Regular Meeting (Minutes)

**Executive Summary**

The Empire Village Council held its regular meeting on March 26, 2024, at the Empire Township Hall. Key topics included modifications to the agenda, public comments, approval of the consent agenda, and financial reports. A presentation from Renovare regarding potential properties for a new Village Office was delivered, leading to significant discussion and motions regarding the purchase of a specific property and the need for environmental assessments.

**Key Decisions**

The council approved the consent agenda, including meeting minutes and bills. They voted to reconsider a previous motion regarding a Phase 1 Environmental Study for the new office property, ultimately approving it. The council also voted to hire a realtor to represent the Village’s interests in the property purchase, potentially impacting the current purchase agreement. Furthermore, the council approved an extended warranty for the John Deere tractor loader.

**Property Acquisition and Discussions**

The meeting focused heavily on the potential purchase of a new Village Office. Renovare presented a slide show, leading to a motion to modify the agenda to allow discussion of the New Village Office at this time. The council considered the purchase agreement, property appraisal, and inspection reports, leading to motions regarding an environmental study. Public and council member comments highlighted concerns about the purchase, including financial implications, grant opportunities, and the need for due diligence.

**Other Business**

Other agenda items included appointing ZBA alternates, moving the purchase of a computer to the April Work Session, appointing a representative for the First Responders Appreciation Event and addressing public comments and council member comments on issues, including the potential for a public hearing on the Short-Term Rental ordinance.