would be the quorum and you need four to vote yes. This way it is all cleared up. She suggested legal create it so all boards and commissions follow the same steps. Mrs. Dickson stated AIM would have a roundtable on April 1st. April 18th is the Chamber Expo at the high school. She thanked Fire and VIPS for assisting with the Penguin Plop. She stated they were able to raise $20,000 for funds for scholarships for kids and classroom grants.

2. Town Attorney

Mr. Austgen asked if he was directed to work on an ordinance for the quorum issue. Mrs. Dickson stated please. She asked if the others were in agreement. Others responded in the affirmative. Mr. Austgen stated it was referenced that he received a copy of the certifications for the two loans for the properties up the hill. He stated he did not get that. He asked Mr. Eldridge to get them to him. Mr. Austgen stated he would get with Sue and render an opinion. He asked if the Huppenthal Trust distribution was something they could take care of tonight. He asked if they needed more. He has given the materials. It is kind of in a holding pattern now. Mr. Parker asked what he needed. Mr. Austgen recommended a motion be made if they are ready for it. Mr. Becker stated he is not ready for it. Mr. Thiel stated that is the question because this is waiting for a signature for finalization. Mr. Austgen stated they are receiving a substantial amount of money. In the context of transparency, taking action to approve or accept. It is an acceptance on the public record. Mr. Thiel asked about the amount. Mr. Austgen stated $213,000. Mr. Thiel asked if they should amend the agenda. Mr. Carnahan noted Chuck does not want to. Mr. Becker stated he has questions. Mr. Carnahan stated it probably needs to be asked in executive. Mr. Thiel asked if this could wait two weeks for further discussion on it. He is aware of some of the questions. He knows Nick Recupito did not want to sign the last time. He and Julie are not here. He would be more comfortable with two weeks. Mr. Austgen stated he is good with that. It is when they are ready. The package is sitting.

3. Clerk-Treasurer

Ms. Sandberg reported prior to the end of February the Annual Financial Report was submitted timely. That is complete. She does not have the exact date but the Shared Ethics Advisory Commission will be having another management training. This management training is for department heads. As soon as she has the flyer, she will send it out. She believes it is May 22nd but not for certain.

4. Town Manager

Mr. Eldridge stated on April 1st TSWDG, the firm doing the Town comprehensive plan, will be having an open house. It will be held at the new Fire Station bays. There will be two open houses. He thinks it will be from 9AM to Noon and then 3PM to 6PM. It will be for everyone in the community to attend. They will have discussions and share information boards. Mr. Eldridge stated for the Shades BC paving project he sent a letter to Lake County asking if they would partner with the Town and cover the cost of the culvert replacement. Mr. Carnahan asked if that was on 145th. Mr. Eldridge stated yes. He attended the storm board meeting last week and they agreed to pay for half of the culvert portion which would be $24,400. Lake County will pay for that which allows them to use the funds elsewhere. Mr. Eldridge stated next week he will be in Indianapolis for American Water Works for training. Mrs. Dickson suggested the open house go until 7PM.

5. Director of Operations

Mr. Kubiak stated a couple crews were headed to Lake Village to help clean up the roads. Two trucks with three men each will go down tomorrow. They will send one truck on Thursday and Friday. They have made a pretty good dent in helping them get things opened back up.

6. Police Department

Chief Gruszka reported on the monthly calls report. On June 6, they will be holding Cops and Bobbers. It is a community outreach program. They will fish with the kids. They are looking forward to that. They had the car seat safety event at the Fire Department. They worked on eleven seats in two hours. They were inspected and properly installed. Six car seats were provided to families in needs. He thanked Franciscan, Cedar Lake Fire Department, Griffith Police Department, Highland Police Department, Cedar Lake Deputy Chief Carl Brittingham, and Administrative Assistant Sarah Moore as well as VIPS. They did a lot of work and made it a successful event. They received a grant from the Crown Point Community Foundation. That will help with training. Mr. Carnahan stated it was for cones. Chief Gruszka stated applications are out there. They posted for that and it will go through April 30th. They have received nine (9) applications but it is still open. He stated two officers helped down in Lake Village, Commander Kidd and Officer Tomko. They helped with search and rescue. Mr. Carnahan discussed the license plate concerns regarding Illinois plates. He stated Chief worked on an ordinance. Mr. Carnahan stated he would be attending NIRPC on Thursday and would ask other communities what they do to try and resolve the problem. Mr. Carnahan stated at the last NIRPC meeting he received perfect attendance.

7. Fire Department

Chief Mager reported both the monthly activity report and training report are in their packets. He briefly discussed both reports. Mr. Carnahan stated lift assists are down this month compared to previous months. A brief discussion continued.

8. Parks Department

Mr. Thiel stated the report is in their packet. Mr. Becker asked about maintenance trucks and the tires purchased. He discussed the trucks only being a few years old. Mr. Kubiak stated driving around in circles wears out tires. His truck is the newest of that group and they are going to need replaced before winter. Mr. Becker asked about the mileage. Mr. Kubiak stated his truck is right at 20,000. It is a lot of the in Town driving and turning. You do not do long trips. It is wear and tear. He doesn't believe they get much more than 20,000 miles out of tires. Hopefully the trucks last.

Written Communication

Mr. Thiel stated a resident in the Cook area asked about the ordinance for roosters. They have had problems in the past. There are more roosters in the neighborhood again. Mr. Thiel stated they need to revisit the ordinance. Mr. Thiel stated they all received a letter dated March 1st about a stop sign at 147th and Cline Avenue. Around the corner from Bugaboos. They are asking if there is anything that can be done with flashing signs. Mr. Thiel asked Mr. Kubiak to look into it. Mr. Kubiak stated they were planning to ask the Redevelopment Commission if there was a chance for funding. It is going to be approximately $4,500 for the solar powered flashing stop sign. Since the request was made, it was though that a flashing stop ahead sign should be placed at the bottom of the hill. He thinks that would be better because of the vision when driving. A discussion continued on the solar flashing lights. Mr. Thiel asked if there were other locations in mind. Mr. Kubiak stated not at this time. This was a request and has been an issue for some time. Mr. Becker asked about crosswalks. Mr. Thiel asked if they could roll it in with crosswalks. He asked about funds with RDC. Ms. Sandberg stated if they want to use Fund 804, TIF monies, if it is in a TIF area. Otherwise, RDC does not have money for crosswalks. RDC's general budget, Fund 404, is a very miniscule budget. It traditionally has not been used in the past. It never had a budget for crosswalks. The last time RDC paid for a crosswalk was by Hunley's. That is a TIF area. Mr. Thiel and Mr. Becker stated that is one of the ones being discussed. Mr. Kubiak stated he probably requested a quote for that and has it somewhere. They talked about grants and getting a quote. Mr. Thiel asked Mr. Kubiak to get those quotes. That way they have a dollar amount and can get with Jennifer and figure out funds. Ms. Sandberg stated the Town has not traditionally budgeted for crosswalks. Discussion continued on the matter. Mr. Thiel asked Jennifer if she had a recommendation on funds since this is a safety concern. Do they know of any grants. Ms. Sandberg stated she is not aware of any grants. She is curious how other cities and towns budget for crosswalks or if it is part of larger projects. She stated they are unique being a lake town and how they are positioned. She stated she did not have a good recommendation for funding source. Mr. Thiel stated he would share the written communication with her to put into the record.

The Building Department Report and Christopher B. Burke Report is in the packet.

Public Comment

Georgianne Glavas, on behalf of Logan's Love, stated they are starting year four of their organization. It was founded on behalf of Logan Ruiz who tragically passed away as a result of his autism. His mom created the foundation in his memory. She invited everyone to their events. She shared flyers. They have an Easter Egg Hunt on March 28th, golf outing in June, and a walk in August. Any funds go right back into the community. Approximately two years ago they donated Ben's Blue Bags to first responders.

Tyler Bridges, 729 Apache Lane, Lowell, thanked everyone for the diligence they take in their job. Mr. Bridges stated he is running for Indiana State House District 11. He encouraged everyone to vote. He stated he would be around after for any questions.

Barb Orze, 10290 W 138th Place, read an alert about the US 41 widening. INDOT would be hosting a hearing about the proposed roadway improvement project construct two-way left turn lane along US 41 in both directions. The hearing is going to be Monday, March 23rd at the high school. Doors will open at 5:30PM. Formal presentation at 6:00PM. There will then be an opportunity for verbal statements. She stated it is an informative process. Mr. Thiel stated he would be in attendance.

Luanne Miller, 13338 Fulton Street, suggested that the Town, Police Department, get together and have a campaign for bicycle safety. Weather is going to clear up and it is scary. Not only kids but adults too. Mr. Carnahan asked if Chief could handle that. Chief Gruszka stated they have been working with the schools. As far as adults, it is a little harder. They have looked at some ordinances. They just thought by putting in safety programs at the school would be a start. A brief discussion continued on bicycle and scooter safety. Chief Mager stated at the Fire Department they do have safety helmets for different age ranges. Mr. Thiel asked if that is on the website. Chief Mager stated they just have to do a form. Whoever can come down to the Fire Station.

Adjournment

Vice-President Thiel called the meeting to adjournment at approximately 8:22 PM.