During the October 21, 2024, Minnetrista City Council meeting, a significant focus was placed on enhancing water safety on Lake Minnetonka through the Save the Lake Fund. This fund, established to support improvements around the lake, has previously been utilized for essential equipment for local fire and police departments. However, concerns have arisen regarding the adequacy of water patrol protection, prompting discussions about funding two additional water patrol officers.

Currently, the lake is served by a limited number of deputies, with only one typically assigned to Lake Minnetonka. This has raised alarms about response times during water emergencies, which can take up to ten minutes under normal circumstances. To address this, the council previously allocated $95,000 for additional deputies, but with donations this year dropping to around $30,000, the need for a more reliable funding model has become apparent.

Council members are considering whether to approach local cities for an increase in assessments to support the necessary funding for these officers. This could potentially add an estimated $5,000 to $6,000 to current assessments, which total approximately $3,035,000. The discussion reflects a broader commitment to community safety, emphasizing that both water patrol officers and basic traffic safety measures are vital for residents.

In addition to water patrol concerns, the council also addressed the maintenance of solar lights on the lake, which have been incorporated into the city’s budget at a cost of about $5,000 annually. These lights are crucial for nighttime navigation, helping to prevent accidents on the water.

Another topic of concern was the rise of private boat rentals on the lake. Many of these boats are not undergoing the required safety inspections, posing risks to users and the community. Additionally, the practice of picking up and dropping off passengers at private residences has raised aesthetic and safety concerns among residents.

As the council continues to explore solutions for these pressing issues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of the Minnetrista community. Further discussions and fundraising efforts are expected in the coming months to secure the necessary resources for enhanced water safety measures.