Minnetonka Mayor Presents Successes and Challenges During the State of the City

Minnetonka Mayor Brad Wiersum shared some of the changes in the past year and what he’s looking forward to this year during the state of the city address Feb. 4.

Wiersum began with the changes on the City Council by recognizing longtime members Bob Ellingson, Mike Happe and Tim Bergstedt for their service and welcoming newcomers Brian Kirk, Kissy Coakley and Brad Schaeppi.

Some of the highlights included new developments and businesses, parks and trails, franchise fees and the city efforts surrounding public safety, climate and inclusion.

With “a lot going on in Minnetonka,” Wiersum highlighted some of the housing developments under construction, including Avidor at Ridgedale, a 168-unit development for ages 55 and older; and The Birke, which will provide 175 units, 35 of which will be considered affordable housing.

The combined developments will provide 1,700 additional housing units, of which 34% will be affordable and 30% will be senior housing.

The Preserve at Shady Oak/Legends of Minnetonka, being developed by Dominium, is the largest affordable housing development currently under construction, as it will provide 482 units at 60% of area median income.

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