As Stillwater continues to evolve, several significant developments are shaping the future of our community. From infrastructure enhancements to environmental initiatives, here’s a look at some key projects underway.
New Community Development Director Leads Growth Efforts
In February 2026, Jason Zimmerman joined the City of Stillwater as the new Community Development Director. With roots in the Twin Cities’ west side, Zimmerman is enthusiastic about contributing to Stillwater’s future. He is currently spearheading the Comprehensive Plan, a strategic blueprint set to guide the city’s development for the next two decades. Zimmerman emphasizes collaboration, stating, “I work with a very enthusiastic and team-oriented group of people in City Hall. It’s been easy to step in and build on their positive thinking for the future of Stillwater.”
Advancements in Water Quality: PFAS Treatment Facility
Ensuring safe drinking water remains a top priority for Stillwater. Construction is progressing on a new PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) treatment facility at Well #10. Since breaking ground in mid-September, the project has achieved several milestones, including the installation of new sanitary sewer manholes and concrete footings for the treatment building. Despite winter conditions, work continues, with the facility expected to be substantially complete by May 1, 2026. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to providing high-quality water to residents and businesses.
Modernizing Parking Enforcement
To better manage downtown parking demand, Stillwater has expanded its partnership with Passport, a parking and mobility software company. The city is now utilizing a unified platform to enhance parking compliance and streamline operations. Jason Zimmerman, Community Development Director, noted, “By bringing everything into one system, we have better visibility into parking activity and more streamlined workflows, allowing us to spend less time on manual tasks and more time supporting residents, businesses, and visitors.” This modernization aims to improve the parking experience for all stakeholders.
Balancing Community Events and Resident Concerns
Stillwater’s vibrant event calendar, featuring festivals like Lumberjack Days and Harvest Fest, attracts thousands of visitors annually. However, some residents have expressed concerns about the frequency and scale of these events, citing increased traffic and congestion in the historic downtown area. In response, city officials are evaluating ways to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the quality of life for residents. Potential measures include limiting the number of events or adjusting their scheduling to alleviate community concerns.
These developments reflect Stillwater’s proactive approach to growth and sustainability, ensuring that our community remains a desirable place to live, work, and visit.