Summary
The Empire Village Council meeting on August 25, 2026, addressed multiple topics, including a public hearing on a Short-Term Rental (STR) Registration Ordinance. The Council passed the STR ordinance with a vote that saw some dissent. Additionally, zoning amendments were approved, and the agenda included reports and previous meeting minutes. The meeting emphasized community engagement with discussions on STRs, enforcement issues, and future infrastructure projects.Public Comments
Several residents provided comments during the public hearing regarding the STR Registration Ordinance. Notable speakers included: - **Donna Haiderer**: Expressed concerns about STR owner actions, the registration fee, and confidentiality issues. - **Terry Bacon**: Supported the ordinance, viewing it as a good compromise. - **Cora Rubitschun**: Suggested that more restrictions may follow. - **Barbara Ludlow**: Questioned enforcement capabilities. - **Sue Palmer** and **Ella Skrocki**: Called for a cap on STRs. - **Frank Clements**: Raised concerns about STR regulations under the new Neighborhood PUD. - **Val Dalton**: Questioned if the registration list would be subject to FOIA and emphasized the need for data collection.Letters from residents Dan & Jeanne Ernst, Jack and Maggie, and Diana Oberschulte were also read, discussing various concerns and opinions on the STR registration approach.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
(No discussion available)Parks and Recreation Matters
A proposal from GoslingCzubak for improvements to Shalda Park was reviewed and will be discussed in detail at the September work session.Infrastructure Projects
- The DPW Superintendent, Bob Joyce, reported on issues with tree trimming and the brush pile, including unauthorized drop-offs by non-residents, and announced that cameras have been purchased to catch violators. - An upcoming review meeting regarding the water system will involve marathon organizers and engineers.Other Business
The council adopted the agenda and approved the consent agenda which included minutes from a prior meeting and bills totaling $37,386.43.Financial Summary
Richard Niegarth from Gabridge & Co. presented the annual audit, noting an increase in tax revenues attributed to new construction and uncapped sales. He recommended that the reserved portion of the Water Fund should be utilized annually.Action Items
- The Council committed to establishing a process to implement the Short-Term Rental Registration Ordinance. - Follow-ups include further development discussions regarding the Shalda Park improvements and the review of the water system with marathon organizers.The draft minutes are set to be reviewed at the next Council Work Session on September 10, 2026.