07-22-2025 PRC Agenda Packet
A.6:00 P.M. - CALL TO ORDER
B.ROLL CALL
C.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Commissioners may postpone or remove items at this time. Commissioners may discuss adding
items to a future agenda during Commissioner Member Presentations.
D.PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS
E.VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
Commission Procedures allow for presentations from the audience at this time. If a motion is
required, the item will be forwarded to the next available agenda to allow for publication and
review prior to consideration.
F.APPROVAL OF MINUTES
F.1 Meeting Minutes: June 24, 2025
G.GENERAL BUSINESS
G.1 North Lotus Lake Park Storm Water Project - Riley Purgatory Creek Watershed District
G.2 Review Draft - Park and Recreation Commission Strategic Planning
H.REPORTS
H.1 2025 4th of July Celebration Evaluation
I.COMMISSION MEMBER COMMITTEE REPORTS
J.COMMISSION MEMBER PRESENTATIONS
AGENDA
CHANHASSEN PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION
TUESDAY, JULY 22, 2025
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 7700 MARKET BOULEVARD
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K.ADMINISTRATIVE PACKET
L.ADJOURNMENT
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Park & Recreation Commission Item
July 22, 2025
Item Meeting Minutes: June 24, 2025
Item No:F.1
Agenda Section APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Prepared By Kate Vogt, Admin Support Specialist
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve the Park & Recreation Commission meeting minutes dated June 24, 2025.
SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
DISCUSSION
RECOMMENDATION
Approve the Park & Recreation Commission meeting minutes dated June 24, 2025.
ATTACHMENTS
June 24, 2025 Park and Recreation Commission Minutes
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CHANHASSEN PARK AND
RECREATION COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES
JUNE 24, 2025
Chair Leisen called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Kurt Scheppmann; Emily Nagel; Rob Swanson; Kristin Fulkerson;
Michael Leisen; Sean Morgan; and Nora Nashawaty.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Clara Christenson, youth; and Aayan Shrestha, youth.
STAFF PRESENT: Jerry Ruegemer, Park and Recreation Director; Adam Beers, Park
Superintendent; Priya Wall, Recreation Manager; Luke Kegley, Recreation Supervisor; Jodi
Sarles, Rec Center Manager; Mary Blazanin, Senior Center Coordinator.
PUBLIC PRESENT: None.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Commissioner Swanson moved, Commissioner Fulkerson
seconded to approve the agenda as presented. All voted in favor and the motion carried
unanimously with a vote of 7 to 0.
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS: None.
VISITOR PRESENTATIONS: None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. Approve Park & Recreation Minutes dated May 27, 2025
Commissioner Nashawaty moved, Commissioner Scheppmann seconded to approve the
minutes of the Park and Recreation Commission meeting dated May 27, 2025, as presented.
All voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously with a vote of 7 to 0.
GENERAL BUSINESS: None.
REPORTS:
1. Recreation Center Quarterly Report
Jodi Sarles, Recreation Center Manager, provided an update on the parking lot overlay at the Rec
Center. The Rec Center flooring will be refinished in August. She provided updates on programs
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Park and Recreation Commission Minutes – June 24, 2025
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and events at the Rec Center and reviewed the number of facility rentals from January to May.
She highlighted some of the popular Rec Center programs and shared details about the
Chanhassen Community Days event.
Commissioner Leisen asked if they would have any changes once the seniors move out in the
fall. Ms. Sarles stated that they will have a lot more space and will have a few more rentals.
Commissioner Nashawaty asked if there were any ways that they could support the upcoming
programs. Ms. Sarles stated that staff could always use advice and extra hands.
2. Park Maintenance Quarterly Report
Adam Beers, Park Superintendent, stated that the parks are all ready for the season, and many
sports are in full swing for the summer. The first round of tournaments and events has started,
the irrigation systems and facilities are all up and running, and the pickleball courts are finished.
Jerry Ruegemer, Park and Recreation Director, provided an update on the skate park. He stated
that following the 4th of July, the skate park will be closed for the remainder of the year. They are
still trying to find a location for the skate equipment. He provided a timeline and plans for the
project.
3. 4th of July Celebration Preview
Priya Wall, Recreation Manager, provided an overview of the 4th of July Celebration. She
highlighted each event that will take place over the weekend. The first event will be the carnival,
which will be perfect for families. Several activities will take place for all ages on July 3rd. She
noted that on July 4th, there will be a parade, fireworks, and several other activities. She shared
the many event sponsors. Ms. Wall provided further details about the parade and the route.
Commissioner Nashawaty asked if there was a list of specific areas where they needed
volunteers. Ms. Wall shared the areas she thinks they would need the most help in.
4. Senior Center Quarterly Report
Mary Blazanin, Senior Center Coordinator, provided an update on the participation they had in
different programs and events. She stated that the request for health and wellness services
continues to grow, and several learning classes were very popular. She provided details about
other classes that they offer and an update on the senior picnic. Over 200 people signed up for
the event, and it went very successfully. She stated that they will be taking a group to the Twins
game on Thursday.
Commissioner Leisen asked her to share how people find out about these events. Ms. Blazanin
stated that they have a large email list, weekly emails are sent out, and many people look at the
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Park and Recreation Commission Minutes – June 24, 2025
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City website. Ms. Blazanin added that many seniors find out about the events from their children,
and word of mouth is one of the largest ways.
5. 2025 Memorial Day Evaluation
Luke Kegley, Recreation Supervisor, provided a summary of the Memorial Day celebration. He
noted that this was the first year in this new location, and they received great feedback about the
location. He provided highlights of the event, noting there were many accessibility options for
the locations. Mr. Kegley stated there were four shuttle pick-up stations, which was a great idea,
but not many people used them.
COMMISSION MEMBER COMMITTEE REPORTS: None.
COMMISSION MEMBER PRESENTATIONS:
Commissioner Morgan stated that they had a very helpful brainstorming discussion, and he
would like to turn brainstorming ideas into something meaningful for the Commission and a
proper strategic plan.
ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS: None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Commissioner Fulkerson moved, Commissioner Swanson seconded to adjourn the meeting.
All voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously with a vote of 7 to 0. The Park and
Recreation Commission meeting was adjourned at 7:07 p.m.
Submitted by Jerry Ruegemer
Park and Recreation Director
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Park & Recreation Commission Item
July 22, 2025
Item North Lotus Lake Park Storm Water Project - Riley Purgatory Creek
Watershed District
Item No:G.1
Agenda Section GENERAL BUSINESS
Prepared By Jerry Ruegemer, Park and Recreation Director
SUGGESTED ACTION
Project Update
SUMMARY
Terry Jeffery, District Administrator with the Riley Purgatory Bluff Creek Watershed District
(RPBCWD), presented a project overview at your May 28, 2024, meeting. Mr. Jeffery will provide the
Park and Recreation Commission with an updated overview of the stormwater project located at North
Lotus Lake Park. The project contains many facets, and the overall goal is to improve the water quality
flowing into Lotus Lake.
BACKGROUND
DISCUSSION
RECOMMENDATION
ATTACHMENTS
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Park & Recreation Commission Item
July 22, 2025
Item Review Draft - Park and Recreation Commission Strategic Planning
Item No:G.2
Agenda Section GENERAL BUSINESS
Prepared By Jerry Ruegemer, Park and Recreation Director
SUGGESTED ACTION
Discuss
SUMMARY
At the May 27, 2025, Park and Recreation Commission meeting, the commissioners conducted a
brainstorming session to discuss park improvements, community events, recreation programming,
senior and recreation center operations, policy, etc. The overall goal is to assist staff with a proactive
approach that will provide clear direction and value to our department and the community as a whole.
Commissioners Morgan and Leisen have drafted a document that addresses Strategic Planning and
focus areas for the commission to consider moving forward.
BACKGROUND
DISCUSSION
RECOMMENDATION
ATTACHMENTS
Chanhassen Parks & Recreation Commission Strategic Planning Framework 2025-2026
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DRAFT/PRE-DECISIONAL/NOT OFFICIAL CITY POLICY
Guidance and Next Steps for Commissioners
This strategic planning framework is intended to be a living, working document—a tool to
help the Parks & Recreation Commission think strategically, operate collaboratively, and
provide greater value in our advisory role to the department and City of Chanhassen. This
framework will evolve. It’s meant to guide—not rigidly define—how we operate.
This is not a call to generate a flood of ideas for the city to implement. Rather, it’s a way to
harness the collective insight, experience, and creativity of this commission to help the
Parks & Recreation Department think through opportunities they may not currently have the
time or capacity to fully explore.
The Commission’s role is not primarily one of execution, but focused support—helping
identify where our collective brainpower can meaningfully inform or shape upcoming projects,
policies, or programs consistent with the City Council’s existing strategic direction. When
necessary or appropriate, the Commission may also contribute to the proactive development
execution of identified initiatives through volunteerism.
Next steps/considerations:
● Provide feedback on the substance and utility of this framework: Do you agree
with framing of the Commission's role and opportunities in the Executive Summary?
Do you agree with the scope of the Strategic Objectives, or would you recommend
refining or adding to them?
● Personally review and reflect on this framework: Where do you feel your voice,
your interests, or your observations from the community could add value?
● Add brainstorm ideas and help prioritize: We’re not trying to do everything—just to
do a few things well. The goal is to focus on 1–2 tactical initiatives per strategic
objective this year that feel both achievable and impactful.
● Consider subcommittee value: If deemed appropriate, we may propose small
working groups for further ideation on high impact areas (e.g. Civic Campus activation,
underserved demographic engagement, recreation center planning input, etc).
● Ensure groundedness in city policy and statutory responsibility: When proposing
new ideas, keep in mind the City of Chanhassen 2021–2024 Strategic Plan, Chapter
14: Parks and Recreation Ordinances and the scope of the Commission’s statutory
responsibilities. As defined by City Code § 2-46.05: the Commission is authorized to:
● Advise the City Council on matters related to parks and recreation.
● Maintain and recommend updates to the Park & Recreation System Plan.
● Produce an annual written report, not later than March 31 of each calendar
year, containing the commission's recommendations for the ensuing year.
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DRAFT/PRE-DECISIONAL/NOT OFFICIAL CITY POLICY
Parks & Recreation Commission: Strategic Planning Framework 2025-2026
Executive Summary
The Parks and Recreation Commission plays a vital advisory role in shaping Chanhassen’s
parks, trails, community events, and recreation programming. This strategic planning framework
is intended to help define the Commission’s priorities and key activities for 2025-2026 in
supporting the city. This framework is grounded in the City of Chanhassen 2021–2024 Strategic
Plan, the Commission's statutory responsibilities as defined in the PRC Handbook and City
Code § 2-46.05, and the Parks & Recreation Department mission:
Parks & Recreation Mission: “The City of Chanhassen emphasizes parks,
open space, trails, and recreation. The Parks & Recreation department
strives to maintain and enhance the quality of life for Chanhassen residents
through quality recreation programs, community events, trails, and facilities in
the community. Chanhassen is a community for life, providing for today and
planning for tomorrow.”
This strategic planning framework also recognizes the transformative moment Chanhassen is in
with respect to recreational development, including several large infrastructure projects:
● Phase 1 of the Civic Campus (Senior Center and City Council Chambers) nearing
completion in late summer 2025;
● Phase 2 of the Civic Campus (amphitheater and numerous recreational amenities)
opening in summer 2026;
● Chanhassen Bluffs Recreation Center undergoing design and development with a
plan for completion in 2027/2028.
Given these developments, the Commission has an opportunity—and responsibility—to help
shape how these spaces are used, embraced, and sustained. Towards that end, this strategic
planning framework helps structure and refine ongoing Commission brainstorming efforts into a
multi-tier framework, including:
● Commission Strategic Objectives (Downtown Community Building, Foster Belonging,
Steward and Enhance Community Assets)
● Commission Focus Areas (Infrastructure, Policy, Programming)
● Tactical Initiatives (Brainstormed ideas to explore or execute on in 2025-2026)
Commission Strategic Objectives
Through the course of Commission discussions, a number of shared aspirations emerged that
can serve as overarching strategic objectives to focus the Commission’s direction and activities.
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DRAFT/PRE-DECISIONAL/NOT OFFICIAL CITY POLICY
1. Make Downtown a Magnet for Community Building: Support efforts to create energy,
draw people in, and make downtown Chanhassen and the Civic Campus, a central gathering
space through activation, placemaking, and events.
2. Foster Belonging and Inclusive Recreation: Champion programs, policies, and
development of spaces, including the Chanhassen Bluffs Recreation Center, that are accessible
and beneficial to all of Chanhassen’s population.
3. Steward and Enhance Community Assets: Support the development of city parks,
facilities, and trails that are well-maintained, thoughtfully expanded, and future-ready.
Commission Focus Areas
For each strategic objective, the Commission can generate ideas across Infrastructure
Development, Policy Matters, and Programming.
1. Make Downtown a Magnet for Community Building
● Infrastructure Development: Design downtown public spaces to foster gathering,
vibrancy, and community engagement
● Policy Matters: Enable downtown events and engagement through flexible, supportive
policy and ordinances
● Programming: Build recurring and signature programming to bring residents downtown
Tactical Initiatives/ Brainstorm
● Introduce community art like murals, painted benches, story walks (Infrastructure)
● Prioritize shaded seating, flexible furniture, or temporary play installations
(Infrastructure)
● Evaluate food truck policy for more flexibility outside of major events (Policy)
● Consider new seasonal programming for downtown space (e.g., fall fest revival)
(Programming)
● More pop-up events like music, chalk walks, art night for families (Programming)
● Promote parks via Instagram: weekly spotlights, stories, reels
● Insert Additional Brainstorm ideas here
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DRAFT/PRE-DECISIONAL/NOT OFFICIAL CITY POLICY
2. Foster Belonging and Inclusive Recreation
● Infrastructure Development: Ensure parks and amenities are inclusive, accessible,
and welcoming to all
● Policy Matters: Strengthen representation across city recreation policies and
community input mechanisms
● Programming: Offer programming that reflects the diversity and needs of the full
community
Tactical Initiatives/ Brainstorm
● Community idea challenge to grow community buy-in for new Chanhassen Bluffs
Recreation Center (Infrastructure and Policy)
● Install elements that reflect diverse community values (e.g., little free libraries, murals)
(Infrastructure)
● Partner with Communities of Belonging for meditation hikes (Programming)
● Launch intergenerational programs: walking clubs, adaptive recreation, teen
volunteerism (Programming)
● Insert Additional Brainstorm ideas here
3. Steward and Enhance Community Assets
● Infrastructure Development: Sustain and enhance the long-term health and utility of
the park and recreation system
● Policy Matters: Use policy to manage resources, partnerships, and operational
sustainability
● Programming: Make effective, creative use of city facilities and calendar year-round
Tactical Initiatives/ Brainstorm
● Support design and rollout of Chanhassen Bluffs Recreation Center (Infrastructure and
Programming)
● Evaluate Parks and Recreations ordinances (Chapter 14 of the City Code) to evaluate
the need for any changes (Policy)
● Thoughtful expansion of Movies in the Park, rotating to showcase range of Park
spaces (Programming)
● Insert Additional Brainstorm ideas here
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Park & Recreation Commission Item
July 22, 2025
Item 2025 4th of July Celebration Evaluation
Item No:H.1
Agenda Section REPORTS
Prepared By Priya Wall, Recreation Manager
SUGGESTED ACTION
SUMMARY
The 42nd Annual 4th of July Celebration was held Wednesday, July 2 through Friday, July 4 in
downtown Chanhassen and at Lake Ann Park. The 4th of July is the most anticipated community event
of the year, and it is estimated that over 70,000 people enjoyed at least one aspect of this year's three-
day celebration.
Below is a breakdown summarizing all events, comments for next year, and a financial report.
BACKGROUND
DISCUSSION
TUESDAY, JULY 1
Movie in the Park
As part of their sponsorship and involvement in this year's celebration, Xfinity presented a Movie in the
Park event on Tuesday, July 1, as a 'bonus' event to kick off the celebration. This free event was a huge
hit, drawing a crowd of 400+ people to view The Parent Trap (1998). 200 boxes of candy and 300 bags
of popcorn were given out at the event. Based on this success and significant positive feedback, it is
recommended that movie in the park events be considered for future programming in the new Civic
Campus space.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2
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Family Night at the Carnival
This evening of the carnival offered families a chance to enjoy discounted rides, fair concessions, and
shorter lines in a less-crowded setting. It is estimated that about 6,000 people participated in this year's
Family Night.
Kiddie Parade Ride Decorating Event
kiddywampus in Chanhassen offered free kiddie parade ride decorations at their store (near Byerlys), in
preparation for the July 3 Kiddie Parade.
Kids' Music Performance
Children's band Todd'n'Tina performed songs geared towards young children under the big tent from
3:30-4:30 pm.
Face Painting, Wacky Hair, & Tattoos
Maund Entertainment offered face painting, airbrush tattoos, and wacky hairdos for $3-$15. It continues
to be a popular attraction for families. The city receives 20% of Maund Entertainment's overall sales.
Youth Artist Performances
New this year, youth artists from Minnetonka Music School's Bach to Rock performed from 6-9 pm
under the big tent. Overall, feedback on the performances was positive, and artists appreciated the
opportunity to perform for a crowd.
KaiBi Mobile Family Unit
The KaiBi Mobile Family Unit is a fully equipped, indoor, climate-controlled mobile care center
offering private nursing/pumping suites and diaper changing stations. The unit was well-received, and it
is recommended to continue booking KaiBi in future years.
THURSDAY, JULY 3
Minnesota Twins Youth Baseball Clinic
181 kids ages 6-12 received instruction at the Minnesota Twins Youth Baseball Clinic. Two sessions
were held at the Chanhassen High School Storm and Red Birds baseball stadium. The city has
developed a strong relationship with the Minnesota Twins, and we look forward to continuing to offer
this free clinic in the future.
Water Wars
The Water Wars water balloon stand continues to be a fun activity for all ages. The warm weather kept
steady crowds throughout the evening. The city receives 20% of Water Wars' overall sales.
Studio SLVR Permanent Jewelry
Back for its third year in 2025 was permanent jewelry sales, offered by Studio SLVR in Chaska. New
this year, Studio SLVR also offered ring-making in their mobile trailer. This is a popular event
component with young adults and is recommended to be continued in future years. The city receives
20% of Studio SLVR's overall sales.
Carnival
The carnival rides, games, and concessions continue to be very popular on July 3 and are a great asset
to the celebration. Midwest Rides provided 13 rides, 10 games, and 6 food booths. Unlimited ride
wristbands were offered for $25 on this night.
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Business Expo, presented by the SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce
Twenty local businesses and nonprofits participated in this year's Business Expo, presented by the
SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce. The SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce contributed
$1,800 towards the tent rental and electrical needs. Overall, this event promotes our local community
businesses, and it is recommended that this event be continued in the future. The city hopes to work
with the Chamber to find ways of recruiting more businesses to participate in future Expos.
Face Painting, Wacky Hair, & Tattoos
Maund Entertainment offered face painting, airbrush tattoos, and wacky hairdos for $3-$15. It continues
to be a popular attraction for families. The city receives 20% of Maund Entertainment's overall sales.
Llama Experience
Llamas from the local Carver County group "Llama Mama" were present for an interactive experience
at City Center Park on July 3. This has been a hugely popular event component since it started in 2021
(replacing the petting zoo in 2022), and efforts should be made to continue the llama experience in the
future.
Kiddie Games
The Kiddie Games are a fun feature of the celebration and provide inexpensive entertainment for
children at $0.25 per game. The games are coordinated by the city and operated by seasonal playground
and concession staff. They did a great job and brought a lot of energy and enthusiasm to the games. The
Kiddie Games generated $590.79 in revenue.
Kiddie Parade
Over 250 participants and spectators took part in this year's Kiddie Parade. Participants decorated
bicycles, scooters, wagons, and more to parade in a half-mile loop beginning and ending at Chanhassen
Elementary School. The Kiddie Parade ran along Laredo Drive, Chan View, Iroquois, and West 76th
Street.
Chalk-it-Up Drawing Contest
Fifty-five groups participated in the annual chalk drawing contest. Prizes were awarded to the winners
in two categories, most creative and most difficult, for three age groups. This event is coordinated by
the city and judged by seasonal playground staff. This free event is extremely popular with attendees,
and efforts should be made to find a new location for the event in the new Civic Campus space.
3rd Lair Summer Skateboard Series
3rd Lair came to the Chanhassen Skate Park and hosted a competition as part of their summer-long
series. The event attracts teens from all over the Twin Cities and is a great way to incorporate all age
groups into the celebration, and all of the facilities at City Center Park.
First Aid Tent
The Chanhassen Fire Department staffed a first aid tent on July 3 at City Center Park. The Chan Fire
Crew responded to 1 significant heat-related illness on July 3. For the second year, event-goers enjoyed
the misting fan provided by the Fire Department. Special thanks to the Fire Department for their
continued support.
KaiBi Mobile Family Unit
The KaiBi Mobile Family Unit was on-site on July 3 as well. A top comment from event-goers utilizing
the space was their appreciation for the space being climate-controlled.
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Taste of Chanhassen, presented by the Rotary Club of Chanhassen
This year, 10 mostly local businesses (5 restaurants and 5 food trucks) participated in the Taste of
Chanhassen, which was organized by the Rotary Club of Chanhassen. Having a majority of local,
specifically Chanhassen-based, businesses adds to the community feel of the event. Ten food vendors
have been established as the ideal number of vendors, based on available space and patron experience.
The city and Rotary will continue to prioritize recruiting Chanhassen businesses for this event
component in future years.
Beer Garden, presented by the Rotary Club of Chanhassen
The Rotary Club of Chanhassen also presented the annual Beer Garden, a wildly popular component of
the celebration that naturally pairs with the evening live music and Street Dance. The Rotary sold both
beer and seltzer, with proceeds used to fund community youth scholarships and other local outreach
initiatives. The Rotary Club reimburses the city for equipment costs directly associated with the Beer
Garden and Taste of Chanhassen.
Live Music by Up South
Up South put on a great performance to open the Street Dance for Johnny Holm Band. The band was
well received by patrons, and they had groups on the dance floor throughout their set.
Live Music by Johnny Holm Band
The Johnny Holm Band entertained thousands during this year's Street Dance with their energetic set,
geared towards all ages. This was their third performance at the 4th of July Celebration, and they were
extremely well received this year with a great set. Special thanks to Xfinity for sponsoring the Street
Dance tent and stage this year.
FRIDAY, JULY 4
Adult Fishing Contest
A total of 42 participants registered in this year's adult fishing contest on Lake Ann, generating $1,050
in revenue. Prizes were awarded to the top three fish in two categories: longest northern pike and
longest largemouth bass. Door prizes were also awarded as part of the contest. This year's longest
northern pike was a 35.75" fish caught by Bruce Olson of Chanhassen. The longest bass was 19" and
was caught by Spencer Olson of Woodbury.
Kids' Fishing Contest
Ninety-eight kids participated in this year's kids' fishing contest at the Lake Ann fishing pier. Trophies
and other prizes were awarded to the winners of the heaviest fish, longest fish, and shortest fish in two
age categories. In addition to the top fish prizes, all participants were entered into a door prize drawing.
This year's contest was separated into heats by age category. It is recommended that this be continued in
the future to avoid overcrowding the fishing pier and creating a more positive experience for the kids.
Sand Sculpture Contest
Fifteen groups participated in the annual sand sculpture contest at Lake Ann Beach. Prizes were
awarded to the most difficult and most creative sculptures in three age groups. The sand sculpture
contest has been a tradition for years and is a great way to incorporate events in different parts of Lake
Ann Park.
Medallion Hunt
This is a fun and simple event that should be continued in the future. The medallion was hidden within
the bounds of Lake Ann Park, with clues posted every 20 minutes at the Lake Ann concession stand.
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This year's medallion was hidden underneath the mulch of a sapling tree, along the east side of the
eastern-most parking lot, by ballfields 4 & 5.
Carnival and Face Painting
The carnival and face painting were also offered on July 4 at City Center Park. Rides, games,
concessions, and face painting were enjoyed by many on this day, before and after the 4th of July
Parade. Discounted rides were offered from 3:30-6 p.m., drawing visitors to the carnival after the
parade as well.
Classic Car Show, presented by the Rotary Club of Chanhassen
With support from the City of Chanhassen, the Rotary Club of Chanhassen organized the Classic Car
Show at City Center Park. This year's Car Show was well-attended and showed more classic cars than
recent years, likely due to the sunny, warm weather. In recent years, rain has been a challenge for this
event.
Bingo, presented by the Chanhassen Commission on Aging
Presented by the Chanhassen Commission on Aging, this event was offered on the morning of July 4
under the tent at City Center Park. There were over 500 participants for this extremely popular activity.
We look forward to continuing this successful activity in the future. All proceeds from Bingo were
donated to support Senior Tech Services, whose mission is to provide free technology help for seniors
in the community.
Taste of Chanhassen and Beer Garden, presented by the Rotary Club of Chanhassen
The Taste of Chanhassen and Beer Garden were again offered on July 4. Event-goers enjoyed food and
beverages while listening to live music, strolling through the carnival, and waiting for the parade.
Llama Experience
Llamas and alpacas were again present on July 4 to interact with event-goers.
Live Music featuring American Bootleg
American Bootleg, a local four-piece cover band, performed from 11:45 a.m.-1:45 p.m. under the big
tent, prior to the parade. They put on a great performance. Staff recommends continuing to have bands
perform before the start of the parade.
4th of July Parade and Historic Plane Flyover, produced by the Rotary Club of Chanhassen
The Rotary Club of Chanhassen produced the parade and historic plane flyover again this year with
logistical support from the City and Carver County Sheriff's Office. We appreciate the service of the
Rotary and look forward to continuing to work on this event with them in the future.
The new one-mile parade route began at the intersection of Kerber Boulevard and Saddlebrook Curve.
68 floats traveled south on Kerber Boulevard, turned east on West 78th Street, and ended on Market
Street, past the entrance to the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre. As in past years, the parade kicked off with
historic planes flying over downtown Chanhassen. Overall, the parade continues to be one of the most
popular attractions of the celebration, with around 20,000 spectators annually. Crowds this year were
lighter, likely due to the heat on that day.
The Rotary Club reimburses the city for parade-route restrooms, traffic control barricades, and cones.
Feedback on this year's route has been gathered from residents, staff, event partners, and businesses
since the announcement of the new route. Feedback from the residents has been minimal and mixed,
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with an equivalent amount of positive and negative feedback. Feedback from downtown businesses has
been mixed, largely depending on their location and impact the parade has, and feedback from staff and
event partners has been generally positive, with some negative. The 2026 parade route has not yet been
determined. Conversations are expected to begin this fall.
Fireworks Display
This year's fireworks show was contracted through J&M Displays and was the third year of a three-year
contract. They coordinated an excellent display that lasted 21 minutes. It is estimated that about 35,000
spectators viewed the show from throughout the city.
4th of July T-shirt Sales
Every year since 1984, the city celebrates the 4th of July by selling commemorative t-shirts to the
community. Shirts were available in multiple colors and sizes, providing a variety of options to patrons.
T-shirts were also given free of charge to local community event sponsors as a token of appreciation for
their support.
Looking ahead: 2026
1. While considering feedback from members of the public, parade participants, downtown
businesses, staff, and other partners, a parade route will be set with the intention of that route
remaining for the foreseeable future. This may be the 2025 parade route, 2023 and prior
'historical' parade route, or another route.
2. Event components may move locations, be adjusted, or change to fit within the new Civic
Campus space. Some event components may be retired, and new events introduced, to fit the
space.
3. Staff are discussing additional strategies to combat extreme heat at this event, both for patron
comfort and safety during extreme heat. Staff are exploring the feasibility of additional misters, or
a larger 'cooling station,' with free cups of water and a walk-through misting arch.
RECOMMENDATION
ATTACHMENTS
Revenues & Expenditures 2025.pdf
KaiBi Post-Event Recap
2025 Parade Route Map
Traditional Parade route map (2023 and prior)
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2025 4th of July Celebration
Revenues & Expenditures
REVENUE
101-1613-3630 (Target: $15,000)
Midwest Rides & Concessions (revenue split) est. $12,000.00
Adult fishing contest $1,050.00
Kiddie games $590.79
Studio SLVR (revenue split) $565.00
Maund Entertainment (revenue split) est. $250.00
Water Wars (revenue split) $92.00
Total $14,547.79
101-1613-3651 (Target: $1,000)
T-shirt sales $1,527.00
Total $1,527.00
101-1613-3807 (Target: $0)
Xfinity sponsorship $15,000.00
Total $15,000.00
101-1613-3903 (Target: $8,800)
Rotary Club of Chanhassen (equipment, promotion, & band
reimbursement) est. $7,000.00
SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce (equipment
reimbursement) $1,800.00
Total $8,800.00
EXPENDITURES
101-1613-4120 (Budget: $250)
Cord covers $624.06
Total $624.06
101-1613-4126 (Budget: $400)
Kiddie Games prizes, Kiddie Parade giveaways $402.08
Total $402.08
101-1613-4129 (Budget: $1,500)
Fishing contest prizes $937.74
Chalk it Up and Sand Sculpture Contest prizes $320.27
Trophies and medallion $153.50
Total $1,411.51
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101-1613-4130 (Budget: $900)
Event staff & volunteer t-shirts $1,000.00
Event staff lunch $278.56
Event staff water, gatorade $506.01
Street dance band supplies $173.40
Parking attendant safety flashers $150.54
Total $2,108.51
101-1613-4252 (Budget: $2,200)
T-shirts to sell $2,700.00
Total $2,700.00
101-1613-4300 (Budget: $4,500)
KaiBi Mobile Family Unit $3,000.00
Llama Experience $1,000.00
Total $4,000.00
101-1613-4340 (Budget: $6,000)
4th of July magazine $4,930.16
Sun Sailor ads $870.00
Sponsored Meta ads $456.00
Sponsor & parade signage $865.33
Total $7,121.49
101-1613-4342 (Budget: $32,000)
Fireworks display $32,000.00
Total $32,000.00
101-1613-4345 (Budget: $14,550)
Johnny Holm Band $9,500.00
Up South band $1,000.00
Todd'n'Tina $325.00
Summer Skateboard Series $750.00
American Bootleg band $500.00
Total $12,075.00
101-1613-4402 (Budget: $36,000)
Apres tents, tables, and chairs $26,332.00
Festival Production Services staging $5,600.00
Total $31,932.00
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101-1613-4404 (Budget: $3,500)
Northern Audio Productions light and sound est. $4,709.00
Total $4,709.00
101-1613-4410 (Budget: $21,700)
The Vanella Group dumpsters, carts, & waste services $9,260.46
Rent-n-Save restrooms est. $6,000.00
Warning Lites traffic control signs & barricades $4,359.00
Waste Management dumpsters & carts est. $1,600.00
Ziegler Cat light towers $600.00
Scaffolding and fan rental $224.01
Yamaha Golf & Utility golf cart $520.00
Total $22,563.47
TOTAL REVENUE: $39,874.79 (Target: $24,800)
TOTAL EXPENSES: $121,647.12 (Budget: $123,500)
BALANCE: -$81,772.33 (Target balance: -$98,700)
**The 4th of July Celebration is the third of four events under the Community Event Sponsorship Program. Forty-four businesses have
pledged $41,120.36 in cash and goods for 2025 to support these four events.
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LIBRARY
Parade RouteNEW
PA RADE PRODUCED BY:
TARGET
CUBFOODS
CHANHASSEN
DINNER THEATRE
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SIERR A TR AIL
BUCKINGW
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COUR T
W 78TH ST.
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CITY CENTER
PA RK
MEADOW
GREENPARK
W 76TH ST.
W 78TH ST.
SANTA FE TR.
MARKET ST .
S A DD L E B R OOK TRAIL
PONTIA C L A N E
BIGHORN D RIVE
S A N T AVERADRIV E
BE L M O NTL
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Parade Staging Only
Parade
Staging Only
Participant
Check-In
Road Closure Time00:00
Alternate Traffic Route
Participants Only
Line Up Area
Parade Route
Food & Beverage Sales
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Pa radeRoute
Produced by:
Food, water &
beer sales
Parade
InfoLIBRARY
Access Point Check-in Tent
Restricted Entrance (Participants & Local Traffic Only)
Barricade Set-Up Time
Restricted Entrance
Alternate Traffic Route
Participants Only
Line Up Area
Parade Route
00:00
00:00
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