Jeremy McHargue

Key discussions included the approval of claims and outstanding Patton Law invoices. The council approved a purchase order for five sets of fire department bunker gear. Financial reports for December 2025 were reconciled for 2026 go-live, and department heads were kept the same. Updates were provided on staff anniversaries, Flock camera installation, and the upcoming Police Department remodel, for which permit fees were waived. The Fire Chief reported on the water rescue vehicle conversion and arranged for annual fire extinguisher service. The council voted to initiate legal collections proceedings for unpaid penalties regarding the unsafe building at 1182 Salt Creek Road. Resolution 2026-01 approved the 2026 salary and wages for the Park Department. Resolution 2026-02 amended the 2025 salary ordinance to correct titles and add a raise for part-time clerks. Resolution 2026-03 amended the tax abatement for Cleveland-Cliffs Burns Harbor LLC concerning the Lakeshore Industrial Economic Revitalization Area, extending the ERA through 2029. The council voted to move forward with in.gov for a new website platform. Finally, updates to the employee handbook regarding floating holidays, vacation benefits, overtime/comp time, ethics training, and credit card limits were approved, and council appointments to various boards were addressed.

The meeting commenced with a reorganization, during which the commission appointed a new President, re-appointed the Vice President, and appointed a member to the Board of Zoning Appeals. Old business focused on proposed changes to the Fence Code, specifically regarding permit requirements for fences, decks, and sheds, with direction given to draft an ordinance for a future public hearing. New business included a review of current bonds and maintenance guarantees, requiring follow-up on a specific cashier's check. The commission also reviewed plans for the Taco Bell Training Center, recommending review by the Town Engineer and Global Engineering before the next meeting. An informal site plan review was conducted for a proposed 78-home development by Lennar Homes, involving discussion on lot sizes, amenities, connection to Lake Park Rd., and potential sanitation requirements, including a lift station investigation. Finally, a permit extension request for fiber installation in Corlin's Landing was approved.

The meeting included discussions regarding sanitary operations, specifically issues at Lift Station #2 following a power surge from NIPSCO, which caused a generator failure and necessitated the installation of a new unit and subsequent testing. It was noted that the generator company account was stopped, requiring follow-up. The board received an update on wastewater treatment plant permits, confirming preliminary approval from IDEM for requested changes effective March 1st. Discussions also covered the distribution of 2026 sanitation coupon booklets and trash calendars. A key agenda item involved calculating the Equivalent Residential Units (ERUs) for the new Taco Bell location, resulting in a charge of 6 ERUs based on facility type and Indiana Administrative Code, with future rate adjustments to be initiated by the business owner with water usage documentation. Additionally, appeals included a payment status update for Mr. Fouts and notices sent to Ms. Zelenika and 25 other residents. The board approved outstanding claims and purchase orders. A new owner for the Rainbow trailer park inquired about billing discrepancies concerning the number of occupied lots.

The meeting included a public hearing concerning CIT Trucks, LLC, which sought two Developmental Standards variances: one for the total square footage on the site and another for the square footage of their new free-standing pylon sign, which they committed would not scroll. The Board approved both variances, contingent on the removal of the old Campland sign within 60 days. A preliminary hearing was held for Cleveland Cliffs, which requested a Use Variance and a Developmental Standards Variance related to the container ordinance. Cleveland Cliffs sought to be exempted from required container inspections and to limit the number of containers they pay for to 200, citing existing OSHA and internal audits. After discussion regarding liability and the obligation of all businesses to follow town ordinances, the matter was moved to a Public Hearing. The Board also announced that the next meeting would occur on Wednesday, December 17, 2025.

This Implementation Roadmap for the Town of Burns Harbor outlines strategic solutions, projects, and initiatives to enhance the quality of life for its residents, employers, and employees, and to attract new businesses and investment. Key focus areas include business attraction and development, communication and outreach, streamlining the development process, implementing targeted leasing and casting strategies, and executing priority projects such as the Pop-Up Shipping Container Village and Regional Destination Marketplace. The plan aims to diversify the local economy, build economic momentum, and bring the Town's vision to fruition.