Work Session (Minutes)

The Empire Village Council convened for a work session on February 8, 2024, at the Empire Township Hall, with the meeting commencing at 7:00 p.m. after the Pledge of Allegiance. The session saw full attendance from council members, with the exception of President Palmer and Clerk Smith, who were absent but excused. The agenda was amended to include a Budget Public Hearing notice under New Business, and subsequently adopted. The council reviewed various communications, including letters on topics such as President Pro tem, Short-Term Rentals, alley access, and the septage ordinance. The Personnel Committee reported the acceptance of Joseph Reutter for the DPW position, and the STR Committee’s recent meeting was noted.

In the session’s old business segment, the council unanimously approved the minutes from the January 23, 2024, regular meeting. Moving to new business, the council addressed an application for a property line adjustment between parcels #041-450-001-00 and #041-450-007-00. After a detailed review and recommendation from Zoning Administrator Hall, the council approved the adjustment contingent on the recording of new legal descriptions. The council also discussed the FY 2024-25 budget, focusing on various increases and areas for further discussion at the next meeting. A public hearing for the budget was scheduled for February 28, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.

During the public comment period, community members offered their expertise and concerns. Rodney Barnes volunteered his HR experience to assist with personnel issues, while Tina Dunphy and Luanne Barnes addressed the need for better information and transparency regarding Short-Term Rentals. Karen Stenberger inquired about the existence of a Short-Term Rental ordinance, to which Council Member Dye clarified that no such ordinance currently exists, but a special committee is working on recommendations. The council emphasized the importance of a public hearing before any decisions are made on these recommendations. The meeting concluded at 8:37 p.m., with appreciation expressed for community engagement and the collaborative spirit of the village.