09.22.2025 CC final plat item MinutesCity Council Minutes – September 22, 2025
4
Eric Maass, Community Development Director, clarified that the only impacts would be on
private property and not on Lake Ann Park Property.
Deena Laugen, a representative for the developer, explained that the goal of Eden Springs was to
make the continuing care facility feel like a home. She stated that there were profound benefits to
a boutique community. She described the plan to replant the landscape buffer for the wetland.
She expressed excitement to be a part of Chanhassen.
Councilmember McDonald confirmed that they would have memory care. He asked if they
would have different stages, such as assisted living, memory care, and hospice. Ms. Laugen
answered that those different options would be available, and there would be security in place for
memory care.
Councilmember McDonald asked if they were accepting Medicaid payments. Ms. Laugen
answered that they would be making cash payments currently.
Councilmember McDonald asked if they could transition to Medicaid payments. Ms. Laugen
answered that at the current time, they were set up for cash payments but were looking for
additional options.
Councilmember McDonald asked what would happen if people ran out of money to pay for the
living scenario. Ms. Laugen responded that they were considering additional payment options,
such as forming a non-profit with different scholarship opportunities. She said they were looking
at different ways to serve the residents.
Councilmember McDonald said that a lot of older residents would need an option like this, but
did not have the finances in place. He hoped that Chanhassen could be for the rich and the poor.
Councilmember von Oven moved, Councilmember McDonald seconded that the
Chanhassen City Council approves the requested site plan for the 42-bed Eden Springs
Assisted Living and Memory care facility, subject to the conditions of approval and adopts
the attached Findings of Fact and Decision. All voted in favor, and the motion carried
unanimously with a vote of 5 to 0.
2. Approve Final Plat for Avienda Apartments (Planning Case 25-08)
Eric Maass, Community Development Director, reviewed the final plat for the Avienda
Apartments. He stated that the final plat had the necessary drainage and utility easements and
provided easement areas for public utilities. He said that the approval recommendation was
contingent on approval of a Development Contract between the Developer and the city. He said
City Council Minutes – September 22, 2025
5
that a proposed grocer would like to see a land purchase for the apartment project before
accepting a lease.
Councilmember Schubert moved, Councilmember Kimber seconded that the Chanhassen
City Council approves the Avienda Apartments final plat as proposed and adopts the
attached Findings of Fact and Decision. All voted in favor, and the motion carried
unanimously with a vote of 5 to 0.
3. Resolution 25-67: Support for Suburban Transit Providers
Councilmember Kimber expressed the importance of maintaining a strong and resilient transit
system. He reaffirmed the crucial role of Suburban Transit Providers, such as SW Transit. He
said that it was important for Chanhassen and other communities to be served by suburban transit
providers, and they need to have a strong voice in the future.
Councilmember McDonald expressed the value of SW Transit and noted that residents could
travel to many different locations using the services. He commented that Metro Transit could not
support the location well. He said if SW Transit were eliminated, it would leave a large void for
residents, especially those who could not afford a vehicle. He stated that the taxpayer dollar goes
a long way for SW Transit services.
Mayor Ryan said that it was a strong plea, and the city felt strongly about SW Transit. She asked
if there was something residents should be aware of at the legislature that caused the resolution.
Councilmember McDonald answered that there was a constant battle with transit in the cities.
Chanhassen got out of the Metro Transit through special legislation to form its own transit
companies. He said that they struggle to get the funding from the Metropolitan Council. He said
it was important that the cities send a clear message that others cannot touch the opt-outs. He
stated that if they lost the charter, it would create a void in Chanhassen, and Metro Transit could
not handle the increased volume.
Councilmember Kimber moved, Councilmember McDonald seconded that the Chanhassen
City Council adopt Resolution 25-XX: Support for Suburban Transit Providers and direct
staff to share with local legislators. All voted in favor, and the motion carried unanimously
with a vote of 5 to 0.
COUNCIL PRESENTATIONS. None.
ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS. None.
CORRESPONDENCE DISCUSSION.
1. Correspondence Letter