Evaluation of Lake Elmo Fire Station & Parks Building Redevelopment Proposals

Dissent: The final vote was 6-4 in favor of Tap and Ladder after rank-choice elimination, indicating a divided preference among committee members, though no explicit dissent was voiced against the final motion to recommend.

Moved by Council Member [01:19:40] · Seconded by Council Member [01:19:50]

The Economic Development Authority reviewed three distinct proposals. Proposal A, 'Tap and Ladder / Machete,' envisioned transforming the Fire Station into a self-pour tap house and the Parks Building into a Mexican restaurant, emphasizing local ownership and family-friendly amenities. Proposal B, 'River Siren Brewing / Lake Elmo Commons,' sought to preserve the Fire Station for a brew pub and redevelop the Parks Building site into a mixed-use building with retail and residential, including public realm improvements. Proposal C, 'Old Village Social,' proposed a multi-use destination in the Fire Station with a pizzeria, microbrewery, and arcade, and the Parks Building as an indoor/outdoor mini-golf attraction. Discussions included the viability of business models, parking solutions, community integration, historical preservation, financial details, and potential TIF utilization. Committee members appreciated the thoughtful proposals but raised concerns about long-term sustainability, retail rent affordability, and the craft beer market's saturation. Following presentations and Q&A, a rank-choice vote was conducted.