Wayzata’s newly elected mayor, Andrew Mullin, will deliver his first State of the City address on Tuesday, February 25th. The event, which is expected to outline Mayor Mullin’s vision for the future of Wayzata, marks a significant moment in his tenure as the city’s leader.
“With a commitment to fostering unity, collaboration, and innovation, I aim to pave the way for a more vibrant future for our community,” Mayor Mullin shared in a recent announcement. Mullin will be sworn in during tonight’s City Council meeting, and has emphasized his mission to restore faith in local government and inspire a new era of engagement and collaboration.
The February 25th address will provide an opportunity for residents, businesses, and stakeholders to hear firsthand about the mayor’s priorities for Wayzata. Key themes are expected to include enhancing communication between city leadership and the community, fostering innovative solutions to local challenges, and continuing efforts to ensure Wayzata remains a vibrant and welcoming place for all.
In addition to his upcoming address, Mayor Mullin is introducing several new initiatives aimed at increasing accessibility and dialogue with residents. Starting February 10th, he will host Monthly Muni Meetups at the Wayzata Bar & Grill. These informal gatherings are designed to connect with the public, foster unity, and exchange ideas in a casual setting. The mayor will also be featured regularly in The Portal and Wayzata Weekly, providing updates and insights on city projects and initiatives.
“As your Mayor, I believe in being accessible to all Wayzata stakeholders,” Mullin stated. “I’m excited to explore new ways to engage with our community and work together to achieve our shared goals.”
The February 25th State of the City address promises to be an important milestone in Mayor Mullin’s leadership. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in this pivotal moment for Wayzata’s future.
The crisp winter air in Wayzata is now filled with the sound of skates gliding over fresh ice as the Klapprich Ice Rink and Warming House officially open for the season today, Friday, January 3, at 3:00 p.m.
Thanks to a recent stretch of cold weather, the City of Wayzata’s Public Works team has been able to prepare the rink for the community’s enjoyment. “The Public Works team utilized the recent cold weather to open the Klapprich Rink and Warming House! The rink will be open starting at 3:00 p.m. today,” the City of Wayzata announced in a statement.
The Klapprich Ice Rink, located in the heart of Wayzata, has long been a favorite spot for locals to enjoy ice skating, hockey, and family outings. Alongside the rink, the warming house offers a much-needed retreat from the cold, with hot drinks and a place to warm up between laps on the ice.
As the season kicks off, city officials are encouraging residents to take advantage of the outdoor rink and share in the joy of winter recreation. Additional rinks across Wayzata are expected to open in the coming weeks as conditions allow.
The warming house and skating rink will be open with an attendant on duty, weather-permitting, weekdays from 3 to 10 p.m., as well as 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends and days when Wayzata public schools are not in session.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely skate or a fast-paced game of pick-up hockey, Klapprich Ice Rink offers the perfect winter escape for all ages. Don’t miss the chance to lace up your skates and make the most of this beautiful winter season!
Wayzata’s new mayor, Andrew Mullin, is kicking off his term with a community-centered event aimed at fostering open communication and collaboration. Beginning February 10, 2024, Mayor Mullin will host a “Monthly Muni Meetup” at the Wayzata Bar & Grill, affectionately known as “The Muni.”
These informal gatherings are designed to provide residents, business owners, and stakeholders with an opportunity to connect with the mayor in a relaxed and welcoming environment. The first meetup will take place on February 10 at 7 p.m.
“As Mayor, I believe in being accessible to all Wayzata stakeholders,” said Mullin. “Starting in February, I will host monthly meetups at the Wayzata Bar & Grill. These gatherings aim to informally connect with the public, foster unity, exchange ideas, and work together towards a brighter future for Wayzata. Join me in shaping our community’s path forward.”
The Muni Meetups are part of Mullin’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity. With no formal agenda, attendees can discuss a wide variety of topics, from city projects and development to ideas for improving Wayzata’s quality of life.
The Wayzata Bar & Grill, a community hub since 1947, serves as the ideal location for these conversations, reflecting Mullin’s goal of creating a space where everyone feels heard and valued.
Residents are encouraged to join the mayor for the inaugural meetup on February 10 at 7 p.m. Future gatherings will continue monthly, with dates and times announced through the City of Wayzata’s website and social media channels.
Don’t miss this opportunity to share your ideas, ask questions, and play an active role in shaping the future of Wayzata.
In a sparsely attended City Council meeting on December 3, 2024, only three of the five members of the council were present to deliberate Ordinance 845, a proposed measure regulating cannabis businesses within city limits. After extensive discussion, the council lacked the required votes to advance the ordinance, resulting in the issue being tabled until the December 17 meeting, when the full council is expected to be in attendance.
The ordinance, prepared in response to Minnesota’s legalization of recreational cannabis, addresses zoning, licensing, and operational parameters for cannabis retailers. It would establish strict regulations, including a single non-municipal cannabis dispensary limit within Wayzata, buffer zones around schools and treatment facilities, and restrictive operating hours of 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Planning Consultant Eric Zweber presented the ordinance, noting that the state’s Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has yet to finalize its rules. “We’ve taken a conservative approach, proposing the maximum restrictions allowed by state law,” Zweber said, highlighting buffer zones and limits on temporary cannabis events.
Discussion revealed concerns among council members. Mayor pro tem Alex Plechash criticized the state’s cannabis policy as “bad policy decisions from the state, rammed down our throats.” He advocated for larger buffer zones around treatment facilities, arguing they should match those established for schools.
Others questioned the clarity of the rules. “It feels backwards,” stated council member Molly MacDonald, expressing frustration over the two-step approval process that requires conditional use permits (CUPs) before a business can apply for a state license.
The Planning Commission previously recommended the ordinance after reviewing public input, including concerns about potential conflicts between non-municipal and municipal cannabis retail businesses. However, ambiguity around buffer zones and school bus stops prompted requests for further refinement.
The absence of MayorJohanna Mouton and council member Ken Sorensen complicated Tuesday’s proceedings. Ordinances in Wayzata require at least three affirmative votes from the five-member council to advance, regardless of attendance.
With only three members present, the council, led by Mayor Pro Tem, decided to table the vote after a 2-1 roll call. Plechash and Parkhill supported using property lines for buffer zones, while MacDonald opposed, seeming to favor building envelopes as the starting point for measurement.
Should the ordinance fail to pass before December 31, the city’s moratorium on cannabis businesses will expire, potentially leaving Wayzata without local oversight as the state continues to promulgate regulations on the fly.
The council aims to resolve the issue at its next meeting, scheduled for December 17, 2024.
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.
The City of Wayzata invites residents to celebrate and honor MayorJohanna Mouton at a farewell open house on Monday, December 18. The event will be held at City Hall from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., with a brief program planned for 6:00 p.m.
Mayor Mouton, who decided not to seek re-election, has served as a dedicated leader during her time in office. The open house provides an opportunity for residents and colleagues to come together and recognize her significant contributions to the city.
The evening will feature light refreshments, along with time to reflect on the accomplishments and progress made during Mayor Mouton’s leadership.
The event is open to all, ensuring that the entire Wayzata community can take part in this celebration of service and commitment.
The Wayzata City Council, in a 3-1 split vote, approved $165,830.98 in change orders for the PanowayLakewalk project during their November 12 meeting. The vote highlighted ongoing concerns about project oversight, contingency planning, and the transparency of financial decisions.
Change Orders and Costs
The approved change orders addressed unforeseen construction issues, including:
Pile Obstruction ($18,498.15): Removal of a boulder obstructing pile installation.
Ice Breaking ($22,228.93): Clearing ice to allow for precast beam placement during winter.
Hydrocrane Setup ($23,091.97): Required crane work to place beams near the railroad due to winter conditions.
Remaining Acceleration ($60,441.93): Costs tied to an additional barge and crane to expedite work.
Railing Stiffeners ($41,570): Reinforcements added to address structural concerns with cable rail tensioning.
These costs pushed the project beyond its contingency funds, raising questions among council members about planning and accountability.
Budget Overview
City staff reported that the Panoway project remains $55,436 under budget, aided by a $258,971 sales tax credit and reallocated resources. However, the original contingency—a modest 3.8% of the total budget—was exhausted early, necessitating council approval for subsequent expenses.
Some council members questioned the decision-making process, with Council Member Ken Sorensen stating, “If this is work that wasn’t in the contractor’s contract, and it should be very clear if it was or wasn’t, the city probably owes them that money.” Sorensen continued, “I think the issue is, why do we incur these change orders and have they been appropriately scrutinized?”
Discussion on Accountability
Concerns were raised about the transparency of decision-making, particularly regarding the responsibilities of designers and contractors.
Council Member Jeff Parkhill remarked, “I think maybe we were a little optimistic on the 4% contingency. That may have been oversight by anybody involved with this. I’m feeling the same way about not being involved in some of these decisions, and for example maybe we could have gotten rid of the step downs if we knew they were going to cost us, x amount per year, an amount that wasn’t budgeted for and an additional $63,000. I know in building there is always unforeseeable things…“
“At this point I don’t think we have a choice, I think we have to pay for this but I think my biggest request is some transparency and clarity. We are up here forced to make a decision after the fact and it’s really not fair to us, it’s not fair to the community either,” continued Parkhill. “Watching some of these budgets go through it’s like holy smokes… it’s a bureaucracy.”
City staff acknowledged that some issues stemmed from unforeseen conditions, such as DNR permitting delays and deeper-than-expected piling requirements. Bob Janssen from Kraus-Anderson added that the project’s unique nature introduced risks that were difficult to anticipate.
Council Member Molly MacDonald questioned the step down change orders and work that appears to have been stopped, “I’ve noticed some of this skeleton down there that has been started, there’s a large piece of equipment that is sitting behind a sidewalk closed sign for quite some time.” MacDonald continued, “These design changes have not been seen by this body, will that skeleton down there, will that always be there?“
Mouton stated in response, “Decisions are being made outside of the purview of the council, I think is what I am hearing from council member MacDonald, and this council will be asked to approve the cost, we haven’t seen the design revisions, we don’t know any information about it, again, seems like there is a bit of a disconnect, being asked to approve something after the fact… it’s too little too late.“
Future Implications
The council also discussed pending change orders, particularly related to step-down adjustments for seasonal removability, which are under review. Council members expressed frustration at not being consulted earlier, with Mayor Mouton stating, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen this process play out this way.” Mounton continued, “I’m not comfortable saying yes to $165,000, this is work that is already done.“
Council Vote
The motion passed 3-1, with Mayor Mouton opposing. She expressed concerns about relying on funds not yet received and criticized the piecemeal presentation of information. Council Member Parkhill supported the motion but shared dissatisfaction with the process, saying, “We’re left to approve bills for work already completed, and that’s a difficult position to be in.”
Despite the challenges, the council remains committed to completing the Panoway project within budget and delivering a high-quality public space for Wayzata residents. This decision underscores the need for improved planning and communication as the project enters its final phases.
This article has been updated to reflect broader comments by the council members.
At a recent city council meeting, Blake Sandvold, Chair of the Wayzata Conservancy, provided updates on the Panoway project, its funding, and future phases. Despite enthusiasm over progress made, MayorMouton raised questions about outstanding financial commitments and future fundraising efforts.
$3,000,000+/- Raised from 300+ Donors
Sandvold began by emphasizing the Conservancy’s success in completing phases one and two of the Panoway project, including the Lake Street Plaza and the Lakewalk and Docks. He underscored the Conservancy’s mission of fostering public-private partnerships and its role in advocacy, project funding, and ongoing maintenance. To date, the Conservancy has raised approximately $3 million from over 330 donors, including individuals, families, corporations, and foundations.
“Generosity is alive and well,” Sandvold said, pointing to community events like Spring Splash and collaborations with local nonprofits.
Looking forward, Sandvold detailed plans for phase three, which includes restoring the Section Foreman House as a Lake Shore Learning Center, developing an Eco Park, and enhancing Depot Park. Initial fundraising efforts have secured $500,000 for this $10 million phase, about half of which has been contributed by Mr. Sandvold’s own family.
Financial Concerns from Mayor Mouton
While the presentation celebrated achievements, Mayor Johanna Mouton raised questions about fundraising shortfalls. Specifically, she expressed concerns over a delayed $120,000 pledge tied to dock construction.
“We relied on those funds,” Mayor Mouton stated. “Our numbers are based on having that money in the bank, and we don’t have it.”
The delayed pledge, originally expected in June, has left the city in a a bit of a challenging position as it faces upcoming financial obligations, including an $91,000 payment due in January.
Sandvold assured the council of his confidence in the donor’s intent, citing personal and confidential reasons for the delay. “It hasn’t swayed me from believing that it won’t come through,” he said, while acknowledging the challenges inherent in fundraising.
Balancing Future and Current Phases
Council member Molly MacDonald also questioned the decision to allocate restricted funds for phase three while obligations for phase two remain outstanding. Sandvold explained that such practices are common in fundraising, where donors often earmark contributions for specific components of a project.
Mayor Johanna McCarthy pressed further, saying, “It seems counterintuitive to fundraise for a future phase when current obligations are unmet. Shouldn’t we focus on finishing phase two first?”
Sandvold responded by highlighting the complexities of donor preferences, noting that some contributions are restricted to specific phases.
Procedural and Fiduciary Responsibilities
MayorMouton and other council members reiterated their fiduciary responsibility to Wayzata taxpayers. “We’re accountable when we’re putting the money out and relying on pledges,” Mouton said. “If these pledges don’t materialize, it puts us in a precarious position.”
City Manager Jeffrey Dahl assured the council that ongoing discussions with the Conservancy include updates on funding events and progress. However, the council signaled the need for more clarity on when and how funds will be secured to cover current obligations before committing further resources to phase three.
Looking Forward
Despite the challenges, Sandvold expressed optimism about the Conservancy’s ability to meet its goals. “This project is something I believe in deeply,” he said. “We’re continuing to engage donors and build momentum for the final phase.”
The council plans to revisit the issue in upcoming meetings, with a focus on balancing immediate financial responsibilities and long-term ambitions for Wayzata’s lakefront.
After 27 years in law enforcement, including five as Wayzata’s Police Chief, Marc Schultz is preparing to retire, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, innovation, and compassion. The city will honor his service with an open house on Thursday, November 21, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Wayzata City Hall. Residents, colleagues, and friends are invited to celebrate his career and wish him well.
At the November 12th city council meeting, Chief Schultz reflected on his career and the emotions of retiring. “When I started this job in 1998, I couldn’t believe they paid me to do this,” Schultz said with a smile. “Now I can’t believe they’re going to pay me not to do it. I guess that makes it a little easier to go, but I’m certainly going to miss everyone.”
Schultz expressed his gratitude to his colleagues, the community, and those he served. “It’s honestly difficult to grasp the concept of retirement. This career has been an honor—working not just with this incredible team, but also on behalf of victims who couldn’t speak for themselves. Serving Wayzata and Long Lake has been the privilege of my life,” he said.
City Manager Jeff Dahl and Deputy Chief Baker both paid tribute to Schultz’s leadership and influence. Dahl highlighted Schultz’s tenure, which began in 2019, a time marked by significant challenges. “He led us through some of the most difficult times with grace, warmth, and a focus on community safety,” Dahl said. Schultz’s initiatives, such as implementing a K-9 unit, introducing a summer bike patrol, and adopting cutting-edge technology, have left a lasting mark on the department.
Deputy Chief Baker offered a personal perspective, praising Schultz’s mentorship and his dedication to both his team and his family. “You’ve made one of the most difficult careers the most enjoyable,” Baker said. “You’ve been a true leader by example, and your work has touched not just our department but the entire community.”
Schultz also took a moment to recognize his family, including his father, Donald, an 86-year-old barber still working full-time after 62 years. “I’d like to say I got my work ethic from my dad, but I didn’t come close,” Schultz joked. “He’s been a huge presence in my life, and I’m very proud of him.”
Looking ahead, Schultz shared his plans for retirement, which include spending Thursdays with his granddaughter, trips to the family cabin, and plenty of fishing. “The work must go on, and I know this team will continue to serve the community to the best of their abilities,” he said.
For a man who has dedicated his career to keeping Wayzata and Long Lake safe, the open house on November 21 will be a fitting farewell. As Baker summed up, “On behalf of the law enforcement community and myself, thank you for your hard work, dedication, sacrifice, compassion, and leadership throughout the years. You will be missed, Chief.”
In a proactive effort to ensure the health and safety of its residents, the City of Wayzata recently issued letters to approximately 365 property owners. The correspondence highlights uncertainties surrounding the materials used in their water service lines, some of which could potentially contain lead.
Lead in Wayzata’s drinking water is not a major concern due to regular testing, but the city is meeting state and federal requirements to inventory service line materials.
The letters informed recipients that their properties’ service lines are categorized as “unknown” because the material has not yet been verified. These lines may include lead or galvanized materials that were previously connected to lead pipes, which could pose a risk of lead exposure.
A statement by the City indicated, “Lead is not a significant concern in Wayzata’s drinking water. The City tests the water regularly and provides a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) on an annual basis. The City is simply preparing an inventory based on both state and federal requirements.”
Understanding the Risk of Lead
The potential risks associated with lead exposure in drinking water include developmental delays in children and cardiovascular issues in adults. To mitigate any potential hazards, the city provided guidance on reducing lead exposure. Recommendations include using certified filters, running cold water before use, and cleaning faucet aerators regularly.
Residents can contact the city’s Public Works department for help identifying their service line material or testing their water. Property-specific details are also available on the University of Minnesota’s Service Line Material Tool. Additional questions can be directed to Nick Nystrom at nnystrom@wayzata.org or by calling 952-404-5360,
You must be logged in to post a comment.