7/28/2026 - Empire Village | Hearing and Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Empire Village Council held a regular meeting on July 28, 2026, where various topics concerning village ordinances, public comments, and operational matters were discussed. Key decisions included the approval of the Mass Gathering Ordinance, setting a Public Hearing for the Short-Term Rental Registration Ordinance, and motions for financial reimbursements related to the Asparagus Festival.

Public Comments

Several public comments were made during the meeting: - Cheryl Clark addressed the New Neighborhood Escrow Agreement, focusing on council actions. - David Kroll discussed the classification of Short Term Rentals (STRs) as commercial per Michigan Court opinions. - Bob Chase emphasized the need for a date to be set for the STR hearing and discussed public notices related to beach parking and potential parking fee waivers. - Frank Clements requested that the STR ordinance be tabled in favor of passing a registration ordinance with a cap. - Terry Bacon noted that the Planning Commission and Council have listened to all comments regarding STRs.

Old Business

Under Old Business, the Council voted to approve the Mass Gathering Ordinance No. 4 of 2026. The vote was unanimous. Additionally, a motion was made to set a Public Hearing for the Short-Term Rental Registration Ordinance during the August meeting, with some council members expressing concerns about needing further information before passing it. The motion passed with some opposition.

New Business

Several items were addressed: - The Council approved to waive policy for multiple bids to address emergencies with fuel tanks and pad work at a cost not to exceed $10K. - Approval was given for grading and graveling the rear parking lot of the DPW building for a cost not exceeding $4K. - The removal of trees and stump grinding was authorized for a maximum of $8K. - A decision was made to advertise the sale of a 2013 GMC pickup truck for $3K or best offer.

Other Business

The operational reports included updates from the DPW Superintendent on beach facility progress, sign replacements, and tree trimming needs. A letter regarding the New Neighborhood escrow account mentioned that the account could not be dissolved, prompting ongoing search for a new escrow agent.

Financial Summary

The following financial matters were discussed: - Approval of bills totaling $99,115.15 as part of the Consent Agenda. - Reimbursement of $166.00 for beach parking during the Asparagus Festival was approved following a motion that considered various perspectives on fee waivers. - Authorized spending limits for various operational expenses, including emergency repairs and improvements not exceeding $10K, $4K, and $8K respectively.

Action Items

- The Council is tasked with revisiting the New Neighborhood escrow agreement based on a recent Court of Appeals opinion as requested by public commenters. - A follow-up is required concerning the STR Registration Ordinance to ensure additional information is gathered prior to finalization. - Verification of a trustee's authority regarding liquor inspections will be pursued by the clerk following the approval of Rademacher's involvement in liquor inspections.