Public Meetings - St Paul, Minnesota

The Saint Paul City Council met on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 3:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order at 3:32 PM and adjourned at 5:06 PM. All seven council members were present. The agenda included consent items, discussion items, public hearings, and a legislative hearing consent agenda. Key actions included approval of several appointments, grant acceptances, a fee waiver pilot program, and adoption of the Climate Action and Resilience Plan update. Communications & Receive/File - AO 26-32: Authorizing the Police Department to reallocate activity budget to record grant awards from the Saint Paul Police Foundation. Received and filed. Consent Agenda - Adopted as amended (7-0). Items included: - RES 26-838: Grant agreement with MnDOT for Lafayette Trail Connection Project (adopted). - RES 26-840: Memorandum of Agreement with Operating Engineers Local 70 (laid over to June 3, 2026). - RES 26-843: Settlement payment of $12,818.89 to Deborah Brisch-Cramer (adopted). - RES 26-844: Storm sewer permit for The Heights project (adopted). - RES 26-880: Master Legal Services Agreement with Barnes & Thornburg LLP (adopted). - RES 26-782: 2026 Wage and Fringe Adjustment for Bricklayers Local Union 1 (adopted). - RES 26-811: Wage and Fringe Adjustment for Painters District Council 82 (adopted). - RES 26-820: Police Federation MOA on eligibility list length (adopted). Discussion Items - RES 26-874: Appointment of Ia Xiong as Director of Safety and Inspections. Adopted (7-0). Xiong was sworn in. - RES 26-886: Opt-in to Ramsey County Economic Development Authority. Laid over one week at the request of the county (7-0). - RES 26-841: Auto Repair Garage & Second Hand Dealer license for M F K Enterprise (830 Robert Street). After testimony from licensee Mo Kia and staff, the council adopted the department's recommendation for a $1,000 matrix penalty and amended license conditions (7-0). Council President Noecker directed the department to visit the property within two weeks to clarify conditions and ownership. - RES 26-812: Legislative Hearing Fee Waiver Pilot Program for remainder of 2026. Staff reported that the $25 appeal fee would be automatically waived to test assumptions and improve procedural justice. Adopted (7-0). - RES 26-791: Appointment of Melanie McMahon as Director of Planning and Economic Development. After extensive discussion, adopted (6-1). Councilmember Bowie voted no, citing concerns about process and prioritization of historically underinvested communities. Councilmember Johnson explained her request for a two-week layover was to allow due diligence. Public Hearings - RES PH 26-120: Sound level variances for Grand Old Day (June 7, 2026) at five locations. Kim O'Brien, Executive Director of Grand Avenue Business Association, testified in support. Adopted (7-0). - RES PH 26-121: Acceptance of DEED Redevelopment Grant for Afton Park Development (841-857 Grand Avenue). No testimony. Adopted (7-0). - RES PH 26-122: Capitol Region Watershed District grant for green roof maintenance at Fire Station 1. No testimony. Adopted (7-0). - RES PH 26-126: Acceptance of $6,800,061 in HOME-ARP funds from HUD. No testimony. Adopted (7-0). - RES PH 26-130: Adoption of the Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP) Update. Staff report by Climate Action Coordinator Liz Boyer highlighted a five-year action plan with 25 priority items, integration of hazard vulnerability mapping, and community engagement. Four public testimonies in support: Kristen Dawkins (Railroad Island) praised the geothermal thermal energy plan; Catherine Dugarm (Ward 3) supported thermal energy networks and solar access; Lachelle Cunningham (Frogtown Farm Executive Director) commended food security language and urged implementation; Celeste Masillas (Frogtown Farm farmer) emphasized climate justice and urban farming. Council members expressed strong support, noting the plan's equity focus and need for funding. Adopted (7-0). Legislative Hearing Consent Agenda - Items 20-27 were adopted as amended with the recommendations of the Legislative Hearing Officer (7-0). Highlights: - RLH SAO 26-45: 233 Bates Avenue nuisance abatement appeal – continued to June 3, 2026. - RLH TA 25-422, 25-404, 26-49, 26-38: Special tax assessments for 2170 Highwood Avenue – all adopted as amended (assessments deleted). - RLH SAO 26-27: 1377 Minnehaha Avenue East nuisance abatement – continued to June 10, 2026. - RLH SAO 26-39: Appeal of Melanie Baker for 1884 Montana Avenue East – adopted. - RLH SAO 26-44: Appeal of Joseph Richardson for 1875 North Park Drive – adopted. Key Outcomes - Votes: All actions passed with 7-0 votes except the McMahon appointment (6-1) and consent items adopted as amended. - Appointments: Ia Xiong confirmed as DSI Director; Melanie McMahon confirmed as PED Director. - Policy Pilot: Legislative hearing fee waiver pilot approved for 2026, with follow-up ordinance planned. - Grant Acceptance: $6.8 million HOME-ARP funds accepted for affordable housing; DEED redevelopment grant accepted for Grand Avenue project. - Climate Plan: CARP update adopted, including a five-year action plan and vulnerability mapping. - License Action: MFK Enterprise license amended with $1,000 penalty and new conditions; department to conduct site visit within two weeks. - Layovers: Operating Engineers MOA laid over to June 3; Ramsey County EDA opt-in laid over one week. - Next Steps: City staff to implement fee waiver pilot and follow up on license conditions; HRA work plan development anticipated.

[Note: The agenda for this meeting lists the date as Monday, June 1, 2026, 4:30–6:00 p.m. The user instruction states the meeting took place on May 22, 2026. This discrepancy is noted; no minutes or transcript are available to resolve it.] Discussion Items - Automated Vehicles Presentation – Thomas Johnson-Kaiser of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) was scheduled to present on automated vehicles. No further details, discussion, or outcomes are available from the provided materials. Key Outcomes - No decisions, votes, or actions are recorded. The meeting may have been cancelled or proceeded without a transcript; the record is incomplete.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was called to order on May 29, 2026, but the official instruction specifies the date as May 21, 2026. This summary uses the provided date; the discrepancy is noted. The St. Paul Planning Commission met on May 21, 2026, to consider a non-conforming use permit for 1759 Selby Avenue and receive an informational presentation on proposed sign code amendments. The meeting was chaired by Commissioner Growe. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the May 15, 2026 Planning Commission meeting were approved unanimously by a vote of those present (Commissioner Hackney excused). Commissioner Holtz made the motion, seconded by Commissioner Riley; one abstention recorded from a commissioner not present at the prior meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the public hearing for the 1759 Selby Avenue item. The public hearing was opened and closed without testimony. Discussion Items - 1759 Selby Avenue – Change in Non-Conforming Use Permit: Staff planner Nellie Jerome presented a proposal to change the existing non-conforming use from a furniture finishing shop to limited production and processing, specifically a tea brewing and bottling operation and an artist/maker space. The site is split‑zoned B2 and H2; the proposed use is first permitted in B3, requiring the permit. Staff found all four permit standards met and recommended approval. Commissioners questioned traffic intensity (the prior use had three owners; the new use plans one tea‑brewing employee and two to three artists) and compared general use intensity. Commissioner Riley noted a public letter expressing concern about shipping doors and business use; staff responded that the use is less intensive and the existing shipping doors were already installed. The applicant’s representative (Ann Ben Riswick) attested to the non‑toxic, low‑noise nature of the business and stated no on‑street parking is needed (five internal spaces). The commission voted unanimously to approve the permit. - Sign Code Amendments – Informational Presentation: Tony Johnson from city staff presented a study initiated by the City Council on April 15, 2026, in response to requests from the Downtown Alliance and Chamber of Commerce. Proposed amendments include: deleting all 17 special sign district overlays, simplifying district standards, allowing roof signs (e.g., like the First National Bank sign), permitting wayfinding signs in the public right‑of‑way, allowing limited off‑premise advertising (up to 50 square feet, not billboards), and adding permit exemptions. The study also aims to fix contradictory language and provide more flexibility in residential districts. No changes are proposed to digital display or billboard regulations. Commissioners discussed possible impacts, the need for community engagement, and concerns about light intensity (LED vs. foot‑candle measurements). The presentation is scheduled to return for a more detailed review and potential public hearing in June/July 2026. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - Approved: Change in Non-Conforming Use Permit for 1759 Selby Avenue – Motion by Commissioner Riley, seconded by Commissioner Thomas. Vote: All aye, no opposition, no abstentions. The permit allows the existing building to change from a furniture finishing shop to limited production and processing (tea brewing/bottling and maker space). - No Action on Sign Code Amendments: The informational presentation was received; the commission will hold additional meetings to review the draft amendments before setting a public hearing.

The St. Paul City Council Policy Committee met on May 20, 2026, to hear three major agenda items: a presentation on the Port Authority's industrial land study, a discussion on mobile sauna pilot programs in city parks, and a legislative update from the intergovernmental relations director. The meeting highlighted the value of industrial land for tax base and jobs, explored innovative park programming, and reviewed state legislative outcomes. Industrial Land Study Presentation (Port Authority) - Todd Hurley (President/CEO, St. Paul Port Authority) and Ashley Aram (SVP of Communications) presented findings of a year-long study of all industrially zoned land in St. Paul, conducted with North Span. - Key findings: industrial land is a finite resource; 12% of the city is zoned industrial, but only half (6%) is developable; 1.9% of city parcels generate 9.3% of property taxes; industrial land generates $1.80 in property taxes for every $1 of city services consumed (net tax contributor). - Statistics: 31,000 jobs supported, $2.8 billion in income, $9 billion direct economic output, over $1 billion in annual tax contributions; median industrial wage $37/hour ($76,000/year). - Examples: Westminster Junction (900 jobs, $2.6M in property taxes), Williams Hill (450 jobs, $2.4M property taxes), Energy Park (5,700 jobs, $8.5M property taxes). - Councilmembers asked about policy recommendations to preserve industrial land, identify underdeveloped parcels, and incentivize high-quality industrial development. Mr. Hurley declined to recommend a "no net loss" ordinance but urged awareness and opportunity-readiness, citing the need for 10-acre parcels. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Council President Naker questioned how to preserve industrial land when competing with affordable housing interests. Mr. Hurley suggested not rezoning arbitrarily and focusing on acquisition of larger parcels. - Councilmember Johnson requested data on how much developable industrial land is currently developed/underutilized. Mr. Hurley noted most industrial land is privately owned and may be underutilized. - Council Vice President Yang asked about maximizing tax potential from developable industrial land and about AI data centers (considered light industrial). Mr. Hurley expressed interest in being part of data center discussions due to trade-offs between tax base and job creation. - Councilmember Coleman asked about regional comparisons of industrial zoning and policies to incentivize best-case industrial development. Mobile Sauna Pilot Program (Parks & DSI) - Andy Rodriguez (Parks Director) and Dan Nazelek (DSI) proposed a mobile sauna program on parkland, with licensing through DSI and permits through Parks. - Three pilot locations: Como Regional Park, Lillydale Regional Park, and Sphalen Regional Park. - Revenue share: 10% of gross revenue; vendors required to carry $1.5M insurance. - Council Vice President Yang asked if saunas could be on public streets – answer: no, only parks property initially. - Councilmember Johnson asked about city liability – city is self-insured, vendor insurance required. - Councilmember Joost asked about Highland Park interest and city ownership – no city ownership planned. - Councilmember Coleman asked about pricing – typical sessions $25-$60 for 90 minutes. - Council President Naker stressed that revenue share should cover costs and be competitive with other municipalities. Mr. Greenfield noted a joint sauna in Minnetonka/Hopkins charges $25/individual session. Legislative Update (Jennifer O'Rourke, IGR Director) - Session ended on time; 46 legislators retiring (20%). - Bonding bill wins: $13M for West 7th utilities, $12M for Como Zoo, $10M for Metropolitan Parks, $2.5M extension for St. Paul Inclusive Playground, $1.3M for Penn Ave, $1M for the Heights parks, $400K for Latino Museum. - Other wins: $40M for family homelessness prevention, $15M for lead line replacement (far below $80-90M expected), funding for RE Center study of human waste contamination. - Disappointments: no half-cent sales tax extension for Roy Wilkins, no STAR program changes, no LGA increase, no downtown redevelopment policies, no Metro Surge operations bills, no non-fatal shooting clearance program expansion. - Councilmembers expressed gratitude but also disappointment on gun violence prevention, downtown investment, and lead line replacement. Key Outcomes - The Port Authority will follow up with policy recommendations and data on developable industrial land. - Councilmember Kim will advance a mobile sauna ordinance; council directed staff to bring proposals back. - The IGR office will begin developing the 2027 legislative platform in summer 2026. - Meeting adjourned without formal votes.

The Saint Paul City Council met on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 3:33 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Rebecca Noecker, with all seven council members present. The agenda included consent items, a contested minimum wage violation, an ordinance on tree preservation for city projects, several public hearings on budget amendments and grants, and a legislative hearing consent agenda. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (items 4–16, 18–23) was adopted with a 7-0 vote. Items included: - RES 26-651: Approving a Class B Entertainment license for The Commodore (The University Club of St Paul) with modified conditions. - RES 26-820: Memorandum of Agreement with the Saint Paul Police Federation (laid over to May 27, 2026). - RES 26-782, 26-811, 26-649, 26-696, 26-759, 26-784: 2026 Wage and Fringe Adjustments for multiple unions (some laid over, most adopted). - RES 26-761, 26-762: Professional services contracts with Poul Haas P.A. and Primacy Strategy Group. - RES 26-780: Accepting travel donation from Vera Institute for Office of Neighborhood Safety. - RES 26-788: Accepting Active Transportation grant from Metropolitan Council for West Side Safe Routes to School. - RES 26-803: Accepting $1,000 donation from Mechanic Arts High School M Club for youth programming. - RES 26-814: Approving Project Labor Agreement for McMurray Fields. - RES 26-819, 26-821: Accepting donations for Fire Department (power load stretchers valued at $46,000; green roof maintenance valued at $2,000). - RES 26-823: Authorizing grant application to MPCA for energy efficiency upgrades. - RES 26-839: Authorizing issuance of Taxable Grant Anticipation Notes for Lead Pipe Replacement. - RES 26-851: Recognizing Tswv Mas Donald Yang and proclaiming May 31, 2026, as Tswv Mas Donald Yang Day. - Item 17 (RES 26-837) was pulled from consent for discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public testified on any items. No public comments were recorded. Discussion Items - Item 17 – RES 26-837: Minimum Wage Violation by Class A Valet, Inc. - Council President Noecker introduced the item, noting that the City is taking action against Class A Valet, a contracted valet parking service that violated the minimum wage ordinance and refused to cooperate with the Department of Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity (HERO). - Andrea Ledger, Interim Director of HERO, and Libby Cantner, Assistant City Attorney, presented. Cantner explained that Class A Valet paid employees $12/hour when the required minimum wage for small businesses was either $13/hour or $14/hour during the contract period (February 2024–March 2025). The employer admitted the violation in writing. HERO estimated $10,829 in back pay for approximately seven employees (about $1,500 per employee) and recommended liquidated damages of equal amount, for total restitution of $21,658. - Council members discussed enforcement mechanisms. Councilmember Jost asked about administrative citations; Ledger noted such citations could provide additional penalties and leverage. Councilmember Johnson highlighted the role of administrative citations in strengthening enforcement for wage theft and tenant protections. Councilmember Bowie asked about enforcement after the resolution; Cantner said the order can be used by employees in small claims court, and the city is exploring further options. - Council members expressed strong support, with Council President Noecker stating that transparency and accountability are critical, and Councilmember Coleman calling the action a “huge step” for workers’ rights enforcement. Councilmember Bowie noted the company is no longer operating in St. Paul but could theoretically return. - The resolution was adopted 7-0. - Item 24 – Ordinance 25-4: Tree Preservation for City Sponsored Projects - Council President Noecker moved to lay the ordinance over to June 24, 2026, for final adoption. She explained the delay is due to extensive citywide work with Parks and Recreation and Public Works departments, engagement with district councils, and ongoing public input to ensure the ordinance is ready for implementation without a separate rule-setting process. - Councilmembers Kim and Bowie affirmed support, with Kim noting Ward 5 has one of the worst tree equity scores in the city and Bowie highlighting community input from the Frogtown Neighborhood Association. - The layover was approved 7-0. - Public Hearings (Items 25–30) - RES PH 26-81: Amending Public Works Capital Budget for Wheelock Grotto Phase II Street Reconstruction – Adopted 7-0. - RES PH 26-82: Accepting Local Road Improvement funding for pedestrian improvements – Adopted 7-0. - RES PH 26-106: Establishing $100,000 for youth baseball/softball from Minnesota Twins – Adopted 7-0. - RES PH 26-107: Transferring Municipal State Aid funding into projects – Adopted 7-0. - RES PH 26-108: Amending budget for 2026 Sidewalk Reconstruction Program – Adopted 7-0. - RES PH 26-117: Accepting $10,000 gift and in-kind travel from Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund – Adopted 7-0. - No public testimony was offered on any of these items. - Legislative Hearing Consent Agenda (Items 31–38) - Items included orders for rehabilitation/razing of structures and assessments for demolition, securing, and emergency boarding. All were adopted as amended via a single 7-0 vote, with no public testimony. Key Outcomes - RES 26-837 adopted unanimously: Class A Valet found in violation of minimum wage ordinance; $21,658 restitution imposed (7-0). - Ordinance 25-4 laid over to June 24, 2026, for further refinement and public input. - All six public hearing resolutions (items 25–30) adopted unanimously (7-0 each). - Consent agenda and legislative hearing consent agenda adopted as amended (7-0 each). - The meeting adjourned at 4:05 PM.

The Saint Paul Audit Committee met on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 4:00 PM in City Hall, 3rd Floor, to receive a mid-point update on the Data Practices Study from Wilder Research and to discuss and narrow audit topic ideas for the next 12–18 months. Chair Rebecca Noecker presided, with members Molly Coleman, Cheniqua Johnson, Stephanie Dilworth, Jeremy Lostetter, Noah McVay (arriving 15 minutes late), and Dillon Donnelly present. Data Practices Study Mid-Point Update - Dr. Heather Britt of Wilder Research presented the status of the audit, which focuses on the effectiveness, efficiency, and compliance of the city's data practices request processes, tools, policies, and user experience (specifically the GovQA portal). - Three data collection tracks are underway: document/system review, literature/benchmarking, and stakeholder engagement surveys. - The portal user survey invited 2,000 users but received only 31 responses. Dr. Britt noted that survey participation is declining nationwide and that the low response was not unexpected. All but one department head responded to their survey. - Interviews were conducted with multiple jurisdictions (Hennepin, Minneapolis, Duluth, Bloomington, League of Minnesota Cities, state officials). Ramsey County did not respond despite repeated attempts. - Updated timeline: draft report due June 5, 2026; committee to discuss draft on June 16; feedback requested by June 19; final report on June 30. - Chair Noecker recommended members read the draft before the June 16 meeting. Councilmember Johnson asked what type of feedback is most helpful; Dr. Britt advised focusing on substantive recommendations rather than copy editing. - Dillon Donnelly requested that the report include language addressing the city's practice of not responding to data requests when the requested data is not captured, suggesting that a non-response is insufficient. - Chair Noecker noted that new City Clerk Nicole Tillander should receive a draft of the report. Audit Topic Ideas Discussion - Noah McVay presented a comprehensive list of potential audit topics gathered from district council engagement and surveys. The list included over 50 broad topics. - Committee members discussed criteria for selecting audit topics: alignment with core city services, potential for impact, citywide relevance, auditability, connection to taxpayer funds, and ability to produce actionable recommendations. - Members expressed interest in several topics, including business licensing (item 6), building code functions (item 7), street maintenance/potholes, district council reform, college savings accounts, TIF (tax increment financing), opioid settlement funds, and snow removal. - After discussion, the committee agreed to narrow the list to five topics for further development: 1) business licensing, 2) building code functions, 3) street maintenance/potholes, 4) district council reform, and 5) college savings accounts. - Chair Noecker proposed forming a subcommittee (with volunteers Stephanie Dilworth and Jeremy Lostetter, who performed similar work previously) to refine these topics into specific, auditable questions and conduct a risk analysis. The subcommittee will present its findings at the July meeting. Key Outcomes - The Data Practices Study mid-point update was received and filed. The committee will review the full draft report on June 5 and provide feedback by June 19. - The committee selected five priority audit topics for further vetting: business licensing, building code functions, street maintenance/potholes, district council reform, and college savings accounts. - A subcommittee will be formed to develop specific audit objectives and risk analyses for these topics, with results expected in July. - The committee plans to recommend two to three topics to the full City Council for the next 12–18 month audit cycle, contingent on the $50,000 budget (Wilder Research bills hourly; carryover from prior studies may affect capacity).

The Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) Board of Commissioners convened on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Council Chambers of Saint Paul City Hall. The meeting covered an update on the citywide Economic Development Strategy, preliminary approval of conduit bonds for the Afton View Apartments rehabilitation, and a brief update on the 2026 Housing Policy Study. Chair Cheniqua Johnson and Commissioner HwaJeong Kim were initially excused; Chair Johnson arrived at 2:27 PM. Final attendance was 6 commissioners present (Noecker, Yang, Bowie, Jost, Coleman, and Johnson) and 1 absent (Kim). Economic Development Strategy Update - Economic Development Director Jimmy Loyd presented a comprehensive update on the citywide Economic Development Strategy. The contract, valued at $200,000, was awarded to TIP Strategies after receiving 11 proposals. The schedule runs from April 2026 through December 2026, with discovery through July, strategic direction in August-September, and implementation planning in October-December. Deliverables include a strategic plan, implementation matrix, and an interactive data dashboard, plus annual check-ins for five years. - Director Loyd highlighted initial stakeholder roundtables held in April, covering topics such as permitting equity, downtown vitality, housing, and commercial corridors. The consultant will meet individually with each commissioner and continue community engagement. - Commissioners asked about competition (Director Loyd noted regional peer cities like Cedar Rapids and Milwaukee), support for small businesses (Director Loyd affirmed small businesses are the backbone), the level of specificity in deliverables (measurable goals like job creation and parcel development), industrial land balance (Director Loyd agreed to examine this), and organizational changes (Director Loyd noted operational review in September but said full internal restructuring may be beyond scope). The report was received and filed. Resolution 26-786: Preliminary Approval of Conduit Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds – Afton View Apartments - Principal Project Manager Hannah Chong presented the request for preliminary approval of conduit multifamily housing revenue bonds for the Afton View Apartments at 365 Winthrop Street South (District 1, Ward 7). The project involves acquisition and rehabilitation of two buildings (built 1971) with 286 total units. Proposed affordability: 100% of units at 60% of Area Median Income (AMI) for at least 40 years; 268 units are currently covered by project-based vouchers through a HAP contract with HUD expiring in 2043, which may be renewed. - The developer, Tareen Development Partners (Vice President Pete Nelson), requests up to $20.5 million in conduit bonds to preserve the tax credit basis for acquisition. Total development cost is estimated at $46 million, with $26 million for acquisition. Rehabilitation will include mechanical system replacements, site improvements, and unit upgrades. A tenant communications plan will be prepared. - Questions from commissioners: Council President Noecker asked about the voucher expiration and remaining bond allocation. Chair Johnson inquired about tenant communication, particularly for the predominantly East African (Somali) residents. Pete Nelson confirmed that tenant notices will be provided in Somali, that existing staff will be retained, and that for 15 units requiring temporary relocation, tenants will be placed in a nearby hotel with meal stipends. Chair Johnson emphasized the importance of consistent communication with the city and residents. - The motion was made by Chair Johnson and approved unanimously (6-0). Housing Policy Study and Plan Update - Interim Executive Director Melanie McMahon provided a brief update: multiple departments (PED, DSI, HERO) met with council staff to coordinate on the housing policy study. A worksheet identifying priorities has been completed and sent to HERO. An RFP will be released soon, with an evaluation committee including staff from PED, DSI, and council. The report was received and filed. Key Outcomes - Economic Development Strategy update: Received and filed. - Resolution 26-786 (Afton View Apartments preliminary bond approval): Adopted by a vote of 6-0 (Commissioner Kim absent). - Housing Policy Study update: Received and filed. - Next meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 27, 2026.

The Budget Committee of the Saint Paul City Council met on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the Council Chambers, City Hall, 15 West Kellogg Boulevard. Chair Cheniqua Johnson presided. The meeting focused on two agenda items: a presentation by Ramsey County officials on their biennial budget process (SR 26-92) and an update on the city's telecast services and partnership with St. Paul Neighborhood Network (SPNN) (SR 26-95). Both items were received and filed without formal votes. Presentation: Ramsey County Biennial Budget Process (SR 26-92) - Key Speakers: Ramsey County Manager Becker and Deputy County Manager Alex Kutz presented the county's 20-year history of biennial budgeting, which started in the 2006-2007 budget. They explained the two-year cycle: odd years focus on performance metrics and supplemental budgets; even years are budget adoption years. The county board sets a maximum levy each year, but the second-year levy can be adjusted. They highlighted stable revenue sources (property tax, county program aid) and the ability to reduce budget fatigue, allowing more time for strategic planning and performance evaluation. - Positions: Council members expressed strong interest in transitioning to a two-year budget cycle. Council President Noecker noted the value of performance metrics and asked about the transition from annual to biennial budgeting, requesting institutional history from previous county managers. Councilmember Yang praised the performance review aspect and shared that the mayor also supports the transition. Councilmember Kim asked about quarterly budget-to-actuals tracking and staffing for financial reporting. The county manager described using quarterly Financial Status Reports (FSRs) to monitor budgets, a $2 million contingency fund, and a reserve policy requiring at least two months of operating funds. They noted that the county uses an aging Oracle PeopleSoft system but is migrating to Workday in 2027. - Key Details: The county's biennial budget process includes a year-long preparation for the two-year budget, with department presentations in August, a max levy vote in September, an addenda process for adjustments, and final adoption in December. The county does not carry money between budget years; unspent funds return to the general fund balance. Community engagement occurs through departmental narratives, framework plans, and commissioner outreach. Update: Telecast Services and SPNN Partnership (SR 26-95) - Key Speakers: Chase Maxwell (Office of Technology and Communications) and Bonnie Schumacher (Executive Director, SPNN). Maxwell announced that the city has begun testing YouTube simulcasting of city council meetings, with a public launch expected the week of May 18, 2026. This move addresses accessibility concerns raised by the Mayor's Advisory Committee on People with Disabilities and responds to community preference for YouTube over the legacy Granicus platform. All city council meetings and boards/commissions currently web-streamed will be simulcast on YouTube; Ramsey County has not yet opted in. - Partnership Update: SPNN is taking over day-to-day meeting production duties under OTC supervision. Three SPNN staff (Tajadeen Hali, Emma Debore, and retiring Steve Runsburg) have been training since February. The transition will fully occur by late May 2026. The partnership saves OTC approximately 300 hours of staff time annually, which will be redirected to other communications projects, such as the response to Operation Metro Surge. The county pays half the cost of SPNN services. - Council Positions: All council members expressed strong support for the YouTube simulcasting and SPNN partnership. Councilmember Bowie highlighted easier access for family and constituents. Councilmember Yang appreciated the community-driven decision. Council President Noecker noted the accessibility improvements for people with disabilities. Councilmember Jost asked about future communications support from OTC; Maxwell indicated that council members can submit requests through OTC's front door. Key Outcomes - SR 26-92 Biennium Budget Approach: Received and filed. No formal action taken; the presentation served as informational for the council's ongoing consideration of transitioning to a two-year budget cycle. - SR 26-95 SPNN Service Partner Contract: Received and filed. The committee acknowledged the upcoming transition to SPNN management and the YouTube launch; no vote was required. - Directives: The chair requested that the county manager provide historical information on the 2006 transition from annual to biennial budgeting. Council members were asked to help publicize the new YouTube streaming option starting the week of May 18, 2026.

The Saint Paul City Council met on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 3:30 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. All seven council members were present (Councilmember Kim participated remotely). The meeting was called to order by Council President Rebecca Noecker and adjourned at 4:27 PM. The council approved numerous routine items, held a detailed discussion on the appointment of the Director of Planning and Economic Development, and imposed penalties and new conditions on a liquor license following a shooting incident. Consent Calendar - Communications & Receive/File: Two administrative orders were received and filed: (1) Amending Capital Improvement Budgets to move 1% Sales Tax funds to the Grand Snelling Intersection Improvement Project (AO 26-26); (2) Amending CDBG budgets to allocate $20,000 for Ramsey County Window Replacement and return $20,783 to the Housing Real Estate Undesignated Fund (AO 26-27). - Consent Agenda (Resolutions 3–14, 16, 17): Adopted unanimously (7-0). This included approvals for demolition assessments, sanitary sewer repair assessments, four collective bargaining agreements (laid over one week for adoption), a MnDOT Trunk Highway 61 agreement, a grant application for the Conway Recreation Center (up to $1,900,000), an extension of Evie Carshare leases, acceptance of a gift stipend for an assistant city attorney, a master services agreement for background checks, appointments to the Parks and Recreation Commission, approval of a memorandum of agreement with the Tri-Council for an interim wage increase, and appointment of Cedrick Baker as Assistant Mayor. Discussion Items - Appointment of Director of Planning and Economic Development (RES 26-791): The council considered the mayor’s appointment of Melanie McMahon (currently interim director) to the permanent role. Councilmember Cheniqua Johnson (HRA Chair) moved to lay the item over two weeks (to May 27) to continue discussions with McMahon about partnership and deliverables. Councilmembers shared diverse positions: Johnson and Bowie supported the layover, noting the need for alignment on housing/economic justice priorities and a transparent process; Yang supported the layover but requested only one week; Kim supported the layover to allow her colleague more time; Coleman expressed strong support for McMahon and would vote for confirmation but supported the layover to respect the ask; Jost opposed the layover, stating the charter clearly gives the mayor appointment power and that sufficient time had elapsed since the April 15 announcement; Noecker opposed the layover, ready to vote today. The motion for a two-week layover passed 4-3 (Yang, Kim, Bowie, Johnson in favor; Noecker, Jost, Coleman opposed). The item will return on May 27, 2026. - Adverse Action Against St. Paul Saloon (RES 26-532): The council considered recommended penalties against A & M Bar and Grill LLC d/b/a St Paul Saloon at 1045 Hudson Road for a November 1, 2025 incident involving gunfire inside the bar. Assistant City Attorney Monica Schaefer presented evidence that a security guard failed to respond to a metal detector alert, allowing an armed patron to enter. The Department of Safety and Inspections recommended a $500 matrix penalty and amendments to three license conditions: upgraded camera surveillance, proper use of the metal detector, and photo-ID scanning. Licensee Alex Rivero disputed some facts (e.g., that the metal detector was low-cost and often gave false alarms, that the gunman’s weapon jammed) and objected to the cost of new equipment. After a pause for negotiation, Rivero accepted the essential facts but asked for relief from the costs. Councilmember Johnson moved to approve the resolution as recommended, citing community safety concerns. The council voted 7-0 to adopt the penalty and amended conditions. Ordinances (Final Adoption) - Amending Chapter 66 (Green Roofs) – Ord 26-25: Adopted unanimously (7-0) to correct a scrivener’s error allowing additional lot coverage for functional green roof space. - Amending Chapter 310 (License Fee Extension) – Ord 26-26: Adopted unanimously (7-0) to extend payment of license renewal fees owed in calendar year 2026, a measure responding to the impacts of Operation Metro Surge on small businesses. Public Hearings - Vacation of Morton Street in Baker Playground (RES PH 26-105): Adopted 7-0 after no public testimony. - Tree Planting Grant (RES PH 26-110): Adopted 7-0 to accept an additional $43,745 from the Minnesota DNR for Saint Paul’s tree planting program. - Sound Level Variance for Lowertown Sounds (RES PH 26-112): Adopted 7-0 to allow amplified sound on selected Thursdays in June, July, and potentially August at Mears Park. - Police Donation for National Police Week (RES PH 26-116): Adopted 7-0 to accept a donation from the Ramsey County Chiefs of Police Association for officer travel to Washington, D.C. Legislative Hearing Consent Agenda - Items 25–32 were adopted as amended (with one item continued to June 10) by a 7-0 vote, including tax assessments, nuisance abatement findings, a fire inspection appeal, a rehabilitation/razing order (amended to grant 180 days), a summary abatement appeal, and tree removal assessments. Key Outcomes - Appointment of PED Director laid over two weeks (to May 27, 2026) for further discussion between Councilmember Johnson and Director McMahon. - St. Paul Saloon license penalized with a $500 fine and amended security, camera, and ID-scanning conditions (vote 7-0). - Two ordinances adopted correcting a green roof code error and extending 2026 license fee payments. - Four public hearing items approved including street vacation, tree planting grant, sound variance, and police donation. - Legislative hearing consent agenda approved with modifications (one nuisance abatement continued to June 10). - All consent items adopted unanimously, including multiple labor agreements (laid over one week), infrastructure agreements, and appointments.