WAYZATA — Mike Kelly has agreed to a verbal offer from the City of Wayzata to serve as interim City Manager, according to Mayor Andrew Mullin. The City Council will meet in a special open session on Tuesday, July 8 at 5:30 p.m. to formalize the agreement by resolution.
While the vote is considered a formality, it is a necessary step to ratify the appointment. If approved as expected, Kelly is anticipated to begin his duties as interim City Manager once outgoing City Manager Jeff Dahl officially departs for his new position in Woodbury.
Kelly’s interim appointment comes during a period of transition at City Hall. In addition to Dahl’s departure, Deputy City Manager Aurora Yager is currently out on maternity leave, underscoring the need for experienced interim leadership.
The special meeting will be held at Wayzata City Hall and is open to the public.
Stay with Wayzata.com for updates on this developing story.
Wayzata is entering a carefully managed leadership transition as City Manager Jeff Dahl prepares to step down this summer. Deputy City Manager Aurora Yager is on maternity leave through early fall, and Public Works Director Mike Kelly has been offered the interim title to guide city operations in the meantime.
Mayor Andrew Mullin confirmed the offer on Wednesday. “The offer was made last night verbally and will go to an email this morning,” he told Wayzata.com. “We will know by end of day Thursday. So a formal offer’s been made. He’s noodling it, and we continue to interview outside candidates as an alternative.”
Mike Kelly: A Steady Hand in Public Works
Kelly has served as Wayzata’s Director of Public Works since 2015 and has worked for the city since 2003. A licensed professional engineer with a civil engineering degree from the University of Minnesota, Kelly has managed street improvement projects, utility systems, water and sewer infrastructure, snow removal operations, and capital project planning.
His two decades in municipal engineering and city operations make him a trusted internal candidate to maintain continuity during the transition.
Aurora Yager: Thoughtful Leadership and Proven Experience
Deputy City Manager Aurora Yager began her maternity leave on June 30 and is expected to return in October to resume her current role. She is also expected to take on the interim City Manager title at that time, depending on how the City’s executive search progresses.
Deputy City Manager Aurora Yager
Yager, who has been with the City of Wayzata since 2018, brings a comprehensive background in city management, strategic planning, and civic engagement. Prior to her current role, she served Assistant City Administrator for the City of Howard Lake and has experience in finance, communications, HR, and community development. She holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Kansas and a Bachelor Degree in Social Work also from the University of Kansas.
“I’ve shared with the Council that I am interested in the role but that I can’t commit to a yes or no answer until I come back from maternity leave,” Yager told Wayzata.com. “I want to be sure that I’m carefully balancing my new personal responsibilities… I’d rather take my time and be thoughtful about it.”
A Deliberate Transition
With Yager expected to return in the fall and Kelly now considering a short-term interim role, Wayzata’s transition plan is unfolding with a blend of stability and long-range thinking. The City Council continues to consider both internal and external candidates for the permanent City Manager role.
In the coming weeks, decisions made behind the scenes at City Hall will shape Wayzata’s leadership well into the next chapter—balancing institutional knowledge, professional expertise, and thoughtful timing.
Wayzata, MN — After more than nine years at the helm of Wayzata city administration, City Manager Jeffrey Dahl will step down from his role next month. Dahl has accepted a position as City Administrator for Woodbury, one of Minnesota’s fastest-growing communities. His last day in Wayzata is scheduled for July 17, 2025.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to Jeff for his exemplary service to the City of Wayzata,” said Mayor Andrew Mullin. “He has been an invaluable asset to our community, and we wish him all the best in his new role with the City of Woodbury.”
Dahl’s move to Woodbury marks a full-circle moment in his career. He began his work in public service with a Community Development internship in Woodbury back in 2005. Now, two decades later, he returns to lead the city where he first got his start.
“It’s bittersweet to think about leaving this community,” Dahl said in a written statement. “While I am excited and grateful for this new opportunity in Woodbury, I will miss the Wayzata community dearly. I have been blessed, privileged, and honored to lead and serve with such amazing people who care so much. Even through the ups and downs of a rapidly evolving community, I cherish every Mayor and Council Member, every staff member, and all community members that I have worked with over the past 9+ years. It’s been a joy.”
During Dahl’s tenure, Wayzata navigated complex developments, implemented major infrastructure projects like the Panoway on Wayzata Bay, and balanced growth with the city’s character and charm.
The City Council will meet soon to outline the process for naming an interim manager and selecting a permanent successor. A more detailed timeline is expected to be addressed at the Council’s July 1 meeting.
For now, the city prepares to bid farewell to a civic leader who played a pivotal role in guiding Wayzata through a transformative chapter.
WOODBURY, Minn. — The Woodbury City Council has selected Jeffrey Dahl as its next City Administrator, concluding a nationwide search led by executive search firm Baker Tilly.
Dahl, who currently serves as City Manager for Wayzata, was chosen following a comprehensive interview process with council members, city staff, and community stakeholders in late May. His appointment is set to be finalized with City Council approval of his contract on June 11. He is scheduled to begin his new role on July 28.
“I’m excited to welcome Jeffrey to the City of Woodbury team!” said Mayor Anne Burt. “We had an incredibly talented pool of applicants, and Jeffrey impressed us all with his experience, his passion for public service, and his approach to the job.”
A resident of Woodbury for nearly a decade, Dahl brings 20 years of experience in local government. His career began with an internship in Woodbury’s Community Development Department in 2005. Since then, he has held leadership roles in several metro-area cities, including Assistant City Administrator and Economic Development Director for Chaska, and City Administrator for Osseo, before taking the helm in Wayzata in 2016.
“As a resident of Woodbury and former Community Development team member with the city, Jeffrey knows Woodbury well,” said Burt. “He is a strategic thinker with the ability to connect well with others and will be an asset to our community in this new role.”
Dahl holds both a master’s degree in Political Science with an emphasis in Urban Studies and Planning and a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.
“I am so grateful for the opportunity to work for such a strong organization in the city I call home,” said Dahl. “The City of Woodbury has great staff who care about the community and offer excellent service and connection to the residents. I look forward to working with staff and the City Council to build upon this commitment to be a premier community where everyone can live, work, and thrive.”
Dahl lives in Woodbury with his wife Christine, stepdaughter Camila, and son Jack.
Reached for comment by Wayzata.com following the announcement, Dahl said, “I don’t have any additional comments now,” but indicated he would be happy to share more after next week—implying he plans to speak further once the Woodbury City Council formally approves his contract on June 11.
He will succeed Clint Gridley, who is retiring on June 6 after serving as Woodbury’s City Administrator for 21 years.
WAYZATA — In a wide-ranging May workshop, the Wayzata City Council discussed long-term staffing needs, reviewed a proposed City Operations Resilience Plan, and weighed potential changes to the city’s tree ordinance in response to concerns raised by Woodhill Country Club. While no formal votes were taken, the meeting offered clear direction on key budget and policy issues likely to shape upcoming decisions.
Staffing Requests Reflect Public Safety Priorities
The evening began with a presentation on long-term staffing needs as part of the city’s 2026 budget planning process. City Manager Jeff Dahl and department leaders outlined three positions under consideration: a full-time fire chief (2026), an additional police officer (2026), and an IT position (2027).
Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich described the evolving demands of leading a modern fire department, explaining that although his role is officially part-time, he routinely works 25–30 hours a week managing inspections, equipment maintenance, training, and public education. “There’s just so much more going on now,” Klapprich said, noting that outdated policies and pre-planning gaps hindered emergency response in some recent cases.
Council members debated whether to explore a shared service model with neighboring communities or move forward with creating a standalone full-time chief position. While open to future regional collaboration, the Council broadly supported the need for dedicated leadership and succession planning.
Interim Police Chief Jamie Baker presented a case for expanding the department’s authorized staffing by one officer to retain high-performing Community Service Officers (CSOs). Given the 8–10 month timeline to fully onboard and train a new officer, Baker argued that keeping top CSO talent in-house was a smart investment. The proposal would allow the city to hire up one position in anticipation of vacancies, rather than reacting after a departure.
The Council showed general support for the strategy, with some members emphasizing the importance of linking new positions to operational impact, such as expanded patrol coverage or improved service continuity.
Energy & Environment Committee Presents Resilience Plan
The Council then reviewed a draft City Operations Resilience Plan, developed by the Energy & Environment Committee in partnership with consultants from LHB and funded by a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency grant.
The plan outlines how city operations—from vehicle fleets to water treatment—can adapt to environmental and infrastructure pressures tied to climate change, aging systems, and resident growth. A greenhouse gas inventory showed increased emissions tied largely to water usage, while also pointing to improvements in energy efficiency elsewhere.
“This is about using data to guide smart infrastructure decisions,” said committee member KC Chermak. “It’s not prescriptive, but it provides a framework for future choices.”
Mayor Andrew Mullin expressed appreciation for the work, but emphasized the need to prioritize cost-effective, actionable items and better understand resident appetite for sustainability spending. “Most people support the idea of resilience,” he stated, “but we need to understand what they’re willing to fund.”
The resilience plan will come before the Council in June for approval to meet grant closure requirements. Final adoption will not commit the city to specific actions, but will serve as a strategic tool for future decision-making.
Woodhill Country Club Requests Exemption from Tree Ordinance
The final topic centered on Woodhill Country Club’s request for relief from the city’s strict tree preservation ordinance. As the club prepares for a major course restoration, representatives said the current policy—crafted with residential development in mind—creates unintended burdens for large landowners like golf courses.
General Manager Brian Edmiston described how Woodhill’s 72-acre property contains more than 5,000 trees and detailed safety concerns with aging specimens that overhang practice areas. In some cases, trees deemed unsafe by the club’s certified arborist could not be removed under city policy due to low “occupancy” calculations on golf grounds.
“This ordinance was not written with properties like ours in mind,” Edmiston said. “We’re trying to manage green space responsibly, but the administrative and financial hurdles are substantial.”
Council members agreed that the ordinance, while effective at curbing overdevelopment, did not anticipate institutions managing large tracts of land for recreation or education. The consensus was to direct staff to draft a proposed exemption for golf courses, with broader consideration of institutional landholders—such as schools or utility providers—to follow as part of a larger policy review.
Next Steps: Budget, Policy, and Strategic Planning
The Council concluded the workshop by agreeing to revisit the city’s subdivision code in a future session, citing a need for more flexibility in current regulations.
Each of the evening’s three main topics will return to the Council in some form—through budget discussions, formal ordinance proposals, or strategic planning workshops.
“We’ve got important decisions ahead,” said Mayor Andrew Mullin. “This was a great step forward in clarifying where we are and where we need to go.”
WOODBURY, Minn. — Jeff Dahl, City Manager of Wayzata since 2016, is one of five finalists for the City Administrator position in Woodbury.
Jeff Dahl. Image courtesy City of Wayzata.
The City of Woodbury is conducting a national search to replace Clint Gridley, who is set to retire on June 6 after more than two decades of service. Finalists will take part in interviews with the City Council, staff, and community stakeholders later this month.
Jeff Dahl acknowledged the announcement in a brief statement to Wayzata.com, saying, “I’m honored to be a finalist and consider this career opportunity but also continue to be grateful to have the privilege to serve our Council, staff, and community.”
Dahl brings nearly two decades of experience in city government. He began his municipal career in 2005 as a community development intern for the City of Woodbury. He later served in Osseo and Chaska before being appointed Wayzata’s City Manager, where he also acts as executive director of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority.
Woodbury, with nearly 80,000 residents, is the eighth-largest city in Minnesota and widely regarded for its high-quality services and managed growth. The administrator role carries a posted salary range of $220,000 to $260,000, depending on qualifications.
City Manager Jeff Dahl, Interim Police Chief Jamie Baker, Community Development Director Alex Sharp, Councilmember Molly MacDonald, Public Works Director Mike Kelly, Councilmember Ken Sorensen, Mayor Andrew Mullin, and Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich.
WAYZATA — Residents of the central core gathered at The Wayzata Depot on Monday evening for a public listening session led by MayorAndrew Mullin, City Manager Jeff Dahl, and members of the Wayzata City Council and staff. The event aimed to deepen community engagement and foster direct dialogue on key city priorities, including revenue diversification, public safety, and lakefront improvements.
“Our brand new mayor has made engagement a top priority,” said City Manager Jeff Dahl in his opening remarks. “Events like this show how seriously our elected officials take that responsibility.”
Among those present were longtime Councilmember Molly MacDonald, owner of Highcroft on Lake Street, and Councilmember Ken Sorensen, the council’s newest member, who brings a background in development.
Dahl also introduced key city staff, including Interim Police Chief Jamie Baker, Deputy City Manager Aurora Yager, Community Development Director Alex Sharp, Public Works Director and City Engineer Mike Kelly, Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich—who was recognized for over 46 years of service—and Communications Coordinator Liv Marandino.
The city’s legislative priorities took center stage as Dahl outlined plans for a local option sales tax and a potential food and beverage tax to reduce dependency on property taxes. “We’re working to capture some of the revenue generated by visitors to help offset the cost of police, public works, and keeping our city safe and clean,” said Dahl. He noted that state approval would be required and that upcoming engagement sessions will be held next week to gather feedback from residents and business owners.
Other discussion topics included updates to Wayzata’s short-term rental ordinance, with the city now exploring additional regulations following concerns about neighborhood disruption.
On the Panoway front, Dahl provided an update on the lake walk, noting that redesigned dock bumpers will be piloted in coming weeks to better protect boats. He also announced that long-anticipated step-down platforms—allowing public access to the lake—will be installed shortly.
City Manager Jeff Dahl shared an encouraging update on the Section Foreman House restoration, describing it as “the most shovel-ready project we have.” According to Dahl, all design work is complete, and a significant portion of the necessary funding has already been secured. The city is currently awaiting additional private contributions or the approval of a state bonding bill to move forward. Once finalized, the long-anticipated project would restore the historic lakefront structure as a public asset, reinforcing Wayzata’s commitment to preservation and placemaking.
Public Safety
Interim Police Chief Jamie Baker concluded the session by addressing seasonal public safety concerns as summer activity ramps up in Wayzata.
Interim Police Chief Jamie Baker addressed current staffing levels, enforcement priorities, and ongoing public safety efforts as Wayzata enters the busy summer season.
“I’m Jamie Baker, the Interim Police Chief for the City of Wayzata,” she said. “I’ve been with the department for about three years and bring 21 years of prior law enforcement experience.”
Baker reported that the department currently has 15 sworn officers, with a full complement of 18 positions. “Due to recent retirements—including our former chief and a sergeant—we’re temporarily below full strength, but we’re actively working to fill those roles,” she said. “That includes the hiring of a new sergeant and a permanent Police Chief.”
Join the Wayzata Police Department: Now Hiring Officers
In addition, the city is onboarding three new Community Service Officers (CSOs), with training expected to be completed by early summer.
Baker emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining safety. “While our officers are committed and responsive, they can’t be everywhere at once,” she said. “We rely on residents to be our eyes and ears. If there are recurring issues, especially in specific locations, please call us with details like dates and times. That makes all the difference in how effectively we can respond.”
A growing concern across the metro, she noted, is the misuse of electric bikes and scooters—particularly among juveniles. “We’re not alone in this,” she said. “Every agency in the area is dealing with it. That’s why we’re drafting a citywide ordinance tailored to e-bikes and e-scooters. It’s critical we get the language right so we can enforce it properly.”
Chief Baker also reminded residents to call 911—not the city’s non-emergency number or email—for anything that seems suspicious or requires a timely response. “It might seem unusual, but the same dispatchers answer both lines,” she explained. “911 ensures your concern is prioritized and acted on immediately. Emails, on the other hand, are not monitored in real time.”
She closed with an update on a new security feature coming to the Mill Street parking ramp. “For those who live above the ramp, you’ve likely noticed some late-night activity over the years. We’ve approved and ordered a security gate to limit access after hours. It should be installed within the next month.”
City Engineer on Infrastructure
City Engineer Mike Kelly provided a brief update on key infrastructure projects underway in Wayzata this season, most of which are focused on maintenance. “Most of what we’re doing this year involves mill and overlay work—removing the surface layer of the street and repaving it,” Kelly explained.
One active project includes a water main replacement and resurfacing in the East Neighborhood—specifically on Hampton Street, LaSalle Street, Wise Avenue, and Central Avenue. Broadway Avenue, north of Wayzata Boulevard, is also undergoing improvements. “If you experienced delays last week, it was related to that intersection project and the installation of a new traffic signal,” he noted, estimating completion in about three weeks.
Looking ahead, Kelly flagged a major Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) project scheduled for next year: resurfacing Highway 12 from I-494. “There will be delays, and we want residents to be aware that it will impact travel through the area,” he said.
Quality of Life Issues Addressed by Mayor Mullin
Mayor Andrew Mullin took the mic to thank residents for showing up. “It’s encouraging to see so many people here,” he said. “We’ve heard that formal community meetings can feel intimidating, so we’re trying new formats like this one—and others across neighborhoods—to make it easier for residents to speak up.”
Mullin also highlighted his informal monthly meetups at Wayzata Bar & Grill. “On the second Monday of each month, I’ll be there for anyone who wants to talk—whether over a beer or water,” he said.
Mullin addressed the community’s growing frustration with traffic, noise, public disturbances, and late-night behavior. “We’re hearing you loud and clear,” he said. “More people bring more problems, and we’re taking it seriously.” He pointed to new investments in police staffing, including increased patrols, community service officers on foot and bike, and even a reserve officer scheduled to start this summer. “He’s actually a urologist by profession, and he’ll be helping report issues while biking the city,” Mullin added.
In addition to increased staffing, the city has raised fines for various ordinance violations. “Exhibition driving, public drinking, noise—if you get cited twice for something like exhibition driving, it’s now a mandatory court appearance and a $1,000 fine,” Mullin said. “We’re sending a clear message that we will not tolerate behavior that degrades quality of life in Wayzata.”
Mullin concluded with a candid acknowledgment: “I’m not going to pretend we’ve solved it all. But we’re taking specific, meaningful steps to address your concerns.”
Public Engagement and Resident Feedback
Following city updates, the evening transitioned into an open forum where residents had the opportunity to ask questions and share concerns directly with city staff and councilmembers. Community members raised a range of issues—many focused on livability, enforcement, and neighborhood integrity. Councilmembers Molly MacDonald and Ken Sorensen remained on hand to field questions, while staff members provided clarification on policies, ongoing projects, and next steps.
Following city updates, the evening transitioned into an open forum where residents had the opportunity to ask questions and share concerns directly with city staff and councilmembers. Community members raised a range of issues—many focused on livability, enforcement, and neighborhood integrity. Councilmembers Molly MacDonald and Ken Sorensen remained on hand to field questions, while staff members provided clarification on policies, ongoing projects, and next steps.
City leaders reiterated their commitment to transparency and responsiveness. Residents were encouraged to attend upcoming meetings, submit feedback through official channels, and continue participating in the city’s evolving engagement efforts.
The City of Wayzata formally presented its request to the Minnesota House Capital Investment Committee this week, seeking nearly $15 million in state bonding support to complete the final phase of its transformative Panoway project along Lake Minnetonka’s shoreline.
Council Member Ken Sorensen, State Representative Patty Acomb, and City Manager Jeffrey Dahl. Submitted photo.
Council Member Ken Sorensen, City Manager Jeffrey Dahl, and Wayzata’s State Representative Patty Acomb testified before the Minnesota House Capital Investment Committee at the State Capitol, advocating for the city’s $15 million bonding request to fund future park improvements and the design of a new public safety facility.
Wide Range of Lakefront Improvements
House File 1064, authored by Rep. Patty Acomb (DFL–Minnetonka), outlines the appropriation of $14,915,000 in bond proceeds to fund a wide range of lakefront improvements. These include the construction of a new eco park, the restoration and preservation of the historic Section Foreman House and Wayzata Depot, shoreline stabilization, upgrades to Wayzata Beach and Klapprich Park, and the design of a future public safety facility.
Wayzata City Manager Jeffrey Dahl testified at the hearing and emphasized the regional impact of the project, noting that much of the foot traffic and recreational use in Wayzata’s parks and trails comes from visitors outside city limits.
Regional Need According to City
“We were asking the state for funds because a significant majority of the folks that are using our parks and community spaces are from outside the city,” said Dahl in an interview via telephone the day after. “We think it really meets the test of being a regional need.”
The Panoway on Wayzata Bay—a multi-phase initiative to reclaim and enhance the city’s historic lakefront—has already transformed how residents and visitors interact with the shoreline. The initial phases of the project included the reimagining of Lake Street into a pedestrian-friendly promenade, improved parkland access, and ecological restoration efforts. This final phase, officials say, is essential for completing the city’s long-term vision for public access, sustainability, and safety.
“The city summarized its bonding request of $15 million to enhance the lakefront—essentially the remaining phases of the Panoway and Wayzata Bay park improvements,” Dahl added. “That includes funding for parking, improvements at Klapprich Park and Shaver Park, which are all projects within our capital improvement plan.”
James J. Hill vs Wayzata
The city’s efforts to restore public access to its shoreline are rooted in a century-old conflict. In the 1890s, railroad magnate James J. Hill rerouted his Great Northern Railway tracks along Wayzata’s lakefront, severing the town’s connection to the water and igniting a decades-long battle over public access.
Image courtesy Wayzata Historical Society.
At one point, Hill moved the town’s depot a mile east, famously saying, “Let them walk a mile for the next twenty years.” Generations later, the completion of the Panoway—including the recently finished lakewalk—has reversed that legacy. Wayzata’s lakefront is now a welcoming public space once again, where residents and visitors can stroll the shoreline, connect with the water, and reflect on how far the town has come.
Public Safety Building Future Needs
While the future public safety facility is still years away, the city is seeking support for design costs now, hoping to remain proactive as infrastructure demands evolve.
If approved by the Legislature, the funds would be granted through the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and used to complete the city’s downtown lakefront restoration effort.
The bonding request builds upon a prior allocation received during the 2020 Special Session, further cementing the Panoway project as one of the state’s most significant small-town lakefront redevelopments.
A decision on whether the project will be included in this year’s bonding bill is expected later this session.
City Manager Jeff Dahl and Mayor Andrew Mullin at the first ever Wayzata Business Council.
Wayzata has long been a destination city, attracting visitors with its thriving restaurant scene, lakeside charm, and business-friendly environment. But as the community grows, so do the demands on public services, infrastructure, and public safety.
At the first-ever Wayzata Business Council meeting on March 20, 2025, City Manager Jeff Dahl and Mayor Andrew Mullin addressed local business leaders, outlining the city’s economic trajectory, current development projects, and the financial challenges that come with success. The event was hosted by the Wayzata West Metro Chamber of Commerce, although membership was not required for attendance.
Development and the Evolving Landscape of Wayzata
City Manager Jeff Dahl provided an overview of key developments shaping Wayzata’s business district. From long-anticipated projects breaking ground to pending proposals, he underscored the impact of ongoing growth.
In discussing the Promenade commercial space, Dahl stated, “We expect some of those vacancies to fill up,” highlighting the progress on long-vacant spaces.
Dahl also briefly summarized key developments underway in Wayzata:
Wells Fargo Redevelopment – A transformative project adding 70 residential units, including townhomes and apartments along Superior Boulevard.
201 Lake Street – A 30-unit condo development replacing the old Coldwell Banker Burnet building, led by developer Lowell Zitzloff.
Moments of Wayzata – A modern senior living facility set to replace Meridian Manor, addressing the need for updated housing options for older residents.
Lamborghini Dealership – A major proposal at Wayzata Boulevard and Central Avenue, replacing a long-abandoned gas station with a high-end showroom.
Dahl emphasized that while new developments enhance Wayzata’s vibrancy, they also place increased demand on public works, police presence, and infrastructure maintenance.
“We’ve got Panoway, we’ve got successful business development happneing, a lot of new restaurants, and a lot of people with the pandemic and unrest in the central cities. We have seen a shift of activity from Minneapolis to other area like Wayzata. We are popular, and people want to be here,” he explained.
“It’s not without a cost, because of the activity, our public works crews are out more often cleaning.” To manage these growing demands, city leaders have been forced to examine new revenue streams—one of which may be a local food and beverage sales tax.
The Financial Reality: Rising Costs & Tax Pressures
Mayor Andrew Mullin took the stage to provide historical context on Wayzata’s financial challenges that began in 2008.
Mullin reflected on his 17 years in and out of local politics, recalling how the city deliberately sought to attract independent restaurants and create a welcoming environment for visitors.
Mullin stated, “…the two things we focused on to revitalize downtown were the Panoway project, which started as a small initiative, and attracting independently owned restaurants by making it easy for them to set up here, open their doors, and create inviting spaces with beautiful patios and great food.”
That strategy has undeniably succeeded, but it has also led to rising costs in maintaining public safety and infrastructure.
With property tax levies up 40% over the past four years, commercial property owners—who pass these costs on to tenants—are feeling the squeeze.
Mullin addressed how the increasing need for public safety funding has grown, “…the current trend in generating revenue to fund police services is not sustainable.”
Why a Sales Tax?
To help alleviate this financial strain, Wayzata is considering a food and beverage sales tax, which would capture revenue from visitors rather than solely taxing property owners and businesses.
Mullin acknowledged concerns but pointed to Excelsior’s existing local area sales tax as an example, noting that it has not deterred customers or hurt businesses there.
The mayor used his own property assessment to highlight the issue, noting that under the proposed food and beverage tax, he would need to spend $30,000 in downtown Wayzata to match his annual and recurring $144 property tax increase.
“For context, at a half percent, $100 is fifty cents… and for a $10,000 wedding bill, it’s fifty dollars,” he said. “So we don’t think it’s significant pass-through to the person visiting or buying food and beverage in Wayzata.”
Mullin also clarified that the city cannot impose this tax at this time, “We currently have no ability to implement it. The legislature will not allow any city to impose a sales tax on its own at this time, and we don’t yet know how it will unfold.”
While the plan is not yet approved, Wayzata leaders are actively engaging businesses to gather input before moving forward.
Next Steps & Business Input
Mullin made it clear that city leadership wants to hear from business owners before taking any further action.
“We owe it to you to hear your concerns,” he told the crowd. “If 6Smith and the Hotel Landing and Red Cow and CoV and who else is here in the food and beverage [industry]… if I don’t hear from you, I’m going to be disappointed.” He also indicated he has reached out personally to each restaurant in town.
With additional town halls and business forums planned, Wayzata officials aim to ensure that any revenue solution benefits both the city and its business community—without placing an undue burden on the very entrepreneurs who have made Wayzata a success.
Wayzata residents are invited to join MayorAndrew Mullin for his first State of the City Address on Tuesday, February 25th, at 5:00 p.m. at Wayzata City Hall. During the event, Mayor Mullin will provide updates on the city’s current status and outline plans for its future growth and development.
“Join me for my first State of the City Address on Tuesday, February 25th, at 5:00 p.m. at Wayzata City Hall. I’ll share insights into the current status of Wayzata and where we are headed. The program will be available online and on WCTV following the event,” Mullin stated in a social media post.
The program will be available online and on WCTV following the event. Prior to the address, attendees can meet the new mayor informally at a casual meet-and-greet from 4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
After the program, a Q&A session with City Manager Jeff Dahl will provide an opportunity for residents to ask questions and engage in discussion. Light refreshments will be provided.
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