5/14/2026 - Empire Village | Work Session Minutes

Summary

The Empire Village Council convened on May 14, 2026, to discuss various agenda items, including infrastructure projects, personnel policies, and public comments regarding ongoing issues. Key decisions included the approval of lighting renovations and truck repairs, a lack of consensus on wastewater system challenges, and the posting of a trustee vacancy.

Public comments

Frank Clements expressed his views on the Wastewater Update, providing written comments for review. He also commented on the council's discussions regarding the wastewater issue as it relates to economic development and the Master Plan. James Miller voiced concerns about his application for village openings. Additional comments were made by Joey Reutter regarding the wastewater system and Carey Ford addressing the high cost of land as a barrier to commercial development.

Affordable housing initiatives

During the discussion surrounding the Wade Trim report from the Wastewater Update Committee, various issues were raised, including connections to affordable housing. However, there was no consensus reached on how to address these housing challenges, and the topic was tabled for future discussion.

Infrastructure projects

The council approved funding for several infrastructure-related initiatives. These included a motion to authorize up to $7,500 for the revamp of the Committee meeting room and DPW garage lighting, as well as a motion for repairs to the large plow truck not exceeding $20,000. Furthermore, a new plow truck purchase was approved with a not-to-exceed amount of $250,000, facilitated by increased fund balances from prudent spending in the past fiscal year.

Other Business

Changes to the personnel policy were approved unanimously. The potential reduction of trustee positions was discussed, but no formal action was taken.

Action Items

- The vacancy for a village trustee will be posted on the website, the kiosk, and through an email blast, with an application deadline set for May 22, 2026. - Further discussions on the wastewater system, including its implications on affordable housing and economic development, will be revisited in future meetings.