2/8/2024 - Empire Village | Work Session Minutes

Summary

The Empire Village Council Work Session on February 8, 2024, included discussions on agenda adjustments, approval of previous minutes, a property line adjustment application, and a proposed budget for the fiscal year 2024-25. The meeting addressed public concerns regarding short-term rentals and personnel issues, emphasizing community engagement and decision-making transparency.

Public comments

Several letters were received and read into the record regarding various topics, including: - **Short-Term Rentals**: Letters were submitted by Carl Spina, Carol Purcell, Roland Woodring, Dave Taghon, and Bill Blacquiere expressing concerns and suggestions about potential regulations. - **Alley Access**: Mary Sharry and Bill Dickinson submitted concerns regarding alley access. - **Septage Ordinance**: Paul Bertrand’s letter highlighted issues with the existing septage ordinance.

Public comments from attendees included:

• Rodney Barnes offered assistance as a Human Resource professional to help with village personnel matters.
• Tina Dunphy expressed concerns that Short-Term Rental owners need better communication regarding regulations being discussed, calling potential restrictions dangerous.
• Luanne Barnes suggested enhancing the village website to include more information about Short-Term Rentals.
• Karen Stenberger inquired about the existence of a Short-Term Ordinance, which Council Member Dye clarified does not currently exist.

Infrastructure projects

The Zoning Administrator, Hall, reviewed a property line adjustment application involving parcels #041-450-001-00 and #041-450-007-00. Initially denied, it was ultimately recommended for approval after further research. The motion to approve the adjustment was passed unanimously pending the recording of new legal descriptions.

Other Business

The Council approved the minutes from the January 23, 2024, meeting and added a Budget Public Hearing notice under New Business. A recommendation was made to update the Village’s Land Division Ordinance.

Financial Summary

The Council discussed the budget for fiscal year 2024-25, which included: - **Increases**: Attorney fees, sidewalk improvements, parks repair and maintenance, and beautification projects. - **Budget Review**: Future discussions will cover the number of storm-drain cleanouts and various professional services. A motion to schedule a Public Hearing on the budget for 7:00 p.m. on February 28, 2024, was approved.

Action Items

- The Council agreed to hold a Public Hearing for the upcoming budget on February 28, 2024. - The Personnel Committee will continue to address recommendations for appointed officials and various employee classifications, with future discussions to include community input on short-term rental regulations.