Summary
The Empire Village Council met August 26, 2025, approving its consent agenda, scheduling a public hearing on a lake no-wake request, and directing further study of water utility fees. Council members also raised concerns about park maintenance.
Public Comments
Terry Bacon addressed the council regarding the impact of Short-Term Rentals (STRs) on the community, noting that recent Supreme Court decisions limiting STR regulation may prevent vacation use for those dependent on rental income for financial ability to own property. No formal council response or action was recorded.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Council member Chase reported that the tennis courts had not been maintained and that she and her family spent several hours clearing and cleaning them so residents could play. Rademacher noted similar neglect around the workout stations at Shalda Park. Dye noted that a citizen volunteer group working at the recycling center may also help clear around exercise equipment and benches there, and will assess whether additional wood chips or materials are needed. Davis agreed to speak with the DPW about addressing this maintenance.
Infrastructure Projects
Slow No-Wake Request for S Bar Lake: Motion by Bacon, support by Walton, to schedule a public hearing for September 23 at 7:00 p.m. Roll call vote: Ayes – Bacon, Chase, Dye, Davis, Rademacher, Skrocki, Walton; Nays – None. Motion passed.
Water Utility Ready to Use Rate Study: Rademacher presented example rate structures for a ready-to-use fee. Motion by Bacon, support by Rademacher, directing the Water Committee to review Ready to Use fees, with discussion on whether multiple buildings/uses should require individual meters. Motion passed by unanimous voice vote.
Bacon reported the FLAP grant application has been completed by the National Park Service and will be submitted by the Leelanau County Road Commission.
Other Business
Purchasing Policy Authority: Additional materials for a changing room at the beach were approved by Davis under the Purchasing Policy. A question arose about whether a building permit is required for this changing room; Davis will look into it.
Financial Summary
The council approved the consent agenda, including the 8-14-25 Work Session minutes and bills totaling $17,030.77. Roll call vote: Ayes – Bacon, Chase, Dye, Davis, Rademacher, Walton; Nays – Skrocki. Motion passed. Financial reports confirmed bank accounts and the general ledger were in agreement.
Action Items
Davis to determine whether a building permit is required for the beach changing room. Water Committee to review Ready to Use water fees, including consideration of individual metering for multiple buildings/uses. Davis to speak with DPW regarding maintenance at Shalda Park and the tennis courts. Public hearing on the S Bar Lake Slow No-Wake request scheduled for September 23 at 7:00 p.m.