10/8/2024 - Empire Township | Regular Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Empire Township Board meeting held on October 8, 2024, concluded with several key decisions regarding employee bonuses, preparation for a landscaping plan, technology updates for the assessor's office, and modifications to the Sign Ordinance. The Fire Chief reported on department operations and an upcoming open house event, while final touches on the kitchen update were noted.

Public Comments

(No public comments provided in the document.)

Affordable Housing Initiatives

(No discussions on affordable housing were present in the document.)

Parks and Recreation Matters

(No specific parks and recreation matters were discussed in the document.)

Infrastructure Projects

The Board reviewed a landscaping plan for the columbarium area at Maple Grove Cemetery, proposed by Wild Juniper Nursery, which has an approximate cost of $4,766.82. The Board deemed the plan a good idea but requested a drawing of the area, a preference for spring planting, and a larger area designated for private services and visits by loved ones.

Other Business

- Fire Chief Bryan Ferguson reported on the fire department's operations and announced an open house at Station #2 during the museum's Heritage Days. - The Board agreed to allow the Supervisor to sign a third-party agreement for the sale of an old engine.

Financial Summary

- Bonuses were approved for township employees: Campground Manager Yolanda Bertaud ($2,500), Maintenance Manager Joe Harriger ($2,000), and Assistant Maintenance George Manesiotis ($700). Cemetery Manager Claude Fields was granted a $2,000 bonus, sexton Joe Harriger received $2,000, and Dick Becker was given a $100 bonus. - The Board approved up to $2,000 for a new computer and hard drive for the assessor's office.

Action Items

- Micah Deegan will take recommended changes to the draft Sign Ordinance to the Planning Commission. - The Supervisor will sign the third-party agreement for the sale of the old fire engine, as permitted by the Board.