Summary
The Empire Village Council held a work session on May 9, 2024. The council amended and adopted the agenda, approved the April 23, 2024 regular meeting minutes, and spent significant time on short-term rental (STR) issues, a mass gathering waiver fee, and the Renovare feasibility study. Several new business items were postponed to the next meeting, and the meeting ran until 9:59 p.m. after being extended by motion.
Public Comments
During public comments on agenda items, Tina Taghon and Steve Young raised concerns about the STR committee and the rise in short-term rentals. Bob Chase noted that STR materials in the packet had not been reviewed by half the committee. Karen Baja questioned whether STR regulation was needed in a one-square-mile village. Barbara Ludlow described complaints made to the Sheriff about fireworks and noise at an STR. Terry Bacon suggested the Zoning Ordinance could define where STRs are allowed. Frank Clements commented on the STR registration and ordinance process. Written communications on STRs were received from Terry Bacon and Frank Clements and posted on the website; Bacon read Clements' letter aloud.
In a second public comment period, Kim Para and Dave Kroll spoke on STR problems and the need for an ordinance; Tina Dunphy suggested notifying STR owners when issues arise. Terry Bacon and Frank Clements again addressed the STR registration and ordinance, and Karen Baja commented on the Mass Gathering Ordinance.
Infrastructure Projects
Rademacher reported on the Wastewater Task Force minutes and a Water Committee meeting concerning water rates; no votes or decisions were recorded on these items.
Other Business
Palmer reviewed two plumbing quotes for the new office. The Mass Gathering Waiver Form was discussed, including DPW and infiltrator cleanout costs; consideration of the item was moved to the June work session. The Renovare Feasibility Study update included discussion of how to spend the remaining $10,000 of the contract (shovel-ready plans, future grant investment, or a master plan update); there was consensus to proceed with a community meeting on May 16, 2024. The STR Next Steps Discussion continued with committee members Dye, Ford, Chase, and Walton presenting differing documentation; the meeting was extended to 9:30 p.m. by motion (Bacon opposed). The committee reached consensus that it could develop a recommendation. Beach Parking Fees, the Personnel Policy, and South Bar Lake Water Testing were moved to the next meeting without discussion.
Financial Summary
The Mass Gathering Waiver fee of $1,500 was discussed, with a possible reduction of $300–$500 considered; no final decision was made. The Renovare Feasibility Study has $10,000 remaining in its contract, with discussion on how best to allocate those funds.
Action Items
The Mass Gathering Waiver Form and Rules of Procedure discussions were moved to the June work session. The STR committee is to continue developing a recommendation on next steps. A community meeting on the Renovare Feasibility Study is scheduled for May 16, 2024. Beach Parking Fees, Personnel Policy, and South Bar Lake Water Testing were deferred to the next meeting.