Detroit Lakes public meetings in 2025

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2026 budget and tax levy, then consider adopting the final budget and levy. The agenda also includes liquor license approvals, a rezoning, a conditional use permit for a car wash, and several public works and finance items.

• Public hearing and adoption of final 2026 budget and 2025 tax levy
• Intoxicating Liquor License and Sunday License for Wood Fire Foods LLC at 811 8th St SE
• Ordinance No. 546 rezoning 204 and 220 Willow St E from R-2 to R-M
• Conditional Use Permit for car wash at 1365, 1369, 1373 Wenner Road
• Bids for Washington Ballpark Project and Rossman Ave Street and Utility Improvement Project

The council adopted the final 2026 budget of $30,593,893 and approved a $9,260,561 property tax levy (up 6.46% from 2025). A liquor license was issued to Wood Fire Foods LLC, and a rezoning at 204/220 Willow St E was approved. Multiple contracts, permits, and appointments were also approved unanimously.

• Adopted 2026 budget of $30,593,893 and $9,260,561 tax levy (unanimous)
• Approved intoxicating liquor and Sunday license for Wood Fire Foods LLC at 811 8th St SE (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 546 rezoning 204 and 220 Willow St E from R-2 to R-M (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for car wash at 1365-1373 Wenner Road (unanimous)
• Awarded Washington Ballpark contract to Bristlin Construction (unanimous)
• Approved 2026-2028 union contracts with LELS and AFSCME (unanimous)
• Approved temporary liquor license for Propel DL for PolarFest and waived fees (unanimous)
• Reappointed Jena Swartz to Planning Commission and Tom Klyve to Police Civil Service Commission (unanimous)

Meeting

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for a car wash in a B-3 district at 1365, 1369, and 1373 Wenner Road. The meeting also includes approval of previous meeting minutes and a status report on variances and conditional uses.

• Public hearing for a Conditional Use Permit to allow a car wash in a B-3 District at 1365, 1369, and 1373 Wenner Road (Chad Bormann)
• Approval of minutes from the October 23, 2025 regular meeting
• Variance/Conditional Use Status Report

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings and consider resolutions on several major items, including a 5-year Capital Improvement Plan, a new tax increment financing district for The Port on Little Detroit, and assessments for street, utility, and tree projects. The council will also vote on rezonings, variances, and contracts for utility and street work.

• Public hearing and resolution to establish Redevelopment Project No. 45 and Tax Increment Financing District 45-1 (The Port on Little Detroit)
• Public hearing and resolution adopting assessments for Southwood Shores Estate Street and Utility Improvement Project
• Consideration to approve a resolution authorizing a Facility Plan/Preliminary Engineering Report for Northside Utility and Street Reconstruction
• Consideration to approve plans and advertise for bids for West Lake Drive Street and Utility Project and City Beach Improvements
• Consideration to approve a Professional Design Services Proposal for the Library Renovation Project with Widseth

The council approved a 5-year Capital Improvement Plan, established Tax Increment Financing District 45-1 for The Port on Little Detroit, and adopted assessment rolls for several public works projects. They also approved variances, a nonconforming use expansion, first reading of a rezoning ordinance, and various contracts and permits. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on a special event application and one dissenting vote on campground rates.

• Approved 5-year Capital Improvement Plan (unanimous)
• Established TIF District 45-1 for The Port on Little Detroit (unanimous)
• Adopted assessment roll for Southwood Shores Street and Utility Improvement (unanimous)
• Adopted assessment roll for Diseased Trees Control Project (unanimous)
• Adopted assessment roll for concrete, bituminous, curb, gutter, sidewalk improvements (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 546 rezoning 204 and 220 Willow St E to R-M (unanimous)
• Approved agreement with Marshmallow Animal Shelter to operate City Pound (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 American Legion Campground rates (1 dissenting vote)

Meeting

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold public hearings on four variance and rezoning requests, including a rezoning of two parcels from single-family to multi-family residential. The commission will also vote on a resolution confirming a Tax Increment Financing district conforms to the city's comprehensive plan.

• Public hearing on rezoning 204 and 220 Willow Street E from R-2 to R-M (multi-family) by Circle North Properties, LLC
• Public hearing on a variance for a 6-foot privacy fence (instead of 3 feet) at 1397 Burroughs Road (Kathy Kinnunen)
• Public hearing on a variance for 5-foot side yard setbacks (instead of 10 feet) for a new home at 150 Shorewood Drive (Drew Larson)
• Public hearing on a nonconforming use expansion permit and parking variance for a coffee shop at 702 West Lake Drive (Kerlis and Tim Wesbrook)
• Consideration of a resolution stating TIF District 45-1 conforms to the city's Comprehensive Plan

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold public hearings on unpaid utility and fire protection assessments, consider resolutions for street and utility improvement projects, and vote on 2026 electric, water, and wastewater rates. They will also consider a variance for a setback at 1112 McKinley Avenue, a one-year extension for a 14-unit townhome development at 1377 West Lake Drive, and the final plat of Lynnview Estates First Addition at 865 Shorewood Drive.

• Public hearing on proposed assessments for unpaid streetlight, water, sewer, and stormwater charges
• Consideration to a resolution establishing 2026 Electric, Water, and Wastewater Rates and Utility Fees
• Consideration to a resolution accepting bids for the Lynnview Estates Street and Utility Improvement Project and awarding contract to RL Larson Excavating
• Consideration to approving a variance to allow an 8-foot setback instead of the required 20-foot setback from the alleyway at 1112 McKinley Avenue
• Consideration to authorizing a one-year extension on a conditional use permit for a 14-unit townhome development at 1377 West Lake Drive

The Detroit Lakes City Council approved new electric, water, and wastewater rates for 2026, adopted the final plat for Lynnview Estates, and awarded a contract for street and utility improvements. The council also decertified a TIF district, approved a variance for a McKinley Avenue property, and set public hearings for November on special assessments for tree removal, concrete work, and unpaid service charges. All votes were unanimous except for a lower-potency hemp edible license for the liquor store, which passed with one dissenting vote.

• Adopted 2026 electric, water, and wastewater rate increases (unanimous)
• Approved final plat of Lynnview Estates First Addition at 865 Shorewood Drive (unanimous)
• Awarded Lynnview Estates street and utility improvement contract to RL Larson Excavating (unanimous)
• Decertified Tax Increment Financing District 23-1 (Tekstar-Hartmans) (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 8-foot alley setback at 1112 McKinley Avenue (unanimous)
• Set Nov. 10, 2025 public hearings for diseased tree, concrete/bituminous, and unpaid service charge assessments (unanimous)
• Authorized lower-potency hemp edible license for liquor store (8-1, Alderman Carlson dissenting)
• Approved second reading and adoption of Ordinance 545 amending City Code Chapters 204 and 209 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a variance request for an 8-foot alley setback at 1112 McKinley Avenue, and consider a one-year extension on a conditional use permit for a 14-unit townhome development at 1377 West Lake Drive. A status report on variances and conditional use permits will also be reviewed.

• Public hearing on variance to allow 8-foot alley setback instead of required 20 feet at 1112 McKinley Avenue (Blair Westrum)
• Consideration of one-year extension on conditional use permit for a Planned Unit Development with 14-unit townhome at 1377 West Lake Drive (Chad Wendel)
• Variance/Conditional Use Status Report

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a special meeting to consider extending the abatement of a public nuisance at 2435 Long Lake Rd., approve a temporary liquor license for the VFW, and discuss the 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan. The agenda also includes project updates for West Lake Drive, the Pavilion and City Park, and Washington Ballpark.

• Extension of nuisance abatement at 2435 Long Lake Rd.
• Temporary intoxicating liquor license for VFW on Oct 11, 2025 at the Pavilion
• Discussion of Capital Improvement Plan (2026-2030) with $59M in proposed street/utility projects
• Project updates: West Lake Drive, Pavilion and City Park, Washington Ballpark

The council approved a 60-day extension for front yard nuisance abatement at 2435 Long Lake Rd and until September 1, 2026, for the backyard, with Aldermen Zeman and Boeke dissenting. A temporary intoxicating liquor license was approved for the VFW for October 11, 2025, at the Pavilion. The Capital Improvement Plan was presented for discussion, with adoption scheduled later. Project updates were given for West Lake Drive, City Park Master Plan, Pavilion, and Washington Ballpark.

• Approved 60-day extension for front yard abatement and until Sept 1, 2026 for backyard at 2435 Long Lake Rd (7-2)
• Approved temporary intoxicating liquor license to VFW for Oct 11, 2025 at the Pavilion (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution establishing the preliminary 2026 budget and tax levy, with a public comment hearing set for December 9, 2025 at 6:01pm. Other major items include final plat approval for Lynnview Estates First Addition, a policy on prayer before meetings, and a contract for Pavilion construction manager services. Several routine reports and permits are on the consent agenda.

• Resolution establishing preliminary 2026 budget and tax levy, public hearing Dec. 9 at 6:01pm
• Final plat approval for Lynnview Estates First Addition at 865 Shorewood Drive (Bristlin Construction)
• Policy on prayer before City Council meetings to be considered
• Authorizing staff to draft contract with McGough for Pavilion Construction Manager at Risk Services
• Resolution approving plans and advertising for bids on Lynnview Estates Street and Utility Improvement Project

The council voted 5-4 against adopting a prayer policy, then voted to rescind the earlier motion to start meetings with prayer. The council also approved the preliminary 2026 budget and levy, authorized grant applications for airport projects, and tabled the Lynnview Estates final plat.

• Prayer policy adoption failed (5-4 roll call)
• Rescinded previous motion to hold prayer before meetings (7-2 roll call)
• Tabled final plat for Lynnview Estates (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for preliminary 2026 budget and levy (unanimous)
• Authorized grant agreements with MNDOT for airport maintenance and apron reconstruction (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 545 amending City Code Chapters 204 and 209 (1 dissenting vote)
• Approved special event applications for United Way, Becker County DAC, and Motorheads of America (unanimous)
• Approved final payment for West Downtown Street and Utility Project (unanimous)

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold public hearings and consider multiple items including a new tax increment financing district (Redevelopment Project No. 44), a $749,999 state library construction grant, street and utility improvements for Lynnview Estates, and several zoning and variance requests. The council will also vote on awarding electric revenue bonds, approving a contract with the Chamber of Commerce, and various nuisance abatement orders.

• Public hearing and resolution to establish Redevelopment Project No. 44 and tax increment financing District 44-1, including an interfund loan
• Resolution authorizing acceptance of a $749,999 Minnesota Department of Education Library Construction Grant for roof restoration and accessibility at Detroit Lakes Public Library
• Second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 544 rezoning 865 Shorewood Drive from R-A to R-2
• Resolution awarding sale of Electric Revenue Bonds, Series 2025B
• Public hearing and resolution ordering street and utility improvements for Lynnview Estates – First Addition

The City Council approved Redevelopment Project No. 44 and Tax Increment Financing District 44-1, which will support 36 new apartments. The council also adopted resolutions ordering diseased tree abatement, street and utility improvements for Lynnview Estates, and declaring public nuisances at three properties. A $749,999 state library construction grant was accepted for roof restoration and accessibility improvements at the Detroit Lakes Public Library.

• Approved Redevelopment Project No. 44 and TIF District 44-1 for 36 new apartments (Resolution 2025-0808C).
• Adopted resolution ordering abatement of diseased trees for 2025 (Resolution 2025-0808A).
• Ordered street and utility improvements for Lynnview Estates – First Addition (Resolution 2025-0808B).
• Declared public nuisances and ordered abatement at 15937 Long Lake Rd, 215 Central St E, and 421 State St E (Resolutions 2025-0808D, E, F).
• Adopted Ordinance 544 rezoning 865 Shorewood Drive from R-A to R-2 district.
• Denied variance for 16 boat slips at 1897 Bridgeview Estates (Resolution 2025-0808G).
• Approved variance for a garage setback at 600 Shorewood Drive (Resolution 2025-0808H).
• Accepted $749,999 state library construction grant for roof restoration and accessibility at Detroit Lakes Public Library (Resolution 2025-0808M).

Meeting

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold public hearings and consider three items: a conditional use permit for gravel extraction at 983 Richwood Road, a variance for a new home at 1217 West Lake Drive, and final plat approval for a 10-lot subdivision at 865 Shorewood Drive. Staff recommends approval of all three items subject to conditions.

• Conditional use permit for Hough, Inc. to extract sand and gravel on 33 acres at 983 Richwood Road over 10 years
• Variance request by James and Pam Benedict for a 41-foot setback from the Ordinary High Water Mark, 20-foot front yard setback, and 33.1% impervious coverage at 1217 West Lake Drive
• Final plat of Lynnview Estates First Addition, a 10-lot residential subdivision at 865 Shorewood Drive by Bristlin Construction

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution approving a $2,049,013.07 Greater Minnesota Legacy Grant application for the Detroit Mountain Recreation Area. The grant would fund acquisition of 32 acres and Phase 1 campground development with no direct city costs, using private matching funds.

• Resolution to apply for $2,049,013.07 Legacy Grant for DMRA campground project
• Acquisition of 32 acres (Fritz property) appraised at $990,000
• Phase 1 campground development: infrastructure, well, electrical, parking, trails, shelter, pit toilet, campsites
• Private match includes $250,000 from Mark Fritz and 10% contingency from DMRA
• No direct city funds required for the grant application

The City Council approved a resolution authorizing a Greater Minnesota Legacy Grant application for the Detroit Mountain Recreation Area Campground Project. The motion was introduced by Alderman Boeke, seconded by Alderman Carlson, and passed unanimously. No other business was conducted.

• Approved resolution 2025-0731A authorizing DMRA Legacy Grant application for campground project (unanimous)

Meeting

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a variance to allow 16 boat slips instead of 6 at 1897 Bridgeview Boulevard, and will consider several other variance and plat requests. The meeting also includes a request for a garage setback variance at 600 Shorewood Drive, final plat approval for Long Lake Acres, and a one-year extension for a variance at 1070 Randolph Road and 1065 Fortune Avenue. A status report on variances and conditional uses will also be presented.

• Public hearing: variance for 16 boat slips (instead of 6) at 1897 Bridgeview Boulevard
• Variance request: attached 40x30 ft garage with less than 30 ft setback at 600 Shorewood Drive
• Final plat consideration: Long Lake Acres at 2445 US Highway 10
• One-year extension request: variance for 15 ft side and 20 ft rear setbacks in I-1 district at 1070 Randolph Road and 1065 Fortune Avenue
• Variance/Conditional Use Status Report

City Council

The City Council will hold two public hearings on proposed assessments for the Shorewood Dr. Street and Utility Improvement Project and on improvements for the 270th Ave Utility Project. The council will also consider several zoning changes, plats, and variances, including a rezoning at 865 Shorewood Drive and a conditional use permit for a guest cottage relocation. Routine consent items include approval of building permits valued at $2,137,090 for June 2025 and various special event applications.

• Public hearing on proposed assessments for Shorewood Dr. Street and Utility Improvement Project
• Public hearing on 270th Ave Utility Improvements
• Consideration of rezoning 865 Shorewood Drive from R-A to R-2 (Bristlin Construction)
• Consideration of preliminary plat for Lynnview Estates First Addition at 865 Shorewood Drive
• Consideration of a variance for a 14-foot setback at 600 Shorewood Drive (Sam Larson)

The council approved resolutions for the 270th Ave Utility Project and the Shorewood Dr Street and Utility Improvement Project, with an amendment removing parallel lots from the assessment roll. Several other items were approved, including conditional use permits, variances, plats, special events, and financial reports. A sponsorship for the Final Pavilion Celebration was approved for $5,000 after two lower amounts failed.

• Approved 270th Ave Utility Project plans and specifications (Resolution 2025-0708B)
• Approved Shorewood Dr assessments with parallel lots removed (Resolution 2025-0708A)
• Approved Quiet Zone Affirmation Letter (Resolution 2025-0708C)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for guest cottage relocation at 1354/1362 South Shore Dr (Resolution 2025-0708D)
• Approved variance for 27-ft setback from OHWM at 1183 Long Beach Dr (Resolution 2025-0708E)
• Approved preliminary plat of Long Lake Acres at 2445 Hwy 10 W (Resolution 2025-0708F)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 544 rezoning 865 Shorewood Dr to R-2
• Approved Final Pavilion Celebration sponsorship for $5,000

Meeting

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold seven public hearings on June 26, 2025, covering rezonings, variances, conditional use permits, and preliminary plats. One rezoning item (1416 Terry Street) has been withdrawn. The commission will also consider a final plat and a revised site plan.

• Public hearing on variance for 14-foot setback for attached garage at 600 Shorewood Drive (Sam Larson)
• Public hearing on conditional use permit for relocating a guest cottage at 1354 and 1362 South Shore Drive (Mike and Leah Larson)
• Public hearing on variance for 27-foot setback from Ordinary High Water Mark for deck at 1183 Long Beach Drive (Meg Johnson)
• Public hearing on preliminary plat of Long Lake Acres at 2455 US Highway 10 W (Darryl & Elizabeth Justesen)
• Public hearing on rezoning of Lynnview Estates First Addition from R-A to R-2 at 865 Shorewood Drive (Bristlin Construction)

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a work session to discuss three items: proposed West Lake Drive Phase III road, trail, and beachfront improvements; a housing study action plan with strategies to increase housing supply and affordability; and MS4 stormwater management. No formal votes will be taken at this work session.

• Discussion of West Lake Drive Phase III Road, Trail, and Beachfront Improvements
• Housing study action plan includes strategies to generate 37-42 new housing units per year over five years
• Current special assessments for a single-family lot range from $47,000 to $51,000
• Discussion of using TIF and grants to reduce infrastructure costs for new housing
• Discussion of MS4 stormwater management

The City Council held a work session on June 12, 2025, where they received presentations and discussed three topics: the West Lake Drive Phase III beach project, a housing study/task force report, and the MS4 permit. No formal votes or decisions were taken during this work session.

• No decisions were made; the session was informational only.

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold public hearings on vacating a road at 144 and 150 Shorewood Drive, a property tax abatement for Chad Wendel, and assessments for the Forest Street utility project. They will consider second readings of ordinances rezoning 1321 Summit Avenue and 1160 Fortune Avenue, and a resolution authorizing $17,985,000 in Electric Revenue Bonds. Other items include approving a fire truck purchase, a summer ice agreement with youth hockey, and bids for the Shorewood Drive street and utility project.

• Public hearing and resolution to vacate a dedicated public road at 144 and 150 Shorewood Drive
• Second reading of Ordinance 541 rezoning 1321 Summit Avenue from R-2 to LB Lakefront Business District
• Second reading of Ordinance 542 rezoning 1160 Fortune Avenue from R-A to I-1 Light Industrial District
• Resolution authorizing issuance and sale of approximately $17,985,000 Electric Revenue Bonds, Series 2025B
• Consideration to approving purchase of a Fire Truck

The council voted 5-4 to rescind its earlier decision to fly the official state flag and then voted 5-4 not to fly any Minnesota state flag. The council also approved a tax abatement for Chad Wendel, rezoned two properties, approved a preliminary plat for Midwest Addition, and awarded a contract for the Shorewood Drive improvement project. A proposal to build a new parking lot was defeated.

• Rescinded prior decision to fly official state flag (5-4, mayor broke tie)
• Voted not to fly any Minnesota state flag (5-4, mayor broke tie)
• Approved property tax abatement for Chad A. Wendel for development (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 541 rezoning 1321 Summit Ave to Lakefront Business District (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 542 rezoning 1160 Fortune Ave to Light Industrial District (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary plat of Midwest Addition at 1255 US Highway 10 (unanimous)
• Awarded Shorewood Drive Street and Utility Improvement contract to Mark's Sand & Gravel (unanimous)
• Defeated motion to approve plans for Peoples Parking Lot (2-7)

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold public hearings on liquor licenses for Clarity Wine Bar, Shorewood Drive utility improvements, and a nuisance property at 1513 Carol Ave. Major decisions include second readings of ordinances for annexation and multiple rezonings, funding $600,000 from the American Legion Campground Fund and $400,000 from the Park Dedication Fund for the Washington Ballpark Project, and awarding contracts for street and utility projects.

• Public hearing and vote on 3.2% On-Sale, Wine, and Sunday Liquor Licenses for Clarity Wine Bar LLC
• Second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 536 for annexation and rezoning to R-2 at 26208 North Tower Road
• Second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 537 rezoning 983 Richwood Road from I-1 to I-2 Heavy Industrial
• Funding of $600,000 from American Legion Campground Fund and $400,000 from Park Dedication Fund for Washington Ballpark Project
• Resolution accepting bids for Southwood Shores Estates Street and Utility Improvement Project and Forest Street Street and Utility Improvement Project, both awarded to RL Larson Excavating Inc.

The Detroit Lakes City Council approved several major items including liquor licenses for Clarity Wine Bar, resolutions for the Shorewood Drive utility improvements, and multiple zoning ordinances. The council also voted to begin meetings with prayer, denied a motion to rescind flying the Minnesota state flag, and approved funding for the Washington Ballpark project. A motion to rescind the flag decision failed 5-3.

• Approved 3.2% On-Sale, Wine, and Sunday Liquor Licenses for Clarity Wine Bar LLC (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 2025-0513A accepting addendum to Preliminary Engineers Report for Shorewood Dr Utility Improvements (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 2025-0513B ordering Shorewood Drive Utility Project improvements and advertisement for bids (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 2025-0513C declaring nuisance and ordering abatement at 1513 Carol Ave (unanimous)
• Approved instituting prayer with a 3-minute time limit at start of City Council meetings (7-2, Stearns and Spry dissenting)
• Adopted Ordinance 536 annexing property and rezoning to R-2 at 26208 North Tower Road (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 537 rezoning 983 Richwood Road from I-1 to I-2 Heavy Industrial (unanimous)
• Approved $600,000 from American Legion Campground Fund and $400,000 from Park Dedication Fund for Washington Ballpark Project (unanimous)

Meeting

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold public hearings on rezoning 1321 Summit Avenue to Lakefront Business District and 1160 Fortune Avenue to Light Industrial District. They will also consider a one-year extension for Broadway Welding's non-conforming use permit to allow a 35,000-square-foot addition and variances for a 110,500-square-foot building at 1090 Legion Road, plus final plat approval for Southwood Shores Estates.

• Public hearing to rezone 1321 Summit Avenue from R-2 to LB (Lakefront Business District)
• Public hearing to rezone 1160 Fortune Avenue from R-A to I-1 (Light Industrial District)
• Consideration of one-year extension for Broadway Welding's non-conforming use permit for a 35,000 sq ft addition and variances at 1090 Legion Road
• Consideration of final plat for Southwood Shores Estates
• Variance/Conditional Use Status Report and Planning Commissioner Training

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold public hearings and consider several land-use items, including annexing and rezoning property at 26208 North Tower Road, approving plats for Broadlawn Estates and Marty's Acres, and a conditional use permit for a self-storage facility. They will also consider street improvement projects, liquor licenses, and various routine items. The meeting includes multiple public hearings and first readings of ordinances.

• Public hearing and first reading of Ordinance No. 536 to annex and rezone property at 26208 North Tower Road to R-2 Residential
• First reading of Ordinance No. 537 to rezone 983 Richwood Road from I-1 to I-2 Heavy Industrial
• Resolution approving preliminary and final plat for Broadlawn Estates Second Addition at 26208 and 1774 North Tower Road
• Resolution approving conditional use permit for self-storage facility at 1397 Wenner Road (Menard, Inc)
• Resolution ordering advertisement for bids for Southwood Shores Estate and Shorewood Dr street improvements

The council approved the first reading of Ordinance 536 to annex and rezone a half-acre at 26208 North Tower Road to R-2 Residential, and also approved the preliminary and final plat of Broadlawn Estates Second Addition along with a related rezoning. Numerous other actions were taken, including approving liquor licenses, street improvement projects, equipment purchases, and a lease agreement with Apple Tree Dental. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved first reading of Ordinance 536 annexing and rezoning property at 26208 North Tower Road to R-2 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution 2025-0408A ordering 2025 curb, gutter, sidewalk improvements (unanimous)
• Approved intoxicating and Sunday liquor licenses for Shorewood Bar & Grill (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 537 rezoning 983 Richwood Road from I-1 to I-2 (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 19-foot setback at 939 Cormorant Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary and final plat of Broadlawn Estates Second Addition and first reading of Ordinance 538 (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for self-storage facility at 1397 Wenner Road (unanimous)
• Approved lease agreement with Apple Tree Dental for old Public Works Office Building (unanimous)

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council held a closed special meeting to discuss employee discipline. After hearing testimony, the council voted unanimously to terminate Night Supervisor Denell Halvorson, upholding the decisions of his supervisor and the City Administrator as stated in the March 6, 2025 Notice of Termination and the March 17, 2025 Notice of Final Decision.

• Closed the meeting to the public under Minnesota Statutes 13D.05, Subd. 2(b) at the employee's request.
• Approved termination of Night Supervisor Denell Halvorson, reaffirming the supervisor's and City Administrator's decisions.

Meeting

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold five public hearings on March 27, 2025, covering a rezoning from light to heavy industrial at 983 Richwood Road, a variance for a building addition at 939 Cormorant Avenue, preliminary and final plat approval and rezoning for Broadlawn Estates Second Addition, and a conditional use permit for a self-storage facility. The commission will also consider the final plat of Marty's Acres and an annexation and rezoning request. The meeting includes approval of minutes from the previous meeting.

• Public hearing to rezone 983 Richwood Road from I-1 Light Industrial to I-2 Heavy Industrial for gravel mining
• Public hearing for a variance to allow a 19-foot setback instead of 40 feet for a 50' x 64' building addition at 939 Cormorant Avenue
• Public hearing for preliminary and final plat approval of Broadlawn Estates Second Addition at 26208 and 1774 North Tower Road
• Public hearing to rezone Broadlawn Estates Second Addition from R-A Agriculture to R-2 One and Two Family Residence District
• Public hearing for a Conditional Use Permit for a self-storage facility with enclosed and outdoor storage at 1397 Wenner Road

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold public hearings on vacating utility easements for the Goodin Company and Highland Lakeview LLP, and on street improvements for Shorewood Drive and Southwood Shores Estate. The council will also consider resolutions for these items, along with various committee recommendations on recycling, special events, contracts, and appointments.

• Public hearing and resolution to vacate utility easements on Lots 11 and 12, Block 4, Rearrangement of Detroit Lakes North Industrial Park First Addition (Goodin Company)
• Public hearing and resolution to vacate drainage easements on Lot 1, Block 1, Highland Estates at 1321 Highland Drive (Highland Lakeview LLP)
• Public hearing and resolution authorizing plans and specifications for Shorewood Drive street improvements
• Consideration to approve organic material recycling collection in the city
• Consideration to accept quotes for demolition of the old food pantry building and award contract to Hough Inc.

The City Council approved several street and utility improvement projects, including Shorewood Drive (without parking near Long Bridge Bar) and Southwood Shores Estate. It also adopted resolutions for utility easement vacations, a variance for Highland Drive, and a cooperative agreement with Becker County for recreation areas. The council voted to fly the official Minnesota state flag despite three dissenting votes, and approved organic recycling collection, a special event series, and multiple contracts and permits.

• Approved Shorewood Dr. Street Improvements without parking along roadway adjacent to Long Bridge Bar, Grill, & Marina (unanimous)
• Approved Southwood Shores Estate Street and Utility Improvements with city paying for site grading and developer prepaying 25% (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to fly official MN State Flag (7-3, with Aldermen Dallmann, Deraney, Zeman dissenting)
• Approved organic material recycling collection in city for one year (unanimous)
• Approved Special Event Application for Trucks and Tunes June 5–Aug 28, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted quotes and awarded contract for DMRA mountain bike trail (unanimous)
• Approved plans and ordered advertisement for bids for Forest Street Utility and Street Improvement Project (unanimous)
• Approved $42,000 food and beverage tax funding for MN Flyers parking lot (unanimous)

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council will hold a regular meeting on February 11, 2025, to discuss and act on a range of items including public hearings, resolutions, and committee recommendations. Key actions include considering a $9,883,495 water revenue note purchase by the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority, a 2025 budget amendment, and several public improvement projects. The agenda also includes numerous routine consent items such as permits, reports, and special event applications.

• Resolution to accept Minnesota Public Facilities Authority offer to purchase $9,883,495 general obligation water revenue note, Series 2025A
• Resolution amending the 2025 budget
• Public hearings set for utility easement vacations (Goodin Company, Highland Lakeview LLP) and preliminary plat of Marty's Acres at 2577 US Highway 10
• Preliminary Engineering Reports for Shorewood Dr and Southwood Shores Estate, with improvement hearings set for March 11, 2025
• Authorization of RFP for Washington Park Renovations construction management services and Pavilion architectural/design services

The council approved a $9,883,495 loan from the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority for a water revenue note, adopted the Becker County Hazard Mitigation Plan, and approved multiple special event applications. Several items were tabled, including a special event application for Events by Brittany and a request for proposals for Washington Park renovations.

• Accepted $9,883,495 PFA loan for water revenue note (unanimous)
• Adopted Becker County Hazard Mitigation Plan (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary plat of Marty's Acres at 2577 US Hwy 10 (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 American Legion Campground rates with $200 increase (6-1, Caulfield dissenting)
• Approved $8,207,247.29 in claims for January 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved special events: Polar Fest Plunge, Tuesdays in the Park, Art in the Park, Triathlon (unanimous)
• Tabled special event application for Events by Brittany until March (unanimous)
• Tabled RFP for Washington Park renovations (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss the proposed West Lake Drive Phase III Road, Trail, and Beachfront Improvements. No formal decisions will be made; this is a discussion-only item.

• Discussion of West Lake Drive Phase III Road, Trail, and Beachfront Improvements

The City Council held a work session to discuss the West Lake Drive Phase III project. City Engineer Jon Pratt presented the street portion and Bryan Harjes of HKGi presented the beach portion. No votes or formal decisions were taken; the session was for discussion only.

• No formal decisions were made; the session was a work session for discussion only

Meeting

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a preliminary plat for Marty's Acres at 2577 US Highway 10 W. They will also review a variance and conditional use status report. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and adjournment.

• Public hearing on preliminary plat for Marty's Acres at 2577 US Highway 10 W (Don Martodam)
• Variance/Conditional Use Status Report review

City Council

The City Council will hold second readings and consider adopting three zoning ordinances: one for annexation areas, one rezoning Southwood Shores Estate from agricultural to residential, and one on commercial signage. They will also discuss leasing old police and public works facilities, approve a $9.88 million water revenue note, and hear the State of the City address.

• Second reading and adoption of Ordinance 532 rezoning Southwood Shores Estate (557 South Shore Drive and 2112 270th Avenue) from R-A to R-2
• Consideration of a resolution authorizing a $9,883,495 general obligation water revenue note from the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority
• Discussion on leasing the old police department and public works facilities
• Consideration of a resolution for a Preliminary Engineering Report for Southwood Shores Estate
• Consideration of a resolution approving a grant application to MnDOT for the Carbon Reduction Program

The Detroit Lakes City Council adopted three zoning ordinances: Ordinance 531 (annexation-area zoning), Ordinance 532 (rezoning Southwood Shores Estate to R-2), and Ordinance 533 (commercial signage limits). Ordinance 533 passed with Alderman Zeman dissenting; the other two were unanimous. The council also approved the 2025 Detroit Country Club budget and rates, a squad car purchase, multiple licenses and permits, and accepted monthly financial reports showing a treasury balance of $17,946,495.49.

• Adopted Ordinance 531 amending zoning for annexation areas (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 532 rezoning Southwood Shores Estate to R-2 at 557 South Shore Drive and 2112 270th Avenue (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 533 limiting commercial signage (8-1, Zeman dissenting)
• Approved 2025 Detroit Country Club budget and rates (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of a 2025 Dodge Durango squad car (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 business licenses for docks, excavators, solid waste haulers, and others (unanimous)
• Approved payment of claims totaling $4,075,257.93 for December 2024 (unanimous)
• Accepted monthly financial reports showing treasury balance of $17,946,495.49 as of December 31, 2024 (unanimous)

City Council

The Detroit Lakes City Council holds its annual meeting to administer oaths of office to the newly elected mayor and four council members, assign seating, appoint a vice mayor for 2025, and approve committee assignments and meeting dates for the year. All items are procedural and organizational.

• Oath of office for Mayor Matt Brenk and council members Ron Zeman (Ward I), Wendy Spry (Ward II), Aaron Dallmann (Ward III), and Craig Caulfield (Alderman at Large)
• Appointment of a Vice Mayor for 2025
• Appointment of council members to five committees: Finance, Community Development, Public Works, Public Safety, and Liquor & Gambling
• 2025 joint governance meeting dates set with Chamber (April 1), DL Schools (July 1), and County (October 7)
• 2025 regular council meeting dates approved, including a Monday meeting on November 10 due to Veterans Day

The annual meeting was largely procedural: the council was sworn in, Alderman Zeman was appointed Vice Mayor, and committee assignments for 2025 were approved unanimously. No substantive policy decisions or financial approvals were made.

• Appointed Alderman Zeman as Vice Mayor for 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 council committee assignments as presented (unanimous)