Summary
The Empire Village Council convened on April 9, 2026, to discuss several key topics affecting the community, particularly in relation to parks and ordinances. The meeting resulted in several decisions, including strategies for park development, amendments to ordinances, and future agenda items for further discussion.Public comments
Public comments were heard from Trish Baker who addressed the registration of golf carts for beach parking passes, and Joey Deeg who expressed concern over the amount of beach parking fines. No formal responses were provided during the meeting.Parks and recreation matters
The Council discussed the Shalda Park Master Plan, with a recommendation from the Parks Committee to pursue Option 2 for improvements, which includes getting quotes for gravel parking, a fence, and a picnic pavilion. There was also a consensus to involve public input in the process.Additionally, the Beach Ordinance was reviewed, with plans for modifications before scheduling it for a Regular Meeting. Discussions regarding parking procedures included determining fines and implementing changes to ensure smooth operations for parking pass distribution.
Infrastructure projects
The Water Ordinance underwent several minor additions and changes, prompting the decision to schedule a Public Hearing in the next Regular Meeting. The Council also discussed a new Sidewalk Ordinance and the Sidewalk Snow Support Program Policy, with plans to rescind existing ordinances and replace them with the proposed updates, followed by a Public Hearing as well.Other Business
A motion to approve the minutes from the March 24, 2026 Regular Meeting was passed unanimously. Furthermore, discussions on personnel policy updates were initiated, with a focus on potential wage changes.Financial Summary (if applicable)
No financial information was presented in this meeting.Action Items
- Schedule Public Hearings for the Water Ordinance and the new Sidewalk Ordinance at the upcoming Regular Meeting. - Prepare for the presentation of the Shalda Park Master Plan and beach ordinance changes in future meetings. - Chase will gather costs for updating the meeting room at the DPW building. - Prepare and organize an Arbor Day and Shalda Park cleanup event on April 24th.These draft minutes will be sent for approval at the upcoming April 28, 2026, Regular Meeting.