The Wright County Board of Commissioners approved emergency no-wake restrictions for Buffalo Lake during their July 8 meeting, responding to high water levels that have put infrastructure underwater.

The board voted unanimously to concur with the City of Buffalo's emergency declaration, establishing a 300-foot no-wake zone around the entire lake. The restriction was amended from the city's original 600-foot proposal to align with existing county ordinances. Water levels reached 918.5 feet, putting some city infrastructure a foot underwater, according to county administration.

Commissioners also approved amendments to the county's cannabis regulation ordinance, changing the application process to first-come, first-served rather than a lottery system. The changes also align administrative fines with existing tobacco ordinance penalties. The amendments followed an 18-month development process and public hearing.

In other business, the board authorized purchase of a former highway shop from French Lake Township for $110,000, with closing scheduled by month's end. Commissioners also voted 3-2 to fill a budgeted building inspector position after hearing that inspection turnaround times have reached nearly 20 days, with some approaching 50 days.

The board approved a resolution to apply for a $2 million state redevelopment grant for demolishing the old downtown Buffalo government center, requiring a $1 million county match from fund balance if awarded.