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  • Council workshops options for the Muni

    March 24th, 2022

    The city council discussed different options for the Wayzata Bar and Grill, and Wine and Spirits during a workshop on Tuesday.

    Aurora Yager, administrative services director, presented an analysis of the operations for the Muni’s bar as well as its liquor store component. The presentation included a breakdown of both operations’ financials year-to-year as well as a projection of what selling or leasing the space would return to the city.

    According to Yager’s report, the bar and grill did more than $3.6 million in sales for an excess of 70-percent gross profit in 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic slowed things down in 2020 and 2021 but the gross profit of net sales remained at 68-percent or better.

    The average benefit to the city from the bar and grill is $91,814 to the general fund and $139,730 toward capital improvements.

    For wine and spirits, sales exceeded $3.4 million in 2020 and more than 28-percent gross profit of net sales. The average sales is more than $2.9 million at about 26-percent gross profit. Wine and spirits operations contribute an average of $83,956 to the general fund and $110,914 in transfers to the capital fund.

    “Historically these operations have funded portions of other city staff salaries,” Yager said. “We’re hoping to determine if you feel comfortable continuing operations. Then we can talk about making the operations the best they can be. Or we can explore other options.”

    The other options discussed for both sides of the Muni were leasing the space or selling the building. Yager created a five-year projection for the net cash the city would receive under each option. The option bringing the most net cash to the city is continuing operations on both fronts. The five-year total projection for the bar and grill is more than $1.5 million compared to $266,962 for leasing and $980,738 for selling. For wine and spirits, continuing operations tallies more than $1.9 million over five years.

    “We still have our existing debt that we will be paying off,” Yager said. “Selling the entire property would get us an influx of cash but we are still paying off our bond payments.”

    The city has owned or been involved in the operations of the Muni in some way since it was founded in 1947. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Wayzata staple.

    “I’d be interested in exploring another model and see an example of a contract Minneapolis has put together for something like (the Muni),” said Mayor Johanna Mouton. “This is an institution in town. I think it warrants really doing a risk/benefit analysis.”

    “If it comes back and we take a look at a Minneapolis contract and all of the sudden we eliminate costs A, B, C, D — we step back and all of the sudden we’re making as much if not more money, that’s going to be a tough choice frankly,” Mouton continued.

    The council was largely in agreement on continuing operations and finding ways to improve operations while still being involved with the Muni. Council member Jeff Buchanan was not present for the workshop.

    Councilor Cathy Iverson said she would need more information to consider before she would entertain other options.

    “I’d like to see some of the marketing activities that are planned and get my head better around that,” she said. “What are other liquor stores doing to entice people? I ask because honestly I don’t know what your strategy is. Including that in the packet would be very helpful.”

    Council member Alex Plechash agreed with staying on the current path because the current model continues to work well for the city.

    “There is a cultural aspect to this too,” he said. “This is Wayzata. This is our little place. You can’t discount that either.”

    Council directed staff to continue operations of Wayzata Wine and Spirits and return with more data points on the bar and grill. The council will then discuss options for improving operations moving forward.

    ‘Open Street’ event discussed

    In other business, the council weighed in on an idea to close Lake Street to Minnetonka from vehicle traffic from Friday afternoon to Monday morning. This would be done to open the Panoway district up for walking space and bicycle traffic.

    City planner Nick Keiser said the city could bring in some amenities to the area during the street closure.

    “We really want to focus on a more local, pedestrian, community deal to do activities down there,” he said.

    The estimated cost of closing the street, providing traffic control and signage is about $2,000 per weekend. The idea comes from the Panoway District Committee. The committee would like to test the concept later this spring or in the early summer. It would also like to do a second event later in the year.

    “I like the concept. I’m not opposed to it,” Plechash said. “If I had concerns it would be the obvious ones like traffic and the loss of parking. We have issues with parking as it is.”

    Keiser acknowledged the concern over traffic, particularly as it relates to COV Wayzata’s ability to continue deliveries while the street is closed. COV is located at 700 East Lake Street on the corner where the proposed road closure would begin from the west.

    The council members in attendance and Mayor Mouton voiced support for the idea. This item would return to council if it moves forward as council approval is required to close a city street.

  • Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Wayzata at McCormick’s Pub & Restaurant!

    March 17th, 2022

    Lá fhéile Pádraig sona dhuit!

    That is to say, Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Already well into the month of March, and with this Irish holiday fast approaching, many might be wondering where or how to best celebrate. It is, after all, one of the season’s more social festivities.

    Kierean Folliard, Tim McCormick, and Noel Sweeney. Submitted photo.

    You need look no further than McCormick’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, located in the heart of downtown Wayzata. First opened in 2011, by Tim McCormick and his business partner Michael Simpson, the concept for the restaurant was inspired by Tim’s Irish ties. First and foremost, Ireland was his grandparents’ home, establishing an ancestral connection that embedded all things Irish deep into his roots.

    A Guinness sign hangs prominently in the bar area, evidence of the seriousness with which the establishment takes not only its beer selection but the manner in which it is served. The best method for pouring a Guinness is hotly debated, with Tim taking the classic approach. In his mind, there should always be overflow, as it’s a sure indication that the guest is receiving a proper twenty ounces.

    Along with this quintessential Irish beverage, McCormick’s boasts a wide variety of more obscure beers, along with Irish Whiskey. The goal? To provide locals and visitors with a taste of Ireland, be it a more common or lesser-known flavor!

    Even the restaurant’s 2015 expansion embodied all things Ireland. While the bar always reflected the traditional pub scene, the additional dining space, designed by the late Jim Dayton, was modeled after the Kildare Street Club. Now a museum, it was once one of Dublin’s most famous social clubs. In the 1800s, Kildare’s card rooms, billiard tables, and overall décor oozed absolute elegance.

    Everything from McCormick’s artwork to the chandeliers and even the paint color was chosen to reflect this high society gathering place. And this new space, combined with the existing, quickly established McCormick’s as the perfect mix of two of Ireland’s social worlds: the pub and the club.

    With a love of Ireland at its core, it makes perfect sense to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day at McCormick’s. On the day of, that is to say Thursday, March 17, the restaurant will have live music, Irish dancers, and even bagpipes. Whether you pull up a stool at the bar or make a reservation for dinner, plan to sip some Guinness and try the traditional corned beef and cabbage dish on offer.

    For those waiting until the weekend to observe the holiday, rest assured that McCormick’s has you covered as well.  On Saturday, March 19, they’re hosting a tent party. Along with the standard food and beverages available, patrons can enjoy live music by Johnny James and the Hall of Flames. It promises to be a lively evening.

  • Love is in the Air

    February 12th, 2022

    Make Valentine’s special with a visit to Wayzata merchants

    With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, love is certainly in the air throughout downtown Wayzata. Whether you hope to pamper yourself or a loved loved one, splurge on food or on presents, the city has a handful of offerings to help make this February 14th most memorable.

    Spend Valentine’s Day in Wayzata.

    A Plateful of Love

    For those looking to express their love through food, a handful of Wayzata restaurants boast special Valentine’s Weekend menus. With so many options available, you are bound to find the perfect cuisine for the occasion!

    CoV is offering chef-curated dinner specials all weekend along. Its 3-course prefix menu features a variety of appetizers, choice of filet, capellini, or chicken for an entrée, and two delectable desserts. For $75, you and your loved one can enjoy both each other’s company and a delicious meal. The a la carte menu is also available, if preferred.

    At Grocer’s Table $105 for two people earns you a choice of soup or salad, choice of entrée, and two red velvet cupcakes. With a menu title like “Date Night for the Love Birds,” you can expect not only yummy food but a romantic ambience. What’s more, they offer a little something for the singles. Their “a la carte options for the lonely” provides discounted prices on five items, including salmon, short ribs, and of course a sweet treat.  

    NineTwentyFive plans to serve patrons another 3-course prefix menu. Priced at $85 a person, this one includes a choice of four starters, four mains (one of which is designed to be shared, upping the romance level), and two tasty desserts. The full menu is also available all weekend, although slightly limited on Valentine’s Day itself. Conveniently located within the Landing Hotel, you could go all out and make an entire night of it. There’s truly no better way to celebrate your love than with a relaxing staycation.

    While 6Smith has not released the contents of its menu, it promises a handful of Valentine’s dinner features that are bound to wow. And who doesn’t love a slight surprise? The secretive menu certainly adds an element of excitement to your night out. Plus, 6Smith is offering these unknown specials through Tuesday, February 15th. Most other restaurants wrap up the day prior, so this extension is ideal for those who have to celebrate after the fact!

    Boxed & Bouquet Love

    Should you prefer to shower your loved ones with gifts, you too are in luck. Catering to both those who plan well in advance and those who need something morning of, the shops in downtown Wayzata have everything you might desire.

    Graham Jewelers and Wayzata Jewelers both have extensive collections along with expert staff to answer all of your questions. From rings to watches, antique to custom made, you are certain to find the perfect piece for your loved one. You can even expand your own knowledge by perusing detailed fact sheets which cover all sorts of topics, including different gemstones and metals.

    If flowers, cards, and chocolate are more up your alley, Candlelight Floral has you covered. You can purchase floral arrangements specific to Valentine’s Day or create a custom bouquet, particularly meaningful should you know your loved one’s favorite flowers. And for those last-minute shoppers, don’t forget about Lunds. The grocery store always has an excellent assortment of Bachman’s flowers and plenty of cards & candy!

    No matter who you choose to celebrate or how, you’re bound to find just what you need in downtown Wayzata. It’s important to note, however, that this year, Valentine’s Day weekend coincides with the Chilly Open and the Super Bowl. So, if you’re planning to celebrate out on the town, be sure to make a reservation!

  • CCX Sports Spotlight: Mara Braun, Wayzata Girls Basketball

    February 11th, 2022
    Mara Braun, Wayzata Girls Basketball

    Our CCX Sports Spotlight this week shines on Wayzata girls basketball standout Mara Braun. The senior is back in the lineup after missing time with a knee injury. The University of Minnesota signee is one of the top players in Minnesota, excelling at both ends of the court.

  • Wayzata Chilly Open Schedule 2022

    February 8th, 2022

    Stretch, train, assemble your squad! The 38th Annual Chilly Open, the largest most well-known and unusual golf tournament held on a frozen lake, will be here in just a few short days. What started as a small crazy idea on how to have a little fun during the coldest month of the year has evolved into one of Minnesota’s most unique winter events. We are looking forward to hosting 1,800 golfers, in themed Olympic costumes and bar sleds, hitting tennis balls with hockey sticks and tee ball bats. 27 hole sponsors will decorate and host three-9 hole courses. This is a winter festival you won’t want to miss.

    Cinema & Skates ($10 | LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE!) – Thursday and Friday, February 10 & 11, 4:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

    Skate the Lake! Experience Lake Minnetonka’s infinity skating loop – a 45,000 sq. ft on-ice venue. It’s perfect for a date night or a night of family fun! So bundle up, bring your skates (or a lawn chair) and enjoy music or one of the featured films on the big screen while skating Wayzata Bay (Thursday – Cool Runnings & Friday – Frozen). Tickets are required and limited per session. Two Hour Ticket Reservations on sale now until each session sells out. NEW this year – The Fab Tap will be on the ice selling hot cocoa, hot cider, and treats. Admission is $10 per person

    Snowga (open to public) – Saturday, February 12, 9:00 a.m.

    Namaste on Wayzata Bay … Come Snowga with us! Anyone can do Hot Yoga, but only true Minnesotan’s can say they have done SNOWGA (yoga on the ice) yoga on the ice). First 100 attendees will get a complimentary Crisp & Green beanie, along with free heated agua frescas. Bring your own mat and winter gear and start the day with free yoga flow. Access to the on-ice venue is through Depot Park. Free and Open to the Public.

    Golf Tournament (SOLD OUT!) – Saturday, February 12, Tee Times: 10 am, 12 noon & 2 pm. Theme: The Olympics

    In true Olympic fashion, the 2022 Golf Tournament broke a record and sold out of all tickets a couple of weeks ago! Golfers will play a round, head to the 19th Hole tent and enjoy live music by ”PowerTap” band on the Edina Realty stage while tasting some of the best chili from over 10 local restaurants competing in the Chili Cookoff Contest. The 2022 celebrity judges include: Stephanie March, Paul Buttenhoff, Cody Matz, Chef Amalia Moreno Damgaard, and Erik Eastman.

    Breakfast Buffet & Ice Bar (reservations strongly encouraged)– Friday, February 11, 4 – 10 pm – Saturday, February 12, from 9 am – Close

    Stop by 6Smith on your way to and from “The Open”. Be sure to make a reservation for the Chilly Open Brunch Buffet on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. For pricing and the menu visit 6Smith.com.
    Snowkite Races & Nite Kite (open to public) – Friday, February 11 at 5 pm | Saturday, February 12, 11 am – 2 pm | Sunday February 13, 11 am – 2 pm

    Experience a beautiful backdrop of colorful kites flying through the air during the Chilly Open weekend. Or better yet, try it out for FREE! Wind dependent, (minimum 7mph)

    Want in?! See WayzataChillyOpen.com for all the details. Follow along @WayzataChillyOpen on Facebook and Instagram for all the up to date details and announcements. This frozen event is sponsored by many local businesses.

    Call 952-473-9595 or info@wayzatachamber.com

  • Planning commision recommends denial on TCF redevelopment

    February 8th, 2022

    Potential third time development plans fail

    The Wayzata Planning Commission recommended city staff to draft a denial of a proposed redevelopment concept for the TCF headquarters property on Lake Street on Monday.

    This is the third time Lakewest Development has come before the commission to present plans for redeveloping the property at 200 E. Lake Street. In 2020, it presented plans to convert the existing TCF Bank into condominiums and construct new residential buildings.

    TCF Building in Wayzata. Photo Dan Gustafson.

    In 2021, it returned to the commission with a plan to demolish the TCF building and construct two new residential buildings.After the previous two denials, the developer took feedback from the commission as well as the public through a neighborhood meeting in January.


    The new plan discussed Monday included an underground mechanical parking system, 32 condominiums and retail space. There would also be pocket parks on the property, and 25-foot facade breaks every 150 feet. The development would include two buildings, referred to as east and west buildings or ‘building A’ and ‘building B’.

    Approval of the plan would have required a zoning amendment to the existing planned urban development to create a new PUD district, design standards deviations and a shoreland impact plan study.Consultant Eric Zweber said 66-percent of the parking under the east building is beneath groundwater elevation, as well as 17-percent of the west building’s parking. 

    More than 100 pages of public comments were received, with many of them noting concern over tearing down the TCF building, losing views of the lake, the proximity of the redevelopment near the BNSF railroad tracks and increases in traffic. There was also a petition which received more than 400 signatures from residents and 1100 signatures in total in about a week opposing the development plans.

    200 Lake Street East – Proposed Site. Image courtesy Lakewest Development.

    Curt Fretham, chief manager of Lakewest Development, said his development team has tried to be creative to meet requirements in the city’s design standards and comprehensive plan.

    “We did that,” Fretham said of a number of changes his team was asked to make. “You asked us in initial meetings to reduce mass, provide more open space. You asked us in other words to make it smaller. You also asked us to increase density or in other words, make it bigger. We’ve been asked to do a lot of things. And we have been accepting and approving of those asks. All we really want to do is use our property in a reasonable manner.”

    The applicant had several consultants discuss the concept further, addressing how the mechanical parking system works, the traffic impact of the new residential and commercial space and the architectural design.

    “We’re frankly surprised, given all the consultants they brought tonight, they did not do a railroad study,” said Kendra Lindahl during the public forum. “It’s not that it could happen. It has happened.”

    Lindahl referenced a train derailment which struck another site along the railroad corridor, though commissioner Peggy Douglas corrected that it did not happen on the site in question. The south side of the property is marked by the railroad tracks about 25-feet from the proposed building.

    Lindahl asked what value this development would bring to the city, which Brad Hoyt echoed. Hoyt is the owner of Ventana Apartments.

    “This building is only 35 years old. It’s not even depreciated yet,” he said. “My view is the project is already reasonably developed and should remain in its state.”

    Lindsay Bashioum, who previously served on the planning commission, said the commission got it right the first two times it denied development plans.

    “There’s no public benefit that isn’t already there,” Bashioum said.

    The commission thanked the applicant for coming forward with a new concept for a third time, remarking on some of the things they liked about the new plans. They also said many of their concerns remain.

    “This does not depict the charm of a lakeside community,” Douglas said. “I’m worried about the precedent for future development.”

    “I think it’s too big to be charming,” Commissioner Jeff Parkhill added.

    Commissioner Ken Sorenson motioned to direct staff to draft a denial of application. Commissioner Jennifer Severson seconded and the commission voted unanimously in favor of denial.

    The property is listed with Cushman & Wakefield.

  • Public speaks out against Eagle Brook Church development in Minnetonka

    February 2nd, 2022

    The Minnetonka Planning Commission commented on a proposed concept by Eagle Brook Church to develop a new church and parking ramp at the site of the former Hillcrest Rehabilitation building.

    Hillcrest Rehabilitation is was located at 15407 and 15409 Wayzata Blvd., with a horseshoe pocket street, Clare Lane/Clare Drive, leading to its public entrance. Eagle Brook Church, which has seven permanent campuses, three mobile campuses and an online service; is proposing a church building which would have a 1,200 seat worship facility, along with a 550-stall, two-level parking ramp. The church would be a one-level structure of about 80,000 square feet. Hillcrest Rehabilitation has a footprint of about 50,000 square feet.

    This proposal is in the concept phase and Thursday’s Planning Commission meeting was only the second of at least five meetings it would need to be reviewed through. No application to develop has been formally submitted.

    “This is our first pass at how we will fit on this site,” said Stephanie Hauber, expansion director for Eagle Brook Church. “We won’t be doing any infill of the wetlands. We will stay within the appropriate buffer of the wetlands.”
    Hauber said the preservation of the existing wetlands and woodlands bordering the property is the reason behind pitching a large parking ramp.

    “Typically we do surface parking but on this site we can’t,” she added. “We also want everyone to know successful traffic management is very important to us as a church. If people are concerned with the traffic, they won’t come back.”

    This would be Eagle Brook Church’s eighth site build if it comes to fruition.

    Commission chair Josh Sewall said more than 70 public comments were received and more than 20 callers were on hold to make comments at the meeting. A large majority of the callers were opposed to the development concept. Many of those comments were directed particularly at the size of the parking ramp and the volume of traffic brought into the neighborhood.

    “Estimating 1.5 people for every car and 1,200 people in attendance — they knowingly anticipate 250 cars to overflow from their parking garage,” said Jenny Greffin, a resident of Clare Lane. “I had a conversation with Mark Hennessy, the spokesperson for the Eagle Brook Church expansion team. He personally told us Eagle Brook Church would not relocate anywhere people didn’t want them. Hopefully they honor that.”

    Flannery Daley said she was concerned with a lack of communication from Eagle Brook Church to members of the neighborhood, a sentiment echoed by members of the commission.
    “I find EBC’s statement that they care about the neighbors and our feedback disingenuous,” she said. “They chose not to attend a meeting the neighbors organized.”

    One resident, Sandra Syfko, who is a member of Eagle Brook Church said the traffic and parking will not be what many people are fearing.

    “I’ve been to all the campuses. These are gorgeous buildings,” Syfko said. “People need to think about the alternative. My concern is how the property is zoned. It is zoned for commercial use. You could have strip malls. I know you wouldn’t want Wal-Mart. I wouldn’t either.”

    City planner Loren Gordon clarified the potential uses of the property according to its zoning district and comprehensive plan. It is zoned for offices, residential and retail use, and can match the comprehensive plan guidelines for institutional use.

    The commission agreed a church is a reasonable use for these adjoining properties, but the size of the proposed concept is too much.

    “I feel like where we’re at tonight, there are almost two projects: the church and a huge parking ramp nobody likes,” said vice chair Alex Hanson. “The feeling I have is, nobody wants a parking ramp in their backyard and I understand that. If the church came with what I’ll call a more normal-sized parking scale it feels like more people would be comfortable.”

    The commission also advised more details should be presented with the concept, including renderings of what the site would look like from the neighbors’ point of view. The concept will be reviewed next by the Minnetonka City Council on Feb. 28.

    “I would advise the city council that I do think it’s fair to somehow incorporate the residents of Wayzata, especially because this property butts up against residents of Wayzata,” said Sewall. “We’ve heard about being a good neighbor. As the city of Minnetonka, we need to be good neighbors too to our neighbors in Wayzata.”

    The property is listed for sale by Newmark out of Minneapolis.

  • Molly MacDonald appointed to City Council

    January 21st, 2021

    The Wayzata City Council Appointed Molly MacDonald at last Tuesday night’s Council Meeting. After what staff described as “an expedited but thorough interview process and discussion,” the Council made the appointment unanimously.

    10 applicants interviewed for the one open position left by Johanna McCarthy‘s move from Councilwoman to Mayor. McCarthy ran unopposed for Mayor in November of 2020 after Ken Willcox announced he would not seek the position again.

    Interviews with the candidates were conducted via Zoom as part of the City’s workshop agenda earlier in the evening.

    Other finalists for the position included Jeff Parkhill and Lindsay Bashioum.

    “The Wayzata City Council is excited to welcome it’s newest City Council member, Molly MacDonald, after considering a number of exceptionally committed, qualified and passionate members of the community, ” stated Mayor Johanna McCarthy after the appointment.

    McCarthy continued, “As a life long member of the community and small business owner, Mrs. MacDonald will bring a fresh perspective and new insights to council deliberations.  We look forward to her upcoming swearing in and the many contributions she will make to the council and community.”

    City Manager Jeff Dahl also echoed similar comments in a statement, “In their discussions, the City Council highlighted Mrs. MacDonald’s lifelong commitment to the community, understanding of the community’s vision and values, her value of perspective as a small business owner, and her obvious overall passion to make the community even better. Staff and the Council are thrilled to have Mrs. MacDonald as a part of Wayzata’s leadership team!”

    MacDonald answered several questions posed by Wayzata.com after the appointment:

    WDC: What made you run for the open council seat?

    MM: “The support and encouragement from family, friends and my network in the community gave me the confidence to apply for the City Council position.  I was and am reminded daily that my core values for Wayzata align with a most engaged public.”

    WDC: What stands out to you about growing up here?

    MM: “How many of us are still here! Wayzata is idyllic. As I grew and expanded my world that became clear to me.”

    WDC: How will growing up here guide your decision making in the future?

    MM: “Our values are rooted in our past.  My memories of the Wayzata 25 years ago will guide me when making decisions for its future.”

    WDC: What is your vision for the future of Wayzata?

    MM: “What I’ve learned from living though last year is hindsight truly is 20/20.  It’s even more apparent to me that Wayzata needs to progress forward steadily and thoughtfully.  I don’t want to see the city make regretful decisions.  I hope to be a thoughtful, forward looking councilor with a clear memory of the past.  Those two ideals need to work harmoniously.  The community speaks about charm.  It’s the word most people use when they talk about what they value in Wayzata.  Charm is earned and cannot be replicated and manufactured.  Charm is authentic and I believe that is what the residents, the business owners and all of our visitors want to see.  It’s the core value that I want to represent in the City Council.”

    MacDonald will be sworn in at the February 2nd City Council meeting.

  • Applicants for open City Council seat announced

    January 16th, 2021

     
    The following persons have filed an application seeking appointment for the open City Council seat which was vacated by newly elected Mayor Johanna McCarthy.

    • Greg Flannigan
    • Adam Eig
    • Jeff Parkhill
    • Nate Leding
    • Lindsay Bashioum
    • Terri Fox
    • Margaret Runyon
    • Daniel Drotning
    • Jennifer Severson
    • Molly MacDonald

    Interviews will be held via Zoom video conferencing from 4:00 – 6:30 pm during a Council Workshop scheduled for January 19th.

    Stay tuned to Wayzata.com, your Wayzata City Council news leader.

  • 2021 Chilly Open Cancelled

    January 15th, 2021

    The Greater Wayzata Community Chamber of Commerce announced that the 2021 Chilly Open has been cancelled.

    Below is the statement:

    To our amazing Golfers and Community, 

    The Chilly Open is such an incredible community event and something that has morphed into a must-do event for people here in MN and across the country!

    It’s been a rollercoaster of planning and emotions these past couple of months.  We were hopeful and started preparing for a modified golf tournament, and had a recent call with the Assistant Attorney General, and heads of the Dept. of Health, Dept. of Labor and several others this past week.  In this call we were advised of the new guidelines and requirements we would have to enforce.

    This beloved event presents challenges every year as a very unique event. From needing a specific uniform thickness of ice (per Hennepin County Water Patrol), enough snow to identify the course, lack of any pressure ridges that block access to Wayzata Bay and an annual permit approval from both Water Patrol and the City of Wayzata. Add to this – every year’s approval is based on how the previous year’s event was handled according to the rules and permit requirements.

    Then we rely on our amazing sponsors like Porsche of Minneapolis, and many others that have returned for over 30 years! With their support we are able to create an incredible experience for the best followers and participants of any golf tournament ever!  And of course the epic chili from all our amazing restaurants.

    This year we ALL have faced more challenges than we’ve ever seen with Covid-19. Pivot, pirouette, adapt, shift, whatever move you can think of, we’ve tried. As mentioned, in our call with the State of MN, our event was categorized and specific restrictions identified including numbers of people allowed, health screening, social distance, beverage consumption rules, and more.

    Because of this, it’s time to rip off the band aid. Please trust, we waited for things to change and explored every possible option to continue the 36 year tradition of golfing on frozen Wayzata Bay. We feel the challenge to enforce all golfers adhering to the restrictions is too large a risk of losing the ability to have Chilly Open next year and the decades to follow.  We can’t confidently hold true to our event that bears the name of Chilly Open. We are bummed beyond belief, but we know brighter days are ahead.  We look forward to breaking attendance records in a healthy and safe 2022.

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