4/28/2026 - Empire Village | Regular Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Empire Village Council meeting held on April 28, 2026, addressed multiple agenda items including public comments on beach fire pits, parks and recreation initiatives, infrastructure project updates, and new business proposals. Key decisions included the approval of the Shalda Park Master Plan scope, a new pickup truck purchase, and the scheduling of public hearings for proposed ordinances.

Public comments

Marie Scott voiced concerns regarding the addition of fire pits at the beach and the master plan for Shalda Park. Her comments were acknowledged, although no specific responses were recorded.

Parks and recreation matters

- **Shalda Park Master Plan**: The council instructed Dallas to complete the Proposed Scope of Work for the plan with Option 2 as the preferred layout and included phasing goals. This motion passed unanimously. - **Additional Fire Pits at Beach**: A motion was made to assign the Parks Committee to explore options for new fire pits on the beach, which also passed unanimously.

Infrastructure projects

- **Pickup Truck Purchase**: The council approved purchasing a new GMC 4WD diesel truck, not to exceed $64,000. - **Sand Removal Contract**: The council awarded a contract for sand removal at a maximum cost of $38,000 to Alpers Excavating, alongside a discussion on charging Major Streets for related expenses.

Other Business

- The council approved a sidewalk snow support program policy. - They also addressed and approved a resolution regarding outdoor dining zoning ordinance amendments. - A vote was made to schedule public hearings for new water, beach park, and sidewalk ordinances at the May meeting. - The Gateway Council's request to sell Benzonia Trail property was declined.

Financial Summary

- The total bills approved amounted to $15,518.23. - Costs for purchasing beach parking passes were set at approximately $2,010 for 3,000 passes, while 100 golf cart stickers were approved at a cost of $168. - The sand removal contract was approved for up to $38,000, with the potential to charge Major Streets for their share.

Action Items

- The Parks Committee is to study options for new beach fire pits. - The council seeks bids from Gosling Czubak for completing gravel parking and fencing at Shalda Park. - Public hearings for the proposed water, beach park, and sidewalk ordinances are to be scheduled for the May meeting. - Bob Joyce was appointed as the new Street Administrator following Bacon's resignation.