The North Judson Town Council posted the minutes from their Special Meeting on July 1st, and the minutes read as follows:
July 1, 2025, 5:30 P.M.
The North Judson Town Council met in Regular Session at the North Judson Town Hall, 310 Lane Street, North Judson, IN on the above date and time with the following present: Clerk-Treasurer Rowe, Council President Rowe, Council Vice President Brown, Councilmembers Lewandowski, Banks and Windbigler were able to attend.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Council President Rowe asked for approval of the agenda. Council Vice President Brown moved to approve the agenda. Councilmember Lewandowski seconded the motion, and all council members present concurred.
Business
2025 Mint Festival Review
Mint Festival Committee President Donna Henry proceeded to update the Council on the previous Mint Festival. The festival was deemed financially successful, with more funds currently in the account than after any festival in recent years. Positive financial results were credited to organizational changes implemented in recent years. There was positive feedback from both vendors and attendees about moving vendors to Main Street & Keller Avenue and consolidating the area. The layout created a more cohesive, walkable festival experience. It was suggested to maintain the current layout in future years. Many attendees expressed strong support for the changes, particularly the vendor setup. Dozens approached festival headquarters to express thanks and positive comments. The Cow-Train attraction caused some turf damage, but it will be addressed and re-seeded in the fall. Festival crowds were steady and strong throughout the weekend. Friday’s turnout was reduced due to rain, but overall attendance was described as very good. Festival headquarters location allowed for a good overview of traffic flow and attendance in vendor areas.
Some elected officials and contributors were unintentionally not recognized during the opening ceremony. The committee apologized, the oversight was not intentional and noted as something to correct in the future. There were complaints about the vehicle congestion in Norwayne Field. Four to six vehicles per booth contributed to traffic and safety concerns during the events. It was suggested that they need to limit infield vehicle access and tighten vendor parking control. Councilmember Lewandowski informed everyone that most issues were internal and would be addressed before next year’s festival. He also mentioned that the committee needs more manpower to help out at the festival. There will be clarification needed on volunteer role assignments and coordination as well as defined roles and responsibilities on the committee. A consensus was made that while police presence was noticeable, it may not be sufficient as the festival grows. There was a proposal to consider hiring uniformed security personnel. Other questions and insights were discussed between Council and Mint Festival Committee members.
The Committee’s goal is to continue to get more individuals involved to bring new life, structure, and momentum to the Mint Festival. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive compared to years past. The 2025 Festival created the most anticipation and engagement they’ve seen in decades. The festival changes and success validate the decision to support the committee and take a more active role.
Additional Business Deemed Necessary by the Council:
Nothing Presented.
Adjournment
Council Vice President Brown moved to adjourn the meeting. Councilmember Lewandowski seconded the motion, and all members present concurred.
Meeting adjourned at 6:17 P.M.
