Summary
The Empire Village Council met on October 28, 2025, approving a Personnel Policy update, CDL training for the DPW Technician, a temporary DPW consultant contract, and a written statement addressing supervisory failures related to the CDL matter. The council also reviewed the draft Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and budget priorities.
Public Comments
Cheryl Clark commented on the Personnel Policy during the agenda-item comment period. No further detail on her specific concerns was recorded. There was no public comment during the later public comment period.
Infrastructure Projects
Davis reported that DPW completed removal of summer items from the beach and is awaiting EGLE approval to finish the changing room. Vents on the water storage tank have been installed, and lead pipe examination is expected within two weeks.
Other Business
The consent agenda, including the October 9, 2025 Work Session minutes and bills totaling $9,597.76, was approved by roll call (Ayes: Bacon, Chase, Dye, Davis, Rademacher, Skrocki, Walton; Nays: None).
The Personnel Policy revisions, including vacation and sick time language reviewed by the village attorney, were approved 4-3 (Ayes: Chase, Dye, Davis, Walton; Nays: Bacon, Rademacher, Skrocki). Council agreed no further attorney review was needed.
Council approved Pinnacle Training for the DPW Technician's CDL certification, not to exceed $6,000, to be completed by January 1, 2026 (unanimous roll call, Ayes: all seven members).
Council approved contracting with Tim O'Brien at $30/hr. as a consultant for DPW work while the Technician pursues CDL certification (unanimous roll call, Ayes: all seven members).
Following lengthy discussion of supervisory lapses regarding the DPW Technician's CDL requirement, council passed a motion (5-2, Ayes: Bacon, Chase, Rademacher, Skrocki, Walton; Nays: Davis, Dye) directing the President or Personnel Committee to issue a written statement clarifying that CDL attainment is required under the Personnel Policy and job description, that the DPW Superintendent is responsible for ensuring this, and that the lack of communication over the past 11 months is unacceptable and could result in disciplinary action, including suspension without pay.
The CIP and budget priorities were reviewed item by item, with adjustments noted; an updated CIP will be presented at the November meeting.
Council members raised additional concerns: Rademacher noted tree roots cracking the walking trail's asphalt; Dye shared a flyer on grass clippings; Skrocki encouraged use of compostable bags and commented on leaf blower noise.
Financial Summary
Consent agenda bills totaled $9,597.76. CDL training costs are capped at $6,000. The consultant contract with Tim O'Brien is set at $30/hr. The Personnel Policy audit noted a liability for unused vacation pay. CIP fund balance totals were discussed during budget priority review.
Action Items
DPW Technician to complete CDL certification via Pinnacle Training by January 1, 2026, with a progress report to be provided. President or Personnel Committee to draft a written statement regarding CDL responsibilities and supervisory accountability, with potential disciplinary action, including suspension without pay, noted as a future possibility. Updated CIP to be presented at the November meeting.