Regular Meeting (Minutes)

The Empire Village Council convened its regular meeting on January 28, 2025, at the Empire Township Hall, with the meeting commencing at 7:00 p.m. after the Pledge of Allegiance. Key attendees included Council members Bacon, Davis, Dye, Rademacher, Skrocki, and Walton, with Trustee Chase and Clerk Smith absent but excused. The agenda was adopted without changes, and the meeting proceeded with public comments focusing primarily on the Recreation Plan, particularly the proposed boardwalk across South Bar Lake. Residents expressed opposition to the land acquisition and boardwalk construction, highlighting concerns over environmental impact and the use of taxpayer dollars. The Council reviewed and passed the consent agenda, approving previous meeting minutes and bills amounting to $11,847.77.

The meeting delved into old and new business, with the Sidewalk Snow Support Program Policy being unanimously approved. The Recreation Plan sparked significant discussion and two motions were proposed but failed to pass. The first motion, to amend the plan by removing the South Bar Lake boardwalk, received three votes in favor but was not enough to pass. The second motion, to approve the plan as presented, also failed with a split vote. The Council recognized the need for further public input and decided to return the Recreation Plan to the Planning Commission for reevaluation, a decision that passed unanimously. This move was seen as a response to the confusion and lack of clarity surrounding the proposed plans and costs.

Further discussions included the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and budget requests, with Council members expressing interest in setting aside funds for future large projects and ensuring that water rates align with the Water General Plan. Public comments continued to reflect community engagement, with residents offering suggestions on environmental stewardship, infrastructure improvements, and community facilities. The meeting concluded with Council members sharing updates and comments on various topics, including the need to revise the Rules of Procedure for the Personnel Committee and the impact of local grocery store closures. The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m., with the minutes approved at the subsequent February 13, 2025, Council Work Session.