3/26/2024 - Empire Village | Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Empire Village Council held a regular meeting on March 26, 2024, where key issues discussed included public comments regarding recent decisions, updates on the new village office project, financial reports, and operational approvals. The council progressed on several items through motions that were mostly passed without opposition.

Public Comments

Ed Peplinski, Jun Heider, and Steve Stepanek raised concerns about decisions made at the previous meeting that were not transparent and lacked opportunity for public input. They focused specifically on the purchase of real property.

Infrastructure Projects

The council discussed the potential purchase of a new village office for $480K, with a property appraisal value between $480-485K. A motion was passed to conduct a Phase 1 Environmental Assessment for $2100 to evaluate historical records and potential liabilities associated with the property. Additionally, discussions highlighted recent expenditures related to inspections and repairs that would be lost if the purchase does not proceed. The council considered the representation of interests by hiring a realtor and the implications for the current purchase agreement.

Other Business

The council appointed Wayne Taghon and Tom Islieb as alternates to the Zoning Board of Appeals for three-year terms, which was approved with a voice vote. The decision to purchase a new computer was postponed to the April Work Session. An extended warranty for a John Deere tractor loader was approved for $2500. Linda Chase volunteered to represent the Village at a First Responders’ Appreciation event, following a request from Donna Haiderer.

Financial Summary

Financial reports including revenue and expenditures through February were presented. The total of the bills approved amounted to $154,954.79. It was confirmed that the general ledger and bank statements were in agreement.

Action Items

- A decision to conduct a Phase 1 Environmental Assessment for the potential new village office will be pursued. - Council to determine the hiring of a realtor to guide the village in real estate dealings. - Public hearing on Short-Term Rental ordinances may be scheduled, driven by community interest. - Next meeting for Short-Term Rental committee set for April 9, 2024.