Empire will be moving forward with a $70,000 contract with Renovare, a Ypsilantibased real estate development company, that was originally tasked with helping the village find a new office. The original contract ($70,000) has been invoiced through $50,000.
After Empire found a new office on its own in April. However, they village is still obligated to the $70,000 contract.
In a May 16 special meeting, Renovare representative Jill Ferrari discussed “Place Strategies and Renovare” which says they are willing to provide a plan and a toolbox of options available should a developer express interest in developing land in Empire; a schematic of the current DPW Building and possible improvements made to the building.
Discussion was opened to the community by asking the question, “What is needed in Empire?”
Comments included: grocery store, workforce, affordable and senior housing.
Limitations to growth were discussed, limited land available, lack of a wastewater system and “shovel ready plan”. Ferrari mentioned that the State of Michigan has infrastructure funding available for such projects that could be potentially tapped into and Renovare could assist us in those projects.
Although not clear, Renovare will be tasked with data gathering, site visits and interviews, conceptual site plans, work sessions for economic development priorities, community engagement, present proposed concepts and development tools, connect and coordinate.
In other business, the Village of Empire can’t seem to find the sweet spot of what to charge for a mass gathering application. After a public hearing on May 28 at 7 p.m., the village will try to tackle the issue once and for all at its June monthly workshop meeting.
Empire held a public hearing regarding a permitting procedure for mass gatherings “to insure the public health, safety and welfare by proper planning for and use of village services and personnel.
Most of the discussion at the workshop meeting was about how much these events will cost for-profit and non-profit companies who throw events in the village.
Council members mentioned lowering the fee to $300 to $500 from $1500. The $700 range was also mentioned.
Council members consistently cited ordinances of South Haven and Holland as ideal to mimic.
