The Wayzata City Council approved two property variances during their June 3 meeting, allowing homeowners to exceed standard building and fence requirements.

Council members unanimously approved a building coverage and impervious surface variance for 323 Wake Cliff North, where owners plan to convert an existing deck into a four-season enclosed space. The project will increase building coverage to 38.5% and impervious surface coverage to 52.1%, both above the standard 35% and 45% limits. Community Development Director Alex Sharp noted the property was already non-conforming under current regulations, having been developed in the early 1990s before stricter coverage requirements took effect.

The council also approved a fence height and opacity variance for 1407 Holdridge Lane, allowing a six-foot privacy fence in the front yard where typically only four-foot fences with less than 50% opacity are permitted. The homeowner sought the variance to mitigate noise and light from nearby Highway 12 car dealerships. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval for both applications after thorough review.

City Manager Jeff Dahl recognized Police Chief Jamie Baker, who officially began her permanent role June 1 after serving as interim chief. A formal press release and swearing-in ceremony is planned for June 10. The Wayzata Sailing Center also presented information about their upcoming open house on June 10 from 5-7 p.m., featuring programs for all ages including the Wayzata High School sailing team.

Only three council members attended the meeting, with two having excused absences. The meeting experienced technical difficulties with the YouTube broadcast, which will be posted online after the meeting concluded.