After a decade of organizing, legislative efforts and legal challenges, the Geist Reservoir Conservancy District installs its first Board of Directors and prepares for 2027
After 10 years of fundraising drives, petition campaigns and legal maneuvering, the Geist Reservoir Conservancy District (GRCD) installed its first Board of Directors on Monday, September 21, at the Indianapolis Yacht Club. Each board member represents one of nine districts surrounding the reservoir, encompassing more than 1,200 lakefront homes.
Hamilton County Judge David Najjar approved the formation of the GRCD in May 2026 after nearly two years of opposition from Marina Limited. No homeowners formally objected to the district’s formation. Once the district was ordered established, another two months and three court orders from Najjar followed before the Hamilton County commissioners appointed the initial board.
Two other key positions within the GRCD were filled at the meeting. Keith Matthews was appointed lake manager, and Joni Forestal was hired as program manager.
Looking ahead, the newly formed GRCD has significant work to accomplish on a compressed timeline following delays and court challenges involving Marina Limited. The company has opposed the formation of the GRCD since 2020 after initially agreeing not to oppose it. That opposition has contributed to delays and additional expenses associated with establishing the district. Marina Limited has also appealed the order establishing the GRCD, and that appeal remains pending.
One of the board’s most immediate priorities is developing a preliminary budget that must be approved and submitted to the State of Indiana before the district can begin collecting property tax revenue. Based on the current timeline, the GRCD’s first property tax revenue is not expected until 2028.
As a result, the Geist Lake Coalition is expected to again raise funds for treatment of the reservoir in spring 2027 to avoid missing a year of treatment.
The board must also evaluate and implement other potential sources of revenue, including boat sticker fees.
As the GRCD begins assuming responsibilities previously handled by the Geist Lake Coalition (GLC), it is also an appropriate time to recognize the volunteers who have contributed countless hours to supporting the long-term health of Geist Reservoir.
Formed in 2000, the GLC was led in its early years by board members Brian Hall, Ed Villanyi and Scott Rodgers, who helped lay the groundwork for the organization and served for nearly two decades. Leadership was later passed to Cory Peter as the GRCD began taking shape and embarked on its legislative journey.
Local attorney Matt Troyer, Cambridge resident Keith Matthews and local Realtor Joni Forestal also played key roles in keeping residents informed, raising funds and maintaining attention on the reservoir as the GRCD made its way through the Indiana Statehouse and ultimately became a reality.
The Board of Directors is now working to establish communication and meeting policies, along with the other administrative procedures required of a new governmental entity.
Residents with questions are encouraged to contact the director representing their district. Board members and district information are available through the Geist Reservoir Conservancy District website.
Comments 1
After 26 years of working towards this- YES! Although frustrating it won’t see the true light of day far another 1.5 years. Bring on the catch basins, dredging, etc that has been in talks for the full 26 years. Thanks to the original members who taught me so much about the importance of the health of the reservoir. Hopefully this will take care of our community ‘s future and everyone can leave the politics behind! Congratulations to everyone who worked COUNTLESS hours for this to come to fruition.