4/14/2026 - Empire Township | Regular Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Empire Township regular meeting on April 14, 2026, addressed various matters including affordable housing, fire department operations, and personnel changes. The board approved meeting minutes, actions related to the clerk's position, and deferred decisions on several items for further review. Key decisions include tabling the affordable housing initiative and moving forward with hiring processes.

Public comments

There were no public comments made on agenda topics during the meeting. However, a public inquiry was addressed concerning the upcoming public hearing for Vertical Bridge’s tower application, confirming the meeting is scheduled for April 22 at 7 p.m.

Affordable housing initiatives

The Affordable Housing Committee met on March 26 and decided against recommending support for a proposed housing project on a 40-acre property due to existing deed restrictions requiring public use. The township board discussed legal assessments related to potential environmental issues due to an adjacent landfill. A motion to table any action on the property indefinitely was passed unanimously.

Parks and recreation matters

There were no specific discussions or decisions related to parks and recreation during this meeting.

Infrastructure projects

The planning commission is actively working on the communication tower application from Vertical Bridge. They requested that Vertical Bridge consolidate their application to a single proposed location and provide more documentation on rejections of alternative sites. Another public hearing is planned for April 22 at 7 p.m.

Other Business

- A minor modification to the draft rules of procedure was made, with adoption deferred for further review. - A clerk candidate, Maggie Bacon, was recommended for appointment, effective May 1, 2026. - The board discussed a potential mold issue in the campground host residence, approving a motion for mold testing at a cost of up to $500. - Township office painting was scheduled for May, and the fire department's request for parking permission on neighboring property will be addressed by village council member Maggie Bacon.

Financial Summary

Financial reports were presented, including effective year-end budget accuracy for the 2025-2026 fiscal year and approval of bill payments; however, specific budget figures and amounts were not detailed in the minutes.

Action Items

- Finalize the appointment of Maggie Bacon as clerk effective May 1, 2026. - Conduct mold testing at the campground host building at a maximum cost of $500. - Further review and finalize the rules of procedure. - Schedule the painting of the township office for May. - Facilitate an approach to the village council regarding fire department parking permission.