2/24/2026 - Empire Village | Public Hearing and Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Empire Village Council held a regular meeting on February 24, 2026, discussing various operational, financial, and governance issues. Key decisions included the approval of the budget for FY 2026-27, employee health coverage policies, and adjustments to water rates. The session saw significant engagement on public comments, particularly regarding healthcare plans and water rates, and also confirmed appointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Public Comments

Karen Baja raised concerns about the salary of the Zoning Administrator and the staffing levels for sidewalk snow removal during her comments on the FY 2026-27 Budget. Mayor Davis noted that a response to a question sent to the attorney regarding Right to Farm is still pending.

Infrastructure Projects

1. **Water Rates**: Discussions involved differences in water rates for businesses versus residential users, factoring future repair and replacement costs. The council approved Resolution No. 3 of 2026 regarding water rates with a vote of 6-1. 2. **Replacement of Water Meters**: Approval was granted for the replacement of 7 defective water meters despite discussions about possibly postponing the decision, as it hadn't been fully reviewed in a work session. The vote passed with some opposition. 3. **Gosling-Czubak Contract**: A $3,500 contract for administrative oversight on road projects related to Union/Wilce alley and Union Street overlay was approved unanimously.

Other Business

Additional topics included: - The adoption of a healthcare plan with a 14% increase and a new Employee Policy change for family health insurance coverage. - Confirmation of various appointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Financial Summary

- **FY 2026-27 Budget Adoption**: The budget was approved, including a $25,000 contribution from the General Fund to Local Streets and an increased state funding of $24,000 for neighborhood roads. - **Employee Health Insurance**: The cost of the new family coverage is approximately $600/month which will remain under the established cap for the current year. - Total costs for health insurance certifications revealed expenses exceeding $50,000.

Action Items

1. Mayor Davis to follow up on the Right to Farm attorney inquiry. 2. Recreation Committee to review Beach Ordinance. 3. Water Committee to evaluate upcoming water rates. 4. Council member Walton to engage with the Clerk about voluntary employee health insurance contributions when caps are exceeded.