Zoning Diagnostic Report

Sean Suder of Zone Co presented the diagnostic report, highlighting that Minnetonka's zoning code, largely unchanged since the 1980s despite 338 amendments, is inconsistent with the city's 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The report found the code to be text-heavy, lacking modern graphics, and administratively complex, leading to reliance on Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) due to base zoning inflexibility. Key recommendations included reorganizing the code, streamlining administrative processes, and potentially creating special, geographically-calibrated districts to allow for mixed-use and housing diversity (especially 'missing middle' housing) in targeted areas. Council and Planning Commission members discussed balancing predictability for residents with the need for flexibility for development, addressing housing affordability challenges, and integrating design guidelines and sustainability measures.

Community Facility Study: Glen Lake Activity Center

The Glen Lake Activity Center, currently used for meetings, a police substation, and storage, was identified as underutilized and dated, requiring a roof replacement. Options presented were demolition for $113,000 to free up the site for a regional skate park (funded in 2025 CIP), partial renovation for $838,000, or continuing as is. Council members largely agreed on demolishing the building due to its poor condition and low utility, preferring the site be used for the planned skate park, which would also include necessary facilities.

Community Facility Study: Community Center

The Community Center, where the meeting was held, was noted for its good event spaces and natural light but suffered from poor wayfinding, accessibility to senior areas, and dated public spaces. An original renovation project was paused due to The Marsh acquisition. Options included implementing the original plan (estimated $2.7 million for lobby, wayfinding, restrooms, and public space refresh) or adding minor enhancements like a lobby connection ($346k-$423k) or coffee bar ($150k+). Council members expressed that the building needs a refresh to remain competitive for rentals and improve user experience, with a general inclination to support the original renovation plan as a wise investment, pending financing discussions for all facilities.

Community Facility Study: Williston Fitness Center

The Williston Fitness Center was recognized for its popular youth amenities, swim programs, and tennis, but also had issues with dated locker rooms, parking, and a need for more fitness and pickleball space. Proposed renovations and expansions ranged from $16.6 million to $22.2 million, including additional parking, lobby improvements, expanded locker rooms, fitness space, and a new addition for indoor play and pickleball courts. Council members, while acknowledging its value and popularity, expressed significant reservations about the high cost and extensive scope, suggesting it be a lower priority compared to The Marsh and other city needs. Concerns were raised about expanding the footprint on an already constrained site and the cost-effectiveness of certain improvements like air conditioning the tennis barn.

Community Facility Study: The Marsh

The Marsh, a recently acquired unique health and wellness facility, was praised for its high demand, unique programming (seniors, adults, spa), and connection to nature. Challenges included its age, underutilized spaces, and code upgrade needs. Options presented were an interior refresh ($6.9 million), a heavier renovation to expand programming ($13.4 million - $17.9 million), or adding an event pavilion ($4.9 million - $5.9 million). Council members strongly dismissed selling the property, citing overwhelmingly positive community feedback and the strategic value of the acquisition. There was a strong inclination towards Option 2 (heavy renovation) to amplify its unique offerings, enhance spa services, improve dining, and ensure its long-term financial sustainability.