Summary
The Empire Village Council Work Session on May 14, 2026, focused on key discussions and decisions regarding personnel policies, wastewater system issues, and infrastructure projects, particularly concerning the purchase of a new plow truck. Various motions were passed unanimously, while some discussions, such as those regarding the reduction of trustees, did not yield formal actions.Public Comments
Frank Clements addressed the Wastewater Update, distributing written comments. James Miller followed up on his application for village openings. Additionally, Clements and others later commented on the wastewater issues and economic development concerns during the public comment periods.Affordable Housing Initiatives
The discussion around the wastewater system included references to affordable housing, particularly as it relates to economic development. However, no specific initiatives or decisions were made pertaining to affordable housing during this meeting.Infrastructure Projects
A significant focus was on the approval of a new plow truck to address winter maintenance needs. A motion was passed to purchase a new plow truck not to exceed $250K with funding covered across multiple funds due to past fiscal prudence. The council also approved lighting upgrades for the Committee meeting room and DPW garage, not exceeding $7500, and approved repairs for a large plow truck up to $20K.Other Business
In old business, the personnel policy changes proposed by the Personnel Committee were unanimously approved. There was a discussion on potentially reducing the number of trustees, but no formal action was taken. The discussion for the trustee vacancy led to a decision to post the position publicly with a deadline for applications set for May 22, 2026.Action Items
- Public posting of the trustee vacancy on the website, kiosk, and via email blast by May 22, 2026. - Follow-up on wastewater system strategies and transportation issues for economic development discussed in the Master Plan.The council seeks to ensure better procedural transparency regarding applications and notifications for vacancies within the village governance.