Summary
The Empire Village Council met on October 27, 2026, with all members (Bacon, Chase, Davis, Dunphey, Dye, Rademacher, Walton) and Clerk Smith present. The Council approved a consent agenda including bills of $21,127.78, a budget amendment, and personnel policy changes; appointed Derith Smith as Village Clerk and Alacia Acton as Village Treasurer (both terms ending 11-20-28); approved up to $2,000 plus shipping for hydrant markers; accepted a tree donation for Shalda Park; and honored the Empire Garden Club with a proclamation.
Public Comments
On agenda items, Karen Baja commented on the Clerk/Treasurer appointments. Maggie Spratt commented on the Lake St. project and provided a handout on "rights of nature." Jack Gyr, James Lamb, and Ella Skrocki commented on the trees on Lake St. A letter from Cynthia Weese regarding the Lake St. project was read by Dye, and the Council received a petition and letters regarding trees slated for removal under the Lake St. Improvement project.
During general public comment, Steve Weller urged that project plans be shared publicly and suggested hiring a professional arborist to maintain trees not being removed. Blacquiere commented on volunteer opportunities and citizen expertise. Ella Skrocki raised concerns about the Lake St. project and the future Wilco Rd. project. Karen Baja asked about the status of the open DPW position. Maggie Spratt noted that Cynthia Weese had offered to personally hire an arborist for trees with exposed roots that were not cut down.
Infrastructure Projects
Davis reported that, per conversation with the Village Engineer, eight trees and a portion of existing sidewalk along the Lake St. project will not be removed at this time. Walton noted several culverts will be adjusted as part of the project. Dye read a statement on the matter. Bacon provided background on the upcoming Wilco Rd. project.
Other Business
- Council unanimously approved a proclamation honoring the Empire Garden Club (motion by Bacon, support by Dye).
- Davis reviewed brush pile pickup rules and announced Fall Clean-up Days beginning November 11th.
- Council approved purchasing up to $2,000 plus shipping for hydrant markers (motion by Rademacher, support by Dunphey; Ayes: Bacon, Chase, Davis, Dunphey, Rademacher, Walton; Nays: Dye, Walton); a follow-up motion (Bacon/Walton) to order 2 of each type from each supplier, with the DPW Superintendent deciding which to purchase, passed unanimously.
- Dye announced Mel Larecy's donation of 2 oak trees for Shalda Park, approved unanimously by voice vote.
- Bacon announced upcoming public Wi-Fi availability in Empire Twp.
- Davis noted the DPW position remains open, with Superintendent Joyce continuing to interview applicants.
Financial Summary
The Consent Agenda included bills totaling $21,127.78 and a budget amendment moving funds from line 101-444-970 to 101-446-970. Council approved up to $2,000 plus shipping for hydrant markers.
Action Items
- Personnel Committee authorized to recommend further Personnel Policy changes and to develop a job description and wage for a seasonal employee position.
- DPW Superintendent to decide which hydrant markers to order from suppliers.
- Mel Larecy's donated oak trees to be planted at Shalda Park.
- Superintendent Joyce to continue interviewing applicants for the open DPW position.
- Ongoing public concern regarding tree removal and exposed roots on the Lake St. project, including resident offers (Cynthia Weese via Maggie Spratt) to hire an arborist; no Council decision on this was recorded.