WAYZATA — Hundreds of residents gathered outside Wayzata City Hall on Monday evening for the annual City of Wayzata Showcase, a lively community event celebrating the city’s departments, public safety teams, and local services.
Held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at 600 Lake Street East, the event transformed the City Hall and public works campus into a festival-like atmosphere. Children laughed and played in the bounce house, lined up for face painting, and watched fire demonstrations, while families enjoyed hot dogs, giveaways, and K9 demonstrations. The popular Touch-a-Truckdisplay gave kids the chance to climb aboard everything from fire engines and squad cars to snowplows and excavators.
The Wayzata Police Department, Wayzata Fire Department, and Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office were all on hand, giving the public a chance to meet officers, explore emergency vehicles, and learn more about their roles in keeping the community safe. The parking lot was filled with public safety vehicles, their lights flashing in the autumn dusk as families moved from display to display.
Formerly known as Public Safety Day, the annual showcase has grown into a citywide open house that highlights the teamwork between departments and encourages residents to engage with the people who serve their community every day.
As the sun set over Lake Minnetonka, the final fire demonstration lit up the evening sky — a fitting close to an event that blended fun, education, and hometown pride in classic Wayzata fashion.
The Wayzata Fire Department welcomed three new firefighters — James Botham, Mickey Leius, and Cooper Rasmus — during a swearing-in ceremony at the October 7, 2025, City Council meeting. Their appointments bring the department’s active roster to 27 of 30 authorized positions.
Cooper Rasmus, Mickey Leius, and James Botham.
Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich introduced each recruit as Interim City Manager Mike Kelly administered the oath of office.
James Botham
A second-generation Wayzata firefighter, Botham grew up around the station watching his father, Brian Botham, serve more than 35 years with the department. He first joined the ranks in 2008 after high school and returned in 2023 “with a renewed sense of purpose and passion for the fire service.”
Botham resides in Wayzata with his girlfriend Sarah, their puppy Amber, and cat Finch. He is actively working toward a full-time fire service career and enjoys hiking, traveling, and weekends at the family cabin.
Mickey Leius
A lifelong member of the Wayzata community, Leius is the son of Scott and Maryland Leius and a graduate of Wayzata High School. He went on to Des Moines Area Community College and Concordia University – St. Paul, earning a degree in Sports Management while playing college baseball.
Leius has served as a volunteer firefighter since April 2024 and works as a property manager for Boulevard Management and Advisory in Minneapolis. He also coaches baseball as an assistant varsity coach at Wayzata High School and previously coached at Edina High School. Known for his team-first attitude, Leius said he is honored to continue serving the community he calls home.
Cooper Rasmus
A 2024 Wayzata High School graduate, Rasmus grew up in Wayzata and Minnetonka with parents Colleen and Joe and siblings Emerson, Easton, Porter, and Vincent — the youngest of whom, he joked, “is pretty sure to be a firefighter one day.”
A 14-year veteran of Wayzata hockey, Rasmus brings youthful energy and a long-term commitment to the department, quipping that he hopes “to serve the City of Wayzata for the next 72 years.” He enjoys time outdoors, fishing, hunting, and being on the lake with friends and family.
Chief Klapprich thanked the new members for their service and reaffirmed the department’s goal of maintaining a full complement of 30 firefighters to meet the community’s growing needs.
Those interested in joining the department should reach out to 952-404-5338.
These photos, taken this morning, show the Wayzata Fire Department carrying out its 23rd annual 9/11 remembrance. Since 2002, firefighters have raised the American flag from the ladder truck on the Broadway Avenue bridge over Highway 12, honoring the lives lost and the heroism shown on September 11.
The Wayzata Fire Department will welcome the community to its 9th Annual Pancake Breakfast event on Sunday, September 14, from 8 a.m. to noon at 600 Rice Street East.
The family-friendly fundraiser will feature pancakes, French toast, sausage, coffee, juice, and a raffle, with all proceeds going to the Wayzata Fire Relief Association. Organizers expect to serve between 700 and 900 guests, continuing a tradition that began in 2015. Two years were missed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the breakfast has since rebounded as one of the department’s most popular events.
Funds raised will go directly toward purchasing essential safety equipment for the city’s firefighters. Wayzata Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich said the community’s generosity makes a direct impact: every dollar helps ensure firefighters have the gear and tools they need to respond effectively.
The event is open to the public, with donations accepted at will. Guests are encouraged to come hungry and support the firefighters who serve Wayzata year-round.
Wednesday evening brought an unusual scene to downtown Wayzata when a truck caught fire near the intersection of Broadway Avenue and Rice Street—just steps from the Wayzata Fire Station.
Fire crews were on the scene in moments, answering what may be one of the closest calls in the department’s history. With the station less than a block away, the response time was nearly instantaneous. Flames were quickly contained before they could spread.
Wayzata Police also responded, assisting with traffic control and ensuring the area was safe for nearby businesses and evening commuters.
Hosted by the City of Wayzata and the Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition, Night to Unite—formerly known as National Night Out—brings neighbors together with local police, firefighters, and city officials to build stronger community connections and promote public safety. On Tuesday evening, dozens of block parties were held across Wayzata, with city leaders rotating between them to listen, answer questions, and share updates.
At one particularly engaged gathering, conversation turned to familiar concerns: enforcement of e-bike regulations, exhibition driving, overgrown city landscaping, and the long-standing frustration over the neglected Wayzata Post Office lawn. Many quieter conversations also unfolded around the city’s pending short-term rental ordinance discussions—some supportive, others opposed—underscoring the range of resident perspectives as the issue moves closer to a council decision.
“We’re here to answer your questions.”
Police Chief Jamie Baker introduced herself to residents as Wayzata’s newly appointed top law enforcement officer, sharing that he brings over two decades of policing experience, including three years as Deputy Chief in New York. “I was Deputy Chief for three years… I [have] 21 years of law enforcement with another agency. So that’s me in a nutshell,” he said, speaking plainly and without fanfare. Mayor Andrew Mullin, known for his dry wit and easy rapport with residents, followed with a smile: “What she said. I’m the mayor.”
Post Office Lawn Sparks Frustration
The first question echoed a long-running complaint: the Wayzata Post Office’s lawn is overgrown and neglected. “Why they don’t take care of or maintain their grass or their lawn?” one resident asked.
Mayor Mullin acknowledged the frustration, saying: “We are actively policing from an inspection standpoint and trying to enforce our local ordinances as little tiny Wayzata against the federal government, which is not an easy thing to do… we understand how it looks, how it’s kept, and it’s not acceptable, and we will not stop until they do their job”.
He encouraged residents to contact Rep. Kelly Morrison, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, and Sen. Tina Smith directly, noting, “…citizens are really going to be the driving force… ” .
Gardens Overgrown, but Ideas Take Root
A resident who jokingly referred to herself as “the number one street walker in Wayzata” expressed concern about declining upkeep in landscaped public spaces, especially along Panoway.
Mullin responded, “You’re not alone in that point of view… The shadow side of what you’re asking for costs a lot of money… I hear you loud and clear. You’re not saying do more, you’re saying do less with higher quality”.
Several residents proposed reviving the city’s Adopt-a-Garden program. Mullin was receptive, noting its history and challenges, “Part of what has challenged the volunteer program is the volunteers to administer the volunteer program… I’d welcome investing in it more” .
He also floated a sponsorship idea, “Otten Brothers and some of these other businesses would gladly spend the money to outsource the upkeep—as long as they get to put a little sign in there. Could you sponsor a garden for $5,000 a year and just write the check?.”
E-Bikes and Teen Safety
One of the most urgent topics raised was the rise of e-bikes on sidewalks and paths. A resident asked about motorized bikes racing past walkers along the lakefront. Mullin and Baker were direct, “They’re not supposed to be on the sidewalks or the bike path… They need to follow all the same rules and regulations as regular, normal, non-motorized bikes” .
Mullin described enforcement measures already in place, “We passed a local ordinance that if you’re under 18 and you’re not wearing a helmet, we can stop you without cause and we can seize your bike and we can send your mom and dad a $200 fine… which is new on the books as of May 1st.”
Efforts to regulate high-powered throttle e-bikes—many of which can reach speeds comparable to mopeds—as motorcycles failed at the Minnesota Legislature last session. Mayor Mullin explained that while Wayzata and other cities have taken local action, broader regulation at the state level has been difficult to advance.
“…being a little naive and only in the chair for seven months, we got buzz-sawed by the lobbyists,” Mullin said, referring to the strong travel, leisure, and recreational bike industry that pushed back against proposed restrictions. “They killed our bill probably within four days of it hitting the floor.”
Despite the setback, Mullin said the city is not backing down. He’s working with legislators, to reintroduce a revised version of the bill in the upcoming session—this time with broader regional support. “We’re trying to get all 14 mayors [around Lake Minnetonka] to sign on to that bill to try to get action. I can’t promise it, but I can play you what we’re doing.”
The aim of the legislation is to reclassify throttle-assisted e-bikes in a way that gives law enforcement more tools to address safety concerns—especially around youth riders and pedestrian-heavy areas like Panoway.
Exhibition Driving Crackdown
A resident praised the city’s progress on curbing exhibition driving, saying, “It’s not perfect but it’s much better than it was.” Mullin confirmed the policy change, “If you have a second offense… it’s a $1,300 fine and you have to appear before a judge. That was not on the books last year” .
Parking on Hills Raises Alarms
One of the most personal and emotional moments of the evening came from a resident concerned about cars parked on both sides of a steep hill on Walker Avenue. “People gun it up the hill and all these kids… we’ve seen a lot of really, really close calls, and it freaks us out… In the winter it’s even worse because it’s very narrow. It’s dangerous,” stated a resident.
Chief Baker acknowledged the challenge: “It’s really difficult for us to address that if they’re parked legally,” but encouraged residents to call 911 during the incidents—even if it’s a non-emergency—so officers can document it live .
Good News on Home Burglaries
An attendee asked for an update on residential burglaries. Chief Baker reported improvement, “Those have calmed down… basically a ring that was out of the country. And so they’ve been charged federally.”
Budget Growth Draws Scrutiny
One resident asked Mayor Mullin about a previous reference to a 50% increase, prompting a pointed discussion about the city’s operating budget. Mullin clarified that while individual taxes hadn’t risen by that amount, the city’s overall operating expenses had grown significantly.
“The operating expenses of the city have gone up 50% over the past four years,” he said. “Public safety is going to be [the top] driver. Second would be inflation… and third, administration.”
He then made it clear he was speaking personally—not on behalf of the full council or city staff. “From my chair, my political answer is: we don’t have a money problem—we have a money management problem. And I will again only speak for myself. We’ve got to get our budget under control and we’ve got to get the levy [increase] to 5% or less.”
Mullin, who has lived in Wayzata for over 30 years, said he finds it “unconscionable” that the city’s spending has grown at that rate over just four years. He’s advocating for a target levy increase of 3–5%, tied more closely to inflation, and encouraged residents to ask other elected officials where they stand. “It means taking things off the list before you keep adding things on the list,” he added.
The exchange underscored the balancing act between maintaining service levels, managing growth, and respecting the tax burden on longtime residents.
One Night, Many Voices
As the event wrapped up, city officials were off to the next stop. “We appreciate it. Thank you,” said Mullin. “Great party, as always.” Officers were encouraged to grab a bite before hitting the road. The open dialogue underscored one of Wayzata’s key civic values: not just listening to residents—but acting on their words.
WAYZATA — In a wide-ranging workshop session on Tuesday, May 6th, the Wayzata City Council opened informal discussions about the city’s long-term public safety facility needs, reviewing space limitations, projected growth, and conceptual planning scenarios for housing both police and fire services under one roof.
Wayzata’s current public safety buildings — the police department constructed around 2000 and a fire station dating back to 1966 — no longer meet modern standards or the operational demands of a growing, dual-community service model. Officials cited significant shortcomings in storage, wellness accommodations, training space, evidence handling, and overall capacity for current and future staffing levels.
“Our locker rooms, meeting areas, and physical wellness spaces were never designed for today’s staffing needs — let alone the twenty-year growth horizon we’re planning for,” consultant Paul Mitchell from BKV Group stated during the presentation. “Squad cars are still stored outside, which causes inefficiencies during Minnesota winters and jeopardizes sensitive equipment.”
The planning team presented several options for addressing the city’s facility needs, ranging from partial renovations to entirely new construction. A combined police-fire facility was emphasized as the most space- and cost-efficient scenario, potentially saving 5,200 square feet by consolidating shared-use areas like training rooms, physical fitness facilities, mechanical systems, and community-facing public spaces.
Projected space needs call for approximately 35,000 square feet for police and 33,000 for fire, though shared design elements could reduce the total footprint closer to 63,000 square feet.
Mayor Andrew Mullin underscored the conversation’s strategic importance: “We’re not making a construction decision tonight. This is about setting the long-term vision. If we want to maintain independent control of our police and fire services — and not be forced into regional consolidation due to lack of investment — then we must think ahead.”
Council discussion emphasized the importance of integrating staffing and equipment projections with facility needs, noting that capital planning requires a comprehensive view that includes personnel, operational demands, and spatial requirements.
Discussions also touched on potential future site acquisitions, topography challenges, parking constraints, and funding options — including bonding, phased implementation, and shared service models.
The Council concluded by directing staff to schedule a follow-up session, inviting Police Chief Jamie Baker and Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich to present their 20-year operational outlooks. A tour of comparable metro-area facilities is also being planned for council and staff.
“This is about data, discipline, and credibility,” Michael Healey from the BKV Group noted. “Whatever we propose needs to be defendable — not just to the governing body, but to the taxpayers who ultimately own these buildings.”
No immediate action was taken. Council members emphasized the importance of public transparency and long-range planning as the community begins to envision the next generation of Wayzata’s public safety infrastructure.
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.
WAYZATA — A comprehensive report on the state of Wayzata’s police and fire departments has identified significant facility and staffing challenges, prompting city leaders to consider plans for a new joint public safety building. The findings come as the City Council prepares for a workshop on Tuesday, May 6, to explore long-range public safety strategies.
The document, Wayzata Police & Fire Operational Assessment & Facility Master Planning (March 31, 2025), evaluates current facility conditions, operational needs, and potential development sites. The recommendation: construct a modern, co-located facility to house both departments and support citywide emergency readiness through 2045 and beyond.
Police Department: Growing Demands in a Constrained Space
The Wayzata Police Department currently operates with 15 sworn officers, including the Police Chief, Deputy Chief, two Patrol Sergeants, one Detective Sergeant, a School Resource Officer, and nine Patrol Officers. It is supported by two full-time administrative records specialists and a part-time community service officer.
These staff work out of a 6,370-square-foot facility within City Hall—space the report describes as outdated and severely undersized. Deficiencies include:
No secure evidence storage or modern interview rooms.
Inadequate locker space and administrative offices.
No private rooms for public interaction or officer wellness.
Insufficient space for training, briefings, or reporting—forcing some tasks to be done in patrol vehicles.
The report recommends an optimal size of 13,460 square feet to meet future operational demands and safety standards.
Fire Department: Volunteer Model Nears Limits
The Wayzata Fire Department is a paid-on-call department currently staffed by 29 members, including three new recruits as of 2024【web†source】. Led by Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich, the department responds to fire, rescue, and medical calls from a single station adjacent to City Hall totaling 10,790 square feet.
Major facility concerns include:
Apparatus bays that are double-stacked and not large enough for modern equipment.
No dedicated spaces for gear drying, decontamination, or physical training.
Limited room for administrative operations, training, or future 24/7 staffing needs.
The report projects a long-term space need of 23,320 square feet for the fire department to safely and efficiently operate under evolving standards.
Planning for the Future: One Facility, Shared Strength
Rather than expanding or retrofitting existing buildings, the report recommends a combined public safety facility on a suitable site owned by the city. Co-location would allow police and fire to share space such as:
Public lobbies and training rooms.
Meeting areas, restrooms, and mechanical infrastructure.
Secure access points while maintaining departmental separation.
Site Evaluations and Next Steps
The study evaluated several city-owned properties for development suitability, including one located south of Wayzata Boulevard near the Public Works facility and Panoway boat launch. While no official site has been selected, this parcel scored high on accessibility, central location, and buildable area.
No construction timeline or project cost was included in the current phase of the report. However, the city is encouraged to pursue schematic design, detailed budgeting, and community engagement to advance planning efforts.
The City Council will review the findings during its May 6 public workshop at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall. No formal vote is expected, but the discussion will shape future budget priorities and capital improvement planning.
Residents can learn more and track updates at www.wayzata.org.
AI-generated image simulating a lakeside dining scene, representative of the visitor experience in Wayzata.
WAYZATA — The City of Wayzata will host two public meetings in May to gather feedback on a potential Food & Beverage Sales Tax, a tool city leaders are exploring to help fund essential local services as visitor traffic and seasonal demand continue to rise.
The events will take place in the Community Room at Wayzata City Hall. The first, geared toward business stakeholders, will be held Tuesday, May 14, from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. A second session for residents is scheduled for Wednesday, May 15, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Each session will begin with a short informational presentation, followed by discussion and a Q&A. According to a city release, the tax is being considered as a legislative priority in the future, and community feedback is encouraged as part of the process.
Wayzata has a long history as a regional destination, dating back to its steamboat and grand hotel era on Lake Minnetonka. Today, visitors from across the Twin Cities and beyond continue to enjoy the city’s dining, shopping, and lakeside amenities including Panoway—particularly during spring, summer, and fall.
Steamboats dock along Lake Street in Wayzata, just steps from the railroad tracks that carried passengers in from Minneapolis. Image courtesy Lake Minnetonka Historical Society.
While tourism benefits the local economy, it also increases demand for public services such as police, fire, infrastructure maintenance, and traffic management. City officials say a local Food & Beverage Sales Tax would help ensure that non-residents contribute to the cost of services they rely on, while reducing the funding burden on Wayzata property taxpayers.
Any sales tax proposal would require approval from the Minnesota Legislature.
For more information, contact City Manager Jeffrey Dahl at jdahl@wayzata.org or 952-404-5309, or Deputy City Manager Aurora Yager at ayager@wayzata.org or 952-404-5317.
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