At Tuesday’s City Council meeting, Police Chief Jamie Baker provided an overview of public safety trends so far in 2025, highlighting crime statistics, traffic enforcement, and nuisance violations.
Baker reported that the department has already handled more than 6,100 calls for service through August 6, with total calls projected to exceed 10,000 by year’s end. “As you can [see] they have gone down in the last three years,” she said of reported assaults, adding that burglary and property thefts have followed a similar downward trend.
Traffic enforcement, however, has been on the rise. Officers have issued 1,089 citations this year through August 6, a 66 percent increase from the same time in 2024. Twenty-five DWI arrests have been recorded so far, which Baker emphasized were “not related to the businesses or restaurants” downtown.
Community Service Officers (CSOs), who cannot stop moving vehicles, have nonetheless taken on a growing role. Since June, they have written 22 citations and 55 ordinance violations, assisting with issues ranging from parking enforcement to tall grass and fence complaints.
On nuisance violations, Baker explained that loud mufflers and exhibition driving now require a mandatory court appearance. Most of these cases are still pending. E-bikes remain another area of focus, with a new city ordinance requiring helmets for juveniles. Officers have been contacting parents directly and coordinating with schools to increase education. Baker said the city is also working with regional partners and even participating in a national study. “Like I said, it’s not just a local issue, [it] is a nationwide issue,” she told the council.
Baker closed her report with an update on Loki, the department’s recently retired K9, who has continued working in search-and-rescue with his new handler. Loki recently helped locate a missing person in Wabasha County, a reminder, Baker said, of the wide-reaching impact of Wayzata’s public safety efforts.
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 — The City of Wayzata and the Wayzata Police Department are thrilled to officially welcome Jamie Baker as the city’s new Chief of Police, effective June 1, 2025. After serving as interim chief for the past six months, Chief Baker was formally sworn in during a ceremony at City Hall on June 17.
To continue the celebration and provide an opportunity for community connection, the City invites residents to a “Meet the Chief” open house on Tuesday, June 24, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Panoway Plaza Park. The event will feature light refreshments and information about the Wayzata Police Department. In case of rain, the event will be moved to the Wayzata Fire Station at 600 Rice Street East.
“Chief Baker has demonstrated strong leadership, professionalism, and a deep understanding of our community’s needs,” said City Manager Jeffrey Dahl. “Her dedication during her interim role earned the confidence and respect of both our officers and our residents. We’re proud to officially welcome her as our next Chief of Police, serving Wayzata and Long Lake.”
Over the past six months, Chief Baker has guided the department through a time of transition, focusing on recruitment, retention, and strengthening community relationships.
“I am excited to continue serving this incredible community in a new capacity and look forward to building upon the strong foundation already in place,” said Chief Baker. “Wayzata is a special place, and I am committed to fostering a department that reflects the values of trust, accountability, and service.”
The June 24 open house is open to all and serves as a chance to get to know Chief Baker and learn more about her vision for public safety in Wayzata and Long Lake.
WAYZATA – The City of Wayzata has officially appointed Jamie Baker as its new Chief of Police, effective June 1. Baker, who has served as interim chief since December 2024, steps into the permanent role following unanimous support from city leadership and the community.
“Chief Baker has demonstrated strong leadership, professionalism, and a deep understanding of our community’s needs,” said Wayzata City Manager Jeffrey Dahl. “Her dedication during her interim role earned the confidence and respect of both our officers and our residents. We’re proud to officially welcome her as our next Chief of Police, serving Wayzata and Long Lake.”
During her interim tenure, Baker oversaw departmental transitions and led efforts to recruit and retain officers, emphasizing transparency and community connection. She is recognized for her calm presence, strategic insight, and collaborative approach to law enforcement.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to accept the role of Chief of Police for the City of Wayzata,” said Baker. “Wayzata is a special place, and I am committed to fostering a department that reflects the values of trust, accountability, and service. I look forward to building upon the strong foundation already in place and working closely with our officers, city leadership, and residents.”
Baker brings a vision of policing centered on engagement and public trust, ensuring that both safety and relationship-building remain top priorities.
A public swearing-in ceremony will be held Tuesday, June 17, at 7 p.m. at Wayzata City Hall. Community members are also invited to an open house celebration on Monday, June 24, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Panoway Plaza Park, where residents can meet Chief Baker. Light refreshments and police department information will be available.
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.
Members of the Wayzata Police Department pose with Sergeant Jason Gehrman and his K-9 partner, Loki, as the duo is honored for their service and celebrated in retirement. Gehrman and Loki were the department’s first embedded search and rescue team, leaving a legacy of dedication, innovation, and community care.
WAYZATA — After more than two decades in law enforcement, including five years of dedicated service to the Wayzata Police Department, Sergeant Jason Gehrman was honored Tuesday night for his retirement—alongside his beloved K-9 partner, Loki.
At a bittersweet city council meeting, Interim Police Chief Jamie Baker and City Manager Jeff Dahl offered heartfelt tributes to Gehrman, whose calm leadership, strong character, and compassion have left a lasting impact on the department and the Wayzata community.
“Sergeant Gehrman has been a cornerstone of our department—a steady hand, a courageous leader, and a compassionate presence,” said Baker. “His genuine care for others and unwavering sense of duty has earned him the deep respect of his peers and the gratitude of our citizens.”
Gehrman began his law enforcement journey in 2002 as a volunteer reserve officer in Golden Valley before joining the Roseville Police Department in 2006. Over the years, he took on a wide array of roles—from sniper team leader with East Metro SWAT to undercover impact officer. Known for his quick wit and Hollywood-worthy improvisations in covert operations, colleagues joked that he sometimes blurred the line between public service and performance art.
In 2019, Gehrman brought his talents to Wayzata. Two years later, he was promoted to sergeant, quickly becoming a community favorite for his thoughtful approach, especially with local youth.
Perhaps his most visible contribution was launching Wayzata’s first-ever K-9 search and rescue team. Loki, a four-and-a-half-year-old Belgian Malinois trained in tracking and trailing by scent, became a fixture in the community alongside Gehrman. The duo received the Excellence in Innovation Award from the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association in 2024.
“Bittersweet night tonight,” said City Manager Dahl. “We’ve been blessed to have Sergeant Gehrman in our Police Department for the past five years.” Reflecting on the dedication it takes to serve in a town like Wayzata, Dahl added, “He works his tail off”—a fitting tribute, especially considering his partner Loki has one too.
Gehrman’s love for animals extended beyond Loki. He once led a media campaign and reward effort for a cat injured after being thrown from a moving vehicle, and was rumored—tongue-in-cheek—to be considering adoption. “Which we all took as code for, ‘he hadn’t convinced his wife yet,’” Baker added, drawing laughs.
A family man and community volunteer, Gehrman and his relatives were often spotted at Toys for Tots drives, softball games, and Wayzata’s Light Up the Lake celebration—where he’s suspected of having a “direct line” to the Grinch himself.
As he steps away from law enforcement, colleagues say they’ll miss his perfectly timed humor and the warmth he brought to every shift. Highlights included pranks involving QR codes that led to Rick Astley’s Never Gonna Give You Up, a novelty tumbler adorned with accident report icons, and an infamous burner phone incident that remains the stuff of investigative legend.
In his closing remarks, Sergeant Jason Gehrman offered heartfelt thanks and a promise to remain part of the community he’s served with such devotion. “It’s been an honor to work for the department and the city for the last six years,” he said. “And Loki and I are not going to be strangers. We’ll be around to help if anything comes up—if anybody goes missing.”
Gehrman went on to thank city leadership and staff, reflecting on the relationships built over his time in Wayzata. “So I thank you—all the council members, past and present, mayors, Jeff, Aurora, everyone in the city. It’s been a fun ride. Thank you.” His words echoed the same humility and dedication that have made him a respected and beloved figure in the department and the greater Wayzata community.
Sergeant Gehrman and K-9 Loki’s service may be complete, but their legacy will continue to ripple through Wayzata for years to come.
It was the kind of April evening that reminds you why we live here.
At 66 degrees, with sunshine pushing through soft clouds and barely a whisper of wind, the Panoway Plaza and Lakewalk came alive with the quiet joy of spring. My wife, our middle daughter, and I set out just before sunset and found Wayzata at its best—warm, welcoming, and beautifully unhurried.
ChadwickRock50 provides the soundtrack to a beautiful evening.
Locals and visitors strolled the boardwalk, stopped for scoops at Ben & Jerry’s, and listened to live music drifting through the air. Couples cozied up on benches, families lingered by the lake, and clusters of friends laughed together in the golden light. Over at CoV, the patio buzzed with early diners soaking in the view.
One highlight? Loki, Wayzata’s beloved K-9, out for a well-earned leg stretch near the Section Foreman House, reminding everyone who’s really in charge of lakeside charm.
Loki, Wayzata’s K-9 stretches his legs.
The walk reminded us of something simple and true: in Wayzata, even a casual evening stroll near Wayzata Bay can feel like a small celebration.
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