On December 3, 2024, the Wayzata City Council convened for its annual Truth in Taxation public hearing, a key step in finalizing the city’s 2025 budget and property tax levy. Deputy City Manager Aurora Yager provided an in-depth presentation detailing the proposed budget, strategic priorities, and its impact on residents.
Budget Overview
The proposed 2025 General Fund Budget is set at $9.18 million, representing a 7.15% increase in operational expenses and an overall property tax levy increase of 7.75%. This marks a slight reduction from the preliminary levy increase of 8.71%, approved earlier in September. Total revenues for the city’s consolidated budget across all funds are projected at $24.03 million.
The 2025 consolidated budget for Wayzata totals $24,030,992, reflecting the city’s comprehensive approach to funding its diverse operations and services. The largest allocation, $9.18 million, is directed to the General Fund, which supports essential city services such as public safety, administration, and parks.
Significant enterprise fund investments include $8.95 million for the city’s liquor operations and nearly $2 million for water services, underscoring the importance of user-fee-supported programs. Additional funds are allocated to sewer, stormwater, and solid waste management, along with smaller contributions to specialized areas like motor vehicle services, cable TV, and the city cemetery. Together, these allocations ensure that Wayzata’s infrastructure, amenities, and strategic initiatives remain robust and responsive to community needs.
Deputy City Manager Yager emphasized that the budget aligns with Wayzata’s strategic goals of sustaining operational excellence, preserving community character and safety, and minimizing the financial impact on residents.
“Our strategic priorities focus on diversifying revenue, achieving operational excellence, and sustaining community character and safety. This budget reflects those goals by investing in technology, public safety personnel, and minimizing impacts on residents,” stated Yager in the meeting.
Key drivers of the budget increase include investments in technology and cybersecurity, employee compensation adjustments, and enhancements to public safety. Notably, a new police officer position is planned for the second quarter of 2025, along with expanded hours for support roles.
Public Input
Former Mayor Barry Petit addressed the council, raising concerns about rising costs and urging the city to prioritize fiscal responsibility. Petit noted that Wayzata’s population and infrastructure have remained stable, questioning the justification for the budget’s growth. He highlighted potential hidden costs associated with Wayzata’s regional appeal and the downtown improvements, calling for a return to fundamental budgetary principles.
“Wayzata is a small, charming town, and this council has a fiduciary responsibility to run lean. We must be the gatekeepers of necessity, value, and logic. The budget should reflect the fundamentals—not an overreach driven by regional aspirations,” stated Petit in the public hearing.
Resident Impact
The proposed budget projects an average annual property tax increase of $162 for homes with a 5% valuation increase, while homes with unchanged values would see an increase of $47. Yager underscored that Wayzata’s tax rate remains lower than many neighboring communities, ensuring competitive costs for residents.
Next Steps
The City Council will reconvene on December 17, 2024, to adopt the final budget and tax levy alongside a 10-year capital improvement plan.
Wayzata residents are encouraged to review the proposed budget and participate in ongoing discussions as the city finalizes its financial plans for the upcoming year.
Wayzata City Hall on election night. Image copyright Wayzata.com.
Following the first competitive race for Mayor of Wayzata in 25 years, Andrew Mullin has been elected to the position, garnering 1,309 votes. Mullin’s victory was decisive, with runner-up Barry Petit receiving 681 votes and Jeff Buchanan finishing with 502 votes.
Mullin’s platform included listening to citizens before making decisions, ensuring fiscal responsibility, planning for long-term public safety, and addressing the challenges of increasing congestion and traffic. Reached after the results were made available, Mullin stated, “Thank you Wayzata residents for returning me to public office as your next Mayor. I look forward to getting to work.”
In addition to the mayoral race, Wayzata residents also voted to fill two City Council seats. Alex Plechash was elected with 1,472 votes, while Kenneth Sorenson earned 1,506 votes. Both candidates, who ran unopposed and were incumbents, will continue their service on the City Council representing the interests of the Wayzata community.
On behalf of the Wayzata community, we extend our sincere thanks to all the candidates who participated in this year’s election. Each candidate dedicated time and energy to our democratic process, which remains a cornerstone of our local governance. Their commitment to public service reflects the values that make Wayzata a vibrant and engaged community.
As the general election approaches, Wayzata voters have a full ballot with a variety of races and decisions to make on both the state and local levels. Here’s a summary of what’s on the ballot:
Federal Offices
President and Vice President: Voters can select from nine teams, including notable pairs like Kamala Harris & Tim Walz (Democratic-Farmer-Labor) and Donald Trump & JD Vance (Republican). Other candidates represent the Libertarian, Green, and Justice For All parties, among others.
U.S. Senate: Incumbent Amy Klobuchar (Democratic-Farmer-Labor) is challenged by Royce White (Republican), Joyce Lynne Lacey (Independence-Alliance), and Rebecca Whiting (Libertarian).
U.S. Representative, District 3: The race is between Kelly Morrison (Democratic-Farmer-Labor) and Tad Jude (Republican).
State Offices
Special Election for State Senator, District 45: Voters will choose between Ann Johnson Stewart (Democratic-Farmer-Labor) and Kathleen Fowke (Republican).
State Representative, District 45B: Incumbent Patty Acomb (Democratic-Farmer-Labor) is unopposed.
Constitutional Amendments
One constitutional amendment proposal is on the ballot:
Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund Renewal: This amendment would extend lottery proceeds to fund conservation efforts for clean water, wildlife habitats, air quality improvements, and access to parks and trails. Voters can select “Yes” to approve or “No” to oppose.
County and City Offices
County Commissioner, District 6: The candidates are Heather Edelson and Marisa Simonetti.
Voters will also decide on a series of judicial races, including:
Minnesota Supreme Court: Chief Justice and Associate Justices for seats 5 and 6.
Minnesota Court of Appeals: Eight seats, including Judge positions for incumbents like Diane B. Bratvold and Jon Schmidt.
4th District Court: Several incumbents, including Matthew Frank, Francis Magill, and Sarah E. Hudleston, are up for re-election.
This election offers Wayzata residents the chance to make important decisions that affect both local governance and national representation. Be sure to review the ballot, and make your selections on November 5th!
Candidates Share Their Views on a wide variety of issues including Public Safety, Housing, Business Support, and Community Engagement in front of a full capacity crowd
On Thursday, September 19th, the Wayzata City Hall hosted a lively mayoral candidate forum organized by the League of Women Voters Wayzata/Plymouth Chapter. Community members gathered to hear candidates discuss pressing issues facing the city, including public safety, housing affordability, support for local businesses, and strategies for effective communication with residents. The event provided a platform for candidates to articulate their visions for Wayzata’s future and engage directly with constituents.
In Wayzata.com’s commitment to fostering democracy and informed civic engagement, we have carefully recapped the candidates’ responses from the recent mayoral debate held at Wayzata City Hall. By sharing these insights with the community, we aim to ensure that residents are well-informed about the candidates’ positions on critical issues, empowering them to make educated decisions at the polls. We believe that transparency and open dialogue are essential to a thriving democracy, and we encourage everyone to engage with the material as we approach the upcoming election.
Additionally, you can stream the debate here:
Opening Statements
In his opening statement, Jeff Buchanan expressed gratitude to the League of Women Voters for hosting the debate and acknowledged his fellow candidates, for their courage in running for mayor. He praised the audience for their interest in local government and engagement. “I want to thank all of you for showing up. It’s a testament to this town. It’s an interest in our government, and you should be very proud of yourself.“
Buchanan emphasized his qualifications, citing his successful business background and his recent experience as a planning commissioner and city council member. “My successful business background, my recent experience with Wayzata city government… makes me particularly qualified to be mayor.” He encouraged voters to listen closely to the candidates’ answers to help determine the best leader for Wayzata’s future.
In his opening statement, Andrew Mullin emphasized that while Wayzata is a great city, its growth brings challenges that require steady leadership. He highlighted the need to protect the city’s key attributes like safety, walkability, quality infrastructure, parks, and public spaces.
Mullin discussed his background as an executive in the aerospace industry and his 29 years as a Wayzata resident with 17 years of public service. “Wayzata is growing, and we have to have the right leadership that’s able to navigate our growth responsibly. It’s much easier to admire our problems than it is to roll up your sleeves and find solutions to get the job done.” He also noted the significance of this being the first competitive mayoral race in 25 years.
In his opening statement, Barry Petit outlined four key parts of his campaign. First, he wants to address challenges stemming from the lakefront redevelopment, such as noise, traffic, parking issues, e-biker safety, and rising maintenance costs. Second, Petit emphasized the need for a lean city budget.
Third, he highlighted how Wayzata has evolved from a modest village into a busy tourist destination, stressing the importance of preserving the city’s scale, character, and design. Lastly, he expressed a commitment to prioritize the needs of residents over tourism. “We’ve transformed from a modest village to a busy tourist destination, from charmed to urban. It’s our town, and I’m focusing on the people that live here.”
What is your top priority as a candidate for mayor?
Petit was up first and emphasized his top priority: ensuring that city government is operating efficiently. Petit expressed his desire to closely examine the administrative side, including city planners and budgets from the past decade, to ensure the city is running lean and effectively.
“I really have to be convinced that we’ve got the right people, we’re running lean,” Petit said. He described this as a core issue, adding, “Once I can address that and understand it, then it’s going to be a lot easier to branch out from there.”
Mullin identified fiscal responsibility and accountability as his top priority if elected mayor. He noted that the city budget has increased by 40% in the past four and a half years, with an additional 8.76% increase recently approved by the council and mayor.
Mullin emphasized the need to rein in spending and prioritize public safety, highlighting issues such as underfunding and retention challenges within the police and fire departments. “Our city budget has ballooned… and we’ve got to get that back into a responsible area,” Mullin stated, underscoring his commitment to fiscal discipline and effective resource allocation.
In the debate, Buchanan highlighted the protection of natural resources as a key priority for his mayoral campaign. He expressed concern over the management of water and the health of Lake Minnetonka, indicating that these issues have fallen off the city’s strategic agenda.
Buchanan mentioned his involvement in solar initiatives and emphasized the need to focus on sustainability. “Natural resources… is what I would focus on,” he stated, positioning this issue as a distinguishing factor from his fellow candidates.
What are your ideas for managing City revenues and expenses?
Mullin discussed his approach to managing city revenue and expenses, reiterating the importance of focusing on essential services. He noted that the city’s growth has led to issues like petty crime, noise, and loitering, which necessitate increased investment in police services. Mullin emphasized fiscal accountability, stating he would oppose raising the operating budget by more than 3% to 4% each year.
“You do that by trading off what’s not necessary now and trading off wants, not needs,” he explained, highlighting the importance of prioritizing essential expenditures. He also mentioned finding creative financing solutions to finance city “wants”, similar to those used for the Lakefront Project and historic building restorations, as part of his strategy to maintain budget discipline.
Buchanan emphasized the importance of public engagement in the budget process. He noted that there are seven public meetings each year where residents can discuss and provide input on the budget, highlighting the opportunity for community involvement in shaping priorities.
“I’ve been through four of those meetings, and I have yet to see any public comment on the budget. It’s the perfect opportunity to take charge and give the council some valuable feedback and input.” Buchanan stated. He underscored the importance of active participation in defining what is essential for the city’s future.
Petit spoke about the complexities of managing the city’s budget, noting that it has grown significantly beyond inflation due to various changes and new demands. He highlighted public safety, particularly the costs associated with the police department, as a critical issue that requires adequate funding.
“When we talk about safety, that’s police. Police get expensive,” Petit stated, acknowledging the need to address these costs. He emphasized that finding a solution will be complicated but not impossible, calling for a deeper understanding of the city staff’s budget plan to identify areas where expenditures may have become excessive. “It does seem we have become excessive in some areas and have not done as good a job in other areas.“
What is your vision for development in Wayzata?
Petit, a successful architect, shared his perspective on development, emphasizing the importance of design in shaping the town. “I look at the world through a lens of design, the clothes you are wearing, the car you drive, the pencil you buy, the glasses you wear.” He noted that the recent comprehensive plan repeatedly highlighted the word “charming,” but questioned whether the current developments truly reflect that charm.
He expressed “Somewhere along the way, we’ve got a disconnect… with the kind of town we wanted to be and what we really have become,” Petit stated. He underscored that a high priority for him is to focus on the design aspects of development to ensure that Wayzata maintains its desired character. “I would really focus on design.“
Mullin discussed the importance of managing growth in Wayzata through responsible planning. He advocated for shifting the focus from simply measuring units per acre to considering the scale, mass, and design of developments. Mullin agreed on the need to emphasize design while also preserving the town’s small-town character, “In general, calm it down.“
“One way to define small-town character is you don’t have big city problems,” Mullin stated, pointing out that some urban challenges are beginning to infiltrate Wayzata. He emphasized that addressing these issues and promoting thoughtful development is essential to maintaining the community’s character.
Buchanan advocated for a pause in development to reflect on the town’s recent accomplishments. He highlighted his involvement in the Zoning Standards and Design Standards Committees, which worked to establish guidelines for future development.
“A lot of work went into that, a lot of community feedback, and actually the document is incredibly good,” Buchanan stated in summary to the recently created Wayzata Design Standards of 2021, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the established guidelines to ensure quality in future projects. He expressed confidence that these standards will stand the test of time.
Wayzata has a lot of empty retail space. What do you think is the biggest challenge to starting or growing a business here? What role, if any, should the city government play in supporting businesses?
In response to a question about the challenges of empty retail spaces in Wayzata, Buchanan identified the lack of engagement from leasing agents at the Presbyterian Homes development as a significant hurdle. He noted his personal experience in attempting to connect with the leasing agent, describing the response as slow and dismissive. “I personally have called the leasing agent and I’m lucky if I get a call back several weeks later.”
“It is expensive,” Buchanan remarked about the available space for lease, suggesting that the city government should take a more proactive role in addressing these issues. He emphasized the need for the mayor to engage directly with the management and senior leaders at Presbyterian Homes to facilitate solutions, stating, “Mid-America clearly is getting in the way of the ability for those spaces to be leased.”
Petit addressed the challenges posed by empty retail spaces in Wayzata, attributing much of the issue to market forces and rising costs associated with living in the area. He cited the example of Wuollet Bakery, stating that their rent didn’t align with their pro forma financial projections, highlighting the difficulties businesses face in an increasingly expensive environment “That’s just the catch-22 of Wayzata that everyone is caught up in.”
He noted the city’s significant investment of nearly $34 million in parking ramps and the Panoway to attract visitors but expressed skepticism about further city intervention, leaning towards a more laissez-faire approach. With regard to the empty retail space at Presbyterian Homes, he emphasized the importance of design, saying, “If you don’t have people driving by your front door, you don’t have retail. It’s that dirt simple.”
Mullin emphasized the vital role of businesses in Wayzata, noting that they contribute to 40% of the city’s expenses for services like police and fire. He acknowledged the challenges faced by retail, particularly in the hard goods sector, but pointed to a thriving restaurant scene in the downtown area, which includes 1,000 restaurant seats and 18 independently owned establishments.
With regard to the empty spaces, he stated, “I think it has to be experiential retail—unique, independent.” He suggested that while the city government has limited capacity to intervene, the overall business community has improved significantly over the past decade. Highlighting his personal stake in the community, he noted, “I am actually the only one up here that owns a business in Wayzata, so I think I have some real experience by living here and owning a business in town.”
What is your view of short-term residential rentals in Wayzata, their positive or negative impact on the city and the need, if any, for regulation?
Mullin addressed the issue of short-term residential rentals, such as those listed on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. He noted that there are currently 18 unregulated short-term rentals in Wayzata and emphasized the need for oversight to ensure safety and neighborly conduct.
Mullin stated, “Short-term rentals should not be exempt from regulation. It’s about being a good neighbor. It’s about having safe tenants, whether they be short-term or long-term.” He also expressed confidence that the existing regulatory model could be adapted to facilitate responsible short-term rentals in the city.
Buchanan emphasized the need for regulation while supporting a proposed restriction that would require homeowners to live in their residence for at least six months a year before renting it out. He noted that this idea was presented by Council Member Sorensen during a recent workshop.
Buchanan stated, “I like the idea,” of implementing some restrictions, highlighting the city’s ongoing efforts to develop a permitting process for short-term rentals. He underscored the fact that the city is working on the topic currently.
Petit expressed skepticism about short-term residential rental regulations in Wayzata, citing concerns about the complexities and potential complications the community faces amid the city’s ongoing growth. He highlighted the concept of “unintended consequences,” suggesting that there were other priorities the City should be tackling.
“We’ve got so many things we are working on… I just keep thinking to myself, we don’t need to do that right now. It’s too easy to do any time you want; just don’t need to do it right now,” indicating a preference for caution over immediate regulation in this area.
Where are you at on public safety?
Petit highlighted a noticeable increase in reckless behavior, and gave one example of electric bike riders performing dangerous stunts on Lake Street. He noted that while some of these activities may seem interesting, they may lead to incidents where residents and visitors could be harmed in unintended consequences.
Petit stated, “There’s nothing that matters if there are no consequences,” emphasizing the need for enhanced police presence and accountability to address these issues. He acknowledged that this approach may require additional funding but stressed the importance of prioritizing safety, stating that he is committed to working with city staff to reconfigure the budget accordingly.
Mullin emphasized the importance of equipping first responders with the necessary tools while maintaining local control. “Public safety is very important,” he stated, advocating for community policing over merely increasing the number of officers. He noted that the presence of officers on the street, addressing issues like noise, littering, and traffic, is essential to combating “big city problems” that have begun to affect Wayzata.
Mullin also highlighted the city’s retention issues, revealing that they recently lost a Community Service Officer to another city offering $6 more per hour. “We’re paying our firefighters to start at $14 an hour,” he said, underscoring the need for competitive pay to keep staff. He called for a stronger investment in community policing as part of a comprehensive approach to public safety.
In discussing public safety, Buchanan highlighted the city’s ongoing investment in its police force, noting that during his previous term on the council, they authorized two new police officer positions. “It takes 18 months to get them,” he pointed out, emphasizing that Wayzata is committed to enhancing protection for residents.
Buchanan also touched on the fire department’s recruitment efforts, praising the addition of eight firefighters. However, he stressed the need for further action: “What I would like to do is invest in a full-time fire chief,” a recommendation made by the current fire chief.
Should Wayzata get into the cannabis business?
When asked about the city potentially entering the retail cannabis business following Minnesota’s legalization, Buchanan admitted his initial skepticism. “At first, I didn’t think it was such a great idea,” Buchanan said.
However, after discussions with city staff, he expressed openness to the idea, viewing it as a potential revenue stream. Buchanan noted that the city cannot refuse licenses in accordance with state law, adding, “It seems best that we control that aspect and also keep our property taxes in line.”
Petit voiced strong reservations and expressed concern about the potential challenges and unintended consequences the move could bring. “We’re getting in over our head on this,” he remarked, pointing out that the city has other pressing issues to address.
Petit also suggested that legal cannabis sales might increase demands on law enforcement, stating, “It’s going to cause more struggle for the police.” He emphasized that there’s no rush, adding, “We can get into that business any time we want.”
Mullin expressed skepticism about the city entering the retail cannabis business, despite Minnesota’s legalization of marijuana. “I’m a skeptic for the city getting into selling and distributing marijuana,” he stated, pointing out the significant investment required to build or rent a facility.
Mullin argued that the couple million dollars needed could be better utilized elsewhere, suggesting there are “much lower-hanging fruit to generate fees or revenue than marijuana.” He emphasized that the city’s focus should be on regulating where cannabis can be consumed and sold, rather than entering the business directly.
What measures do you support for housing needs in Wayzata?
Mullin emphasized the challenges of affordable housing in Wayzata, particularly due to high land costs and taxes. He suggested a focus on repurposing existing multi-unit housing stock to make it more affordable. “Affordable housing is tricky to do in a town like Wayzata,” Mullin explained.
He also stressed the importance of workforce housing, particularly for public safety employees, noting that many firefighters can’t afford to live close to town. “Workforce housing for our staff, for public safety comes first for me,” Mullin said, highlighting a key priority.
Buchanan emphasized the need for the mayor to handle multiple priorities simultaneously, comparing the role to managing “spinning plates” in business.
On housing, Buchanan advocated for maintaining the current housing stock while also exploring ways to create new affordable housing. “There are ways to do it. I wouldn’t give up on it,” he said, signaling his commitment to addressing housing challenges without delaying important decisions.
Petit expressed strong skepticism about Wayzata’s ability to support affordable housing efforts, pointing to the city’s high property values and limited available land. He emphasized that Wayzata excels at generating significant property tax revenue, far outpacing nearby cities. “The property tax per capita from the city of Wayzata hovers around $8,200,” Petit said, comparing this to Edina’s much lower figure of $3,100. “I remember telling the Met Council a long time ago about affordable housing, ‘Leave us alone—we do a better job of paying taxes than anybody.’”
Petit argued that, given the rising cost of property and the character of the town, it would be impractical for Wayzata to venture into the affordable housing market. “We don’t have the space, we don’t have the land,” he stated, explaining that the city’s focus should remain on maintaining its economic strength rather than pursuing housing initiatives that don’t align with its current landscape. “It’s just not a wise place to venture into that kind of market,” Petit concluded.
What information about council activities is important for Wayzata residents to know? How do you think that information should be communicated effectively?
Petit emphasized the complexities of transparency in government. He acknowledged the challenges of disseminating information effectively to the entire Wayzata community, noting that the representative nature of government relies on elected officials to convey crucial details. “It’s very difficult to get that equally out to everybody in the city,” he said, stressing that if council members fail to communicate effectively, voters have the power to choose not to re-elect them.
Petit highlighted existing communication channels, such as community television and the Portal, as valuable resources for residents. He pointed out that citizens must take the initiative to seek out information, stating, “I don’t think we’re going to come up with a system that knocks on your door and ensures you understand everything that’s going on.” He underscored that effective communication is a shared responsibility between the council and the community.
Mullin emphasized the need for better engagement with Wayzata residents prior to decision-making. While he noted that the city effectively communicates decisions after they are made, he expressed a commitment to involving citizens earlier in the process. “Where we need to improve is engage citizens before the decisions are made.”
Mullin also proposed a shift in how the city utilizes its boards and commissions, suggesting that citizen representatives should engage with the council, supported by staff, rather than the current structure where staff liaisons take the lead. He remarked, “Community first, staff implements what the community wants,” highlighting his belief in prioritizing citizen input in governance.
Buchanan underscored the importance of transparency. He acknowledged that while information is available on the city’s website, navigating it can be challenging for residents.
To address this, Buchanan proposed the creation of a regular Mayor’s Report, which would summarize key updates and link directly to relevant sections of the website. “The information is there, but it’s not so easy to find,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to making council activities more accessible to the community.
The candidates were asked to share examples of how they have worked with people who have different opinions?
Mullin highlighted the importance of consensus-building in the role of mayor, which he described as largely ceremonial but essential for effective governance. He noted that to achieve progress, a mayor must work to unite at least three or four council members, emphasizing the need for collective agreement among colleagues.
Mullin reflected on one of his accomplishments on Council: breaking a 30-year impasse related to streets and water issues in the community. “That took working together with the community, with council, with lawyers,” he said, pointing out the diverse collaboration required to overcome such a longstanding challenge. “That’s a track record of getting it done,” Mullin stated.
He also stressed the importance of engaging boards and commissions more meaningfully, advocating for a shift towards advisory roles rather than merely reporting staff findings.
Buchanan stressed the vital role of building relationships through active listening. “The hallmark of building a relationship is listening to people,” he stated, emphasizing that understanding others is essential for productive dialogue.
He shared a principle he instills in his team: “You have two [ears] and one [mouth] for a reason,” referring to the importance of listening more than speaking. Buchanan believes that by fostering relationships and truly hearing others, conflicts can be overcome, paving the way for successful collaboration.
In his remarks on working with those who hold differing views, Petit emphasized the critical role of asking questions as a means of fostering understanding and collaboration. “If it’s done well, you’re coming from a point of view of trying to understand what the other person is saying,” he said, highlighting how active listening can transform discussions.
Petit explained that this approach often leads to stronger ideas or, conversely, exposes their weaknesses, allowing for a thorough examination of the issues. “Sometimes when you drill down, ideas get better or sometimes they dissolve,” he noted. By promoting open dialogue and curiosity, Petit believes that even those with conflicting perspectives can find common ground and innovative solutions, demonstrating his commitment to building relationships that bridge divides within the community.
How can the City work with the Chamber more closely?
Petit praised the Chamber for its successful events, such as the Chilly Open and the James J. Hill Days, which effectively introduce people to the city. He acknowledged that these events are well-established and attract significant attendance. However, he noted that the Chamber has expressed concerns about high fees charged by the city for hosting these events.
Petit emphasized the importance of open dialogue, suggesting that the Chamber could approach the city to discuss its needs and any frustrations it may have. “It would be an interesting line of questioning to find out where we can build on better ideas,” he said, reflecting his commitment to collaboration. Overall, Petit expressed pride in the Chamber’s efforts while advocating for a more constructive partnership.
Mullin acknowledged that the relationship between the city and the Wayzata Chamber of Commerce is generally strong, but he believes there’s room for improvement. He noted that the Chamber tends to focus more on events rather than advocating for specific local business issues.
Mullin cited a recent incident where the current administration lobbied for a sales tax on restaurants and businesses without consulting the Chamber or the business community. He emphasized the importance of engaging with local businesses before making significant decisions, stating, “Before we’re going to take action on something as big as that, consult the business community and don’t surprise them by a lobbyist at the Capitol.”
Buchanan, a seasoned businessman with over 30 years of experience and a member of the Chamber, highlighted the critical role of communication in strengthening the relationship between the city and local businesses. He advocated for regular dialogues with Chamber leadership to identify the specific obstacles that businesses encounter and to discuss how the city can assist in overcoming these challenges.
“Having good conversations is key,” Buchanan remarked, underscoring the importance of building rapport and fostering collaboration. By proactively engaging with the Chamber, Buchanan believes the city can create a more supportive environment for its business community, ultimately leading to greater success for local enterprises.
What lessons would you draw from the Panoway project that would guide future decision making?
Buchanan highlighted the challenges the city faced in managing such a significant undertaking. He noted that the city recognized the need for expert guidance during the construction process, particularly in the first phase. “I think we learned that we needed help in managing the construction,” he said, adding that the complexities of the project were substantial.
Buchanan emphasized the importance of careful planning for future projects of similar scale, suggesting that the city should remain cautious moving forward. “It was a lot to digest, a lot to swallow,” he remarked, underscoring the need for thorough preparation in large-scale initiatives.
Petit highlighted the important distinction between concept and execution. He acknowledged that while the overarching idea was commendable, the execution—particularly in terms of details—was lacking. “I would not give it a great grade in the detail,” Petit said, expressing his concerns specifically about the lake walk and lake street design.
He noted that a key frustration was the location of the public bathroom structure, which he felt had not been thoughtfully integrated into the overall project. “Everything is about the detail,” he emphasized, arguing that even seemingly minor oversights can lead to significant issues and calling for more careful planning in future endeavors.
Mullin emphasized the importance of community engagement and effective project management. “We got community engagement right. We did 10 years of it,” he noted, highlighting the depth of involvement from residents. However, he echoed concerns raised by fellow candidate Barry Petit about controlling project scope and costs, explaining how financial decisions led to the unfortunate placement of the restroom facility.
“We traded off things or made decisions based on not having enough money,” he said, pointing out that the bathroom’s location was a direct result of those compromises. While Mullin believes the project has overall been a positive addition to the community, he agreed that “details matter” and that better management of scope and costs is crucial to avoid disappointing residents in future projects.
If a resident requests a code change, how would you handle?
Mullin addressed how he would approach decision-making on local ordinances, and gave an example on community concerns regarding noise violations. “Dozens, if not more than 100 people, have asked me why we don’t change the ordinances to have a fine for more than $30 for noise,” Mullin said, noting that the state statute allows for a $125 fine.
He proposed starting by holding a community meeting to review the ordinances in detail, identifying gaps, and prioritizing necessary changes. “Let’s open the book, let’s roll up our sleeves… let’s up the fines, get them changed, and get them implemented,” he stated, emphasizing the need for practical updates on issues like noise, traffic violations, and loitering.
Buchanan emphasized his openness to community input when discussing how he would implement code changes. “I love people coming forward,” Buchanan said, noting that he welcomes conversations and new ideas from citizens.
He explained that his approach would involve understanding the scope of the issue, then consulting with the appropriate internal parties, such as city staff or the planning commission, to address it. “I’m a terrific problem solver,” Buchanan added, highlighting his commitment to finding solutions collaboratively.
Petit reflected on the variety of ideas that come forward from the community when considering code changes. “Sometimes people come with really inspiring ideas, and you run with that,” Petit said. However, he acknowledged that not every idea is feasible or compelling, adding, “There are times people come with ideas that aren’t so inspiring.”
For Petit, the key is to ask more questions and “massage” the ideas to find potential solutions. He values community input, noting, “There’s a lot of people out there with different experiences, and they see things we don’t see.”
How will you use and work with the city’s boards and commissions?
Petit shared his thoughts on the role of commissions and committees in Wayzata, acknowledging both their potential and their complexities. He emphasized that while these groups are often formed with the expectation that they’ll provide valuable input, they can sometimes complicate the decision-making process.
“When you put together a commission or committee, they assume there’s value, and they’re going to bring something to the table,” he said. Petit proposed reviewing these groups’ roles to ensure efficiency, noting that they require staff involvement and resources. Despite the challenges, he encouraged creativity: “Every once in a while, there’s a great gem [of an idea] that comes forward.”
Buchanan expressed his appreciation for Wayzata’s commissions, emphasizing their importance in the city’s decision-making process. Having served on the Planning Commission himself, Buchanan praised the dedication of these volunteer groups, highlighting their representation of various neighborhoods and perspectives.
“These development applications are enormous and they’re complex,” he said, noting how much the City Council relies on the commissions for insight and advice. He added, “These are the citizens, they don’t cost any money. These are volunteers and I would work very closely with them.”
Mullin emphasized the value of Wayzata’s boards and commissions, calling them a critical way to gather citizen input before decisions are made. “People serving on those commissions… are actually citizens,” Mullin said, noting that their insights can help inform better decisions.
He suggested tightening the commissions’ focus on what the City Council seeks input on and also proposed a structural shift: “I would lift up a citizen to be the liaison and to communicate and engage with the council,” rather than relying solely on a staff liaison.
Closing Statements
In his closing statement, Jeff Buchanan thanked the audience for their participation and urged them to carefully consider the qualities needed in Wayzata’s next mayor. “I hope you learned something about each of the candidates,” Buchanan said.
He emphasized the importance of selecting a leader with the right temperament as the city confronts upcoming challenges. “It’s important that you select a candidate that has the ability, the personality to lead Wayzata for the next four years,” he noted.
Buchanan acknowledged that it had been many years since voters had a mayoral choice, but he assured the crowd that this year’s decision was a clear one. “My vision for Wayzata embraces the success we have enjoyed and leverages them for our future,” Buchanan said, highlighting the city’s achievements and his desire to build on them.
Throughout his remarks, Buchanan emphasized transparency, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. “If elected, I intend to make a difference by listening to you, by creating more transparency, by protecting our natural resources, and by continuing to invest in your security,” he stated.
He closed by expressing confidence in Wayzata’s potential: “I believe in us and what lies ahead,” Buchanan said, adding, “Please vote for me on November 5th. I will not disappoint you.“
In his closing remarks, Barry Petit delivered a candid reflection on the evolving identity of Wayzata, specifically addressing the lasting changes brought by the Panoway and Lakewalk projects. “The Panoway and the Lakewalk have changed Wayzata forever,” he began, emphasizing that the city is now an official tourist destination. However, Petit voiced concerns about the strain this popularity has placed on the community, both emotionally and financially. He warned that “hundreds of kids in yellow buses” would soon flood the area with the arrival of phase three, further intensifying the impact.
Petit’s concerns extended to what he sees as an imbalance in the use of public amenities. He pointed out that while Wayzata has become a “free regional playground” with attractions like pickleball courts, skating rinks, and the lakefront, it’s the residents who foot the bill. “We pay 100% of the cost for all of these. It’s simply not fair,” he said, advocating for a “pay to play” system to help offset the financial burden on locals. As one solution, he highlighted the success of Excelsior’s parking meters, which brought in $500,000 annually, suggesting that Wayzata could adopt similar revenue-generating measures.
Petit vowed to address the current state of urban planning, describing the town as a “random potpourri of designs.” He argued that Wayzata lacks a cohesive aesthetic vision, a situation he feels must be rectified before it’s too late. “We need to develop a Wayzata character,” Petit urged, while remaining optimistic about the potential for future redevelopment. He mentioned specific areas ripe for redevelopment, including Walgreens, Colonial Square, and other one-story buildings throughout the city, noting that these sites offer exciting opportunities for aesthetic and functional improvements.
In terms of governance, Petit questioned the recent growth of city staff, noting that the population has remained stagnant, yet the city has added eight employees in the last three years, with another hire imminent. “For the sake of you taxpayers, I need to be convinced,” he stated, signaling his intent to scrutinize the city’s spending carefully.
Throughout his statement, Petit made it clear that he believes Wayzata’s popularity has introduced a series of challenges that need urgent attention. He promised that if elected, he would work with the current city council to address these issues swiftly and without outside help. “We will urgently deal with each one. With no new commissions, no new committees, and no new consultants,” Petit declared. He concluded with a confident pledge: “Your city council has four talented people, and together we will fix, stabilize, and reinvent Wayzata.”
Petit’s closing highlighted his vision for a more cohesive, balanced, and fiscally responsible Wayzata, driven by a leadership approach that focuses on maximizing local resources while minimizing unnecessary expenditures.
In his closing statement, Andrew Mullin underscored the critical role of community engagement in shaping the future of Wayzata. “Thanks for coming tonight,” he began, expressing gratitude to both in-person attendees and those participating online. Mullin highlighted that the residents share a common vision for the city, regardless of whether they live along the lake, in the central district, or on the north side of 394. “What I hear from residents is a desire for fiscal responsibility, safety, and real solutions to our traffic congestion,” he said.
Mullin articulated that Wayzata requires a leader who can tackle these pressing issues without increasing taxes or diminishing the quality of life that residents have come to love. “That’s what I’ve done my entire career in business and public in the public sector,” he stated. He highlighted the importance of not allowing the city’s budget to balloon—citing a 40% increase over four years as a concern.
Addressing the issue of visitor contributions, Mullin suggested that it’s time for those who benefit from the city’s amenities to help bear some of the costs. He stated he would support a referendum for a sales tax and indicated support for seasonal parking fees, although he made it clear that residents should be exempt from such charges. “I do believe that visitors need to pay a share of where Wayzata is,” he argued, reinforcing his commitment to maintaining fiscal health.
Mullin also stressed the importance of accessibility to local leaders, stating that residents should have the opportunity to engage with their representatives throughout the year. He remarked, “You should have access to your leaders at all times,” reinforcing his promise to be approachable and responsive.
Concluding his statement, Mullin stated he was an independent candidate eager to listen to the community’s needs. “I will roll up my sleeves and be a trusted voice for Wayzata,” he stated. He asked for voters to support him, whether through early voting or on Election Day, and ended with a heartfelt expression of appreciation: “Thank you for being here tonight.”
Mullin’s closing remarks reflected his commitment to collaborative governance and his vision for a vibrant, responsible, and inclusive Wayzata.
The City of Wayzata will live stream the mayoral debate, hosted by the League of Women Voters, and you can watch it on Wayzata.com through the City’s YouTube channel! The debate will feature candidates Jeff Buchanan, Andrew Mullin, and Barry Petit who are all vying for the position of mayor and offer residents the chance to hear their views on key issues.
This service aims to ensure that all Wayzata residents can participate in the democratic process, even from the comfort of their homes.
The stream below (YouTube video) will be live at 6:30 pm on Thursday September 19th (tonight), and in the event of technical difficulties, you can also watch here.
The debate is an important opportunity for voters to gain insight into the candidates’ platforms and positions on matters affecting the community. Make sure to tune in online and stay informed ahead of the upcoming election.
A key mayoral debate featuring candidates Jeff Buchanan, Andrew Mullin, and Barry Petit will take place on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 6:30 PM at Wayzata City Hall, 600 Rice Street. Hosted by the League of Women Voters Wayzata-Plymouth Area (LWVWPA), this forum provides a valuable opportunity for residents to learn where each candidate stands on critical issues affecting the community.
The forum will follow the League’s well-established nonpartisan format, moderated by trained League members to ensure fairness and balance. All candidates will answer vetted questions on their background, motivations, and goals for the office of mayor. The event will be livestreamed and recorded for future viewing, with links available at www.lwvwpa.org.
Voters are invited to submit questions in advance via email at lwvwpa@lwvmn.org, or during the event using written note cards. The questions will be reviewed and selected by an impartial committee to ensure they reflect the most pressing concerns of voters while avoiding personal or hostile inquiries.
The League of Women Voters Minnesota has a strong tradition of providing forums that empower voters and foster informed participation. According to the LWV, candidate forums offer neutral ground for candidates to share their views and demonstrate their commitment to local issues, while providing voters a platform to engage with those seeking to represent them.
“We spend an enormous of time to ensure that all the candidates are invited multiple times, with phone calls, emails, and certified mail in some cases,” stated League of Women Voters Wayzata-Plymouth President Rebecca Hawthorne.
Hawthorne continued, “The questions are solicited from the public on key topics, and the debate is as non-partisan as possible. The public can submit questions online to our question committee, and we still take questions at the forum. The League has been doing this for 104 years, and for 70 years in Wayzata. We follow a set process and inform the candidates of the rules in advance.”
Other upcoming forums include:
Plymouth City Council (Wards 1, 3, and At-Large): Monday, September 16, 2024, 7:00 PM, Plymouth City Hall.
MN House Districts 42A and 42B: Monday, September 23, 2024, 7:00 PM, Plymouth City Hall.
Hennepin County Commissioner District 7: Monday, September 23, 2024, 7:45 PM, Plymouth City Hall.
For more information on the forums, how to submit questions, or to access the livestream, visit www.lwvwpa.org.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization committed to defending democracy and empowering voters through education and engagement. For more information on voter resources and to see what’s on your ballot, visit www.Vote411.org.
Of the three candidates running for mayor in the upcoming election, two—Andy Mullin and Barry Petit—responded to a questionnaire from this publication, outlining their priorities and vision for Wayzata.
Jeff Buchanan chose not to participate in our questionnaire. According to a an email statement from Buchanan, his publicist is currently engaged with several local media outlets and he therefore respectfully declined our request.
We have provided the responses from the candidates in an effort to offer a complete view of their positions on key issues.
All three candidates were asked the same questions, and we present their responses in alphabetical order by last name.
What motivated you to run for mayor of Wayzata, and what are your top priorities for the city if elected?
This candidate declined to participate in our questionnaire.
How do you plan to balance maintaining Wayzata’s small-town charm with promoting economic growth and development?
This candidate declined to participate in our questionnaire.
What strategies would you implement to address affordable housing in the city if at all?
This candidate declined to participate in our questionnaire.
What are your views on environmental sustainability, and how would you work to preserve Wayzata’s natural resources, such as the tree canopy and lakefront?
This candidate declined to participate in our questionnaire.
What experience do you have in working with community organizations and city staff to foster strong relationships and ensure effective governance?
This candidate declined to participate in our questionnaire.
How do you plan to support public safety, including police and fire emergency services, within the community?
This candidate declined to participate in our questionnaire.
What are your thoughts on the Panoway and Lakewalk projects? Do you think any design changes are needed? How do you feel about the eco-park and Section Foreman House in Phase 3? And what is your take on how these projects have been or are being funded?
This candidate declined to participate in our questionnaire.
How will you address transportation and infrastructure challenges in Wayzata, particularly with regards to traffic flow and pedestrian safety?
This candidate declined to participate in our questionnaire.
What is your plan to address parking challenges in downtown Wayzata, and how would you ensure there is adequate parking for both residents and visitors as the city continues to grow?
This candidate declined to participate in our questionnaire.
How would you ensure transparency and community involvement in decision-making processes as mayor?
This candidate declined to participate in our questionnaire.
What motivated you to run for mayor of Wayzata, and what are your top priorities for the city if elected?
Wayzata needs leaders focused on nonpartisan community-driven solutions. I plan to bring my background as a 28-year resident of Wayzata, a former Wayzata city council member, and local Wayzata business owner to solve the problems that matter to residents. I have been meeting with Wayzata stakeholders since April of this year, and here is what I have heard that citizens want from our city government:
Public Safety – Invest in Police and Fire, make sure the people who serve us have the tools they need to do the job.
Fiscal Responsibility – General fund spend has increased from $5 million to $7 million from the property tax levy over the last 5 years. This is unacceptable! Good governance means doing more with less; I’ll be an advocate for the taxpayer. We can be more creative in helping our city thrive without raising taxes year after year.
Mitigate traffic and congestion – Changes are required to both the layout of Lake Street and Wayzata Blvd to make them function adequately. Explore adding a third exit to and from 394 to the west at Ferndale to provide a release valve for cars being forced to cut through town via Lake St and Wayzata Blvd.
Bring the Public back into Public Service – by engaging residents before decisions are made. Our citizens deserve a voice every day in the decisions that are being made. As Mayor, we will not be opaque in the way we operate, and I will personally hold office hours for citizens of Wayzata.
Calm development/redevelopment but continue moving forward, but not at the cost of losing what makes us special. We need to consider every project, weigh the pros and cons meticulously, and manageably grow without compromising the quality of life of citizens – this includes new development projects.
Invest in Parks & Public Space only after getting basic city services where it needs to be.
How do you plan to balance maintaining Wayzata’s small-town charm with promoting economic growth and development?
My plan for finding balance in Wayzata is based on my government experience and community input:
Have a community-informed vision for the future
Inventory the assets that model what is desired
Build plans on the enhancement of existing assets
Use education and incentives, not just regulation
Pick and choose among development projects
Cooperate with neighbors for mutual benefit
Pay attention to community aesthetics
Elect strong leaders to engage the community
We need to “Find Balance by Moving Forward.”
What strategies would you implement to address affordable housing in the city if at all?
Wayzata’s housing strains are not unique. Across the state and country, there is a shortage of housing inventory and costs have skyrocketed. Wayzata needs a realistic plan to increase affordable housing. The City should invest in already existing housing, especially multi-unit buildings, before building new government-subsidized housing. I will also explore options to provide affordable housing solutions, such as a housing stipend for our Police and Fire workers first.
What are your views on environmental sustainability, and how would you work to preserve Wayzata’s natural resources, such as the tree canopy and lakefront?
I led the effort to include environmental initiatives in the Panoway project, establishing Wayzata as a regional leader for lakeshore restoration. A substantial part of the cost for this was covered by county and state grants. Our current initiatives will help inform restoration along all of Lake Minnetonka, and I plan to continue prioritizing sustainability in Wayzata.
Examples of environmentally conscious elements that I spearheaded in the Panoway project include:
Increasing community accessible green space
Reducing surface water runoff while refurbishing the 7-block downtown streetscape by creating rain gardens, tree trenches, and permeable pavers
Treatment and redirection of stormwater runoff to reduce lake pollution
Future environmental initiatives:
Shoreline restoration by adding native vegetation or pollinator habitat on top of the rock and gravel that currently lines our lakefront
Eco-park creation for learning
Offshore underwater reef to dissipate wave damage to the shoreline from boats and storms, allow native plants to flourish, and protect the boardwalk from ice flows in the winter
The relatively new tree ordinance, while well intended to protect Wayzata’s tree canopy cover, which stands at nearly 30 percent of the City’s surface area, needs some changes. By comparison, Minneapolis’ tree canopy stands at only 4 percent. As drafted, the policy has created unnecessary friction with Xcel Energy, resulting in trees not being adequately pruned to prevent significant and frequent power outages, particularly in our East Holdridge neighborhoods. The policy is not functional for our institutional landholders, such as Wayzata Public Schools, Woodhill Country Club, and Wayzata Country Club. I support protecting and enhancing our tree canopy, particularly from redevelopment, but we need a policy that is also practical and reasonable to implement.
What experience do you have in working with community organizations and city staff to foster strong relationships and ensure effective governance?
During my time on Wayzata City Council, I developed a track record of offering creative solutions and getting things done. I often bridged the divide between citizens and staff. Examples include solving the 30+ year impasse over streets and city water in the Holdridge neighborhood and leading the overhaul of the City’s financial policies and procedures, which resulted in restoring the City’s credit rating to AAA. Wayzata does not have the resources, budget, or staff to go it alone. We need to invest more effort in building public-private partnerships, including working with other governmental entities like Hennepin County and the State to get more of the tax revenues that go outside of Wayzata (80%) and make the case for investing it back into our community (grants, capital investment).
How do you plan to support public safety, including police and fire emergency services, within the community?
Wayzata has undergone vast growth and change, which expectedly came with growing pains. City leadership, now more than ever, needs to prioritize and invest in public safety. Unfortunately, current city leadership has failed to adequately prepare for the growth and change Wayzata has experienced. While they claim that public safety is a priority, their actions don’t match their words.
We need a long-term plan to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents by enhancing our independent police and fire departments. This is essential because residents and business owners do not want to follow the trend of small communities outsourcing public services to larger communities, as Wayzata currently provides police services to Long Lake. I propose:
Addressing leadership transitions within these departments, ensuring continuity and effectiveness.
Focusing on recruitment and retention strategies, including equitable pay for public safety employees, to ensure the long-term viability of these essential public services.
Updating the outdated Police Station that no longer meets the needs of our officers to serve the community.
What are your thoughts on the Panoway and Lakewalk projects? Do you think any design changes are needed? How do you feel about the eco-park and Section Foreman House in Phase 3? And what is your take on how these projects have been or are being funded?
Before looking to construct the final phases of Panoway, we need to make adjustments to Phases I and II to improve how they function for residents and visitors alike.
I am proud of my contributions to creating green space and improving access to one of Wayzata’s greatest assets—Lake Minnetonka. However, I was not part of City Leadership when the plan was implemented, and we have come up short in the execution of the project. I am stepping forward to offer solutions to address these shortcomings:
Explore use/tax fees for visitors to support the maintenance of this new public space. While in City Leadership, I developed a plan that delivered 10 years of prepaid maintenance for each major project element, but we need to close that gap past 2030.
Adequately fund the Police and Fire departments to mitigate the growth stress on our public services by creating a robust Community Service Officer program that can address noise, loitering, and traffic violations.
Consider moving the public bathroom to the Mill Street ramp, as was proposed during my tenure on the council, or relocate it to the south and east adjacent to the trail leading to the Section Foreman’s House.
Widen Lake Street in areas that are both dangerous and contribute to congestion.
Fix the new transient public docks so that boaters can park without fear of damaging their boats.
In parallel, continue to raise private funds and seek grants and funding from the State to complete the following:
Restoration and adaptive re-use of the historic Section Foreman’s House to a Lakeshore Learning Center
Create additional park space to complement the Lakeshore Learning Center
Invest in remodeling Depot Park to make it more accessible, safe, and functional
How will you address transportation and infrastructure challenges in Wayzata, particularly with regards to traffic flow and pedestrian safety?
We have significant challenges with the flow of traffic, particularly along Lake Street and Wayzata Blvd. Changes are required to both the layout of Lake Street and Wayzata Blvd to make them function more efficiently and improve safety. Explore adding a third exit to and from 394 to the west at Ferndale to provide a release valve for cars being forced to cut through town via Lake and Wayzata Blvd. Optimize the traffic signals and add crosswalk lights at streets that intersect with the Luce Line and Dakota Trail.
What is your plan to address parking challenges in downtown Wayzata, and how would you ensure there is adequate parking for both residents and visitors as the city continues to grow?
Our downtown area, in particular, faces parking and circulation issues. It’s clear that we need to make changes to our public street parking and explore creative solutions to mitigate traffic congestion along Lake Street and Wayzata Boulevard. Potential solutions include:
Adding diagonal parking to the streets that feed Lake Street
Widening Lake Street in select areas
Gating the top deck of the Mill Street ramp and only opening it when the first level is full to mitigate loitering on the roof
Increasing awareness and signage for East Public Parking at PresHomes and West Public Service lot at 253 Lake
Working with Three Rivers Park District to direct trailhead bike users to park at 253 Lake to open up more parking for residents at Wayzata Beach/Boatworks
How would you ensure transparency and community involvement in decision-making processes as mayor?
As your mayor, I will encourage proactive community engagement. Our current city leadership has been passive in its approach, often leaving important decisions to city managers and attorneys. This lack of engagement is unacceptable.
I’m committed to being a visible and accessible mayor, engaging with residents and businesses directly to address their concerns and feedback. We need leadership that listens and responds directly to the needs of the community, not one that hides behind bureaucracy.
What motivated you to run for mayor of Wayzata, and what are your top priorities for the city if elected?
I’m fascinated with redefining the ‘new’ Wayzata as a result of the natural schism between dramatic progress and the notion of small-town. This will be an interesting conversation. What is our new identity? Who are we now? Where do we go?
How do you plan to balance maintaining Wayzata’s small-town charm with promoting economic growth and development?
In theory, small-town charm and growth are not inherently at odds with each other, however, commercial growth has dominated our physical changes. In reality, the idyllic small-town charm has nearly faded. Now it’s a matter of defining behavior and dealing with ongoing costs.
What strategies would you implement to address affordable housing in the city if at all?
Nearly 40% of our housing is rental and there are many modestly priced units in this inventory. We have done an amazing job considering our size and perception.
What are your views on environmental sustainability, and how would you work to preserve Wayzata’s natural resources, such as the tree canopy and lakefront?
Environmental sustainability has many facets. For example, the combustion engine remains the biggest challenge impacting climate change. Fortunately, Wayzata provides so many convenient goods and services that our driving distances are a fraction of residents in other communities. We must work diligently to maintain these businesses.
We have done a great job with tree preservation. Parts of Wayzata Blvd east seem a bit barren, but I’m assuming there are plans to fix this.
What experience do you have in working with community organizations and city staff to foster strong relationships and ensure effective governance?
For 26 years I was involved in our town via councils, commissions and committees. I know how things work, and my institutional memory should be valuable. Historic context and understanding current trends remain an important formula for any solid decision.
How do you plan to support public safety, including police and fire emergency services, within the community?
The safety issue has changed with the advent of becoming a popular regional destination; more people create more challenges. The reality is we will simply need to find more money by shifting funds and raising taxes.
Frankly, in the longer run, the Fire Dept concerns me. They have done a remarkable job over the years. Their commitment and dedication are amazing. The crystal ball is telling a different future. As the cost of living in Wayzata becomes more expensive, we will struggle to find volunteers. The price tag of transforming into a blend of volunteers and full-time fire fighters will cost us a small fortune in new taxes.
What are your thoughts on the Panoway and Lakewalk projects?
It demonstrates the difference between concept (sales) and execution (the detail).
Conceptually one could argue the Panoway is spot on. The visual outcome, the ‘detail,’ remains questionable. Personally, for all the dollars and all the community involvement there is no wow factor.
Do you think any design changes are needed?
I must confess the public toilets sitting on the visual gateway to our precious lake remains curious. While one might expect a sculpture, a fountain or at the very least a statue commemorating the Klapprich family, we have a toilet… hmmm.
How do you feel about the eco-park and Section Foreman House in Phase 3? And what is your take on how these projects have been or are being funded?
More ‘stuff’ more people… and adding large cumbersome school busses into the equation will be ‘entertaining.’
The Lake Effect Conservancy’s promise to raise the dollars to maintain the lake-front will be challenging. Donors rarely, if ever, contribute to fixing and cleaning. The maintenance costs will ultimately fall on the taxpayers.
How will you address transportation and infrastructure challenges in Wayzata, particularly with regards to traffic flow and pedestrian safety?
These are consequences of becoming one of the most popular destinations in the metropolitan region. As we graciously welcome more visitors, we will need more money to patrol and regulate. Our new popularity will continually absorb more time and money.
What is your plan to address parking challenges in downtown Wayzata, and how would you ensure there is adequate parking for both residents and visitors as the city continues to grow?
Some have suggested that parking meters should be considered. Metering would generate much-needed revenue, and it should increase the turn-over rate for our limited spots. Residents and employees would park free. I was told about a place where the meters didn’t kick in until 10:30 AM. Seems like a very fair and common solution.
How would you ensure transparency and community involvement in decision-making processes as mayor?
I believe Wayzata does a noble job of keeping folks informed. There are currently seven committees and commissions assigned to regulate and study ‘things.’
It seems to me that community involvement has been encouraged and works well. However, I sincerely believe a public forum regarding Marijuana sales is essential. The residents must be heard.
In a dramatic turn of events on the final day of candidate filings, MayorJohanna Mouton has withdrawn from the mayoral race, paving the way for a three-way contest between former Council Member Jeff Buchanan, former MayorBarry Petit, and former Council Member Andy Mullin.
Mouton filed her affidavit of candidacy on July 30th as well.
Buchanan and Petit filed their affidavits of candidacy on August 13., before the 5 p.m. deadline.
Their last-minute entries have set the stage for a competitive race for Wayzata’s mayoral seat.
Asked why she withdrew her name from the race, Mouton stated, “The choice stems from a desire to embrace new professional opportunities that have recently presented themselves. With the new opportunities that lie ahead, I no longer feel that I can provide the level of time that is required.”
Meanwhile, the two open City Council seats will be filled by Council Member Alex Plechash and soon-to-be sworn-in Council Member Ken Sorensen, as they were the only candidates to file for the positions.
Both will be officially elected to the Wayzata City Council in November.
The Wayzata Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Barry Petit has been named the 2011 Person of the Year. The Chamber will be holding a luncheon in his honor on Thursday, October 27 at the Wayzata Country Club. Barry will greet friends beginning at 11:30 a.m.
Lunch will be served at noon followed by the program at 12:30 p.m. The cost is $20.00 for members and $25.00 for non members. Call the Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce at (952) 473-9595 for reservations by Monday, October 24, 2011.
Barry has been a successful architect in the greater Wayzata area business community for the past 25+years. He currently owns and operates his own architecture firm, Barry Petit & Associates.
Barry’s civic contributions to Wayzata are numerous and noteworthy. He served on the Planning Commission from 1984 to 1990. In 1990, Barry was elected to the City Council.
He served on the council until he was elected Mayor in 1996. As Mayor, Barry championed the new Library and City Hall Development. Currently, Barry serves on the Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition and Community Foundation Boards.
Barry has put his talents to work for Chamber projects as well. Barry was instrumental on the Bike Task Force which brought bike racks to town and installed a bike kiosk at the Dakota Light Rail Trail head. More recently, Barry designed the new lakeside platform at the Depot.
Below is an excerpt from one of the many nomination forms. “Barry’s indelible fingerprints have graced our community for decades. Because of his foresight, dedication, and uncompromising professional skills, Wayzata is an even better place to work, shop, live, and renew!”
Another nominator wrote, “Barry has a fine sense of humor and is always helpful. His personality and visionary leadership have been demonstrated in countless ways as he has tirelessly served Wayzata! He is Wayzata’s Person of the Year!”
The Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce is a vibrant membership organization serving businesses and individuals in the greater Wayzata area. The mission of the Chamber is to advocate and promote the interests of its Retail, Professional, and Community Members.
Tom Tanner took time to sit down with me today to talk about his life and candidacy for an open Wayzata City Council seat. Here is an overview of what we talked about.
Dan Gustafson: Tom, thanks for meeting with me. What prompted you to run for the Wayzata City Council?
Tom Tanner: I have always had a feeling that at some point in your life, it’s nice to take your life experiences and talents and give back to society what you have gotten out of it. When I first got involved with the City of Wayzata, it was at the urging of former Wayzata Mayor Barry Petit, because of my background in the construction industry. He felt that a guy with my talents knowing construction, and rules and regulations, it would be a good asset for the planning commission. When I didn’t make it the first go ’round, I was asked to serve on the Heritage Preservation Board. So I did that for a year, and when an opportunity came for a new planning commissioner… I thought, I’ll give it a shot. …I got the highest number of votes from the [Wayzata City] Council to take the three year term. So with that, I joined that enthusiastically, and I have always had a love for this community and being a part of it.
Years ago I ran, because I felt at that time, that you had two candidates, running for their own seats, and I wanted the citizens of Wayzata to be able to choose who they felt best represented their community… I ran hard, learned a lot about myself, it was great. I didn’t make it, I lost by 50 votes, it was a good experience and I was still on the Planning Commission serving as Active Chairman. My last year, I stayed on as Active Chairman, I applied for re-appointment, and my peers elected me to be Chairman. With the election coming up, I thought we had a good Council, and when Andrew Humphrey decided to step down, and when Ken Willcox decided to run for the Mayor position, I thought, I’ll throw my hat in the ring. This is a great community to be a part of.
DG: What do you hope to accomplish in office?
TT: I hope to be fair, look at it from all sides of an issue on an application. The one thing I have learned, you really can’t think with your feelings, you have to look at it, you have to remove yourself–there are projects I have seen that I wished didn’t happen and there are projects I didn’t see happen I wished would have happened.
DG: Do you have any family?
TT: I have a son JP, I raised by myself. He’s an architect in Phoenix, and I just became a grandfather a month ago.
TT: …I was here [Wayzata] one Saturday morning, I was at the office, came out for breakfast at the Original Pancake House. I started looking through the local paper, and saw a couple of townhouses for sale and I thought, here’s my opportunity, I might never have it again… So I bought it and have been remodeling it the last few years.
DG: In your opinion, what are the three biggest issues facing Wayzata residents today?
TT: I think the declining retail market, we need somebody to get that thing kick started. One of the avenues is to bring business owners together, and bring in some outside consultants and figure out what is it that we can do better to assist them to create a more positive and growing economy for them. I was just at the Bay Center, and it’s like a ghost town in there… I don’t know how the people down their survive. …We need somebody to figure out how to kick start the retail avenue until the Bay Center gets built. The Bay Center is not going to be the end all to retail…
The second issue I see is the traffic and how it pertains to people in the community. The big concern is with Central Avenue and Wayzata Boulevard. How do we gauge traffic, how do we make it so it is palatable to the community. I don’t want people driving down Wayzata Boulevard at 80 miles per hour while you’ve got people trying to cross to Klapprich Park or areas like that. Traffic is a real concern…
The third issue one that is close to my heart and that is Lake Minnetonka… the mil foil, concerned about the curly pond weed, the invasive species, zebra muscles. Right now we haven’t had any issues with zebra mussels yet… Wayzata is really kind of a playground, that’s what it is. I would say that if you could figure out a percentage, if you have people that come here, greater than 50% to play here. The rest come here to dine here, they come here to shop, some people want to work here, some people want to live here. But I think it’s very important that we keep the lake as clean and as beautiful as we can. It’s really our biggest asset.
DG: Fill in your resume for us, if you would.
TT: For the first 20 years of my life, I worked with a manufacturer… Inland Steel out of Chicago. My first real claim to fame was I sold all the metal wall panel around the Metrodome. The I went to work for a basketball floor company, (Note from Dan: Tom said he sold the floor to the Timberwolves and several other NBA teams earlier in our conversation, but I missed it on tape) …[Then] I decide to make a career change.
What I am doing now is I have my own company, I have a sales and marketing company… really high end commercial type ceilings and expansion joints. Right now we are working on the Twins Stadium and the Gophers Stadium. The name of that company is Tanner Company.
DG: Your education, what are the details?
TT: I have a degree in Marketing from the University of Wisconsin. While is was in Chicago, I attended Rosary College and got my MBA in finance.
DG: If people want to get in touch with you, how should they do so?
TT: They can send me an email to my office address: tntcompany@aol.com. Otherwise they can call me at my home. That number is 952-473-0036, otherwise my cellphone is 612-889-2594.
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