Brainerd, Minnesota Development News
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City of Brainerd - City Council - 7/6/2026
Published: Jul 6, 2026
Zach Sworth Hired as New Public Services Director
The council approved the hiring of Zach Sworth as the new Public Services Director, effective July 27th, 2026. Sworth will start at step one of the Public Services Director wage grid. This position will oversee parks programming, parks maintenance, street surface maintenance, and transit facilities.
Council Debates Baxter Transit Agreement; Refers to Advisory Committee
A discussion was held regarding transit affairs with the city of Baxter. Staff presented data on fare revenues, allocated costs, fare structures, and ridership from 2023-2025. Councilmember Chzach proposed removing the shared services agreement with Baxter to simplify operations and potentially lower fares, arguing that Baxter's higher fares deter ridership. Councilmember Beavens suggested sending the issue to the Transportation Advisory Committee. The council voted to send the item to the Transportation Advisory Committee.
Airport Reports 35% Passenger Increase, High Hangar Demand, and Future Development Plans
The council heard a presentation on the airport's operations, impacts, and future plans. Key points included a 35% increase in passenger service compared to the previous year, nearly 100% capacity on current flights, and high demand for hangar space. Capital improvement projects include taxi lane and helipad reconstruction, and security fencing upgrades. Future plans involve hanger development utilizing a $3.8 million grant. The airport's economic input was estimated at $31 million in 2019, supporting jobs and tourism.
First Reading of Floodplain Ordinance Held; State Statute Language Basis
The council held the first reading of Ordinance 606, the floodplain ordinance, which regulates development in flood hazard areas. The ordinance's language is based on state statute and cannot be changed. Areas affected in Brainerd include high school fields, Kawanis, and Rotary Park. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval. The DNR has provided conditional approval.
Tax Forfeit Parcel at Hwy 12 and Pennsylvania Ave to Be Offered for Sale
The council recommended concurrence with Crow Wing County's non-conservation designation for tax forfeit parcel P 41360584, located along U.S. Highway 12 and Pennsylvania Avenue. The parcel is approximately one-tenth of an acre, described as a deep pit, and would likely require several variances to build on, possibly making construction impossible. The motion allows the county to offer the parcel for sale. Previous consideration of using it as a retention pond was deemed unlikely due to MPCA requirements.
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The Brainerd News archive
City of Brainerd - Personnel & Finance Committee - 7/6/2026
City of Brainerd - Safety and Public Works Committee - 7/6/2026
City of Brainerd - Public Utilities Commission - 6/30/2026
City of Brainerd - Park Board - 6/30/2026
City of Brainerd - Planning Commission - 6/17/2026
City of Brainerd - Safety and Public Works Committee - 6/15/2026
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