Work Session (Packet)

The Empire Village Council convened for a work session on February 8, 2024, at the Empire Township Hall, with a focus on several key agenda items. The meeting began with procedural matters such as the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and agenda adoption. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to public comments and communications, allowing residents to voice their concerns and suggestions directly to the council. Reports from department heads and council members were also presented, providing updates on various ongoing projects and initiatives within the village. The council addressed old business by approving the minutes from the January 23, 2024, regular meeting, ensuring continuity and accountability in their proceedings.

Under new business, the council considered a property line adjustment application for parcels #041-450-010-00 and #041-450-007-00, submitted by Mr. Don Surbur and Ms. Carey Ford. This adjustment aims to protect the steep wooded ridge encompassing the involved lots. Additionally, the council discussed the budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, reviewing proposed revenues and expenditures across multiple funds including the General Fund, Major Streets Fund, Local Streets Fund, Water Fund, and Equipment Fund. The budget proposals reflect the village’s commitment to maintaining essential services while planning for future capital improvements.

Public feedback was a crucial part of the meeting, with residents expressing concerns about short-term rentals and alleyway parking issues. The Short-Term Rental Registration/Ordinance Development Committee received comments advocating for regulations to balance the economic benefits of rentals with the preservation of community life. Similarly, a letter from residents at the bottom of an alleyway highlighted safety concerns due to parked vehicles obstructing access, prompting a call for an alleyway parking ordinance. These public inputs underscore the community’s active engagement in shaping village policies and regulations.

https://www.leelanau.gov/ce/dbviewer/dbvprint.asp?pid=041-450-010-…exfield=parcels.pnum&captionsParcel%20No.&type=string&cld=391&co=1
https://www.leelanau.gov/cc/dbviewer/dbvprint.asp?pid=041-450-007-… xfleld=parcels.pnum&caption=Parcal%20No.atype=string&cid=3918cc=1