6/13/2024 - Empire Village | Work Session Minutes

Summary

The June 13, 2024, Empire Village Council Work Session focused on various agenda items including Short Term Rentals (STR), infrastructure updates, and new appointments. Key decisions made include the disbanding of the New Office Committee and the approval of street closures for upcoming events. Concerns regarding STR regulations and beach parking fees were also highlighted, with discussions to continue at a future meeting.

Public Comments

Terry Bacon commented on the Short Term Rental (STR) Committee report and expressed concerns regarding beach parking fees. Linda Young presented a petition and read a letter focused on STR issues. Additionally, Louann Barnes raised a possible conflict of interest regarding STRs, while Bacon noted current issues with commercial lots and STR regulations.

Infrastructure Projects

Palmer provided updates on plumbing repairs at the new office and discussed parking issues during the Asparagus Festival. Regarding the recycling center, a proposal to replace the fence was introduced, with ongoing discussions about cost-sharing with the Conservancy. Palmer also addressed concerns about tax bill issues related to the recent Village office property purchase, indicating these matters have been sent to the attorney for review.

Other Business

The meeting included discussions on a Mass Gathering Application Fee related to fees charged by other municipalities. This topic will be revisited in a regular meeting, along with updates to the Master Plan and Development Planning. The Wade Trim proposal concerning the sanitary sewer system was also discussed.

Action Items

- Palmer to check on applications regarding the appointment of Marc Oberschulte to the Wastewater Committee before making the appointment. - Continue discussions on STR regulations, including registration and cap suggestions, for a legal opinion at the next meeting. - Bacon and Rademacher to follow up on the ongoing issues regarding beach parking fees for further discussion at the regular meeting. - Schedule a public hearing for potential water rate changes based on the findings of the presentation by Michigan Rural Water Association.