“The Wayzata girls hockey team defeated North Wright County on the road 2-0 to earn their ninth win in ten games. Julia Ostapeic and Noelle Noble both scored goals in the first period to get the Trojans in front. Senior goaltender Kylie Jaksha earned her third straight shutout and seventh of the season in the win. Wayzata is now 16-3-1 on the season.” via CCX Media.

WAYZATA — Plans are moving forward on a major reconstruction and safety improvement project along Highway 12 between Wayzata and Minnetonka, a heavily traveled corridor that serves as a key gateway to Lake Minnetonka and the western suburbs.

The project, led by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), focuses on modernizing Highway 12—also known locally as Wayzata Boulevard—to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

In-Person Public Meeting Scheduled

MnDOT will host an in-person public meeting on Thursday, February 19, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Wayzata City Hall, located at 600 Rice Street East.

The meeting will focus on the 2026 construction project on Highway 12 from Wayzata to Minnetonka. Project team members will present an overview of the planned improvements, outline anticipated benefits, and be available throughout the evening to answer questions from the public.

Community members are encouraged to attend, whether they live along the corridor, commute through the area, or own businesses nearby.

Project Overview

Construction on the Highway 12 improvement project is scheduled to take place from spring through fall of 2026, covering the stretch of Highway 12 between Shoreline Drive in Wayzata and I-494 in Minnetonka. The $50.9 million investment is designed to deliver long-term benefits for the corridor, including improved drainage, enhanced safety, a smoother driving surface, and critical bridge repairs. The project will also extend the overall life of the pavement, helping ensure the roadway continues to serve residents, commuters, and visitors reliably for decades to come.

MnDOT officials have emphasized that safety is a central driver of the project. Portions of the corridor have higher-than-average crash rates, and the redesign aims to reduce conflict points while accommodating current and future traffic volumes. The project also considers improved pedestrian crossings and connections to nearby trails and local destinations.

Construction is expected to be phased to minimize disruption, though motorists should anticipate lane closures, detours, and periodic delays once work begins. MnDOT has indicated that maintaining access to local businesses and neighborhoods will be a priority throughout construction.

Additional details on construction timing, traffic impacts, and final design elements are expected as the project moves closer to implementation. Updates will be shared through MnDOT and local city communication channels.

For residents and visitors alike, the Highway 12 project represents a significant investment in the region’s transportation backbone—one intended to support safety, economic vitality, and long-term growth along the north shore of Lake Minnetonka.

For more information, visit the MNDot homepage for the project:

The Wayzata City Council has approved a conditional use permit and variance allowing construction of a two-family home at 220 Central Avenue South.

At its January 6 meeting, the Council adopted Resolution 02-2026, granting approval for the project following a recommendation from the Planning Commission. The proposal includes a conditional use permit for a two-family detached dwelling in the R-3A zoning district, along with a variance to allow a reduced lot width.

City planning staff and the Planning Commission found the project consistent with Wayzata’s Comprehensive Plan and compatible with the surrounding mix of residential uses in the Central Core Residential area. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval in December after a public hearing.

The property is owned by Custom One Homes, LLC. As approved, the project must comply with all applicable building codes, permitting requirements, and conditions outlined by the City, including coordination with adjacent property owners during construction.

The Wayzata City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved the first reading of Ordinance No. 855 and adopted Resolution No. 03-2026, advancing the financing plan for the city’s next fire department ladder truck—a major public safety investment nearly four years in the making.

The actions authorize the issuance and sale of General Obligation Equipment Certificates, Series 2026A, to fund the purchase of a new ladder truck expected to arrive in late March or early April.

Replacing a 1996 Ladder Truck

City Manager Aurora Yager explained that the department’s current ladder truck dates to 1996 and has exceeded its estimated 25-year useful life. The City Council approved the purchase order for a replacement in 2022, but industry-wide manufacturing delays pushed delivery well beyond initial expectations.

Because ladder trucks are among the most expensive pieces of municipal equipment, the new truck carries a price tag of approximately $1.43 million, with the total equipment certificate issuance estimated at $1.55 million to cover issuance and interest costs .

Why Debt Financing?

Yager also told council members that issuing debt allows the city to preserve liquidity, protect fund balances, and spread the cost over time rather than absorbing the entire expense in a single budget year.

The certificates are structured over 10 years, with interest-only payments in 2027 followed by principal and interest payments thereafter. If future levies remain otherwise flat, the projected impact on the property tax levy would be:

• About a 1% increase in 2027
• An additional 1.5% increase in 2028
• A total long-term levy impact of approximately 2.5% over the life of the debt .

Next Steps in the Process

The financing plan now moves through a defined timeline:

• January 20: Second reading of Ordinance No. 855
• Late January: Credit rating call, with staff expressing confidence in reaffirming the city’s AAA bond rating
• February 10: City Council consideration of awarding the sale of the certificates
• March 3: Estimated closing date and receipt of bond proceeds .

A representative from the city’s municipal advisor, Ehlers & Associates, is expected to continue assisting the city through the sale process.

A New Truck—and a Celebration

Council members also discussed plans to formally welcome the new ladder truck once it arrives. Staff indicated that a public ceremony is planned, including a traditional fire service commissioning—often involving the ceremonial transfer of water from the old truck to the new one.

Both motions—the first reading of Ordinance No. 855 and adoption of Resolution No. 03-2026—passed 5–0, signaling strong council support for the investment in Wayzata’s fire protection capabilities .

At its January 6 meeting, the Wayzata City Council set aside time to recognize residents concluding their service on city boards and commissions, continuing an annual tradition that coincides with the seating of new volunteer members.

Mayor Andrew Mullin opened the recognitions by noting the city’s reliance on engaged residents who give their time and expertise to civic service. “Hats off to all these folks… we acknowledge all of our retiring members. We appreciate your contributions and commitment and we wish you well and hopefully we can recruit you back for service at a later date,” Mullin said.

The first recognition went to Bianca Jensen, who has served on the Parks & Trails Board since 2023. Mullin highlighted Jensen’s contributions to the Klapprich Park Improvement Project and her hands-on involvement in community events, including Spring Splash, Maple Tree Tapping, Sunday Music in the Park, and community education programming. He noted that her work reflected the board’s active role in both long-range planning and community engagement.

Members of the Energy & Environment Committee were also recognized. KC Chermak, a founding member who joined the committee in 2019, was credited with helping establish the group’s direction in its early years. Mullin noted her role in shaping and implementing the city’s Energy Action Plan, advancing municipal solar installations, contributing to the City Operations Resilience Plan, and supporting numerous sustainability initiatives.

David Kirkland, who served from 2024 to 2025, was recognized for his advocacy around Wayzata’s Dark Sky initiative. Mullin highlighted Kirkland’s role in planning and implementing the Dark Sky community event and his contributions to the City Operations Resilience Plan, describing both efforts as meaningful steps in the city’s environmental and resilience planning.

A particularly personal moment came with the recognition of Kent Howe, who served on the Charter Commission from 2010 to 2025. Mullin emphasized that while Howe’s 15-year tenure on the commission is significant on its own, his broader civic involvement spans decades. He described Howe as “a fixture in and around boards and commissions probably for the last 30 years,” including prior service on the Planning Commission.

At “91 years young,” Howe was praised not only for longevity but for steady judgment and institutional knowledge. Mullin noted that although the Charter Commission operates largely out of the public spotlight, its work is fundamental to city governance. He credited Howe’s long service with helping ensure that Wayzata’s charter “functions as it should and evolved it as it needed,” referring to him as one of the city’s “wise sort of fathers.”

The council also recognized Dan Koch, who served on the Housing and Redevelopment Authority beginning in 2022 and was recently appointed to the Wayzata City Council. Mullin noted that Koch’s professional background and prior experience—including two earlier terms on the council—made him a valuable contributor to the HRA. During his tenure, Koch supported the authority’s mission to foster housing opportunities, encourage thoughtful redevelopment, and address affordable housing needs in alignment with the city’s comprehensive plan and governing statutes. Mullin said Koch helped guide discussions aimed at improving the quality and diversity of housing options in Wayzata.

Historic preservation efforts were highlighted with recognition of Kelly Gratton, who served on the Heritage Preservation Board from 2024 to 2025. Mullin noted that Gratton is also a longtime election judge and praised her work on more than 40 Centennial House Awards and two Mayor’s Awards celebrating the preservation of Wayzata’s historic character. During her tenure, the board hosted Centennial Homes events, participated in James J. Hill Days, and developed a forward-looking work plan for 2026 and beyond.

The final recognition of the evening was for Judy Starkey, whose combined service on the Heritage Preservation Board spanned from 2001 to 2014 and again from 2019 to 2025—nearly two decades devoted to preserving Wayzata’s history. Mullin introduced Starkey as “another person dear to the heart of Wayzata,” noting that she, like Howe, is “91 years young.”

Mullin credited Starkey with being a consistent advocate for the identification, protection, and celebration of the city’s historic resources. Her work included preservation efforts tied to the Section Foreman House and the Wayzata Post Office. He reflected on collaborating with Starkey on securing national historic recognition and on efforts to prevent closure of the post office, noting that it remains open today in large part due to those efforts.

As the recognitions concluded, the Council offered a collective note of appreciation to all outgoing members. Rather than a simple farewell, he framed the moment as recognition of stewardship—acknowledging the time, care, and long-term commitment required to serve on boards and commissions, and expressing the city’s gratitude for residents who help guide Wayzata through steady, thoughtful civic service.

The Wayzata City Council meeting this week included a ceremonial milestone for the Wayzata Police Department, as three officers were formally sworn in before city leaders, colleagues, and family members. The evening recognized the appointment of Omarr Wallace as a police officer, the promotion of Kyle Kirschner to sergeant, and the advancement of Brad Schoenherr to deputy police chief.

Police Chief Jamie Baker opened the ceremony by thanking city staff, elected officials, and families for attending, noting that swearing-in ceremonies are especially meaningful for both officers and the loved ones who support them. She then introduced each officer, outlining their backgrounds and paths to Wayzata.

Officer Omarr Wallace

Chief Baker introduced Officer Wallace as a Minnesota native who was born in Robbinsdale and raised in Minneapolis, where he developed a strong appreciation for community and public service. Wallace began his law enforcement career with the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office as a detention deputy, gaining experience working with individuals in difficult circumstances and developing strong communication skills.

“What stood out most about Omar during his interview,” Baker said, “was his strong ability to find a topic of conversation and build rapport and a bond with just about anybody in a short period of time.”

Wallace graduated from North Hennepin Community College in May 2024 and, according to Baker, has expressed interest in aviation, holding a student pilot license.

Wallace was sworn in by Interim City Manager Aurora Yager, pledging to support the U.S. and Minnesota constitutions and to faithfully discharge the duties of a Wayzata police officer.

Following the oath, Wallace thanked city leadership and those who supported him along the way. “I want to thank Chief Baker, Deputy Chief Schoenherr, City Manager Yager, City Council, Mayor Mullin, and the City of Wayzata for giving me the opportunity and for believing in my ability to serve as a dedicated officer,” he said. Wallace also expressed gratitude to his parents, field training officers, mentors, and friends, calling it “an honor to stand here today,” and saying he looks forward to serving the community “with dedication, honor, and integrity.”

Sergeant Kyle Kirschner

Chief Baker next introduced Sergeant Kirschner, beginning with a lighthearted moment that drew laughter from the room, sharing that his daughter had informed him the city council meeting videos are “boring.”

Kirschner was raised in Rogers, Minnesota, but has longstanding ties to the Wayzata and Lake Minnetonka area. His grandparents lived in Long Lake, and his aunt and uncle own a marina in Smiths Bay. Baker outlined his early law enforcement experience as a Sherburne County Reserve Deputy, where he participated in youth snowmobiling and ATV instruction—an experience that even inspired a truck-pulling YouTube channel.

Kirschner later served four years with the Maple Grove Police Department as a community service officer and, in 2012, received a county Crime Analyst of the Year award for his work assisting a criminal investigations division. He then spent 12 years with the Orono Police Department, serving as a community service officer, patrol officer, field training officer, and general investigator, before joining the Wayzata Police Department.

Kirschner was sworn in as sergeant by City Aurora Yager, with his wife, Mary, and their two children assisting with the badge-pinning.

In his remarks, Kirschner emphasized the role of family in the profession. “My experience in this profession thus far is that law enforcement is a whole family profession,” he said. “To serve in the role of police officer, your family has to be on board too.”

He thanked his wife, family, friends, and colleagues, and expressed appreciation for Chief Baker and Deputy Chief Schoenherr for supporting his transition to Wayzata. “Leaving a place where I had grown comfortable roots was not easy,” Kirschner said, adding, “but growth occurs outside the comfort zone.”

Kirschner described his goals as sergeant as leading and making decisions with integrity, supporting his team, and growing the institutional knowledge and abilities of the Wayzata Police Department. He closed by saying he is committed to doing everything he can for the City of Wayzata and the communities it serves “to make sure they’re safe and strong.”

Deputy Police Chief Brad Schoenherr

The ceremony concluded with the swearing-in of Deputy Police Chief Brad Schoenherr, whose career in law enforcement spans approximately 25 years. Chief Baker highlighted Schoenherr’s broad experience, which includes service as a patrol officer, canine officer, investigator, SWAT operator, team leader, patrol sergeant, and most recently, SWAT commander.

“His experience at every level has shaped him into a thoughtful and trusted leader,” Baker said.

Schoenherr was sworn in by the city manager, pledging to faithfully discharge the duties of deputy police chief. He then addressed the council and those in attendance, thanking Chief Baker for her leadership. “Your commitment and dedication to this department is unmatched,” Schoenherr said. “Your leadership means a great deal to me and I’ve learned a lot from you.”

He also thanked Mayor Mullin, the City Council, and city management for their support, and expressed pride in the Wayzata Police Department team. “I’m proud to work alongside people that show up every day with professionalism, dedication, and passion,” he said, calling law enforcement “a challenging job.”

Schoenherr thanked his family for standing by him through the sacrifices of the profession and outlined his focus moving forward. “As deputy chief, my focus will be on strengthening our department, supporting our team, continuing to serve our great community with integrity and pride,” he said. “I’m honored by the opportunity and excited for what’s ahead.”

The combined swearing-in marked a significant moment for the Wayzata Police Department, reflecting both continuity and growth as the city invests in leadership, professionalism, and public safety.