Meet the Council

Robert Starkey, President (R) 

Current Term: January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2027

Represents: Ward 1

Robert “Bob” Starkey (R) is serving his second term on the Dyer Town Council and currently serves as Town Council President. A lifelong Dyer resident, Bob was born and raised in the community he now helps lead and is proud to be raising his family in his boyhood home. He and his wife, Rebecka, are the parents of one son, Liam. Bob brings a deep personal connection to the town, pairing hometown roots with a strong commitment to responsible local governance and community-focused decision-making.

Professionally, Bob is a Senior Pipeline Engineer with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission; he has spent nearly 25 years working in the natural gas utility industry, focusing on infrastructure safety, regulatory compliance, and public protection. That experience informs his infrastructure-first approach to local government, with an emphasis on fiscal responsibility, reliable public services, and long-term planning. In addition to his role on the Town Council, Bob is actively involved in several local boards and commissions, serves as a radio host on WJOB in Hammond, and is a strong advocate for adoption, family leave, and policies that strengthen families and public safety in Dyer.

Annette Ludwig, Vice President (R)

Current Term: January 1, 2023 - December 31, 2026

Represents: Ward 5

Annette Ludwig (R) is serving her 1st term on the Dyer Town Council.  She has lived in Dyer, IN for 17 years.  Annette and her husband, James have (4) kids and (3) grandchildren.  Annette has 35 years of service as an Investigative Specialist for a Law Enforcement Agency, and for the last 15 years she has worked for 4 associations & 17 years as the President of 2 Boards with the Rockwell Community Association in Dyer, IN.  Annette is a parishioner of St. Thomas More Catholic Church, and her pride & joy is her family who she enjoys spending time with.  Annette is looking forward to working for the Dyer residents and to continue to keep Dyer beautiful and safe.

Mary Tanis, Member (R)

Current Term: January 1, 2023 - December 31, 2026

Represents: Ward 4

Serving her 4th term on the Dyer Town Council, Mary’s lifelong experience has given her the well rounded support for responsible growth.  Teaching at Kahler Middle School for 40 years, allows her to connect colleagues and residents for resources.  She serves on NIRPC, Lake County Community Services, Plan Commission and as liaison to Stormwater Board. The Comprehensive Plan sparked an interest in creating a beautiful town  for residents, businesses and visitors to enjoy.  Dyer received a CN grant in 2015 which included membership In America in Bloom.  Dyer in Bloom was created for the purpose of supporting economic development.  The growing volunteer group completes projects and landscapes numerous municipal buildings and parks at no cost to the Town of Dyer. Since the first priority for town council members is security, Mary supports EMS and all employees who work cooperatively to keep residents, businesses and visitors safe.

Mary K. Timm, Member (R)

Current Term: January 1, 2023 - December 31, 2026

Represents: Ward 2

Mary K brings a proven record of hands-on leadership and community impact. During her time in office, she continues working to strengthen public safety, support local families, and pursue practical solutions that improve services while being mindful of taxpayer resources. She is focused on results that make a measurable difference in the daily lives of Dyer residents.

Since moving to Dyer in 1996, Mary K has been deeply involved in community service both as a resident and a small business owner. She and her husband of 43 years, Don, live in a historic home on Hart Street and are proud parents, grandparents, and pet owners. 

Her record of service reflects a long-standing commitment to building lasting community programs. In the late 1970s, she became her hometown's first female EMT, serving with the Volunteer fire department. She co-founded a homeschool organization that has supported local families for more than 30 years and continues to serve on its advisory board. Through that organization, she also helped establish the Liberty Jr. Golf Team, an affiliate of the IL Kids Golf Foundation that has been active for over 26 years, expanding youth access to athletics and mentorship. 

Mary K served 3 years on the Dyer Police commission/Safety Board, and actively volunteers with Dyer in Bloom and serves at Faith Church's Dyer campus. She is currently pursuing grant writing certification to help the Town of Dyer secure external funding and expand services without increasing taxpayer burden.

In her free time, Mary K enjoys painting, gardening, fishing, and the outdoors. She especially enjoys meeting neighbors with Don while walking their dog, Pepper, through Pheasant Hills Park. Mary K is committed to community; her record reflects that commitment. She looks forward to continuing to make a positive difference and serving the community she proudly calls home. 

Jenna Ogrizovich, Member (R)

Current Term: January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2027

Represents: Ward 3

Jenna Ogrizovich (R) is excited to put roots in Dyer and raise her 3 daughters here after moving back to the area after her husband’s stint in the Army. Originally they are both from Orland Park. Her interest in local level government was heightened when covid mandates led to the shuttering of small businesses (her own included). A patriot who values personal freedom and responsibility, she is thankful for the opportunity to serve as councilwoman and hopes to unite with Dyer residents and businesses who want to work hard and make good things happen for all.