Liz Navratil

Claire Berrett took the oath of office during a contentious council meeting in which residents and officials sometimes shouted over each other.

Minnetonka passes new dog leash rules, considers adding more off-leash areas

State Auditor Julie Blaha said was no reason for her office to continue looking at the matter, but she left some questions for the courts or voters to decide.

Minnetonka allows dogs to be off leash if they’re “at heel” and obedient to commands. Officials say that, and a mix of rules at Purgatory Park, has led to some confusion.

Council Member Matt Johnson resigned Tuesday. His departure came one week after voters selected a new mayor and two other new council members.

The longtime coffeehouse shut down in 2023 amid financial challenges. The reopened trailside facility offers a scaled back snack bar and drip coffee.

South metro elections: Mayor Jimmy Francis re-elected in South St. Paul

The city has been using ranked-choice voting since 2021 to select the mayor and City Council members. A question on the November ballot asked voters if they wanted to repeal it.

In other notable west metro races, Plymouth chose two new City Council members and the Edina mayor’s seat appeared secure.

From the tops of Twin Cities area trees, forestry crews see clear signs of trouble