February 23, 2024 • 34 mins
As the sun kisses the shores of Lake Minnetonka, Mayor Johanna Mouton, with her tapestry of experiences from firefighter to political leader, sits with us to weave a story of passion, service, and adventure.
This episode is an intimate journey into the heart of a community through the eyes of a woman whose life has been fueled by the desire to serve and enhance the lives around her.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hello everybody and welcome to Tonka Talk.
I'm Natalie and we love toshare the ways people create
community and connection allover Lake Minnetonka, and today
I'm very excited because myguest today is the mayor of
Waiseta, one of our beautifullakeside cities, johanna Muton.
Speaker 2 (00:19):
Hi, natalie, thanks for having me.
Speaker 1 (00:21):
I'm super excited because I was telling her
earlier how, in our office, wewere totally fangirling because
you have such an interestingbackground.
First, I want to find out,because I was having a hard time
with the name and I'm likewhere are you from?
Speaker 2 (00:41):
Well, it's a long, convoluted story.
My parents were born and raisedin Belgium.
My great-grandfather isoriginally French, so I have
dual citizenship.
I made French and US citizen.
Wow, After my parents met, theywere high school sweethearts.
My father had a job straightout of school at a resort in
(01:03):
Freeport, Bahamas, and so hewent down there for about six
months to a year.
My parents were engaged rightout of school.
At that point he came back toBelgium, married my mother.
They packed their bags, theywent down to Bahamas.
I was born about 18 monthslater and they spent three years
(01:24):
there.
And then, at the age of abouttwo and a half or three, we
moved to the United States and Igrew up right outside of
Washington DC in a NorthernVirginia bedroom community.
And then in my early 20s, Imoved to Minnesota, which is
where I finished my educationI'm a proud alum of the College
(01:47):
of St Benedict and then,post-graduation, I started
working.
I got married, had two kids,and here I am today, loving
Minnesota and relishing in allit has to offer.
Speaker 1 (02:00):
Yeah, by way of the Bahamas.
I was born and raised in Hawaii.
Yes, you mentioned that Islandpeople as well.
Speaker 2 (02:07):
I know it makes us wonder.
We left the island life for thetundra.
Of course, not this year, notthis year, no, but it is so
beautiful here, it's a wonderfulway of life and it was a place
that I decided was a wonderfullocation to raise a family.
Speaker 1 (02:24):
Oh, I agree.
Speaker 2 (02:25):
Just a sense of community, which is what this
show is all about a sense ofcommunity.
Speaker 1 (02:29):
Tell me this.
I know that I think it was in1996 you became the first female
firefighter with the WizedataFire Department, wasn't it?
That's correct?
Yes, Tell me about that.
Speaker 2 (02:41):
Well, my husband at the time was on the fire
department.
This was before we were married.
We were engaged to be marriedand I could see how much he
really connected and enjoyed thework, and it was something I
had, frankly, never really givenmuch thought about, but I
always had this sense ofadventure.
I mean, I guess you could askmy parents and they could attest
(03:02):
to maybe not always the bestsense of adventure, but I
thought what a great way toreally connect with other
members of the community whohave a similar passion and do
something outside of my normalday to day work.
And so I expressed interest, Iwas interviewed, I was hired, I
(03:23):
went through the training and Ispent about five years on the
department, first woman, and youlearn a lot along the way.
The fire service has definitelychanged over the years, but it
was so incredibly fulfilling,incredibly hard work, very
fulfilling, and it really openedmy eyes to what the fire
(03:47):
service, not only in Wizedatabut around the country, was like
at that time but continues tobe, and that is predominantly
volunteer firefighters aroundthe country, all over small
towns to relatively largercities, and we are on call 24-7.
(04:09):
There is no day off.
So holidays, birthdays,anniversaries, they all get
interrupted, sleep nonexistent.
When that pager goes off in themiddle of the night, you jump
out of bed, you get in your car,you go to the fire station, you
respond to a call.
So it really is a commitment.
(04:29):
Simply speaking, I was on for ashort amount of time, but it
was definitely an experiencethat forever changed my life.
Speaker 1 (04:38):
I bet it sounds like something that would also
prepare you in a way for otherpublic service, because you've
been prior to becoming the mayorof Wizedata.
You were on the city councilfor was it six years?
Speaker 2 (04:50):
It was.
I left the fire service after Ihad my children you can't have
mom and dad both responding to acall at the same time when you
have an infant at home and so Idecided it was time to hang up
my gear, so to speak, and so Icontinued raising a family and
(05:16):
working full time.
I was involved in city typeaffairs, but from a citizen
standpoint, and had concernsthat I would discuss or raise at
city council meetings.
And it wasn't until nine yearsago almost 10 years ago now that
(05:38):
someone had approached me onthe city council at the time and
said we really think you wouldbe a good addition to the city
council, would you considerrunning?
And I had considered serving onthe planning commission prior
to that, but some personalevents had transpired that
precluded me from being able todedicate that amount of time, so
(05:58):
I put that on the back burner.
I talked to my family at thetime.
My kids were young and I saidyou know this is going to be a
lot of work, mom's going to beaway, and what do you think?
Course they're like yeah, sure.
Speaker 1 (06:12):
Whatever, whatever.
Speaker 2 (06:14):
We don't even know what that means.
But okay, and so I threw my hatin and I ran.
It was a highly contestedelection, but I was elected and
I learned so much andunderstanding how city operates,
how decisions are made, publicinput, community engagement, and
(06:37):
I spent six years learned somuch from such an amazing mentor
, former mayor Ken Wilcox, who Iconsider a friend and a
colleague, and when he was readyhe had dedicated so many years
of service, both when he livedin Minnetonka he served in an
(06:58):
elected capacity and also forthe city of Wyseta.
When he decided he was retiring, I had spoken to him and he
supported me in my decision torun, and so, three and a half
years ago now, I ran for mayor.
Speaker 1 (07:15):
And you became the first female mayor of Wyseta.
Speaker 2 (07:18):
That's correct.
Yes, so another, very proud,another verse.
Yeah, yes, so never anticipatedbeing a groundbreaker or you
know, the first of anything.
Speaker 1 (07:30):
That's where that sense of adventure comes in
handy.
Speaker 2 (07:33):
I think so.
I think so and a sense of Inever considered myself a
competitive person, but I guessI am when I really reflect on my
personality and you know, thecommitment to community and
really being the best version ofmyself for my community and
(07:55):
ultimately laying the groundworkfor a healthy, robust city and
making decisions that aren'tabout me, what I want.
Speaker 1 (08:06):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (08:07):
What's best in the short term, but also in the long
term.
Speaker 1 (08:12):
What has been some of your, some of the projects
there's been so much going on inWyseta over the years since
you've been mayor that have beenhave meant the most to you or
that have gotten you excited.
Speaker 2 (08:24):
Oh, that's a great one.
So when I initially ran forcouncil, we had our
telecommunications our celltower communications were on our
water tower.
Our water tower is located inone of our parks and we have
homes around there and it wasdisruptive, and so there was a
(08:45):
pocket of the community that wasreally concerned about that and
wanted to see that equipmentmoved.
So that was something I wasvery passionate about, working
for those community members tohave that done.
And we did it and we raised themoney.
We moved all of that equipmentoff site so it was not
disturbing to them any longer.
(09:05):
So that was one.
I was, admittedly, veryreticent about the municipal
parking ramp when I was firstelected, didn't really
understand the immediate needfor it.
I was a large financialinvestment, but I was.
(09:27):
I learned a lot and throughthat became more involved in the
planning for that and thedesign and I'm a believer in a
municipal project is nodifferent than any private
project that might happen.
It needs to be the best.
Speaker 1 (09:44):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (09:45):
And this is something that's going to be in our
community for decades to come.
So it better look really nice,and so I led the design
committee as the councilrepresentative, and then we
ended up winning a lot of awardsfor it.
Oh, that's fantastic.
So that was really a very nicefeather to have in my back and
(10:07):
also to be able to say I didn'tknow at all.
I went in with somepreconceived notions, but I left
my mind open enough.
I had great dialogue with staff, council and community members
to be open enough to considernew ideas.
Speaker 1 (10:28):
That is so key and I think what you just said there
is just so important becausethat's if you can have your mind
open to it and I think that'swhat really makes somebody good
at being in public service isit's about the community and you
made it about the community andyou had an open mind and look,
then you guys go and win a bunchof awards for this 100%, and
(10:53):
it's OK to have your thoughts.
Speaker 2 (10:56):
We have a very cohesive council and we all have
come at it from differentperspectives.
We don't always agree, but wealways approach it in terms of
what is best for the communityand are able to have that open,
professional, respectfuldialogue.
And it's not always unanimous,but that's OK.
(11:18):
That's what the process isabout and that's something I'm
super proud of.
Another project that wasincredibly meaningful to me and
my peers on the councilunderstood this was my desire to
lead our police memorial designand installation Excuse me and
(11:44):
so when it came time to do that,we had one already for one of
our fallen officers, sergeantAnderson, who had died back in
the 80s, killed in the line ofduty, and it's interesting we're
speaking about this today inlight of the events from this
past weekend.
But we designed the memorial andbefore the installation of the
(12:08):
memorial, we lost anotherofficer.
We lost Officer Bill Matthews,and this was in 2017.
And so, unfortunately, when itcame time to dedicate the
memorial, we were dedicating itto two officers, and that was a
(12:30):
really collaborative processbetween staff and a designer.
We had a member of thecommunity that wrote the words
that were etched in the stone.
We had representatives from thepolice department and it was
such a meaningful tribute.
It's very difficult.
It was one of those times whereyou try to be professional.
Speaker 1 (12:53):
Yeah.
Yet your emotions are right atthe surface, especially having
been a firefighter working alongby the police like that, I
would imagine that's difficult.
Speaker 2 (13:03):
It is very difficult and it was such a tragic event
for our community, as it is forany community that loses any
member who dedicates their lifeand their career to serving
others.
And so anybody who knows me,they know I'm a crier, I wear my
heart on my sleeve, but I wasable to get through that and
(13:26):
understanding that there's aplace of remembrance for the
people who meant so much to meand that I was able to lead.
That was really meaningful.
It holds a special place for me.
And then, most recently, wehave Panaway.
Yeah, the Panaway.
Speaker 1 (13:44):
That is such a huge project and personally I'm a fan
.
When I saw the images of it, Isaw it go up I thought, oh, this
is great and I've been able toraise it up a few times.
Wonderful, and I found it to bevery inviting and having so
many places where you can sitand just feel like you can park.
(14:04):
And if you don't, I'm not ahuge stopper but I like to spend
time in an excelsior.
But then there's the commons,there's even places you can sit,
there's benches along WaterStreet and Excelsior, and there
wasn't that as much in Wysetauntil the Panaway and there's so
much there.
Of course, the biggest questionwith the Panaway that comes out
(14:26):
that I get a lot is what is upwith those bathrooms and they're
almost like a spaceship, a cubethat's there and, for people
who don't know, it's rightalongside, like Minnetonka.
I guess.
And the feedback at times that Ihave heard is you walk in and
you walk towards the Panaway andit's right by Cove, the
(14:49):
restaurant right outside.
Are these restrooms right there?
And there's been a questionabout why there and why it set
up that.
Is there a reason for that?
There was a lot of discussionabout that.
Speaker 2 (15:00):
So Panaway, the concept of Panaway, dates back
many, many decades, and when Ifirst got on the council, we
really kind of started puttingthings into motion, not without
a lot of community engagement.
Part of that communityengagement included the
discussion of having publicrestroom facilities.
(15:23):
Yeah, because there were none.
There were none.
Well, there were, they wereportable huddies.
Speaker 1 (15:29):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (15:29):
Yeah, not exactly Minnetonka the type of facility
that most people choose to use.
But it was not only fromresidents that we heard we
needed public bathroomfacilities, but the businesses
and then understanding who usesthem.
What is it?
The use of the space, who andhow do people come to use the
(15:54):
space and part of that.
We've looked at many, manylocations.
The depot is a very difficultlocation that was a
consideration but that's ahistoric building and so that's
very difficult to work around.
You've got the lake andplumbing issues and
infrastructure issues that haveto be considered.
(16:15):
We considered the parking rampfacilities that were built prior
to Panway to incorporaterestrooms there, but then there
were public safety concerns.
Right, if you have somethingthat's open 24-7 and it's not
readily patrolled and, in a way,hitted away like that yeah
(16:35):
that's a good point, and a lotof the businesses were having
people walk in off the lake touse the restrooms.
Oh yeah, and so how do we?
Because if you put it somewherewhere nobody's going to go,
yeah, then what's?
Speaker 1 (16:50):
the point.
Speaker 2 (16:51):
Then what's the point ?
And a lot of the folks come inoff the lake.
Speaker 1 (16:54):
Yeah, which is right there, Right there, right where
the bathrooms are now Exactly.
Speaker 2 (17:00):
And with the plaza being where it is, we were
looking for kind of transitionand location and I understand
some people.
They didn't like the design andbeauty's in the eye of the
beholder.
Speaker 1 (17:15):
Exactly.
Speaker 2 (17:15):
The day we can't make everybody happy.
You have to think aboutmaterials and size and
functionality and all of that.
Speaker 1 (17:23):
Yeah, Make some sense , though what you're saying is
because you're right, peoplecome off the lake right there
Out of curiosity.
Did Cove have any input orconcerns about it, Because it is
fairly away from there?
Speaker 2 (17:37):
It is fairly away from there.
So the plaza is city-owned landand everybody was invited to
provide feedback, and so I don'trecall the specifics of what
feedback, if any, they providedspecific to the restroom
facility per se.
(17:58):
But again, it was to avoidpeople going into places like
Cove or now with grass people orMcCormick's across the street
Right off the water, exactly,exactly that aren't patrons but
are just going in to use thefacilities.
So that's a little bit of thebackground of how the bathrooms
came to be.
I never thought about that.
Speaker 1 (18:18):
I wasn't thinking about the people on the boats
coming off, because I've donethat too.
We've boated over and gone tolunch in YZETA and you're right,
the restrooms.
Having them right there, thatwould be really handy.
There are more plants for thepan away.
Can you tell us more about whatthe future plants are?
Speaker 2 (18:35):
Oh, I'm so excited to share.
So we completed phase one,which was everything along Lake
Street the removal of theparking lot, the construction of
the restrooms and the plazaarea, all of the seating.
Phase two is nearing completion, should be completed this
spring and that is the actuallake walk.
So it's 1200 feet, I believe,of an actual lake walk in the
(19:01):
lake to bring people access tothe lake who otherwise don't
have it, and the precast iscompleted.
What's precast?
Precast is precast concrete.
So we had to drive piles intothe lake and then the over the
water People will be able towalk.
So it's essentially a short notshort in length but short in
(19:23):
height bridge or the water.
So it's an engineering feat,right when you think about ice
on the lake and how the watermoves and how Would this be
permanent.
It is permanent.
So the decking now will go on,the railings will go on and
people can walk, essentiallyfrom the west end, where the
(19:45):
depot is, all the way downtowards where the Broadway docks
eventually will be.
We're reconstructing the docksthere, sure.
So from the depot to Cove andit's a meandering boardwalk that
people will be able to enjoythe lake up close and personally
, and it's over the water thewhole way.
Speaker 1 (20:05):
It's over the water the whole way.
Oh, my goodness, I've seen, youknow, I have seen images of it,
but this is exciting.
So this is going to open thisspring.
Speaker 2 (20:14):
It will open this spring.
So the weather has beenchallenging.
Yeah, let's say the least, fromthe number of different fronts
for everybody.
It is difficult for us thisyear in terms of not having any
ice, so our docks wereanticipated to be built from the
ice.
Since we don't have enough forall of the equipment, we're
(20:34):
working with the constructioncompany, the dock installer, to
figure out what method they willuse to build the docks.
So the docks may be a littlebit later than we had initially
planned.
Sure, the lakewalk will be open.
The docks will be new andimproved, permanent docks to be
able to accommodate thedifferent size boats that are
out on the lake compared to 20years ago, and there will be
(20:58):
more docks we originally had,and these are public docks.
These are transient docks, yes,so people who are coming to
Wyseta can dock their boat andcome into town and enjoy
everything that Wyseta has tooffer.
Speaker 1 (21:12):
Is it pay parking, if you will, for the boats, for
the boat slips.
Speaker 2 (21:17):
Well, it's interesting Right after this,
our chat today, I'm going toCity Hall for a workshop with
the rest of the council andstaff to talk about different
policies for those docks,including pay as you go kind of
system or pay by the hour forpeople who are coming to visit,
(21:37):
and yeah.
So we'll see kind of whatdirection the council has, a
whole give staff and how thatworks out.
Speaker 1 (21:45):
But more to come on that, but there'll be more slips
, so more people will be able tocome, correct?
I love, too, that the lake walk, like you're saying, gives
accessibility to people to getout and get near the water and
enjoy it.
Will it be handicap accessibleas well?
Speaker 2 (22:01):
Absolutely so.
That was one of therequirements, a goal and a
requirement.
Yeah, it had to be an ADAaccessible, pardon me, both the
docks and the lake walk.
So there won't be.
You know the rules will belikely no bikes and no
authorized vehicles, butstrollers and wheelbangers
(22:24):
obviously will be allowed, andthat was something you know.
If I can go back a little bit,so when, during COVID, we were
supposed to begin constructionof phase one, which is
everything you see now right,it's all the public
infrastructure underneath thestreets that you don't see, the
less sexy, glamorous new roads,new curbs, new sidewalks, the
(22:48):
lawns All of that wasconstructed.
We decided during COVID, really, you know what, let's do it.
You know COVID be damned.
Yeah, let's get it done, let'smake it happen, and we're so
glad that we did.
Yeah, it was really challengingon so many different levels,
but I remember when we took thebarricades down and the people
(23:09):
came out and the first time Isaw multi generational families
of all different abilitieswalking safely down the sidewalk
and able to enjoy this outdoorspace together.
It's like you know all theblood, sweat and tears that we
say, was 100% worth it, and itwas so satisfying to see.
Speaker 1 (23:30):
That's so great, I know I love it.
So once the Lakewalk is in, isthat pretty much the end of that
of the Panaway project?
As far as what's going to bedone so far, that will be the
end of phase two.
Okay.
Speaker 2 (23:41):
So then we broke it up into phases, because all of
this is being done not throughour levy dollars that you know
the residents pay for.
This is all being done throughgrants through the state and
through financial contributionsthrough the Wysetic Conservancy.
So they're raising money to dothis.
Speaker 1 (24:03):
Wow.
Speaker 2 (24:04):
Phase three incorporates all of the
remaining aspects.
So rehabbing the at the Depotand the Depot Park, so that
piece of allowing people to comeand be outside have a picnic
yeah, really enjoy that aspect.
And the Section Forman House asanother example of phase three.
(24:26):
So the Section Forman House isalso a historical building.
It's on the US NationalHistoric Register.
It is to be remodeled to be alearning center.
Oh, what it's a really coollearning center about the lake.
So in partnership it classesfrom the YMCA, wysetic School
(24:51):
District, three Rivers, foursmall class sizes, 20 to 25
students.
You're going to come in andlearn about the ecology at the
park.
Wow, and really be just alearning center.
Speaker 1 (25:05):
Yeah, three more For some together People at stewards
to take care of, likeMinnetonka.
Speaker 2 (25:09):
Absolutely so.
The ecology how do you takecare of it?
Why is it so important?
And then we have a retentionpond just beyond that, so
rebuilding that as well.
So you know, ecology,sustainability, environmentalism
and being stewards of LakeMinnetonka is really important
to us, and it's one of our goalsand our missions as a council
(25:32):
and as a city.
Speaker 1 (25:33):
That's so great.
It really seems like.
Why is that is leading the wayin that way?
Because I'm not aware of.
I'm sure the other cities aredoing great things too.
Speaker 2 (25:41):
They are.
Speaker 1 (25:43):
But that really is a next level of educating and
having it where kids can go inand have access to that kind of
an education, because so oftenwe hear about what the rules are
, what the rules are, you knowwhat the wake rules are, what
the this rules are, but what'soften missing is the why
Absolutely why.
What will happen if we don'tfollow those rules, why those
(26:06):
rules exist in the first place.
So I think that's absolutelywonderful.
Are there any things coming upin WISETA in the future that
you're excited about or can talkabout?
Speaker 2 (26:17):
Yeah, a lot of this information, if it isn't already
out on the website, will beshortly because we're in the
planning phases.
So we will have a state of thecity at WISETA City Hall.
Okay, I don't recall.
I know staff told me the date.
My memory fails me.
Speaker 1 (26:33):
Yeah, I think that, but it'll be out on the website.
Speaker 2 (26:35):
So it'll be at the city hall in the community room.
There will be a short receptionfollowed by a program where
we'll talk about all of thegreat things that have happened
over the course of the year inWISETA.
What people can expect in thecoming year, ask questions,
there'll be a Q&A.
So that'll be more a cheap realtime frame.
(26:55):
Sure, so I'm looking aboutpaying away.
So in probably Memorial Day orsome time in the summer we're
looking to have a big crowd forthe big ribbon cutting, slash,
unveiling of the Lakewalk tocelebrate everybody's hard work
and accomplishments and welcomeeveryone to our community.
Speaker 1 (27:16):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (27:18):
So for our residents who live there and get to enjoy
it every day with the folks whoalso maybe only come once in a
while and get to see everythingit has to offer.
Speaker 1 (27:26):
And this is your fourth year now as mayor, so are
you going to run for reelectionagain?
Speaker 2 (27:32):
Well, you heard it here first.
Yes, I hadn't officiallyannounced, but yes, I've had
several people ask me.
I just I have to say it hasbeen such a rewarding experience
to lead and represent such anamazing community that has done
(27:54):
so much, both in terms of forits residents but the
surrounding metro area.
We have a vibrant commercialcore, which is so critical to
our vibrancy, and we have suchan engaged citizenry that loves
their town, their history and Iwould you know I'd be honored to
(28:20):
continue to serve and representsuch an amazing community that
has given me so much, and thisis my way of giving back to it.
Speaker 1 (28:28):
Oh, that's fantastic.
I'm not a YZeta resident so Idon't get to vote, but I would
totally vote for you.
Speaker 2 (28:33):
Well, thank you, I appreciate it In spirit.
Speaker 1 (28:36):
Yeah, I love what you've done.
I love, I think it's soexciting to have I mean to be
just all of these firsts and somuch of what's happening in
YZeta.
I love that it's also beingdone with the intention of
opening the community up, makingit more accessible for so many
different people.
Just it just adds to it,because everybody that comes out
(28:57):
there and enjoys it andsupports it and gets to
experience the beauty of LakeMinnetonka, the more the better
that way.
And then I can visit the shopsand the restaurants because,
like you were saying, YZeta justhas some incredible shopping
and, even though I'm not huge onshopping, when I do want to go,
there's a few shops in YZetathat I like to go to and the
restaurants.
Speaker 2 (29:18):
They are absolutely fantastic.
It's a one-step shopping kindof community.
You do it by the day.
You can, you absolutely can.
You need to get your drycleaning done.
You're banking, you're groceryshopping, you name it.
You buy some crystals and somewonderful things, a jewel weed,
which is one of my favorite.
I love jewel weed, it's sowonderful.
(29:41):
And they've expanded.
Oh, they did they did.
Oh, they moved better.
They moved to a spot, samestreet, a little bit further
west.
So they're doing incrediblywell.
High-craft Lennon's amazing.
That's actually owned by one ofour council members.
Oh, what?
So she has just a lovely store,our jewelry store.
(30:05):
So Valentine's Day is coming on, you know flower shops and you
have Art of Optics.
Speaker 1 (30:14):
That's one of my favorites.
That's where I get my glassesfrom Art of Optics, Absolutely.
They've been there forever.
Speaker 2 (30:20):
They have.
We have a vibrant medicalcommunity too, dermatologists
and a medical clinic, so itreally is an all-encompassing
little community.
That's only three and a halfsquare miles, so it's that's
crazy, oh, with a population of4,500 people, but you would
(30:41):
think we were so much bigger.
Yeah, and we like to say wepunch above our weight but we're
like, okay, we'll take it andthat's.
And we have people who havebeen there for generations.
So that speaks to what thecommunity is about and we have
to recognize it has changed.
Yes, it has definitely changed.
(31:01):
Many communities, almost allcommunities have, in one form or
another and, as I've beenfortunate to travel around the
state in my capacity as mayor orpersonally, or even go back to
where I grew up, they've allchanged considerably.
Yeah, infrastructure changesand it's hard sometimes.
(31:25):
It's hard for communities toadapt to that change, but I
think we've done it really well.
It's not without a.
It's controversy sometimes.
Speaker 1 (31:35):
Sure.
Speaker 2 (31:36):
But I also say that if we're not hearing from
somebody some of the time, we'renot working hard enough.
Yeah, you're not reachingenough people.
Speaker 1 (31:44):
Exactly, I say that too.
Yeah, if I don't get theoccasional hate or email that
I'm just not doing my job, rightthere you go.
Not reaching enough people.
It's statistically going tohappen.
Absolutely Like you said aboutthe bathrooms, you can't meet
everyone's expectation all ofthe time.
But with a good intention and agood heart, and just that
(32:04):
intention of wanting to do goodfor the community I think shines
through.
I mean, you had me at firstfemale firefighter in 1996.
I'm like I need to talk to thiswoman.
Speaker 2 (32:14):
Thank you.
Thank you, it certainly helpsyou develop a tough skin.
Yes, yeah, Absolutely.
Speaker 1 (32:20):
I appreciate so much that you took the time to come
do this and to share more aboutwhy Zeta with people who
listened and who watched TongaTalk.
I think it's fascinating howour late communities continue to
grow and work together andthere's so much to look forward
to, and we'll definitely sharenews of when it's time to go
check out the new Lakewalk andeverything else.
(32:41):
So thank you so much for beinghere.
Speaker 2 (32:43):
Well, thank you, and if I may, just as we wrap up
today, this weekend our neighbor, the city of Burnsville.
They lost three members oftheir one member of their fire
department and two policeofficers.
Speaker 1 (33:00):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (33:01):
It's incredibly difficult time for them and for
all first responders, not onlyin Minnesota but around the
country.
Speaker 1 (33:11):
Yeah, All over.
Speaker 2 (33:11):
Yeah, we just ask everybody to please keep the
city of Burnsville in theirthoughts, specifically the
families of those fallen firstresponders, and then also the
first responders in your owncommunity.
They feel it.
It is raw for them.
Let's all give each other somegrace, some kindness, and hold
(33:35):
each other close and take careof each other and take care of
yourself as well.
It's a tough time.
Speaker 1 (33:42):
You're right, you're so right.
I love that.
Thank you very much.
Speaker 2 (33:45):
My pleasure.
Speaker 1 (33:46):
And everybody else.
I will talk to you later.
Hello everybody and welcome to Tonka Talk.
I'm Natalie and we love toshare the ways people create
community and connection allover Lake Minnetonka, and today
I'm very excited because myguest today is the mayor of
Waiseta, one of our beautifullakeside cities, johanna Muton.
Speaker 2 (00:19):
Hi, natalie, thanks for having me.
Speaker 1 (00:21):
I'm super excited because I was telling her
earlier how, in our office, wewere totally fangirling because
you have such an interestingbackground.
First, I want to find out,because I was having a hard time
with the name and I'm likewhere are you from?
Speaker 2 (00:41):
Well, it's a long, convoluted story.
My parents were born and raisedin Belgium.
My great-grandfather isoriginally French, so I have
dual citizenship.
I made French and US citizen.
Wow, After my parents met, theywere high school sweethearts.
My father had a job straightout of school at a resort in
(01:03):
Freeport, Bahamas, and so hewent down there for about six
months to a year.
My parents were engaged rightout of school.
At that point he came back toBelgium, married my mother.
They packed their bags, theywent down to Bahamas.
I was born about 18 monthslater and they spent three years
(01:24):
there.
And then, at the age of abouttwo and a half or three, we
moved to the United States and Igrew up right outside of
Washington DC in a NorthernVirginia bedroom community.
And then in my early 20s, Imoved to Minnesota, which is
where I finished my educationI'm a proud alum of the College
(01:47):
of St Benedict and then,post-graduation, I started
working.
I got married, had two kids,and here I am today, loving
Minnesota and relishing in allit has to offer.
Speaker 1 (02:00):
Yeah, by way of the Bahamas.
I was born and raised in Hawaii.
Yes, you mentioned that Islandpeople as well.
Speaker 2 (02:07):
I know it makes us wonder.
We left the island life for thetundra.
Of course, not this year, notthis year, no, but it is so
beautiful here, it's a wonderfulway of life and it was a place
that I decided was a wonderfullocation to raise a family.
Speaker 1 (02:24):
Oh, I agree.
Speaker 2 (02:25):
Just a sense of community, which is what this
show is all about a sense ofcommunity.
Speaker 1 (02:29):
Tell me this.
I know that I think it was in1996 you became the first female
firefighter with the WizedataFire Department, wasn't it?
That's correct?
Yes, Tell me about that.
Speaker 2 (02:41):
Well, my husband at the time was on the fire
department.
This was before we were married.
We were engaged to be marriedand I could see how much he
really connected and enjoyed thework, and it was something I
had, frankly, never really givenmuch thought about, but I
always had this sense ofadventure.
I mean, I guess you could askmy parents and they could attest
(03:02):
to maybe not always the bestsense of adventure, but I
thought what a great way toreally connect with other
members of the community whohave a similar passion and do
something outside of my normalday to day work.
And so I expressed interest, Iwas interviewed, I was hired, I
(03:23):
went through the training and Ispent about five years on the
department, first woman, and youlearn a lot along the way.
The fire service has definitelychanged over the years, but it
was so incredibly fulfilling,incredibly hard work, very
fulfilling, and it really openedmy eyes to what the fire
(03:47):
service, not only in Wizedatabut around the country, was like
at that time but continues tobe, and that is predominantly
volunteer firefighters aroundthe country, all over small
towns to relatively largercities, and we are on call 24-7.
(04:09):
There is no day off.
So holidays, birthdays,anniversaries, they all get
interrupted, sleep nonexistent.
When that pager goes off in themiddle of the night, you jump
out of bed, you get in your car,you go to the fire station, you
respond to a call.
So it really is a commitment.
(04:29):
Simply speaking, I was on for ashort amount of time, but it
was definitely an experiencethat forever changed my life.
Speaker 1 (04:38):
I bet it sounds like something that would also
prepare you in a way for otherpublic service, because you've
been prior to becoming the mayorof Wizedata.
You were on the city councilfor was it six years?
Speaker 2 (04:50):
It was.
I left the fire service after Ihad my children you can't have
mom and dad both responding to acall at the same time when you
have an infant at home and so Idecided it was time to hang up
my gear, so to speak, and so Icontinued raising a family and
(05:16):
working full time.
I was involved in city typeaffairs, but from a citizen
standpoint, and had concernsthat I would discuss or raise at
city council meetings.
And it wasn't until nine yearsago almost 10 years ago now that
(05:38):
someone had approached me onthe city council at the time and
said we really think you wouldbe a good addition to the city
council, would you considerrunning?
And I had considered serving onthe planning commission prior
to that, but some personalevents had transpired that
precluded me from being able todedicate that amount of time, so
(05:58):
I put that on the back burner.
I talked to my family at thetime.
My kids were young and I saidyou know this is going to be a
lot of work, mom's going to beaway, and what do you think?
Course they're like yeah, sure.
Speaker 1 (06:12):
Whatever, whatever.
Speaker 2 (06:14):
We don't even know what that means.
But okay, and so I threw my hatin and I ran.
It was a highly contestedelection, but I was elected and
I learned so much andunderstanding how city operates,
how decisions are made, publicinput, community engagement, and
(06:37):
I spent six years learned somuch from such an amazing mentor
, former mayor Ken Wilcox, who Iconsider a friend and a
colleague, and when he was readyhe had dedicated so many years
of service, both when he livedin Minnetonka he served in an
(06:58):
elected capacity and also forthe city of Wyseta.
When he decided he was retiring, I had spoken to him and he
supported me in my decision torun, and so, three and a half
years ago now, I ran for mayor.
Speaker 1 (07:15):
And you became the first female mayor of Wyseta.
Speaker 2 (07:18):
That's correct.
Yes, so another, very proud,another verse.
Yeah, yes, so never anticipatedbeing a groundbreaker or you
know, the first of anything.
Speaker 1 (07:30):
That's where that sense of adventure comes in
handy.
Speaker 2 (07:33):
I think so.
I think so and a sense of Inever considered myself a
competitive person, but I guessI am when I really reflect on my
personality and you know, thecommitment to community and
really being the best version ofmyself for my community and
(07:55):
ultimately laying the groundworkfor a healthy, robust city and
making decisions that aren'tabout me, what I want.
Speaker 1 (08:06):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (08:07):
What's best in the short term, but also in the long
term.
Speaker 1 (08:12):
What has been some of your, some of the projects
there's been so much going on inWyseta over the years since
you've been mayor that have beenhave meant the most to you or
that have gotten you excited.
Speaker 2 (08:24):
Oh, that's a great one.
So when I initially ran forcouncil, we had our
telecommunications our celltower communications were on our
water tower.
Our water tower is located inone of our parks and we have
homes around there and it wasdisruptive, and so there was a
(08:45):
pocket of the community that wasreally concerned about that and
wanted to see that equipmentmoved.
So that was something I wasvery passionate about, working
for those community members tohave that done.
And we did it and we raised themoney.
We moved all of that equipmentoff site so it was not
disturbing to them any longer.
(09:05):
So that was one.
I was, admittedly, veryreticent about the municipal
parking ramp when I was firstelected, didn't really
understand the immediate needfor it.
I was a large financialinvestment, but I was.
(09:27):
I learned a lot and throughthat became more involved in the
planning for that and thedesign and I'm a believer in a
municipal project is nodifferent than any private
project that might happen.
It needs to be the best.
Speaker 1 (09:44):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (09:45):
And this is something that's going to be in our
community for decades to come.
So it better look really nice,and so I led the design
committee as the councilrepresentative, and then we
ended up winning a lot of awardsfor it.
Oh, that's fantastic.
So that was really a very nicefeather to have in my back and
(10:07):
also to be able to say I didn'tknow at all.
I went in with somepreconceived notions, but I left
my mind open enough.
I had great dialogue with staff, council and community members
to be open enough to considernew ideas.
Speaker 1 (10:28):
That is so key and I think what you just said there
is just so important becausethat's if you can have your mind
open to it and I think that'swhat really makes somebody good
at being in public service isit's about the community and you
made it about the community andyou had an open mind and look,
then you guys go and win a bunchof awards for this 100%, and
(10:53):
it's OK to have your thoughts.
Speaker 2 (10:56):
We have a very cohesive council and we all have
come at it from differentperspectives.
We don't always agree, but wealways approach it in terms of
what is best for the communityand are able to have that open,
professional, respectfuldialogue.
And it's not always unanimous,but that's OK.
(11:18):
That's what the process isabout and that's something I'm
super proud of.
Another project that wasincredibly meaningful to me and
my peers on the councilunderstood this was my desire to
lead our police memorial designand installation Excuse me and
(11:44):
so when it came time to do that,we had one already for one of
our fallen officers, sergeantAnderson, who had died back in
the 80s, killed in the line ofduty, and it's interesting we're
speaking about this today inlight of the events from this
past weekend.
But we designed the memorial andbefore the installation of the
(12:08):
memorial, we lost anotherofficer.
We lost Officer Bill Matthews,and this was in 2017.
And so, unfortunately, when itcame time to dedicate the
memorial, we were dedicating itto two officers, and that was a
(12:30):
really collaborative processbetween staff and a designer.
We had a member of thecommunity that wrote the words
that were etched in the stone.
We had representatives from thepolice department and it was
such a meaningful tribute.
It's very difficult.
It was one of those times whereyou try to be professional.
Speaker 1 (12:53):
Yeah.
Yet your emotions are right atthe surface, especially having
been a firefighter working alongby the police like that, I
would imagine that's difficult.
Speaker 2 (13:03):
It is very difficult and it was such a tragic event
for our community, as it is forany community that loses any
member who dedicates their lifeand their career to serving
others.
And so anybody who knows me,they know I'm a crier, I wear my
heart on my sleeve, but I wasable to get through that and
(13:26):
understanding that there's aplace of remembrance for the
people who meant so much to meand that I was able to lead.
That was really meaningful.
It holds a special place for me.
And then, most recently, wehave Panaway.
Yeah, the Panaway.
Speaker 1 (13:44):
That is such a huge project and personally I'm a fan
.
When I saw the images of it, Isaw it go up I thought, oh, this
is great and I've been able toraise it up a few times.
Wonderful, and I found it to bevery inviting and having so
many places where you can sitand just feel like you can park.
(14:04):
And if you don't, I'm not ahuge stopper but I like to spend
time in an excelsior.
But then there's the commons,there's even places you can sit,
there's benches along WaterStreet and Excelsior, and there
wasn't that as much in Wysetauntil the Panaway and there's so
much there.
Of course, the biggest questionwith the Panaway that comes out
(14:26):
that I get a lot is what is upwith those bathrooms and they're
almost like a spaceship, a cubethat's there and, for people
who don't know, it's rightalongside, like Minnetonka.
I guess.
And the feedback at times that Ihave heard is you walk in and
you walk towards the Panaway andit's right by Cove, the
(14:49):
restaurant right outside.
Are these restrooms right there?
And there's been a questionabout why there and why it set
up that.
Is there a reason for that?
There was a lot of discussionabout that.
Speaker 2 (15:00):
So Panaway, the concept of Panaway, dates back
many, many decades, and when Ifirst got on the council, we
really kind of started puttingthings into motion, not without
a lot of community engagement.
Part of that communityengagement included the
discussion of having publicrestroom facilities.
(15:23):
Yeah, because there were none.
There were none.
Well, there were, they wereportable huddies.
Speaker 1 (15:29):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (15:29):
Yeah, not exactly Minnetonka the type of facility
that most people choose to use.
But it was not only fromresidents that we heard we
needed public bathroomfacilities, but the businesses
and then understanding who usesthem.
What is it?
The use of the space, who andhow do people come to use the
(15:54):
space and part of that.
We've looked at many, manylocations.
The depot is a very difficultlocation that was a
consideration but that's ahistoric building and so that's
very difficult to work around.
You've got the lake andplumbing issues and
infrastructure issues that haveto be considered.
(16:15):
We considered the parking rampfacilities that were built prior
to Panway to incorporaterestrooms there, but then there
were public safety concerns.
Right, if you have somethingthat's open 24-7 and it's not
readily patrolled and, in a way,hitted away like that yeah
(16:35):
that's a good point, and a lotof the businesses were having
people walk in off the lake touse the restrooms.
Oh yeah, and so how do we?
Because if you put it somewherewhere nobody's going to go,
yeah, then what's?
Speaker 1 (16:50):
the point.
Speaker 2 (16:51):
Then what's the point ?
And a lot of the folks come inoff the lake.
Speaker 1 (16:54):
Yeah, which is right there, Right there, right where
the bathrooms are now Exactly.
Speaker 2 (17:00):
And with the plaza being where it is, we were
looking for kind of transitionand location and I understand
some people.
They didn't like the design andbeauty's in the eye of the
beholder.
Speaker 1 (17:15):
Exactly.
Speaker 2 (17:15):
The day we can't make everybody happy.
You have to think aboutmaterials and size and
functionality and all of that.
Speaker 1 (17:23):
Yeah, Make some sense , though what you're saying is
because you're right, peoplecome off the lake right there
Out of curiosity.
Did Cove have any input orconcerns about it, Because it is
fairly away from there?
Speaker 2 (17:37):
It is fairly away from there.
So the plaza is city-owned landand everybody was invited to
provide feedback, and so I don'trecall the specifics of what
feedback, if any, they providedspecific to the restroom
facility per se.
(17:58):
But again, it was to avoidpeople going into places like
Cove or now with grass people orMcCormick's across the street
Right off the water, exactly,exactly that aren't patrons but
are just going in to use thefacilities.
So that's a little bit of thebackground of how the bathrooms
came to be.
I never thought about that.
Speaker 1 (18:18):
I wasn't thinking about the people on the boats
coming off, because I've donethat too.
We've boated over and gone tolunch in YZETA and you're right,
the restrooms.
Having them right there, thatwould be really handy.
There are more plants for thepan away.
Can you tell us more about whatthe future plants are?
Speaker 2 (18:35):
Oh, I'm so excited to share.
So we completed phase one,which was everything along Lake
Street the removal of theparking lot, the construction of
the restrooms and the plazaarea, all of the seating.
Phase two is nearing completion, should be completed this
spring and that is the actuallake walk.
So it's 1200 feet, I believe,of an actual lake walk in the
(19:01):
lake to bring people access tothe lake who otherwise don't
have it, and the precast iscompleted.
What's precast?
Precast is precast concrete.
So we had to drive piles intothe lake and then the over the
water People will be able towalk.
So it's essentially a short notshort in length but short in
(19:23):
height bridge or the water.
So it's an engineering feat,right when you think about ice
on the lake and how the watermoves and how Would this be
permanent.
It is permanent.
So the decking now will go on,the railings will go on and
people can walk, essentiallyfrom the west end, where the
(19:45):
depot is, all the way downtowards where the Broadway docks
eventually will be.
We're reconstructing the docksthere, sure.
So from the depot to Cove andit's a meandering boardwalk that
people will be able to enjoythe lake up close and personally
, and it's over the water thewhole way.
Speaker 1 (20:05):
It's over the water the whole way.
Oh, my goodness, I've seen, youknow, I have seen images of it,
but this is exciting.
So this is going to open thisspring.
Speaker 2 (20:14):
It will open this spring.
So the weather has beenchallenging.
Yeah, let's say the least, fromthe number of different fronts
for everybody.
It is difficult for us thisyear in terms of not having any
ice, so our docks wereanticipated to be built from the
ice.
Since we don't have enough forall of the equipment, we're
(20:34):
working with the constructioncompany, the dock installer, to
figure out what method they willuse to build the docks.
So the docks may be a littlebit later than we had initially
planned.
Sure, the lakewalk will be open.
The docks will be new andimproved, permanent docks to be
able to accommodate thedifferent size boats that are
out on the lake compared to 20years ago, and there will be
(20:58):
more docks we originally had,and these are public docks.
These are transient docks, yes,so people who are coming to
Wyseta can dock their boat andcome into town and enjoy
everything that Wyseta has tooffer.
Speaker 1 (21:12):
Is it pay parking, if you will, for the boats, for
the boat slips.
Speaker 2 (21:17):
Well, it's interesting Right after this,
our chat today, I'm going toCity Hall for a workshop with
the rest of the council andstaff to talk about different
policies for those docks,including pay as you go kind of
system or pay by the hour forpeople who are coming to visit,
(21:37):
and yeah.
So we'll see kind of whatdirection the council has, a
whole give staff and how thatworks out.
Speaker 1 (21:45):
But more to come on that, but there'll be more slips
, so more people will be able tocome, correct?
I love, too, that the lake walk, like you're saying, gives
accessibility to people to getout and get near the water and
enjoy it.
Will it be handicap accessibleas well?
Speaker 2 (22:01):
Absolutely so.
That was one of therequirements, a goal and a
requirement.
Yeah, it had to be an ADAaccessible, pardon me, both the
docks and the lake walk.
So there won't be.
You know the rules will belikely no bikes and no
authorized vehicles, butstrollers and wheelbangers
(22:24):
obviously will be allowed, andthat was something you know.
If I can go back a little bit,so when, during COVID, we were
supposed to begin constructionof phase one, which is
everything you see now right,it's all the public
infrastructure underneath thestreets that you don't see, the
less sexy, glamorous new roads,new curbs, new sidewalks, the
(22:48):
lawns All of that wasconstructed.
We decided during COVID, really, you know what, let's do it.
You know COVID be damned.
Yeah, let's get it done, let'smake it happen, and we're so
glad that we did.
Yeah, it was really challengingon so many different levels,
but I remember when we took thebarricades down and the people
(23:09):
came out and the first time Isaw multi generational families
of all different abilitieswalking safely down the sidewalk
and able to enjoy this outdoorspace together.
It's like you know all theblood, sweat and tears that we
say, was 100% worth it, and itwas so satisfying to see.
Speaker 1 (23:30):
That's so great, I know I love it.
So once the Lakewalk is in, isthat pretty much the end of that
of the Panaway project?
As far as what's going to bedone so far, that will be the
end of phase two.
Okay.
Speaker 2 (23:41):
So then we broke it up into phases, because all of
this is being done not throughour levy dollars that you know
the residents pay for.
This is all being done throughgrants through the state and
through financial contributionsthrough the Wysetic Conservancy.
So they're raising money to dothis.
Speaker 1 (24:03):
Wow.
Speaker 2 (24:04):
Phase three incorporates all of the
remaining aspects.
So rehabbing the at the Depotand the Depot Park, so that
piece of allowing people to comeand be outside have a picnic
yeah, really enjoy that aspect.
And the Section Forman House asanother example of phase three.
(24:26):
So the Section Forman House isalso a historical building.
It's on the US NationalHistoric Register.
It is to be remodeled to be alearning center.
Oh, what it's a really coollearning center about the lake.
So in partnership it classesfrom the YMCA, wysetic School
(24:51):
District, three Rivers, foursmall class sizes, 20 to 25
students.
You're going to come in andlearn about the ecology at the
park.
Wow, and really be just alearning center.
Speaker 1 (25:05):
Yeah, three more For some together People at stewards
to take care of, likeMinnetonka.
Speaker 2 (25:09):
Absolutely so.
The ecology how do you takecare of it?
Why is it so important?
And then we have a retentionpond just beyond that, so
rebuilding that as well.
So you know, ecology,sustainability, environmentalism
and being stewards of LakeMinnetonka is really important
to us, and it's one of our goalsand our missions as a council
(25:32):
and as a city.
Speaker 1 (25:33):
That's so great.
It really seems like.
Why is that is leading the wayin that way?
Because I'm not aware of.
I'm sure the other cities aredoing great things too.
Speaker 2 (25:41):
They are.
Speaker 1 (25:43):
But that really is a next level of educating and
having it where kids can go inand have access to that kind of
an education, because so oftenwe hear about what the rules are
, what the rules are, you knowwhat the wake rules are, what
the this rules are, but what'soften missing is the why
Absolutely why.
What will happen if we don'tfollow those rules, why those
(26:06):
rules exist in the first place.
So I think that's absolutelywonderful.
Are there any things coming upin WISETA in the future that
you're excited about or can talkabout?
Speaker 2 (26:17):
Yeah, a lot of this information, if it isn't already
out on the website, will beshortly because we're in the
planning phases.
So we will have a state of thecity at WISETA City Hall.
Okay, I don't recall.
I know staff told me the date.
My memory fails me.
Speaker 1 (26:33):
Yeah, I think that, but it'll be out on the website.
Speaker 2 (26:35):
So it'll be at the city hall in the community room.
There will be a short receptionfollowed by a program where
we'll talk about all of thegreat things that have happened
over the course of the year inWISETA.
What people can expect in thecoming year, ask questions,
there'll be a Q&A.
So that'll be more a cheap realtime frame.
(26:55):
Sure, so I'm looking aboutpaying away.
So in probably Memorial Day orsome time in the summer we're
looking to have a big crowd forthe big ribbon cutting, slash,
unveiling of the Lakewalk tocelebrate everybody's hard work
and accomplishments and welcomeeveryone to our community.
Speaker 1 (27:16):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (27:18):
So for our residents who live there and get to enjoy
it every day with the folks whoalso maybe only come once in a
while and get to see everythingit has to offer.
Speaker 1 (27:26):
And this is your fourth year now as mayor, so are
you going to run for reelectionagain?
Speaker 2 (27:32):
Well, you heard it here first.
Yes, I hadn't officiallyannounced, but yes, I've had
several people ask me.
I just I have to say it hasbeen such a rewarding experience
to lead and represent such anamazing community that has done
(27:54):
so much, both in terms of forits residents but the
surrounding metro area.
We have a vibrant commercialcore, which is so critical to
our vibrancy, and we have suchan engaged citizenry that loves
their town, their history and Iwould you know I'd be honored to
(28:20):
continue to serve and representsuch an amazing community that
has given me so much, and thisis my way of giving back to it.
Speaker 1 (28:28):
Oh, that's fantastic.
I'm not a YZeta resident so Idon't get to vote, but I would
totally vote for you.
Speaker 2 (28:33):
Well, thank you, I appreciate it In spirit.
Speaker 1 (28:36):
Yeah, I love what you've done.
I love, I think it's soexciting to have I mean to be
just all of these firsts and somuch of what's happening in
YZeta.
I love that it's also beingdone with the intention of
opening the community up, makingit more accessible for so many
different people.
Just it just adds to it,because everybody that comes out
(28:57):
there and enjoys it andsupports it and gets to
experience the beauty of LakeMinnetonka, the more the better
that way.
And then I can visit the shopsand the restaurants because,
like you were saying, YZeta justhas some incredible shopping
and, even though I'm not huge onshopping, when I do want to go,
there's a few shops in YZetathat I like to go to and the
restaurants.
Speaker 2 (29:18):
They are absolutely fantastic.
It's a one-step shopping kindof community.
You do it by the day.
You can, you absolutely can.
You need to get your drycleaning done.
You're banking, you're groceryshopping, you name it.
You buy some crystals and somewonderful things, a jewel weed,
which is one of my favorite.
I love jewel weed, it's sowonderful.
(29:41):
And they've expanded.
Oh, they did they did.
Oh, they moved better.
They moved to a spot, samestreet, a little bit further
west.
So they're doing incrediblywell.
High-craft Lennon's amazing.
That's actually owned by one ofour council members.
Oh, what?
So she has just a lovely store,our jewelry store.
(30:05):
So Valentine's Day is coming on, you know flower shops and you
have Art of Optics.
Speaker 1 (30:14):
That's one of my favorites.
That's where I get my glassesfrom Art of Optics, Absolutely.
They've been there forever.
Speaker 2 (30:20):
They have.
We have a vibrant medicalcommunity too, dermatologists
and a medical clinic, so itreally is an all-encompassing
little community.
That's only three and a halfsquare miles, so it's that's
crazy, oh, with a population of4,500 people, but you would
(30:41):
think we were so much bigger.
Yeah, and we like to say wepunch above our weight but we're
like, okay, we'll take it andthat's.
And we have people who havebeen there for generations.
So that speaks to what thecommunity is about and we have
to recognize it has changed.
Yes, it has definitely changed.
(31:01):
Many communities, almost allcommunities have, in one form or
another and, as I've beenfortunate to travel around the
state in my capacity as mayor orpersonally, or even go back to
where I grew up, they've allchanged considerably.
Yeah, infrastructure changesand it's hard sometimes.
(31:25):
It's hard for communities toadapt to that change, but I
think we've done it really well.
It's not without a.
It's controversy sometimes.
Speaker 1 (31:35):
Sure.
Speaker 2 (31:36):
But I also say that if we're not hearing from
somebody some of the time, we'renot working hard enough.
Yeah, you're not reachingenough people.
Speaker 1 (31:44):
Exactly, I say that too.
Yeah, if I don't get theoccasional hate or email that
I'm just not doing my job, rightthere you go.
Not reaching enough people.
It's statistically going tohappen.
Absolutely Like you said aboutthe bathrooms, you can't meet
everyone's expectation all ofthe time.
But with a good intention and agood heart, and just that
(32:04):
intention of wanting to do goodfor the community I think shines
through.
I mean, you had me at firstfemale firefighter in 1996.
I'm like I need to talk to thiswoman.
Speaker 2 (32:14):
Thank you.
Thank you, it certainly helpsyou develop a tough skin.
Yes, yeah, Absolutely.
Speaker 1 (32:20):
I appreciate so much that you took the time to come
do this and to share more aboutwhy Zeta with people who
listened and who watched TongaTalk.
I think it's fascinating howour late communities continue to
grow and work together andthere's so much to look forward
to, and we'll definitely sharenews of when it's time to go
check out the new Lakewalk andeverything else.
(32:41):
So thank you so much for beinghere.
Speaker 2 (32:43):
Well, thank you, and if I may, just as we wrap up
today, this weekend our neighbor, the city of Burnsville.
They lost three members oftheir one member of their fire
department and two policeofficers.
Speaker 1 (33:00):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (33:01):
It's incredibly difficult time for them and for
all first responders, not onlyin Minnesota but around the
country.
Speaker 1 (33:11):
Yeah, All over.
Speaker 2 (33:11):
Yeah, we just ask everybody to please keep the
city of Burnsville in theirthoughts, specifically the
families of those fallen firstresponders, and then also the
first responders in your owncommunity.
They feel it.
It is raw for them.
Let's all give each other somegrace, some kindness, and hold
(33:35):
each other close and take careof each other and take care of
yourself as well.
It's a tough time.
Speaker 1 (33:42):
You're right, you're so right.
I love that.
Thank you very much.
Speaker 2 (33:45):
My pleasure.
Speaker 1 (33:46):
And everybody else.
I will talk to you later.
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