Saint John Plan Commission approves Grace Church subdivision primary plat

In the heart of St. John, Indiana, the Town Council convened for a pivotal Plan Commission meeting on June 18, 2025, where community development and infrastructure took center stage. As the meeting commenced, members stood for the Pledge of Allegiance, setting a tone of civic engagement and responsibility.

The agenda quickly moved to the approval of previous meeting minutes, which passed unanimously, signaling a smooth start. However, the real focus of the evening was the public hearing regarding a proposed primary plat for Grace Church, located at 13809 West 100th Avenue. Max Rajeski, representing the church, outlined the project, emphasizing its advanced engineering plans and the approval of the primary plat.

Rajeski highlighted two key points of concern: a request for a waiver from the installation of curb and gutter along the fronting road, as advised by the Lake County Highway Department, and potential impacts to a ditch running along the property’s northern edge. He assured the commission that the project would adhere to stormwater detention requirements, ultimately improving drainage conditions in the area.

As the public hearing opened, residents were invited to voice their opinions. Carla Moreno, a local resident from the Greystone subdivision, was among those who stepped forward, indicating a strong community interest in the development. The commission encouraged public participation while maintaining a respectful dialogue, allowing for a balanced exchange of views.

The meeting underscored the importance of community input in local development projects, as well as the ongoing collaboration between the town and county officials to ensure that infrastructure improvements align with residents' needs. As the evening progressed, the commission's deliberations hinted at a future where community growth and environmental stewardship could coexist harmoniously in St. John.