Summary
The Empire Township Board met July 14, 2026, approving the agenda as amended and the June 9 minutes with a correction to a speaker's name (Marge Maxbauer). Key actions included approving replacement of all four Empire Fire Station garage doors, purchasing a new office printer, and reviewing progress on the DNR Slow-No-Wake designation, elections, and zoning matters.
Public Comments
No public comments were made on agenda items. During general public comment, Tessa Alexander spoke on behalf of her son, proposing that the Planning Commission consider a Zoning Ordinance amendment to permit temporary dwellings during construction of permanent homes on parcels. No board response or decision was recorded.
Infrastructure Projects
Supervisor Wiejaczka reported that DNR Corporal Jill Miller conducted an inspection and public hearing on July 1 regarding the Slow-No-Wake designation. Six residents and a Leelanau Enterprise reporter attended, and all attendees supported the designation. Steve Lewis of the South Bar Lake Association noted pilings and shallow areas to the DNR. Miller will forward her findings to DNR staff for a decision; no township vote occurred.
Other Business
The Board discussed a fallen tree damaging an RV at the Campground on July 2 (no injuries); insurance will cover damages, and the Township was found not liable. The Planning Commission reported six permits issued in May and continued work with attorney Marc Daneman on a Renewable Energy Ordinance and broader Zoning Ordinance review, with a special meeting set for July 28, 2026. The Fire Department reported a resolved union contract (5% raise over three years, three added holidays, through March 31, 2029), offset by reduced equipment purchases and overtime. The Purchasing Policy review continued, with Clerk Bacon to consult attorney Figura. Beach pass mailing (nearly 600 postcards) continues, and Wiejaczka is monitoring Zoning Administrator permit turnaround delays and possible online submission/payment options.
Financial Summary
The Board approved (Noonan/Wolterink) purchase of Compaan Garage Door Quote #3 for fire station doors, not to exceed $21,655, passed by roll call vote (Ayes: Wolterink, Wiejaczka, Price, Noonan, Bacon; Nays: none). The Board approved (Wolterink/Noonan) purchasing an HP Color LaserJet M681z printer for $2,999.99, under the $3,500 budget, by unanimous voice vote. Treasurer Price presented financial reports; Clerk Bacon reviewed Bills to be Paid and Post Audit Bills, noting a late tax payment penalty from a March/April batch submission and confirming receipt of the annual Metro Act Road Fund payment. Bills were approved by unanimous voice vote.
Action Items
- Bacon to consult attorney Figura on the Purchasing Policy.
- Wiejaczka to continue monitoring Zoning Administrator permit response times and explore online submission/payment options.
- Planning Commission special meeting on Zoning Ordinance Review scheduled July 28, 2026, 3:00 pm.
- Public Accuracy Test scheduled July 27, 2026, 6:00 pm.
- Primary election preparations for August 2–4, 2026.