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

Summary

The Empire Village Council held a work session on August 8, 2024, discussing various agenda items including a proposed Sign Ordinance, updates on office improvements, and committee reports. Key decisions included the approval of electrical contracting for office remodeling and recommendations for increased water rates. Public comments were received on multiple topics, and financial reports were reviewed.

Public comments

Terry Bacon commented on the proposed Sign Ordinance and job descriptions during public comments. Additionally, Karen Baja raised concerns regarding animal control in the beach ordinance, the sign ordinance, and the new office setup.

Affordable housing initiatives

(No discussions or outcomes concerning affordable housing documented.)

Parks and recreation matters

Dye presented recommendations from the Parks Committee regarding changes to the Beach Park Ordinance and indicated that modifications to the Fee Schedule would be considered during the upcoming Budget Hearing.

Infrastructure projects

The council discussed the following infrastructure projects: - **Aylsworth Streetlights:** A letter was received and read concerning the streetlights. Bacon provided updates on next steps for this matter. - **Office Transition:** The council approved electrical contracting and remodeling for the office, not to exceed $7,000. - **Water Rates:** Rademacher reported on a proposed 4% increase in residential and commercial rates, with ongoing annual increases until a new water study is completed. A public hearing will be scheduled at the next regular meeting.

Other Business

Several items, including recycling and Niagara Street discussions, were moved to the next work session. The council reviewed the June cash and Revenue and Expenditures reports during the meeting.

Financial Summary (if applicable)

During the meeting, the council reviewed financial reports including the June cash and Revenue and Expenditures reports. No specific financial figures or formal budget implications were detailed in the discussion.

Action Items

- Scheduling a public hearing regarding proposed water rate increases at the regular meeting. - Further review of the Sign Ordinance draft for the next meeting. - Development of additional recommendations for the Beach Park Ordinance within the Parks Committee as discussed.