0:28The meeting commenced with a notable recognition of Team Gensel, a youth curling team that recently claimed victory at the USA Curling U National Championship in Rock Creek, Colorado. Parks and Recreation Director Marshall introduced the team, commending their exceptional journey from a local junior program to becoming national champions. Three team members, Mason, Will, and Leon, attended the meeting and shared their experiences, practice regimen, and aspirations of possibly competing in the Olympics. The council expressed enthusiasm for the team’s achievements and discussed potential plans to honor their success, such as establishing a display case for their trophies in the community.

Transitioning from sports to social support, the council discussed the Beyond New Beginnings program, designed to assist young mothers and their children in Chaska. Jill Angus-Wick and Molly Quack highlighted the program’s evolution from a high school initiative to providing stable housing and support for young mothers who have completed their education. The program, located in downtown Chaska, offers housing, childcare, and mentorship, with a focus on empowerment rather than sympathy. The council was informed about the program’s success in helping participants gain self-sufficiency and the ongoing community support in terms of meals and mentorship.

20:39Housing and community development continued to be a focal point of the meeting. The council discussed the formation of a foundation aimed at addressing community housing needs, particularly for young adults experiencing homelessness. A notable project, the West Creek Apartment initiative, was discussed to provide housing for individuals aged 18 to 29. The effort to combat homelessness and hunger was emphasized with plans to construct additional housing facilities, aided by contributions from the city and incentives from the Minnesota legislature for affordable housing donations.

The council also reviewed updates on the Southwest Chaska Community Park project. A consultant, Confluence, has been selected to guide community engagement and develop a master plan for the park. The park is envisioned to include diverse features such as a Miracle League field, a destination-sized playground, and a park shelter building. Emphasis was placed on ensuring the park serves all abilities and ages, drawing visitors from surrounding areas. Community engagement is prioritized, with surveys and focus groups planned to gather input on the park’s development.

1:36:07Further development discussions involved the Fonwood neighborhood project, a proposal for 53 single-family homes. Concerns were raised about the single entrance design, emergency access, and the density of homes. The council highlighted the importance of community feedback and the need for varied housing options, especially for residents seeking to downsize. The council suggested tabling the discussion to allow for further review and collaboration with the developer to address these concerns.

2:24:37In the Too Curve neighborhood, a proposed plan for ten new homes sparked discussions about access routes and the impact on existing homeowners. The homeowners association expressed concerns about traffic flow and maintaining their community’s aesthetic. The council emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue between the developer and the HOA to address these issues and ensure any development aligns with community interests and planning regulations.

3:01:35The meeting also covered routine city matters, including the approval of easement vacations on Lots Two and Three, allowing for more flexible use of the space by future homeowners. The council unanimously approved resolutions to vacate unnecessary easements, following a public hearing.

Council members shared updates on recent activities, including a Downtown Business Alliance meeting and the League of Minnesota Cities’ Newly Elected Leaders Conference. Upcoming community events and initiatives, such as the American Mini Golf Alliance tournament and the CCC Carnival, were highlighted.

3:17:52The meeting concluded with discussions on employee recognition and appreciation efforts. An upcoming recognition breakfast for long-serving employees was announced.