Hello and Happy New Year Chanhassen Residents
It is great to be back in touch with you as we look ahead to a productive 2026.
City Council
On Monday, City Council appointed members to serve various positions in our community. These positions rotate amongst Council members on an annual basis:
• Josh Kimber: Deputy Mayor & Southwest Transit Board Member (continued)
• Jerry McDonald: Southwest Transit Board Member
• Me: Fire Relief Association Board Member
Join a City Commission
If it was your New Year's resolution to get involved or to find a way to give back, please consider joining one of the city’s commissions. It is a fun and rewarding opportunity! Commissions are recommending bodies to the council on issues and projects that come before the city. Please complete an application by January 30 for an opportunity to interview with City Council. The following is a list of vacancies:
- Economic Development Commission: Two 3-year positions are available.
- Planning Commission: Two 3-year positions are available.
- Park & Recreation Commission: Two 3-year positions are available.
- Environmental Commission: Two 3-year positions are available.
- Commission on Aging: One 3-year position and one 1-year position are available.
- SouthWest Transit Commission: One 2-year position is available beginning in June 2026.
Chanhassen Community Center
The city held a successful open house last week where residents were able to review the plans, view updated renderings, share feedback and ask questions. It was great hearing from our residents and we appreciate their attendance. If you are interested in more information, you can download a copy of the pamphlet that was distributed at the event here.
Successfully managing a community center is a complex undertaking. Throughout the design and development process, we have been working closely with Sports Facilities Companies, which manages hundreds of similar facilities across the country. On Monday, the Council reviewed their contract for operational management of the Chanhassen Bluffs Community Center. From a user perspective, the Community Center will still look and feel like a city facility, but with additional backend expertise and optimization. The contract was part of the initial budget and the discussion on Monday was to clarify the scope of work and consider next steps.
Legislative Priorities
The City Council annually adopts legislative priorities which are shared with our locally elected officials. It is important for our elected leaders to understand our priorities as they consider legislative decisions that impact Chanhassen. Please review the list by clicking here.
Road Construction
Even though it feels like we just wrapped up the 2025 road projects, we are already moving forward with the planning and preparation for the upcoming season. In addition to the slate of 2026 projects, the City Council is also reviewing future plans for Pleasantview Road. All road projects have a corresponding project page, so please sign up on the respective pages to receive updates.
Final Thoughts
I cannot ignore what is happening across Minnesota. It is difficult and deeply concerning to see our state facing such challenging circumstances. I know there are differing perspectives and strongly held opinions, and I respect that. As mayor, my responsibility is to remain focused on our city, to lead with intention and to choose my words thoughtfully.
I want to assure our residents that I am in frequent communication with elected officials at the local, state and federal levels, as well as with law enforcement, sharing the experiences, requests and concerns I am hearing. I am grateful to serve a city that values diverse perspectives and civil dialogue. That balance is especially important during times like this and it strengthens my ability to represent our community responsibly as I engage with other leaders. I am advocating for a clear, responsible path forward that reflects the values of Chanhassen, honors the best of Minnesota and keeps community safety and trust front and center.
I am always happy to connect with you at eryan@chanhassenmn.gov
Warmest regards,
Elise Ryan
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