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Detroit Lakes, MN

Detroit Lakes public meetings in 2024

25 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.

Tue Dec 17, 2024

City Council

Council to adopt new local sales tax for Pavilion, parks, and beach

The City Council will hold a special meeting to consider second readings and adoptions of ordinances repealing the old 0.5% local sales tax and enacting a new one, as approved by voters in November 2024. The new tax, effective April 1, 2025, will fund up to $17.3 million for the Detroit Lakes Pavilion, park, beachfront, and parking improvements. The council will also consider adopting a sewer and water code amendment and a resolution to establish a joint planning board with Lakeview Township and Becker County.

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✓ Decided: Council adopts three ordinances, creates joint planning board

The City Council unanimously adopted three ordinances: Ordinance 534 repealing the old 0.5% local sales tax code, Ordinance 535 adopting a new local sales tax chapter, and Ordinance 530 amending sewer, water, and plumber codes. After a motion to table failed 4-5, the Council voted unanimously to adopt a resolution creating a Joint Planning Board with Lakeview Township to give the City a seat in zoning decisions within the 2-mile area outside city limits.

Tue Dec 10, 2024

City Council

Council to adopt final 2025 budget and tax levy, set new local sales tax for pavilion

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2025 budget and tax levy, then vote on adoption. They will also consider first readings of ordinances for a new local sales tax for pavilion and park improvements, and to regulate cannabis businesses. Other items include approving a preliminary plat for Southwood Shores Estates, awarding a contract for the Heartland Trail Trailhead Project, and setting 2025 liquor licenses and pay rates for the fire department.

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✓ Decided: Council adopts $27M 2025 budget, $8.7M tax levy

The council adopted the 2025 budget of $27,041,673 and a property tax levy of $8,698,643, a 7.97% increase from 2024. A public hearing was held; one resident spoke against the levy increase. The council also approved first readings of several ordinances, including zoning changes and a cannabis business regulation ordinance.

Thu Nov 21, 2024

Meeting

Planning Commission to consider zoning changes, 28-lot subdivision, and sign rules

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three items: amending the zoning ordinance for annexation areas, a preliminary plat for the 28-lot Southwood Shores Estates subdivision at 557 South Shore Drive and 2112 270th Avenue, and rezoning that property from R-A to R-2. They will also consider amending sign regulations and a site plan for Providence Lakes Planned Unit Development.

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Tue Nov 12, 2024

City Council

Council to set 2025 utility rates, approve bonds, and annex land

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold public hearings on street/utility improvements and assessments, consider second reading of a cannabis zoning ordinance, and vote on 2025 water, sewer, and electric rates. They will also consider awarding bonds, annexing property, and approving several contracts and permits.

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✓ Decided: Council adopts cannabis zoning, approves $3.985M bond sale

The City Council adopted Ordinance 528, amending the zoning ordinance for cannabis businesses regarding cultivation and manufacturing, and approved the first reading of Ordinance 529, which limits cannabis retail businesses to 2,500 feet apart and indoor cultivation to 15,000 square feet. The council also approved the sale of $3.985 million in general obligation improvement bonds (Series 2024A), adopted 2025 electric, water, and sewer rate increases, and awarded contracts for the DMRA Treehouse Project to Hammers Construction and the DMRA Parking Lot and Nordic Ski Loop Project to Hough Inc. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on a parade permit and a special event application.

Thu Oct 24, 2024

City Council

Council to consider $500K park donation and cannabis regulations

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a special meeting and work session to consider accepting a $500,000 anonymous donation for Parks and Recreation, and discuss proposed Ordinance 529 to regulate cannabis businesses, including zoning, registration, and buffer requirements.

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✓ Decided: Council accepts park donation, discusses cannabis retail rules

The City Council held a special meeting and work session. The council voted unanimously to accept a donation for the Parks and Recreation Department. During the work session, council members discussed potential regulations for cannabis retail businesses, and staff will prepare a draft ordinance for the November meeting.

Tue Oct 8, 2024

City Council

Council to issue $4.34M in bonds, vote on cannabis zoning, and set assessments

The Detroit Lakes City Council will consider issuing $4,340,000 in general obligation improvement bonds, adopt a second reading of a zoning ordinance for cannabis businesses, and hold a public hearing on unpaid utility and streetlight assessments. Other items include a school zone speed limit on Willow St E, a sculpture placement at the Overlook, and reappointments to city boards.

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✓ Decided: Council approves $4.34M bond sale, denies Zorbaz sign variance

The council approved the issuance of $4.34 million in general obligation improvement bonds and denied a variance for additional signage at Zorbaz (402 West Lake Dr.) on a 9-1 vote. Other actions included adopting a 20 mph school zone on Willow St E, approving a cannabis business zoning ordinance on first reading, and setting several assessment hearings for November 12.

Tue Sep 10, 2024

City Council

Council to set preliminary 2025 tax levy and budget, plus public hearing on TIF district changes

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a public hearing on modifying redevelopment project area 43 and its tax increment financing district. The council will also consider setting the preliminary 2025 budget and tax levy, with a public comment date in December. Other major items include a contract for diseased tree removal, a no-wake zone discussion on the Pelican River, and first readings of ordinances on engine brakes and R-4 zoning height limits.

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✓ Decided: Council adopts preliminary 2025 budget and tax levy

The council unanimously adopted the preliminary 2025 budget and tax levy, setting a December 10 public hearing. It also approved a $50,000, five-year contribution to the Marshmallow Animal Shelter and a $231,200 contract for 115 kV breakers. One alderman dissented on the 2025 HRA Levy resolution.

Thu Aug 29, 2024

Meeting

Planning Commission to consider cabin addition and zoning height change

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold two public hearings: one on a nonconforming use expansion permit for a second-story addition to a cabin at 2156 Long Lake Road, and another on amending the zoning ordinance to change the maximum building height in the R-4 Limited Multi-Family Residence District. The commission will also receive a status report on variances and conditional use permits.

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Mon Aug 12, 2024

City Council

Detroit Lakes City Council discusses development, tree abatement, and airport bonds

The City Council will consider several land use items including a preliminary plat for The Port on Little Detroit and a flex space shop condo. Other agenda items include a public hearing for diseased tree abatement and discussions regarding the Detroit Lakes/Becker County Airport bond.

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✓ Decided: Council approves diseased tree abatement, plat, CUP, variances, licenses, and bonds

The City Council approved multiple resolutions including diseased tree abatement for 2024, a preliminary plat and conditional use permit for The Port on Little Detroit at 1377 West Lake Drive, a variance for a flex space shop condo at 1070 Randolph Road, and the assessment roll for the Detroit Lakes Boulevard project. The council also rescinded a prior airport bond resolution, approved special event applications for the Dick Beardsley Races and VFW Street Dance, and issued temporary intoxicating licenses for VFW and Bucks Mill Brewing. All votes were unanimous.

Thu Jul 25, 2024

Meeting

Planning Commission to consider 14-unit PUD and two variances

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a preliminary plat and conditional use permit for a 14-unit Planned Unit Development called The Port on Little Detroit at 1377 West Lake Drive, and a variance for a 10,400 square foot flex space shop condo at 1070 Randolph Road and 1065 Fortune Avenue. The commission will also review a status report on variances and conditional uses. The agenda includes approval of the June 27, 2024 minutes.

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Fri Jul 19, 2024

City Council

Council to vote on interim cannabis business ban and water-sewer project bids

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a special meeting to consider three items: the second reading and adoption of Ordinance 525, which would temporarily prohibit cannabis businesses in the city until January 1, 2025; accepting bids and awarding a contract for the Hwy 10 E Water and Sewer Extension Project; and approving a special event application for the Young at Art Company's Grand Opening on July 27, 2024.

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✓ Decided: Council adopts interim cannabis ordinance, awards water/sewer extension bid

The Detroit Lakes City Council unanimously adopted an interim ordinance prohibiting cannabis businesses and awarded a $241,320 contract to C&L Excavating for the Hwy 10 E water and sewer extension project. A special event application for a grand opening was also approved.

Tue Jul 9, 2024

City Council

Council to consider cannabis business ban, airport bonds, and annexation

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold public hearings and consider several key items, including an interim ordinance prohibiting cannabis businesses, the establishment of a redevelopment project with tax increment financing, and the second reading of an annexation ordinance for a 78.67-acre tract at 13698 270th Avenue. The council will also consider issuing a $1.3 million airport revenue bond and approving various permits, licenses, and reports. Many routine items are on the consent agenda.

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✓ Decided: Council approves annexation and rezoning for 78-acre development (5-3)

The council approved the second reading of Ordinance 523, annexing a 78.67-acre tract at 13698 270th Avenue and zoning it R-A Agriculture Residence and R-M Multi-Family Residence, despite public opposition and a 5-3 vote. They also adopted an interim ordinance (first reading) temporarily banning cannabis businesses, approved a TIF district for redevelopment project No. 43, and passed several other routine items including permits, licenses, and a $1.3M airport bond.

Tue Jun 11, 2024

Meeting

Planning Commission to hold public hearings on garage expansion, twin home variance, and home addition

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold three public hearings on June 27, 2024, to consider a nonconforming use expansion permit, two variances, and a resolution on tax increment financing. The commission will also review a variance/conditional use status report. The agenda includes only these items, with no other major business.

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Tue Jun 11, 2024

City Council

Council to weigh 0.5% sales tax for Pavilion, annexation, and downtown assessments

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold public hearings on the 2024 Downtown Street and Utility Improvement assessments, the Hwy 10 E Water and Sewer Extension, and the annexation of a 78.67-acre tract at 13698 270th Avenue. The council will also consider a resolution to place a 0.5% local sales tax question on the 2024 General Election ballot for Pavilion construction and related improvements, along with other routine items.

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✓ Decided: Council annexes 78.67 acres, defers zoning to R-A only

The City Council approved the first reading of Ordinance 523 to annex a 78.67-acre tract at 13698 270th Avenue, zoning it entirely as R-A (Agriculture Residence) after a motion to include R-M (Multi-Family) failed 4-3. The council also approved the 2024 Downtown Street and Utility Improvement Project assessments, the Hwy 10 E water and sewer extension, a conditional use permit for a 36-unit development at 1510 Randolph Road, and a local sales tax question for the November ballot.

Thu May 23, 2024

Meeting

Planning Commission to consider Grover Subdivision plat and 36-unit PUD at Randolph Road

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a preliminary plat for a four-lot commercial subdivision at 1255 US Highway 10 W and a conditional use permit for a 36-unit Planned Unit Development with rezoning at 1510 Randolph Road. The commission will also discuss annexing a 78.67-acre tract from Lake View Township and rezoning it for agriculture and multi-family use. A variance/conditional use status report will be presented for information.

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Tue May 14, 2024

City Council

Council to consider $1.3M airport bond, assessments, and annexation

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed assessments for the 2024 Street Rehabilitation and Willow Springs projects, then consider adopting the assessment rolls. They will also discuss a $1.3 million airport revenue bond, a lease for the former police building, and a proposed annexation of 78.67 acres. Several other items include variances, a downtown improvement assessment hearing, and routine consent agenda approvals.

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Thu Apr 25, 2024

Meeting

Planning Commission to weigh lakefront home variance and Broadway Welding extension

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a variance request from Brad and Deb Wimmer to build a 1½-story home at 1149 West Lake Drive with reduced setbacks and impervious surface limits. The commission will also consider Broadway Welding's request for a one-year extension on a non-conforming use permit for a 35,000-square-foot addition and related variances at 1090 Legion Road. A status report on variances and conditional uses will be reviewed.

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Thu Apr 18, 2024

City Council

Council to discuss Pavilion Project and wage comparisons

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a work session to discuss the Pavilion Project and review wage comparisons. The wage comparison portion may be closed to the public under Minnesota statute. No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

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✓ Decided: Council directs RDG to revise Pavilion Plan B for improved visual aesthetics

The City Council held a work session to discuss the proposed Pavilion Project. After reviewing two plan options, the Council reached consensus to direct RDG to revise Plan B to enhance its visual appeal, particularly the main entrance from West Lake Drive. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the item remains in discussion.

Tue Apr 9, 2024

City Council

Council to consider bids for downtown street project and annexation

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2024 curb, gutter, and sidewalk improvements, and consider awarding a contract for the Downtown Street and Utility Improvement Project. They will also vote on the second reading of an ordinance to annex a 12-acre tract in Burlington Township and zone it B-3, and discuss several other items including solid waste code, cannabis registration, and lease proposals for the former police department.

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✓ Decided: Council approves annexation and zoning of 12-acre tract for auto business district

The council adopted Ordinance 522, annexing a 12-acre tract in Burlington Township and zoning it B-3 Auto-Oriented Business District at 29075 US Highway 10 and 14249 290th Avenue (Quality Equipment). They also awarded the 2024 west downtown street and utility contract to Hough Inc., approved the sale of 211 Union St. for at least $22,500, and authorized several special events and licenses. All votes were unanimous except for the LED signal replacement purchase, which passed 8-1.

Tue Mar 12, 2024

City Council

Council to consider annexation, street projects, and liquor license changes

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a public hearing and consider first reading of an ordinance to annex a 12-acre tract in Burlington Township and zone it B-3 Auto-Oriented Business District. They will also consider bids for the 2024 Street Rehabilitation and Willow Springs Street Improvement projects, as well as second reading of Ordinance 521 amending liquor licensing rules. Several routine items are on the consent agenda.

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✓ Decided: Council approves annexation, liquor licenses, street contracts, and permits

The Detroit Lakes City Council approved multiple items including the first reading of Ordinance 522 for annexation of a 12-acre tract at 29075 US Highway 10 and 14249 290th Avenue (Quality Equipment), and Resolution 2024-0312C for annexation by order of Tax ID 19.0296.000. The council also approved temporary liquor licenses and permits for the DL Jaycees Water Carnival, awarded street rehabilitation contracts to Marks Sand & Gravel, and approved various permits, licenses, and appointments. All votes were unanimous with no dissenting votes recorded.

Thu Feb 22, 2024

Meeting

Planning Commission to weigh garage expansion, Zorbaz deck variance, and annexation

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a nonconforming use expansion for a garage at 1026 West Lake Drive and an amended variance for Zorbaz at 402 West Lake Drive. They will also consider annexing a 12-acre tract in Burlington Township and zoning it B-3, plus review a status report on variances and conditional uses.

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Tue Feb 13, 2024

City Council

Detroit Lakes Council to discuss street projects and new residential development

The City Council will consider several street improvement projects and a new 48-unit residential development at 1141 US Highway 59. The meeting also includes discussions on various special event applications and several board appointments.

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✓ Decided: Council approves 48-unit PUD, street projects, and plow truck

The Detroit Lakes City Council approved a preliminary plat and conditional use permit for a 48-unit residential Planned Unit Development at 1141 US Highway 59, along with multiple street rehabilitation projects and a plow truck purchase. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on business licenses.

Thu Jan 25, 2024

Meeting

Planning Commission to consider 48-unit Providence Lakes PUD at 1141 US Highway 59

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a preliminary plat and conditional use permit for Providence Lakes, a 48-unit residential planned unit development at 1141 US Highway 59. The commission will also review a variance/conditional use status report. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the November 30, 2023 meeting.

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Tue Jan 9, 2024

City Council

Council to hold hearings on 2024 street rehab and Willow Springs projects

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold public hearings on proposed street improvements for the 2024 Street Rehabilitation Project and the Willow Springs Street Improvement Project, with resolutions to order plans and specifications. The council will also consider second readings of ordinances on fence regulations and accessory structure heights, approve the 2024 Detroit Country Club budget and rates, and discuss leasing the former Police Department. Several routine items are on the consent agenda, including annual reports, permits, and special event applications.

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✓ Decided: Council approves 2024 street rehab and Willow Springs plans

The Detroit Lakes City Council authorized preparation of plans and specifications for the 2024 Street Rehabilitation Project and the Willow Springs Street Improvements, both without dissent. The council also adopted three ordinances: Ordinance 518 (licensing procedures), Ordinance 519 (fence regulations), and Ordinance 520 (accessory structure height in residential districts). Numerous other approvals included special event permits, purchases, and appointments.

Tue Jan 2, 2024

City Council

Detroit Lakes City Council annual meeting to appoint 2024 vice mayor

The Detroit Lakes City Council is holding its annual meeting, required by the Home Rule Charter, to appoint a vice mayor for 2024. The agenda also includes informational items on 2024 joint governance and council meeting dates. No other substantive actions are listed.

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✓ Decided: Detroit Lakes council appoints Zeman as vice mayor, sets 2024 meeting dates

The council held its annual meeting, unanimously appointing Alderman Zeman as vice mayor for 2024 and announcing the year's meeting schedule. No substantive policy decisions or votes on ordinances, contracts, or other matters were taken.