Summary
The Empire Village Council met on December 11, 2025, with Bacon, Chase, Davis, Dye, Rademacher, Skrocki, and Walton present; Clerk Smith was absent. The Council approved the 2026–2032 Capital Improvement Plan, adopted a Master Plan Amendment (Resolution No. 8 of 2025), appointed Dan Davis to a joint Township/Village fact-finding committee on the Benzonia Road property, and approved a $1/hr. raise for the DPW Tech following completion of his CDL license.
Public Comments
Dallas Lincoln of Gosling Czubak thanked the Village with a box of chocolates and expressed enthusiasm for working with the Village in the coming year. Later in the meeting, Lincoln commented on a Community Calendar model used by Mackinac Island via a limited Facebook page, suggesting it could serve as an example for Empire's recreation planning.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Council member Bacon described a plan to coordinate community-wide organizations to better describe and support recreational opportunities in the Village, noting possible duplication of efforts among groups operating independently. A facilitated discussion among all groups was proposed, along with creation of a Community Calendar to inform new and long-time residents of local events. There was consensus that Bacon has permission to move forward with the concept, though no formal vote was recorded.
Infrastructure Projects
Rademacher reported that the Water Committee has met with the Michigan Rural Water Association and is reviewing a potential increase in ready-to-serve water rates; no decision was made. Under the CIP discussion, Bacon, as Street Administrator, noted sand piles accumulating at the beach parking area creating a traffic visibility hazard, and added an estimated expense to restore sand dunes along the streets to a safe height, to be included in the next fiscal budget.
Other Business
Davis reported the DPW has been busy plowing and that Joey completed his CDL license. Sidewalk clearing practices were discussed, including the ordinance requiring property owners to clear sidewalks, staffing/equipment limitations, and the importance of clearing M-22 for access to the Health Clinic. Consensus was reached to post the current clearing policy on the Village website and kiosk. Skrocki thanked the Council on completing her first year as an elected official; Davis wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Financial Summary
The Consent Agenda, including bills totaling $16,306.15, was approved unanimously. A $1/hr. pay raise for the DPW Tech was approved effective 12/15/25. An estimated (unspecified) expense for restoring sand dunes along the streets was added to be included in the next fiscal year's budget as part of the 2026–2032 CIP.
Action Items
Dan Davis to represent the Village on the Village/Township Fact Finding Group regarding the Benzonia Trail joint-owned property (old dump site with potential pollution issues). The Planning Commission is to continue addressing short-term rental (STR) language in the Master Plan. The current sidewalk-clearing policy is to be posted on the Village website and kiosk. Bacon is to proceed with organizing a facilitated discussion among recreation-related community organizations and explore a Community Calendar.