Work Session (Minutes)

The Empire Village Council held a work session on February 13, 2025, at the Empire Township Hall. Key topics included agenda adjustments, public comments on agenda items, and various council member reports. The meeting covered both new and old business items, setting the stage for budget discussions and capital improvement planning.

New business focused on the Empire Winter Fest, where the council approved the use of village property, including the beach area and life rings, along with waiving permit fees. Old business included the approval of meeting minutes from January 28, 2024. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to a review of wages, insurance, and the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for fiscal years 2025-2029. Discussions centered on employee benefits, comparisons with neighboring townships, and the long-term financial commitments within the CIP.

The council reviewed the proposed budget for FY 2025-26, noting adjustments and changes made since the last discussion. Public comments highlighted concerns about traffic, particularly on Lacore, and the allocation of funds for projects that benefit residents versus visitors. Council members also discussed a meeting room, the lifespan of Lacore road due to truck traffic, and a potential FLAP grant for the Wilco Drainage project.

The meeting concluded with adjournment at 8:56 p.m. These minutes were officially approved on February 25, 2025.