The Empire Village Council convened on June 23, 2026, to discuss various topics, including wastewater management, infrastructure projects, and community events. Key decisions made included the cessation of further taxpayer-funded studies on wastewater solutions and the approval of contracts related to road improvements. The Council also addressed issues related to public gatherings and fee waivers for temporary outdoor events.
Public comments
Julie Wilber expressed gratitude to the DPW for their efforts in emptying trash bins at Shalda. Dave Kroll read a letter from Paul Skinner that provided commentary on the Wastewater Task Force report. Trish Baker welcomed new trustee Mark Dunphy, and Frank Clements complemented the DPW and commented on the recently approved contract with Gosling Czubak.
Wastewater Task Force Report
A motion was made by Rademacher, supported by Chase, to cease further taxpayer-funded studies related to the Wastewater Task Force, as the previous studies revealed similar conclusions regarding fiscal viability. The Council decided to continue supporting viable plans for addressing wastewater issues as outlined in the Master Plan. The vote resulted in 4 ayes and 2 nays, indicating the motion passed.
Infrastructure Projects
The Council approved a contract with Gosling Czubak for Lake Street reconstruction services, totaling $12,500. This project aims to address existing drainage issues and improve road elevation, supported by a FLAP grant. The motion received unanimous approval from all Council members.
Mass Gathering Ordinance Amendment
The Council voted to set a Public Hearing for July 28th to discuss amendments to the Mass Gathering Ordinance, intending to improve parking control and the process for road closure applications. The motion passed unanimously.
Fee Waivers and Road Closures for Temporary Outdoor Use Permits
A motion was approved to waive Temporary Outdoor Use Permit fees and authorize road closures for upcoming events organized by the EACC. This motion also passed unanimously.
Closed Business Letter
The Council voted to draft a letter to Hometown Pharmacy, requesting details on the closure of their facility. This information could be beneficial for future redevelopment plans. The motion passed with 5 ayes and 1 nay.
Other Business
Davis reported on the operational status of the DPW regarding potholes, stop signs compliance, and the brush pile issue. He also mentioned waiting for a call back from an attorney about an escrow account and raised parking concerns during the Asparagus Festival.
Financial Summary (if applicable)
The total bills approved amounted to $55,789.30. Specific details about budget allocations or additional financial implications were not provided in the document.
Action Items
- Draft a letter to Hometown Pharmacy regarding the facility closure (assigned to the President).
- Prepare for the public hearing on the Mass Gathering Ordinance amendment scheduled for July 28th.
- Continue monitoring the wastewater management issue and possible future studies.
- Address the ongoing parking issues related to community events.
Source Document
This summary was AI-generated from the official meeting record. The full source document is the authoritative version.