1/9/2025 - Empire Village | Work Session Minutes

Summary

The Empire Village Council held a work session on January 9, 2025, where key discussions centered around the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), implementation of a Sidewalk Snow Support Program Policy, and the ongoing Recreation Plan evaluation. The council unanimously approved funding for new village planters. Several public comments addressed concerns regarding wetlands and the potential construction of a boardwalk. The council emphasized the importance of clear communication and adherence to legal guidelines in council operations.

Public comments

Steve Lewis provided written comments on the Recreation Plan, reiterating the stance of the S Bar Lake Association regarding the boardwalk and the importance of the wetlands. Teresa Howes expressed concerns based on her personal experience with wetlands and sought clarity on representation for property owners. Both speakers emphasized the aesthetics and ecological value of the wetlands surrounding S Bar Lake.

Infrastructure projects

The Capital Improvement Plan Review included discussions on proposed street and park improvements, alley improvement lengths, and alternatives to the county's method of tar and chip for street maintenance. Specific cost adjustments were proposed, with further input requested from Bacon for an updated CIP draft. A proposed shelter at Shalda Park was suggested to have a higher funding amount, and specific costs for sidewalk work near Salisbury were adjusted accordingly.

Other Business

The council approved the minutes from the previous meeting on December 12, 2024. The discussion on the Sidewalk Snow Support Program Policy concluded that the item should be placed on a regular meeting agenda for formal consideration.

Financial Summary

Funding was approved unanimously for $1,800 to purchase materials for new planters coordinated by the Department of Public Works for the Beautification Committee.

Action Items

- Bacon will adjust the CIP based on discussions and forward the updated document to the clerk. - The Sidewalk Snow Support Program Policy needs further discussion and should be added to an upcoming regular meeting agenda. - Rademacher will refer the Parking Fee increase to legal counsel to ensure compliance with the Bolt Act. - Davis reminded council members to direct any DPW work requests to him or Bacon for scheduling.