Edgewood Avenue Redevelopment Draws Scrutiny Amid Tree Violation; Shake Shack Adjusts Late-Night Plan After Community Concerns
The City Council addressed a controversial redevelopment proposal involving unauthorized tree removal and saw a business revise its liquor license application following residential feedback.
Minnetonka’s City Council recently confronted a range of local development and licensing issues, notably a contentious redevelopment project at 16820 Edgewood Avenue and a significant adjustment to a liquor license application by Shake Shack Minnesota LLC following public outcry. The council’s proceedings underscored the ongoing interplay between community input, city ordinances, and new developments.
The proposed redevelopment at 16820 Edgewood Avenue has entered the spotlight due to an unauthorized tree removal, a violation of the city’s tree protection ordinances. Property owner and contractor Mark Abernathy submitted a building permit application for the site, which necessitated the council to consider a resolution approving two variances: one for tree removal and another for a front yard setback. Additionally, a stipulated order was required to address the ordinance violation, indicating a formal agreement to resolve the issue.
The active participation of our residents is crucial for shaping our community and ensuring our ordinances reflect the values we hold,” said Mayor Rebecca Schack, emphasizing the importance of adhering to local regulations and open dialogue.
In a separate but related matter concerning community impact, Shake Shack Minnesota LLC, located at 1809 Plymouth Road, Ste. 1, withdrew the 2AM portion of its liquor license application. This decision came after significant residential community concerns regarding potential noise and extended operating hours. The restaurant's application for an on-sale wine and 3.2% malt beverage license continues, but without the late-night provision.
Zoning Ordinance Updates and Future Developments
The City Council also reviewed proposed updates to the city’s Zoning Ordinance, a critical document that guides development across Minnetonka. These updates aim to simplify the existing code, align it more closely with the city’s comprehensive plan, and consolidate various low-density residential districts. Public comments on the proposed changes were received following their initial publication, demonstrating community engagement in long-term planning.
Other Topics from This Document
Items concerning Endeavor Development at 10700 Bren Road West and adjacent properties
Development items are scheduled for introduction at the City Council meeting on October 5, 2026.
Zoning Ordinance
Proposed updates aim to simplify the code, align with the comprehensive plan, and consolidate low-density residential districts. Public comments were received after the initial publication.
Temporary on-sale liquor license for Boom Island Brewing Company, 5959 Baker Road, Suite #320
A public hearing is scheduled to address the application for a temporary on-sale liquor license.
On-sale wine, 3.2% malt beverage, and 2AM, liquor licenses to Shake Shack Minnesota LLC, at 1809 Plymouth Road, Ste. 1
The applicant withdrew the 2AM portion of their liquor license application following residential community concerns regarding noise and operating hours.
Resolution approving two variances (tree removal and front yard setback) and a stipulated order for the proposed redevelopment at 16820 Edge
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