Summary
The Empire Village Council meeting on June 25, 2024, covered several key issues, particularly focusing on short-term rental ordinances, beach parking fees, and infrastructure updates, such as the roof replacement for Village wellhouses. Key decisions included the approval of various financial motions and the initiation of regulatory reviews for short-term rentals.Public Comments
Several residents provided comments regarding the Short-Term Rental Committee. Carey Ford and Bob Chase, both committee members, shared concerns about the committee's process. Linda Young spoke about a short-term rental petition she circulated. Barbara Ludlow commented on the need for regulation. Terry Bacon addressed beach parking and the petition for rental regulations. Tina Dunphey emphasized the necessity for a public hearing, while Frank Clements shared a letter on short-term rentals, which was circulated as a handout.Infrastructure Projects
A motion was passed to replace the roofs of Wellhouse #2 and #3 for an amount not to exceed $2,000, indicating ongoing maintenance and investment in infrastructure. Additionally, a fence at the recycling site was discussed, with a motion passed for the Street Administrator to explore remediation options and cost estimates for an update at the August Work Session.Other Business
The Council discussed several other items: - The appointment of Marc Oberschulte to the Wastewater Study Update Committee passed, amidst discussions about the need for expertise. - Two ordinances related to short-term rentals were sent to a legal review, alongside discussions about professional planning consultations. - The motion to increase beach parking fees to $2.00/hour passed, with further consideration to implement a plan presented to the Parks Committee. - The Fee Schedule for mass gatherings was updated, establishing new fees for non-profit and for-profit events. - A $5,000 budget for office furniture was approved, along with a proposal to purchase three trees for a community project.Financial Summary
The financial report indicated matching bank balances and the general ledger. A consent agenda that included bills totaling $109,869.94 was approved. Additionally, the Council approved the expense for office furniture not to exceed $5,000 and authorized tree purchases not to exceed $1,500 for public beautification.Action Items
- The Attorney will review the short-term rental ordinances for legality. - The Parks Committee is tasked with discussing the implementation plan for beach parking fees in the July Work Session. - The Street Administrator will explore options for the recycling site fence remediation. - The President will consult an attorney regarding the new village office tax bill and appeal processes as necessary.These action items emphasize the Council's continued focus on regulatory improvements, community engagement, and infrastructure development.