Summary
The Empire Village Council Work Session on July 10, 2025, focused on various significant discussions including the introduction of a new village attorney, updates to the wastewater system, and potential amendments to personnel policies. The meeting concluded with public comments addressing multiple topics, highlighting community concerns regarding wastewater management, redevelopment plans, water ordinance enforcement, and recreational facilities.Public comments
- **Terry Bacon**: Expressed concern about the Wastewater Report emphasizing community vitality as an economic impact. - **Steve Stepanek**: Commented on how community wastewater systems can preserve community vitality. - **Joe Van Easley**: Shared redevelopment plans for the old schoolhouse property, incorporating recreation. - **Karen Baja**: Raised concerns regarding enforcement of the Water Ordinance for well usage instead of connecting to the water system. - **Terry Bacon**: Suggested adopting a Registration Ordinance to clarify the status of Short Term Rentals and their economic impact.Infrastructure projects
- **Wastewater Presentation**: Paul Skinner discussed the Task Force's work on updating past wastewater reports (2015-2017 and 2019-2020) and outlined three potential scenarios for costs and financing. He indicated that while there is potential economic benefit to the Village, it hinges on future redevelopment and a sufficient number of service connections to ensure financial viability. The full Wade-Trim report will be made available on the village website.Other Business
- A review of proposed amendments and changes to the Rules of Procedure for communication was introduced by Walton and will be brought to the Regular meeting for a vote. - A Recreation Plan by the Planning Commission was presented by Bacon, with plans for revisions to be prepared for further Council review.Financial Summary (if applicable)
- A motion was passed regarding amendments to the personnel policy to allow for potential payment for unused paid leave rather than losing it, with the council voting unanimously in favor (Ayes: Bacon, Chase, Davis, Dye, Rademacher, Walton).Action Items
- **Davis** to contact the attorney regarding the potential for compensating an employee for unused paid leave. - Further review of the Recreation Plan and the Rules of Procedure for a vote at the upcoming Regular meeting. - Address issues regarding the golf carts and beach pass problems in the fall for next season. - Follow-up on the needed information regarding the scoreboard at Shalda Park and trash management at their beach park.Overall, the meeting emphasized enhancing community vitality through wastewater management while addressing personnel and recreational concerns within the village.