Get ready to usher in the holiday spirit as Wayzata’s cherished Light Up the Lakeevent returns on Friday, November 29, 2024. From 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Lake Street will transform into a magical winter wonderland filled with festive cheer, family fun, and the glow of holiday lights.
This year’s event offers an enchanting mix of activities, sure to delight residents and visitors alike. Families can enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, capture memories with reindeer at Depot Park, sip on hot cider and treats, and pen letters to Santa at Panoway. Strolling carolers will fill the air with music as you stroll through the heart of Wayzata, and free glow light wands will add a special sparkle to the evening.
The celebration’s schedule promises fun for all ages:
5:00 p.m. – A Candy Hunt for children ages 5 and under at Depot Park.
5:15 p.m. – The dazzling Parade of Lights featuring local fire departments along Lake Street.
5:45 p.m. – The grand Town Lighting Ceremony at Panoway, marking the official start of Wayzata’s holiday season.
In the spirit of giving, the event will host two special drives:
IOCP Food Drive: Bring a non-perishable food item to support families in need.
Toys for Tots Drive: Drop off a toy under the tree at Depot Park or Panoway to make a child’s holiday brighter to support the Wayzata Police Department‘s annual drive
People gather on Lake Street. Image courtesy John Magnuson.
The evening will also feature the much-anticipated Winter Medallion Hunt, which runs from November 18–22. Children ages 12 and under are invited to follow daily clues posted on Wayzata.org, WayzataChamber.com, and social media. The first family to locate the medallion earns the honor of lighting up Wayzata during the Town Lighting Ceremony.
The Parade of Lights. Image courtesy John Magnuson.
Make sure to bundle up, grab your family and friends, and head to Lake Street for an unforgettable start to the holiday season. Whether you’re sipping cider, enjoying wagon rides, or singing along with the carolers, this magical evening will surely warm your heart.
Chief Schultz and WPD appreciate “unparalleled” generosity of the community
Wayzata Police collect toys for an Annual Toys for Tots drive. Image courtesy Wayzata Police Department.
The holiday spirit will shine bright on November 29 as the Wayzata Police Department kicks off its annual Toys for Tots collection during the beloved Light Up the Lake event. This cherished community tradition blends the warmth of giving with the festive glow of holiday cheer, bringing residents together for a night to remember.
Since its inception in 1947, the Toys for Tots program, organized by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, has been delivering joy to children across the nation. With millions of toys collected each year, the initiative ensures that no child wakes up without a gift to unwrap during the holiday season. Wayzata has proudly played a part in this effort, with local police officers championing the cause and encouraging neighbors to give back.
Submitted photo.
This year, the Depot will serve as the hub for donations during Light Up the Lake. Residents are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys suitable for children and teens. Volunteers will be ready to accept donations from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., as families gather to enjoy the dazzling lights, music, and festive fun of the evening.
The highlight of the drive is the electrifying finale: a multi-department police parade featuring officers from up to 20 departments. Once the toys are collected, they’ll load their cruisers with gifts and drive to the KARE 11 Toys for Tots drop-off site, lights blazing and sirens wailing, just in time for the 5:00 p.m. newscast. It’s a spectacle that brings communities together and showcases the dedication of local law enforcement to making the season bright.
Wayzata Police Chief Marc Schulz states, “The Wayzata Police Department is proud to again be a drop site for Toy’s for Tots this upcoming holiday season. Each year, we pack several squad cars full of toys that we can bring to KARE 11. We really appreciate the unparalleled generosity of our community and look forward to another successful year of helping provide Toys for Tots!“
Submitted photo.
So, while you’re soaking in the magic of Light Up the Lake, consider making a difference by dropping off a toy or two. Together, we can ensure every child in our area has a reason to smile this holiday season.
For more information about Light Up the Lake or the Toys for Tots drive, visit the City of Wayzata’s website or follow the Wayzata Police Department on social media.
Wayzata Police Chief Marc Schultz. Image courtesy City of Wayzata.
The community is coming together to honor Police Chief Marc Schultz as he prepares to retire after decades of dedicated service. A celebration is set for Thursday, November 21st, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the community room at City Hall. The event will feature treats and an opportunity for residents, city council members, and colleagues to express their gratitude for Chief Schultz’s contributions to the community.
During a recent meeting, Wayzata City Manager Jeff Dahl emphasized the importance of this gathering, highlighting the chief’s unwavering commitment to public safety and community service. “He has served not only the city of Wayzata but also Roseville and other areas for several decades now. It’s a bittersweet moment, but we’re excited to show our appreciation for his service.”
As Chief Schultz embarks on this new chapter in his life, Dahl noted family as a top priority, particularly his Schultz’s new granddaughter. “The city of Wayzata is a little less important than his family,” Dahl stated with a warm smile, underscoring the heartfelt reasons behind his decision to retire.
The retirement party aims to celebrate not just Chief Schultz’s career but also the positive impact he has had on the Wayzata community. “We’re going to miss him, but it’s a pretty dang good excuse to say goodbye,” Dahl concluded.
Residents are encouraged to join the festivities and share their well-wishes with Chief Schultz, whose legacy of service and commitment will be fondly remembered in Wayzata.
Wayzata Beach Bash. Image used with Submitted image.
The City of Wayzata is moving forward with new regulations to streamline the process of hosting special events within city limits. During its October 22, 2024 meeting, the City Council considered the first reading of Ordinance 843, which would establish a Special Event Permit Ordinance, and the adoption of a corresponding Special Event Matrix via Resolution 45-2024. These changes aim to balance Wayzata’s vibrant event culture with community safety and efficient management.
The proposed ordinance introduces a clearer, more transparent approval process for event organizers, with tiered regulations based on the size of the event. Events with over 500 participants (Level 3) would still require City Council approval but would undergo a more streamlined process if they comply with all relevant provisions. Smaller events (Level 1 and Level 2) would have fewer bureaucratic hurdles to navigate, providing flexibility for organizers while ensuring that city resources such as police, fire, and public works are not overburdened.
The changes are part of the City’s 2024-2026 Strategic Plan, which includes goals such as diversifying revenue sources and maintaining Wayzata’s community character. One notable component of the ordinance is a proposal to introduce a per-ticket fee for non-charitable ticketed events held on public property. This fee, set at either $1 or 1% of ticket sales (whichever is greater), would help offset administrative costs and compensate for the use of public land, which might otherwise be accessible to the broader community.
The ordinance also includes a cap on the number of Level 2 and 3 events permitted in the city to manage traffic, ensure public safety, and preserve the city’s character. However, the City Manager would have the authority to recommend additional events for Council consideration if needed. Furthermore, events taking place entirely on private property without impacting parking or traffic will not require a permit.
The City Council has already discussed the draft ordinance at multiple workshops, with input from local stakeholders such as the Chamber of Commerce and event organizers like Rick Born, who coordinates several concert series in the area. The City has incorporated feedback from these discussions to refine the ordinance.
The proposed changes are expected to go into effect after a second reading and will impact events beginning in 2025.
In a pivotal decision, the Wayzata City Council has voted down a proposed moratorium on redevelopment in the R-3A zoning district, a measure intended to give city officials time to evaluate the district’s redevelopment guidelines.
The moratorium, outlined in Ordinance 842A, would have temporarily halted projects in the district, but the second reading failed to pass during Monday night’s council meeting due to opposition from two members and the absence of a third.
Council Members Jeff Parkhill and Ken Sorenson voted against the measure, expressing concerns that a temporary freeze could result in unintended consequences for residents, property owners, and developers.
They argued that the moratorium might disrupt property sales, increase fees paid to architects, and impose holding costs on property owners, creating unnecessary burdens. Without Council Member Alex Plechash in attendance, the ordinance failed to secure the three votes needed for approval.
While concerns about traffic, infrastructure, and preserving the character of Wayzata’s neighborhoods have driven the conversation, Parkhill and Sorenson noted that they believed the moratorium was too extreme.
Both council members, along with their colleagues, acknowledged that redevelopment rules in the R-3A district should be reviewed, but they disagreed with halting all projects while that review is conducted.
Adding to the complexity, the Wayzata Planning Commission is already discussing broader redevelopment concerns within the R-3A district. The City has indicated that property owners potentially affected by any future policy changes may not be limited to the area near the Bell Tennis Courts, where recent attention has focused, but could include R-3A property owners city-wide.
This development broadens the scope of the discussion, raising new questions about how potential changes to zoning regulations may impact a larger group of stakeholders in Wayzata.
While the moratorium has been halted for now, the issue of redevelopment in the R-3A district remains at the forefront of city planning discussions, with further deliberation expected in the coming weeks.
At the October 8th meeting, the Wayzata City Council voted against enacting an emergency moratorium, opting instead for a standard zoning ordinance that will impose a 90-day moratorium on new development in the R-3A district after two readings and publication–sometime in November. This decision primarily revolves around the exploration of garage placement, particularly the trend of constructing front-load garages with short driveways versus traditional back-load garages with longer driveways.
Moratorium Area. City of Wayzata.
Council member Molly Macdonald has been a key proponent of this initiative, voicing concerns about the impact of front-load garage designs on her neighborhood and the surrounding R-3A district north of Wayzata Boulevard. She emphasized the importance of examining how these design choices affect hardcover calculations, home sizes, and the overall character of the community.
While those with pending permit applications may continue with their plans, residents should note that the average building permit review process takes approximately six weeks. Consequently, a significant influx of new applications prior to the moratorium taking effect is not expected. The city plans to utilize the upcoming 90-day period to thoroughly assess zoning regulations related to garage placement and ensure that future developments align with the desired neighborhood character.
Public Input
KC Chermak voiced concerns about the moratorium. City of Wayzata.
KC Chermak, a seasoned local homebuilder and resident of Wayzata, addressed the City Council during a recent meeting to discuss the proposed moratorium on development in the community. With nearly three decades of experience in homebuilding and having worked under four different mayors and numerous council members, Schermack brought a wealth of knowledge to the discussion.
He expressed concerns that the moratorium might be a “knee-jerk reaction,” indicating that such a significant measure should be carefully considered. “If you do decide to do some sort of a moratorium, please state that you’re being very serious about it and you’re trying to send a message to people on the other side,” he urged the council.
Chermak emphasized the thorough evaluations conducted by previous city leaders, asserting, “The system has been heavily evaluated by your predecessors… and they’ve done a wonderful job.” He stressed that the current regulatory framework has been developed with the community’s best interests in mind and that changes should be based on concrete evidence of problems rather than assumptions or complaints.
Instead of halting development, Chermak advocated for a more constructive approach to improve architectural standards in the city. “We cannot mandate good architecture…, but we have plenty of rules that help us get to a good finish line,” he explained, suggesting that incentives could be offered to encourage better design and more thoughtful construction. He argued that the focus should be on fostering community engagement to identify and solve potential issues rather than resorting to a moratorium, which he felt could be counterproductive. “If there is [a problem], let’s find it… not just the stopgap that really doesn’t… solve anything,” he stated, urging the council to explore long-term solutions that would benefit the community.
Chermak concluded by expressing his commitment to improving the city and his pride in being part of the Wayzata community. He encouraged the council to consider alternative methods that would engage the community and enhance the overall living experience in the area. “I just want you to hopefully take what I’m saying to heart… I believe there’s other ways to get an outcome that would be much more appealing and come across much more engaged with the community,” he remarked.
Council Discussion
Ken Sorensen had reservations. City of Wayzata.
Council member Ken Sorensen voiced a cautious stance during the discussion of the proposed moratorium on redevelopment in the R-3A district. After personally touring the affected neighborhood, he acknowledged the contrasting appearances between new and older homes and the importance of preserving neighborhood character. However, he expressed concerns over the severity of the proposed action. “I’m very supportive of the study that we’re doing… but it does seem reactive,” he remarked, hinting that a moratorium might be an extreme measure to address the issue.
Sorensen questioned whether an emergency moratorium was necessary, pointing out that the neighborhood’s development trends are not new. “The declaration in front of us states that there is an immediate pressing and emergency need to impose a moratorium. I’m not sure I agree with that,” he said, casting doubt on whether the issue truly warranted halting all development.
He also highlighted the potential unintended consequences of freezing development, such as financial impacts on residents and property investors. “If you made an investment to purchase one of these properties, sell one of these properties, invest in one of these properties… the monthly load on that is pretty significant,” he stated. Ultimately, he expressed reservations about supporting the moratorium, citing the possibility of broader, unintended impacts and the optics of singling out one neighborhood for such a drastic measure. “It feels a little heavy-handed to me,” Swanson concluded.
Alex Plechash supported the moratorium. City of Wayzata.
Council member Alex Plechash expressed strong support for the proposed moratorium, emphasizing the broader impact of new developments on surrounding neighbors. He pointed out that while developers may build and move on to their next project, the effects of those developments remain long-term for the neighborhood. “When a home is put there that is dramatically different than the other homes surrounding it, it changes the character of the neighborhood,” the council member stated, underscoring the ripple effect that a single development can have on the community.
Reflecting on past decisions, Plechash admitted that while zoning regulations were originally put in place with good intentions, unforeseen consequences have emerged over time, particularly in more compact areas. “I think we have made mistakes in the past, unintentional,” he acknowledged, noting that those mistakes have now played out and highlighted the need for reassessment.
Despite a general aversion to moratoriums, Plechash saw this as an opportunity to prevent further harm, explaining, “As much as I hate moratoriums, in this case, I would be in favor of it because I think we could stop a wrong before it happens.” He recommended the moratorium take effect immediately, while offering a small concession to a developer who had a pending permit, suggesting the moratorium begin at the close of business the following day to give the developer a chance to finalize their paperwork. In their view, 90 days was a reasonable period to sort out the issues, particularly with winter approaching, which would naturally slow development activities. He concluded by expressing full support for the moratorium as a necessary step to protect the character of the neighborhood while the city reconsiders its zoning regulations.
Molly MacDonald supported the moratorium. City of Wayzata.
Council member Molly MacDonald emphasized that the push for the moratorium is rooted in real concerns, stating, “This issue and these ideas haven’t come from nowhere.” MacDonald highlighted the significant changes in their neighborhood, noting that 17 homes have been torn down in the last five years, prompting a deeper examination of community impacts. She acknowledged the need to balance the rights of property owners with the experiences of current residents who are witnessing substantial alterations to their surroundings.
MacDonald expressed a desire to look at the building code more holistically, suggesting it might be too restrictive and could encourage less desirable types of construction. “I want to look at it and say, okay, we made these determinations in ’08… so that’s not that recent,” she stated, advocating for a review of zoning regulations that could foster better architectural outcomes. She concluded by expressing optimism that the 90-day moratorium would serve as a catalyst for discussions on improving the building code to benefit both developers and the community.
Mayor Johana Mouton supported the moratorium. City of Wayzata.
MayorJohanna Mouton reflected on her long-term experience in the neighborhood, stating, “I too have seen just a staggering amount of change.” She noted that while lot sizes remain the same, the desires of homeowners have evolved significantly over the years, leading to a need for a reassessment of zoning regulations.
Expressing support for the moratorium, they acknowledged the financial implications for homeowners looking to build new homes, saying, “I’m very sympathetic to that.” Mayor Mouton emphasized that the goal of the moratorium is not merely to impose restrictions but to explore various solutions, including potential accommodations like water credits and permeable pavers, while striking a balance between being restrictive in some areas and less so in others. She concluded by noting that the 90-day period would allow the council to assess whether they are moving in the right direction.
Construction on the step downs for the Lakewalk have begun. Image Copyright Dan Gustafson / Wayzata.com all rights reserved.
Work has officially begun on the eagerly awaited step-down elements of the PanowayLakewalk, signaling a key milestone in the effort to improve this popular lakeside spot.
Construction on the step downs for the Lakewalk have begun. Image Copyright Dan Gustafson / Wayzata.com all rights reserved.
As the work progresses, portions of the boardwalk will need to be temporarily closed to allow access to the underside of the structure. While this may cause brief inconveniences for those enjoying the lakewalk, the City will have safety measures in place and assures the community that the closure will be carefully managed.
Construction on the step downs for the Lakewalk have begun. Image Copyright Dan Gustafson / Wayzata.com all rights reserved.
The stepdown installation is expected to wrap up by the end of October, just in time for locals to enjoy the fall views along the revitalized boardwalk.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly during this construction phase and to keep an eye on updates from the City for further developments.
The proposed moratorium is in the central part of the City of Wayzata. Image courtesy City of Wayzata.
The Wayzata City Council is set to vote on a proposed ordinance that would impose a 90-day moratorium on new development in a portion of the city’s R-3A zoning district. The temporary ban, outlined in Ordinance 842, would pause all building, demolition, and additions within the district to allow the city time to study potential amendments to its zoning regulations.
The moratorium, which will be voted on at the City Council meeting on October 8, affects an area north of Wayzata Boulevard, east of Barry Avenue, south of Highway 12, and west of Gleason Creek. According to city planners, the district has seen an increase in single-family home tear-downs and rebuilds, which make up 31% of such projects in Wayzata since 2019. The concern is that new developments in this area are altering the neighborhood’s character, with larger homes being built on smaller lots and shorter setbacks, creating an incongruous look that some residents find disruptive.
“The moratorium is intended to give staff the ability to study methods to address concerns around neighborhood character, without additional pressure from a rapid rate of single-family home tear-downs during this time,” stated Assistant Planner Valerie Quarles in an agenda report.
If passed, the ordinance will take effect immediately with a supermajority vote (four out of five council members). A simple majority would delay the moratorium’s start until the next council meeting.
The council’s decision to consider the moratorium follows a workshop held in September, where concerns about the neighborhood’s changing character were raised. During the moratorium, city staff will prioritize possible amendments to zoning rules and work with the Planning Commission to explore solutions.
The temporary ban is not without financial implications. A decrease in building permit revenue is expected as the moratorium halts development activities, but city officials emphasize that preserving neighborhood character is a priority.
The public will be notified of any future zoning amendments, with a public hearing to be scheduled before any permanent changes are enacted.
Mark your calendars, folks! This coming Monday, October 7, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., the City of Wayzata is throwing open the doors to City Hall for an event that’s sure to ignite community spirit. The Wayzata Showcase, formerly known as Public Safety Day, will feature a little bit of everything—from thrilling fire demonstrations to hot dogs on the grill.
The event will take place right outside City Hall, located at 600 Rice Street E, and promises something for everyone and is hosted by the Wayzata Police and Fire Departments. Whether you’re looking to learn about fire safety or just want to see the kids’ faces light up with some bounce house fun, you won’t be disappointed. In fact, the whole family can get in on the action with face painting, K9 demonstrations, and of course, a chance to get up close with the fire trucks, squad cars, and public works equipment at the always-popular “Touch-a-Truck” display.
Wayzata Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich is especially excited about this year’s showcase, saying the goal is to bring neighbors together while also educating the community about fire safety.
Wayzata Fire Department. Copywright Wayzata.com Reuse without consent prohibted.
Before the excitement kicks off, MayorJohanna Mouton will deliver a brief message to attendees, setting the tone for the evening and highlighting the importance of public safety in Wayzata.
So, bring the kids, grab a bite, and check out the firefighters in action as they put on a fire demonstration that’s sure to be a hit. It’s not just an event; it’s a way for the city to come together, meet the public safety teams, and celebrate what makes Wayzata such a special place.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, the Wayzata Showcase is a can’t-miss opportunity to connect with your neighbors and learn more about how the city works to protect and serve its community.
On the shores of Lake Minnetonka and Wayzata Bay, the Section Foreman House stands as a quiet reminder of the town’s rich railroad history. Built in 1902, the house served as the residence for the railroad’s section foreman, whose job was to maintain the tracks that once powered Wayzata’s growth. From this humble home, the foreman and his crew would oversee inspections and repairs, ensuring that the trains connecting Wayzata to the wider world ran smoothly.
Now, this historic structure has been added to National Registry of Historic Places, and is set to be revitalized as part of Phase 3 of the Panoway Project which is a multi-year effort to enhance Wayzata’s waterfront. The upcoming renovation aims to preserve the house as a symbol of Wayzata’s industrial heritage, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its role in shaping the town. The Section Foreman House will continue to stand watch over Wayzata Bay, linking the past with the future.
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