Special Meeting (Minutes)

**Executive Summary: Empire Village Council Special Meeting (February 23, 2024)**

**Meeting Overview:**
The Empire Village Council held a special meeting on February 23, 2024, at the Empire Township Hall, commencing at 10:00 a.m. The meeting was led by Chair Palmer, with Council members Bacon, Chase, Dye, Rademacher, and Walton in attendance, while Webb was excused. Attorney Tim Figura was present to provide legal guidance.

**Closed Session and Actions Taken:**
The Council voted to adjourn into a closed session to evaluate the potential purchase or lease of real estate, in compliance with MCL 15.268(d). Following the closed session, the meeting resumed at 11:21 a.m., where the Council directed Attorney Figura to proceed with the necessary actions discussed during the private meeting. This motion passed unanimously.

**Public and Council Comments:**
During the public comment period, community members including John Collins and Claudia Bomersback shared insights and suggestions regarding village developments and the meeting’s notice. Margaret Ellibee proposed the idea of a community educational session. Additionally, Council members Walton and Bacon elaborated on the legal provisions that allow public bodies to enter closed sessions as outlined by the Open Meetings Act.

**Conclusion:**
The meeting concluded at 11:28 a.m. with the approval of minutes scheduled for the subsequent Council meeting on March 14, 2024. The actions taken during the meeting reflect the Council’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and transparency in governance.