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Team: Brian Heidt and Amanda Urban, in partnership with Julian Ocampo <br />Summary: Brian Heidt and Amanda Urban, in partnership with Julian Ocampo, propose to transform these two <br />landmark properties into welcoming, locally owned destinations that preserve their historic character while <br />introducing fresh, modern amenities. Downtown Lake Elmo currently lacks a true, community-focused dining <br />hub; our plan addresses this gap by creating two vibrant gathering places that offer great food, distinctive <br />beverages, and year-round opportunities for connection. <br /> <br />The site will be acquired in one joint plan, but proportionally divided, allocating approximately 30% to the <br />Parks Building and 70% to the Fire Station, based on final project square footage and coordination with city <br />officials. <br />• Tap & Ladder – Former Fire Station (Land Use: Permitted) <br />The Fire Station will be transformed into Tap & Ladder, a self-pour taphouse and casual dining restaurant with <br />approximately 150 seats. Guests will enjoy an approachable menu—burgers, brats, fish fry, and unique <br />signature dishes—alongside a 28-tap self-pour wall, craft sodas, and locally inspired cocktails. Indoor spaces <br />will include flexible seating, a dedicated children’s play area, and heritage displays honoring Lake Elmo’s fire <br />service and local veterans. Full-view garage doors and a spacious patio will create a seamless indoor-outdoor <br />experience, with seasonal events and community programming year-round. <br />• Machete Cocina Mexicana – Parks Building (Land Use: Permitted) <br />The Parks Building will become the second location of Machete Cocina Mexicana, a bold, chef-driven concept <br />already thriving on the southwest side of Woodbury. Known for its vibrant flavors, handcrafted tortillas, and <br />signature “Quesadillota,” Machete will bring authentic Mexican cuisine and a curated beverage program to the <br />Old Village. A patio overlooking Lions Park will create a lively connection between the restaurant and <br />surrounding public spaces. <br />Parking Requirements (both restaurants): <br />Note: Parking requirements may be waived in the Village Mixed-Use District (VMX), recognizing the <br />availability of on-street and shared parking facilities. 105.12.410 Off-Street Parking <br />• Estimated range: ~47-65 spaces *actual number of spaces subject to change with full application <br />• Provided off-street parking: 30-50 spaces <br />NEXT STEPS <br />The next steps include: <br />1. Ordering a survey, completing a minor subdivision, and establishing easements <br />2. Ordering an appraisal to establish fair market value <br />3. Beginning negotiating and determining conditions requested by the city <br /> <br />FISCAL IMPACT: <br />• Estimated build-out costs: <br />o $980,760 (Fire Station) <br />o $704,220 (Parks Building) <br />• Estimated FTE (not including construction):