Known for one of the most charming historic downtowns in the state, multiple listings on the National Register of Historic Places, beautiful lake views, and a community that honors its past, Excelsior can now add a historic city hall building to its list. The city was on the hunt for a permanent space since 2022, and the location of the old Excelsior Public School building on 261 School Avenue fit the bill. Originally built in 1899, the property had most recently been used as a multi-tenant office building until the city acquired the space in 2025 for $3.75 million.
The city and mayor wanted to be sure the property wasn’t just a city hall for conducting city business, but rather a place that Excelsior residents could feel pride in and eventually generate income for the city. “One of the goals that Mayor Ringate was hoping to achieve was to secure an asset for the city that would generate cash flow,” says Chris Dennis, real estate agent with The Lakes Team at Compass, who helped the city throughout the process. The hope is that the building will generate roughly a quarter million dollars to the city per year. “Many other small municipalities in the country are doing this, and the city was very happy with this proposed approach.”
Making sure the city was investing in its future was one important piece of the puzzle, but finding a building with historical significance that the city would own was a must. “Since history is very important to this community, leading by example was very important to us on the council and city staff,” says Excelsior Mayor Gary Ringate. The old school building was already the number one historic building in Excelsior, and the stars seemed to have aligned for the city to make the move.
“The historic school building is a prominent landmark in Excelsior. We wanted to honor this community asset by highlighting the unique features that a historic building offers instead of what you see from generic new construction,” says Kristi Luger, Excelsior’s City Manager. “We hope that the community feels a sense of civic pride when they come to City Hall.”
Additionally, it was important that City Hall be in the heart of the community and easy for everyone to access and visit. The building is located around the corner from the hustle and bustle of Water Street and two blocks off the lake.
“Overall, the city was looking for a site that would be located in or close to downtown to make access easy for residents and businesses and allow pedestrian access,” says Kristi. “The city is hopeful the building will become a place for gathering and conversation,” says Mayor Ringate. “My belief is residents will really enjoy having a real city hall that is a true municipal building that can hold small functions and meetings for both council and just small community gatherings and discussions. A place where the people can speak freely on our governance.”
The thoughtful design of the space was paramount to the project, and there are many special and unique aspects of the building that the city believes its residents will appreciate. “The bell tower is one of my favorite parts. It’s a recognizable architectural element, and I am very excited to have it restored to its former glory,” says Laura Hotvet with The Lakes Team at Compass. “I also am excited to have an evergreen tree planted in front of the building for future generations to enjoy, hopefully reinstating the annual Tree Lighting ceremony kicking off the holidays!”
Exposing original brick, limestone walls, and bringing in natural lighting and art is a highlight of the building. “The tall ceilings and large windows are beautiful and make the space feel unique and welcoming, just like the Excelsior community,” says Kristi. “It’s been fun to uncover gym floors under carpet and brick behind sheetrock. These are treasures you don’t find in modern buildings.”
And finally, emphasizing that this is a place for the entire community is what has guided the process all along. “And last but not least, a front lawn to build a true town square style environment where people can just relax and enjoy the space,” says Mayor Ringate.
“I am super thankful we did this, and helping to make the mayor and city council’s dreams come true for the community of Excelsior,” expresses Chris. “This building has been here for 100 years, and it will be here for another 100.”
For more information about City Hall, services, and the City of Excelsior, visit ci.excelsior.mn.us.
The historic school building is a prominent landmark in Excelsior. We hope that the community feels a sense of civic pride when they come to City Hall.
I am super proud we did this, and helping to make the mayor and city council’s dreams come true for the community of Excelsior.