The Wayzata City Council recognized longtime community volunteer Merily Borg Babcock for over 30 years of service and introduced new Public Works technician Tyler Basil during their Feb. 4 meeting.

Babcock, who served as a founding member of the Parks and Trails Board and contributed to numerous city initiatives including the Big Woods preservation and Post Office Park enhancements, received recognition for her decades of volunteer work. Mayor Andrew Mullen highlighted her contributions to historic preservation, environmental sustainability, and community education efforts spanning multiple boards and commissions.

Residents Chris Hickock and Jeff Aninno raised concerns about a proposed development at 641 Lake Street during the public forum. The residents expressed surprise at learning about the project late in the process and cited concerns about lost lake views and precedent regarding side street setbacks. City Manager Jeff Dahl explained the project involves tearing down and rebuilding the oldest section of the Caribou building with a similar footprint but updated design, noting no formal development approval process was required.

The council approved the Wayzata Yacht Club's request to modify up to 12 buoy configurations to fixed dock slips at 1100 Eastman Lane. Public Works Director Mike Kelly explained the change maintains the approved 186-slip limit and may actually reduce the marina's lake footprint. The council's comments will be forwarded to the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District for their review.

Staff presented the 2024 annual report highlighting major accomplishments including the lakewalk opening in July, over $79 million in construction permits issued, and successful grant applications totaling more than $800,000 over three years. The report emphasized the city's commitment to diversifying revenue sources beyond property taxes while maintaining service excellence.