The meeting began with the appointment of a new chairperson in the wake of Chris Coleman’s passing. After a motion and unanimous approval, a commissioner was appointed as the new chair. The appointment of a vice-chair followed, with another commissioner stepping into this leadership role through a similar process. The transitions in leadership were smooth, allowing the commission to continue its work on preserving Chaska’s historic properties.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a collaborative project with the University of Minnesota’s Resilient Communities Project (RCP), which aims to expand Chaska’s historic nomination list. Alyssa Bidwell, a PhD student involved with RCP, presented her research on three properties identified as potential nominees: the Glatzel House, the Meyers House, and the Liverman House. Her presentation provided detailed historical and architectural insights into these properties.

The Glatzel House, constructed in 1868 by Wilhelm and Clara Glatzel, was the first property discussed. Bidwell detailed its architectural features, such as the use of local Chaska brick, and its historical significance, notably through Ed Glatzel’s contributions to local history documentation. The house has weathered significant challenges, including two major floods in 1951 and 1965, which caused the family considerable hardship.

Following the Glatzel House, the focus shifted to the Meyers House, built in 1875 and associated with Matias Henry Meyers. Meyers, who immigrated from the Netherlands, played a role in the community through his lumber yard, hardware store, and political involvement. The house itself, a four-story wood-framed structure with a symmetrical facade, reflects the architectural style of its era and Meyers’ prominence in the area.

Lastly, the Liverman House was discussed, with its construction date cited variably as 1918 or 1922. The house is historically significant due to its association with the Liverman family and their brewery, which produced Chaska’s first bottled beer. The Liverman Brewery’s closure during Prohibition led to the creative repurposing of materials for the house’s construction. The house’s craft influences and symmetrical facade further enhance its architectural value.

Throughout the presentation, visual aids and historical narratives brought to life the history behind these properties. The commission members, as well as attendees, expressed appreciation for the research and insights shared by Bidwell and the support provided by local resources.

The meeting also included a somber acknowledgment of the late Chris Coleman, whose dedication and contributions to the commission and the community were recognized. Coleman’s legacy continues to inspire the commission’s mission to preserve Chaska’s heritage.