Summary
The Empire Village Council met November 14, 2024, addressing personnel appointments, budget bills, and several small capital purchases. The Treasurer reappointment of Alacia Acton passed, but a contested Planning Commission appointment was defeated. The Short-Term Rental (STR) ordinance discussion was tabled until the December meeting amid public concern over transparency.
Public Comments
On agenda items: Bob Chase asked that all attorney communications on STRs, with dates and names, be posted online. Teresa Howes noted the STR issue was not on the posted agenda and commented on the petition for reappointment of the Clerk and Treasurer. Ed Peplinski said STR regulation is being driven by state/local government. Terry Bacon criticized the legal opinion on STRs, noting the cited case was later called incorrect by the issuing law firm. Frank Clement thanked outgoing members Palmer and Webb, praised the new office, and commented on the draft STR ordinance.
Later public comment: Mark Oberschmidt raised concerns about beach maintenance given the doubled parking fee. Terry Bacon again questioned the STR legal analysis. Tina Dunphey expressed relief the STR matter was tabled so more residents could participate. Teresa Howe raised FOIA requirements for retaining both personal and village emails on village business.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Dye reviewed Parks Committee minutes. The Council approved, by roll call (Ayes: Bacon, Chase, Dye, Palmer, Rademacher, Walton, Webb; Nays: none), installation of a cement pad for the beach changing room at a cost not to exceed $4,500, and purchase of dog waste bag dispensers not to exceed $350.
Infrastructure Projects
Rademacher reported on the Wastewater Task Force, with a final report and presentation expected at the next meeting.
Other Business
A petition from 139 residents regarding the Clerk and Treasurer appointments was read by Bacon. Karen Baja resigned from the Planning Commission. Letters of interest for reappointment were received from Clerk Smith and Treasurer Acton. Palmer declined to nominate a new Clerk, leaving that decision to incoming President Davis. Council approved purchase of 7 insulated window shades for the new office (not to exceed $1,000) and $95 for Ella Skrocki’s MML New Officials training, both by roll call with all ayes.
Financial Summary
Revenue, Expenditure, and Cash Balance by Fund reports through October were received. The Council approved AP bills totaling $21,061.33 by roll call (all ayes), though Dye questioned payments to Gosling Czubak and Grobbel Environmental pending outstanding contract items.
Action Items
- Schedule a meeting before early December to resolve missing contract items with Gosling Czubak and Grobbel Environmental.
- Revisit the Short-Term Rental ordinance at the December meeting.
- Present the Wastewater Task Force’s final report at the next Council meeting.
- President Davis to nominate a new Village Clerk.
- Unresolved conflict remains over the Planning Commission appointment process (transparency of vacancy posting) after Andrew Clement’s appointment was defeated 2–5.