Apple Tree Dental to lease former Public Works building, expands services after outreach clinic sees 854 patients

The Detroit Lakes City Council voted to approve a three-year lease with Apple Tree Dental for the city’s former Public Works office building, clearing the way for a more permanent dental clinic in town.

City staff presented the lease terms as a three-year agreement with a 3% annual rent escalator. Apple Tree representatives told the council the planned use will not require major structural changes beyond new flooring and cosmetic updates that Apple Tree will fund.

Amy Jo Liszewski, identifying herself as the center director at the Holly office in Detroit Lakes, said Apple Tree has operated outreach clinics in the community since 2010 and expanded to treat adults full time beginning Sept. 5. She told the council the program has seen 854 patients to date: 677 for preventive care (cleanings, X-rays) and 177 for restorative work. Liszewski described the restorative work as performed by an advanced dental therapist who can provide many routine treatments short of major surgical procedures.

Jane Neubauer, a project consultant working with West Central Initiative, said Apple Tree’s outreach demonstrated local need and urged council support. Council members thanked Apple Tree and said they were pleased to see expanded access to dental care locally.

The council approved the lease by voice vote. Council and staff said Apple Tree will continue using mobile equipment initially, with long-term goals to establish a six‑operatory clinic in the community.

What’s next: the lease takes effect as approved and Apple Tree will proceed with interior preparations and staffing. The council did not identify additional city funding for build-out; Apple Tree indicated it will cover cosmetic updates.