Public Meetings - St Paul, Minnesota

The St. Paul City Council held a regular meeting on April 15, 2026, covering three major agenda items: a mid-session update on state legislative priorities, a report on the contracted harm report for the reparations commission, and an initial discussion on potential charter reforms. The meeting lasted approximately two hours and included presentations from city staff and councilmember questions. Discussion Items Mid-Session Legislative Update - Presenter: Jennifer O'Rourke, Director of Government Relations (on the job for 2.5 months) - O'Rourke outlined the legislative landscape with a Friday, April 17, 2026 deadline for omnibus bills, noting that the House Republican leadership had stated they do not want omnibus bills, while Senate DFL controls by one vote and House is tied. The session is expected to end May 18, 2026. The budget forecast will influence spending; the governor proposed a small supplemental budget. Key local priorities include: - St. Paul bills: sales tax extension for the River Center complex (half-cent sales tax), appropriation bonds, Komozoo Big Cat exhibit, West Seventh utilities, statewide lead pipe replacement, and non-fatal shootings program (already in omnibus public safety bill). - Federal projects: Eight of 10 St. Paul projects advanced by Representative McCollum’s office for congressionally directed spending. - Defensive issues: monitoring bills targeting St. Paul, such as copper wire regulation changes. - Councilmembers asked about speed cameras (O'Rourke said unlikely to pass this year; pilot program expires 2029), cannabis tax (no local tax bills seen, but city seeks restoration of local cannabis aid), and reimbursement for state rally costs (new program being established). - Councilmember Johnson expressed interest in greater council involvement in lobbying and testifying, and in leveraging relationships with Metro Cities and the National League of Cities. Reparations Harm Report Contract - Presenter: Veronica Burt, City Staff - The council awarded a $229,000 contract to the African American Redress Network (AARN), based at Columbia University, to produce a comprehensive harm report documenting historical and ongoing harms to descendants of chattel slavery in St. Paul. The contract runs from April 15, 2026 to April 14, 2027. - Methodology: data collection, historiographic analysis, archival/genealogical research, community engagement (oral histories, interviews, focus groups), and hiring a local research liaison. Phases include harm assessment, oral history, impact analysis across sectors (health, income, education, and potentially public safety and infrastructure), and final policy recommendations. - Councilmembers asked about travel budget (included in contract), number of bidders (4–5, with 1–2 local), and the itemized budget (to be provided to council). Councilmember Bowie noted the contract began on April 15, 2026 and asked for a kickoff meeting at least one month out. Council President Acre praised the milestone-based payment structure. Councilmembers suggested learning from other cities (Evanston, Detroit) that have implemented policies from harm reports. Charter Reform Discussion - Presenter: Tim Greenfield, Staff - Greenfield provided an overview of the city charter (home rule, strong-mayor-council system) and the two amendment processes: via Charter Commission proposal (then to voters) or via council ordinance (requires all seven votes and mayor’s signature). He identified two broad governance areas for potential reform: - Executive governance: mayoral appointment/removal powers, veto process, city attorney oversight, budget preparation. - Legislative governance: part-time vs. full-time council, filling vacancies, ordinance effective dates, committee structure. - Councilmembers discussed multiple topics: - Councilmember Johnson urged more engagement with the Charter Commission, noting it meets infrequently. - Councilmember Bowie called for a deeper conversation on interpreting the charter, emphasizing that the council holds adoption power over the budget. - Vice President Yang raised specific proposals: shortening the 30-day effective period for ordinances (e.g., for emergency policies), allowing expedited unanimous ordinance passage (as in Minneapolis), and studying council compensation/turning council full-time. - Councilmember Coleman suggested a holistic review of charters from other cities modernized in the last 20 years for best practices. - Next steps: Staff will continue studying charter reforms; council may place specific proposals on the policy committee calendar for further discussion. No formal votes were taken on charter changes. Key Outcomes - The council received the legislative update; no formal action taken. - The contract with the African American Redress Network for the harm report was affirmed (previously awarded). The report is expected by April 14, 2027. - Staff was directed to compile an itemized budget for the AARN contract for council review. - The council will pursue further discussion on charter reforms, with potential policy committee meetings scheduled in summer/fall 2026. No specific amendments were voted upon.

The Saint Paul City Council met on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 3:32 PM in the Council Chambers. All seven councilmembers were present for the majority of the meeting, with Councilmember Cheniqua Johnson absent for the early portion but present for later votes. The meeting adjourned at 4:25 PM. The agenda included a consent agenda, a suspension item honoring Dolores Huerta, final adoption of three ordinances, a continued public hearing on an immigration ordinance, and several public hearings and legislative hearing items. Consent Calendar - Items 2–29 were adopted en bloc with a 6-0 vote (Johnson absent), including approvals for securing/emergency boarding assessments, demolition assessments, a contamination cleanup grant application for the Balsam II project, a collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME Local 3757 (laid over to April 22), acceptance of Red Cross smoke alarm donations (valued at $16,962), denial of a zoning variance appeal for a 10-foot fence, a $20,916.36 claim settlement, a joint powers agreement with Falcon Heights for Safe Routes to School, a liquor license transfer for Kitty's Corner 2, an amended Familiar Faces program joint powers agreement, the Commercial Corridor Program Guidelines, appointments to the Neighborhood Safety Community Council, renaming of Osborn Plaza to Wabasha Park, grant applications for the Fire and Police Departments, a council retreat food purchase, the 2026-27 Consolidated Plan, delinquent garbage and yard waste bills assessments, and designation of a data practices compliance official. - Item 13 (RES 26-534) – Initiating a Business Sign Zoning Code Study was pulled from consent for separate discussion and adopted unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Dolores Huerta Day Recognition (RES 26-617): Norma Garces and Katie Avina, co-directors of Academias La Paz, spoke in strong support, stating that recognizing April 10 as Dolores Huerta Day in Saint Paul "is a declaration of who we are today" and urged passage. Councilmembers Kim, Bowie, and Yang also expressed support, highlighting Huerta's labor and civil rights legacy and her courage in speaking about sexual assault. - Emergency Boarding Assessment at 665 Fry Street (RLH TA 26-44): Property owner James Murniky testified against the approximately $500 assessment, stating the boarding occurred without his knowledge or consent during a SWAT raid and that he could have done it himself for less. He argued the assessment was unjust. - Emergency Boarding Assessment at 622 Prior Avenue North (RLH TA 26-40): Property owner Nathan Arvald testified against the assessment, stating a SWAT raid damaged his property (including gates and fences), the boarding was inadequate (only metal brackets with screws), and he was not notified. He argued the city should bear the cost. Discussion Items - Business Sign Zoning Code Study (RES 26-534): Council President Noecker introduced the item as a follow-up to a policy committee meeting, aiming to simplify sign regulations for businesses citywide. The study will return with recommendations later in 2026. - Dolores Huerta Day (RES 26-617): Councilmember Kim presented the resolution honoring Dolores Huerta on her birthday (April 10) and recognizing April 10, 2026, as Dolores Huerta Day in Saint Paul. The resolution highlighted her co-founding of the United Farm Workers and her advocacy for labor rights. The resolution was adopted unanimously. - Fire Chief Minimum Qualifications (Ord 26-17): Councilmember Coleman led final adoption. The ordinance establishes minimum qualifications for the Fire Chief position. Councilmember Bowie noted that the selection process will include a community committee that makes a recommendation to the mayor, with council approval. Adopted 7-0. - Immigration Ordinance (Ord 26-19): A motion to reopen the public hearing was adopted 7-0. The public hearing was continued to April 22, 2026, to allow time for public review of a memo from the city attorney's office. One member of the public, Jean Comstock from Unidos, testified in support, urging passage. - Rental Application Fees (Ord 26-20): Councilmember Johnson moved final adoption, noting it is a technical update to prepare for the Tenant Protections Ordinance effective May 14. Adopted 7-0. - Department of Safety and Inspections Code Update (Ord 26-21): Councilmember Johnson moved adoption, updating Chapter 13 to align with tenant protections. Councilmember Kim praised Johnson's leadership. Adopted 7-0. - Breakaway Minnesota 2026 Sound Variance (RES PH 26-84): Jared Fucci, president of Breakaway Music Festival, testified that the 2025 event saw over 25,000 attendees incident-free and zero complaints routed through the city. He noted improved community outreach and planned sound mitigation. Councilmember Bowie expressed support but noted constituent concerns; she highlighted the event organizers' proactive partnership and use of new complaint systems. The resolution was adopted 7-0. - Emergency Boarding Assessments – Policy Discussion: During the two separate assessment hearings (665 Fry St and 622 Prior Ave), councilmembers discussed the process for emergency boardings following SWAT raids. Councilmember Coleman noted that while the current law was applied correctly, the testimony raised valid questions about notification and liability. Council President Noecker suggested that property owners could file claims against the city for damages, and that the council might consider policy changes. Both assessments were adopted 7-0. Key Outcomes - Business Sign Zoning Code Study initiated (RES 26-534). - Dolores Huerta Day recognized (RES 26-617) – adopted 6-0 (Johnson absent). - Fire Chief qualifications ordinance (Ord 26-17) adopted 7-0. - Immigration ordinance (Ord 26-19) public hearing continued to April 22, 2026. - Rental application fees (Ord 26-20) and DSI code update (Ord 26-21) adopted 7-0. - Breakaway Minnesota 2026 sound variance (RES PH 26-84) approved. - ALS SuperHero Dash sound variance (RES PH 26-85) approved. - Police Department donations ($109,332.41 from St. Paul Police Foundation), FEMA grant ($1,505,142.29), Community Crime Intervention grant, two Metropolitan Livable Communities housing grants (680-694 Minnehaha Ave E and 58 E Wood Street), and General Obligation Judgment Bond (Series 2026A) all approved. - Emergency boarding assessments for 665 Fry Street and 622 Prior Avenue North adopted 7-0 after public testimony. - Legislative hearing consent agenda (items 42–114) adopted as amended, with two properties (1093 Breen Street and 1052 Ross Avenue) removed and referred to the April 21, 2026 Legislative Hearing.

Note: The agenda provided lists the meeting date as Monday, April 20, 2026, but the user specifies that this meeting took place on April 14, 2026. This discrepancy is noted. No minutes or transcript are available; the summary is based solely on the agenda. Discussion Items - Ramsey County 2026–2030 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP): Codie Leseman (Ramsey County) presented the TIP. No further details are available from the agenda. Key Outcomes - No decisions or votes are recorded in the agenda. The presentation was informational only.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary of discussions, decisions, or public testimony can be generated. The meeting took place on 2026-04-09 at 14:30 UTC, but the content is unavailable.

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA) Board of Commissioners met on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 2:00 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. Chair Cheniqua Johnson presided. The meeting covered approval of minutes, two development resolutions, and three staff reports on housing programs, HRA land disposition, and small-scale development goals. All votes were unanimous. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (MIN 26-11): Commissioner Yang moved to approve the March 2026 HRA meeting minutes. The motion carried 6-0, with Commissioner Jost absent. Minutes from March 4, 11, and 25 were adopted. - RES 26-515 – CDBG Loan for 202 Cesar Chavez Street: Commissioner Noecker sponsored a resolution authorizing a Community Development Block Grant loan agreement between the City and JRDM Investments, LLC. The board had previously received a staff report. The resolution passed 7-0 after Commissioner Jost arrived. - RES 26-516 – Designate Reuter Walton Development as Tentative Developer of 0 Robert Street South: Commissioner Noecker moved to designate Reuter Walton as tentative developer for the Fox Lot properties (between Fairfield Ave and Plato Blvd). Commissioner Noecker noted the developer's commitment to affordable housing, larger units, and public/green space, and urged adherence to the Westside Flats master plan for commercial uses. The resolution passed 7-0. - Healthy Homes and Power of Home Programs Update (SR 26-59): Housing Specialist David Schroeder presented. Healthy Homes provides pre-weatherization and weatherization for owner-occupied 1–4 unit homes, eligibility via 80% AMI, income-qualified program participation, or a geographic map. Power of Home offers electrification for single-family owner-occupied homes, eligibility via 50% AMI or the geographic map. To date: 29 homes in Healthy Homes, 15 in Power of Home. Estimated annual savings for 14 homes: $9,700, with GHG reductions equivalent to removing 14 cars from the road. Power of Home savings calculations are pending. Healthy Homes funding expires at the end of 2026; Power of Home has recurring $300,000/year. Maximum grant per program is $50,000. Implementation partner is Center for Energy and the Environment. Referrals are two-way with Energy Sense Coalition and CAPRW. Outreach has been minimal but interest is growing via word of mouth, council offices, and a newsletter. Commissioners asked about income breakdowns, owner-occupied vs. renter-occupied status (no renter-occupied properties above duplex to date). Chair Johnson requested follow-up data on AMI categories. The presentation was received and filed. - HRA Owned Land Disposition or Development Plan for 2026 (SR 26-60): Economic Development Supervisor Daniela Lorenz presented. The HRA owns about 200 parcels across six wards (none in Ward 3). Staff is focused on two categories: (1) 40 NSP (Neighborhood Stabilization Program) parcels, which require affordable homeownership outcomes, and (2) 30 parcels suitable for transfer to the city for public works, parks, or infrastructure. Transfers are batched geographically and save the HRA maintenance and assessment costs. Lorenz noted 150 of the 200 parcels are developable. A new interactive online map is being launched to increase transparency; future updates include online applications and a development newsletter. Commissioner Noecker suggested highlighting specific parcels (like “parcel of the week”) to spur interest. The report was received and filed. - Update on HRA Small Scale Development Goals and 2026 Plan (SR 26-61): Ms. Lorenz continued. Since 2013, the Inspiring Communities Program has designated 240 parcels for small-scale development, focusing on affordable homeownership. Outcomes: 195 parcels rehabbed or developed into homes, producing 250 units of housing for income-qualified buyers (30%–120% AMI, mostly 60–80% AMI). The program supports emerging and hyperlocal developers. Current small-scale projects include 560 Brunson (4-unit townhomes), 1195 Burr, 810 Atlantic, and 47 Douglas. Upcoming: tentative developer designations for properties on Wheel Lock Parkway and Jackson, and a twin home at 1087 Ross. RFP 8 for three NSP properties will be brought forward soon. Commissioner Yang clarified that Inspiring Communities homes must go to buyers under 120% AMI. Commissioner Bowie asked about past transactions with MnDOT and involvement of district councils in RFPs; staff confirmed they have worked with district councils on scoping. The report was received and filed. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (6-0). - RES 26-515 adopted (7-0). - RES 26-516 adopted (7-0). - Staff reports received and filed (Healthy Homes, HRA Land, Small Scale Development). - Next meeting: April 22, 2026. - Adjournment: 3:03 PM. The Chair noted the Emergency Rental Assistance Program opened that day, with 56 applications already received.

The Saint Paul Library Board met on April 1, 2026, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers. Chair Saura Jost presided with five members present (Noecker, Yang, Jost, Kim, Coleman) and two absent (Bowie, Johnson). The board approved the previous meeting minutes, authorized an extension of the memorandum of understanding with Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library, and received a comprehensive Library Needs Assessment from Director Hartman. The discussion focused on 2025 statistics, successes, challenges, and projected funding needs for 2027 and beyond. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (Min 26-12) – Minutes from the March 4, 2026 library board meeting were adopted unanimously (5-0). - Resolution 26-513 – Authorizing an extension to the Memorandum of Understanding between the Saint Paul Public Library and The Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library was adopted unanimously (5-0). Discussion Items - Library Needs Assessment (SR 26-52) – Director Hartman presented the annual needs assessment, summarizing 2025 performance and outlining priorities for 2026 and 2027. - 2025 Statistics: Approximately 23,000 weekly visitors (down 6% due to a digital security incident in July/September that disrupted internet, printing, and phones for six weeks); 55,000 materials circulated weekly (down <1%); e-book circulation growing faster than physical, which still accounts for 60% of circulation; meeting/study room usage continuing to rise post-pandemic; program attendance down 25% in 2024 (attributed to staffing and a shift to more intentional programs); over 3,000 weekly computer sessions and 1,800 weekly Wi-Fi sessions (Wi-Fi down slightly due to the incident). - 2025 Successes: Two standing-room-only “Reed Brave Talk Brave” events (150+ attendees each); over 1,000 students engaged with author Romina Garber; transformative library improvements at Merriam and Rice Street meeting rooms; opening of Hamlin Midway Library later in 2026; temporary closure of Hayden Heights Library (reopening 2027); Rondo Library reopening by end of 2026; launch of library safety team with six safety specialists; special edition library card for 50th anniversary of Southeast Asian immigration – resulting in a 24% increase in active library card holders; establishment of a labor management committee with all five bargaining units. - Challenges: Digital security incident impact on staff and patrons; effects of Operation Metro Surge (fewer library users in January/February 2026, now recovering); hiring freeze in late 2025 and early 2026 creating staffing gaps; ongoing public safety concerns (spring hotspots) managed with partners SPPD, ONS, Metro Transit. - 2026 Priorities: Reopen Hamlin Midway and Rondo libraries; continue Hayden Heights construction; manage staffing within a reduced budget (lower substitute budget, higher vacancy rate); move library safety strategy into restorative practices phase (funded by grant); implement staff well-being recommendations; roll out anti-bias training for all staff; continue safety infrastructure investments. - 2027 and Beyond: Director Hartman identified a $650,000 annual funding gap to sustain the library safety specialist positions (currently funded with expiring ARPA dollars). She stated she cannot operate libraries without those positions. Additionally, using existing FTE to open Hamlin Midway and Hayden Heights will create staffing shortages; reopening Riverview Library will require at least four additional staff (estimated). Board members discussed the need for transparent staffing numbers, cross-departmental safety funding, and including key needs (materials, technology) in the base budget. - Board Questions & Comments: Councilmember Coleman asked about program attendance data and desired staffing levels. Councilmember Johnson requested ward-level statistics and urged incorporating the $650,000 safety funding into the base budget. Councilmember Kim sought clarity on required staffing numbers (approx. 4 for Riverview). Council President Noecker emphasized consistent purchasing power for library materials and integration of safety specialists into overall staffing model. Councilmember Bowie advocated for a citywide safety funding strategy involving multiple departments. Council Vice President Yang noted libraries often receive less funding despite savings from other departments and called for systemic changes. Director Hartman agreed that libraries across the country have nothing left to cut but staff and stressed the need for early budget conversations. Key Outcomes - Minutes of March 4, 2026 were approved (5-0). - Resolution 26-513 extending the MOU with Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library was adopted (5-0). - The Library Needs Assessment (SR 26-52) was received and filed. - Board members directed Director Hartman to provide additional data (program attendance trends, ward-level usage, desired staffing numbers) for future budget discussions. - The board expressed strong support for sustaining library safety specialists via a permanent funding source and for including library needs in the mayor's proposed budget. Note: The meeting lasted approximately 1 hour, with no public testimony.

The St. Paul City Council Policy Committee met on April 1, 2026, to discuss three agenda items: the 90-day youth minimum wage exemption, training repayment agreement provisions (TRAPs), and reforms to the city's sign ordinance. The meeting lasted approximately 90 minutes and included presentations from city staff, external experts, and business stakeholders. Council members expressed broad support for eliminating the youth wage exemption, addressing TRAPs through existing ordinances, and initiating a comprehensive study to simplify the sign code. Discussion Items 1. Youth Minimum Wage (90-Day Youth Wage Exemption) Stephanie Baymer from the Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity Department (HERO) presented background on the city's labor standards enforcement and the youth wage exception. The 90-day youth wage allows employees aged 14-17 to be paid 85% of the small business minimum wage for the first 90 consecutive days of employment. A separate youth-focused training program exception applies to programs with local, state, or federal funding. Council members discussed the pros and cons of the exemption, noting that Minneapolis does not have a similar youth wage. Councilmember Kim highlighted that many youth contribute to household income and raised concerns about other exemptions, such as subminimum wage for persons with disabilities. Councilmembers Johnson, Bowie, and Vice President Yang expressed support for eliminating the 90-day youth wage, emphasizing investments in youth and families. Staff noted that the city's Right Track program (YJ1) serves about 500 interns annually with substantial training and job coaching. Councilmembers requested follow-up data on budgetary implications and trade-offs, including potential impacts on the number of youth jobs. A resolution to move forward was not taken at this meeting; further coordination with HERO and Right Track was planned. 2. Training Repayment Agreement Provisions (TRAPs) Chris Hicks, Senior Policy Advisor at Protect Borrowers, presented on employer-driven debt through stay-or-pay contracts, particularly training repayment agreement provisions (TRAPs). He cited examples from healthcare (HCA Healthcare, Frontier Airlines), retail (PetSmart), and other industries. A 2024 Cornell survey found 1 in 12 U.S. workers subject to TRAPs, up from 4.1% in 2014. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison brought a case against DECA Lashes in 2025 for using TRAPs. Hicks noted that St. Paul's wage theft ordinance may already prohibit such practices by defining employer clawbacks as wage theft. Councilmembers questioned whether TRAPs have become industry-wide standards and discussed the benefits of a specific ordinance for clarity and public education. Councilmember Coleman added that smaller employers often adopt standard contract language from large corporations. The committee expressed support for using existing enforcement tools and exploring additional local legislation. 3. Sign Ordinance Reform Joe Spencer (St. Paul Downtown Alliance) and John Pertlich (St. Paul Area Chamber) described how the current sign code creates barriers for businesses, with a 40-page code, 17 sign districts, and unpredictable processes. Lynn Pingle (Chair of the Business Review Council) presented findings from a cultural destination area study completed in 2025, which identified signage and wayfinding as key challenges. Director Angie Weesy (Safety and Inspections) detailed the code's complexity, noting it requires one full-time FTE and 50 staff across departments, with only 250 permits per year and 13 sign-related complaints in 2024. Tony Johnson (Planning and Economic Development) outlined a proposed zoning study to simplify the code, eliminate special districts, reduce prohibited signs, and allow more creative signage citywide. A resolution to initiate the study was anticipated after spring break (the week of April 6). Councilmembers unanimously supported the effort, emphasizing the need for citywide improvements to support business vitality and foot traffic. Key Outcomes - Youth Minimum Wage: Council expressed strong support for eliminating the 90-day youth wage exemption. Staff will provide follow-up data on budget impacts and trade-offs, including comparisons with Minneapolis and potential funding gaps for youth training programs. No formal vote was taken; further coordination with HERO and Right Track is expected. - TRAPs: Council affirmed that St. Paul's wage theft ordinance likely covers training repayment agreements. Staff will explore additional explicit language to clarify enforcement and consider a specific ordinance. The committee will continue to monitor state-level actions and coordinate with the Attorney General's office. - Sign Ordinance Reform: Council agreed to move forward with a zoning study to comprehensively update the sign code. A resolution to initiate the study will be brought to a future council meeting (likely after May 2026). The study aims to simplify regulations, reduce the number of sign districts, and make the permitting process easier for businesses. No formal vote was taken at this meeting.

The City Council met on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 3:30 PM in Council Chambers. Six members were present at roll call (Councilmember Cheniqua Johnson was absent but arrived later). The meeting covered consent agenda items, a suspension resolution, public hearings on several ordinances and resolutions, and a legislative hearing consent agenda item. The meeting adjourned at 4:08 PM. Consent Calendar - AO 26-16: Authorized the Department of Public Works to move $78,371 from a transfer account to an expense account for general professional services in the General Fund. Received and filed. - RES 26-310: Authorized the Department of Planning and Economic Development to apply to the Metropolitan Council for Livable Communities Act (LCA) grant proposals for round one of 2026 (site assessment, cleanup, predevelopment, construction, or redevelopment). Adopted. - RES 26-420: Authorized the City to enter into an agreement with MnDOT for work in the Trunk Highway 35E right of way as part of the University Avenue Project. Adopted. - RES 26-501: Accepted donation of conference registration from CNU for up to three City staff to attend CNU 34 in Northwest Arkansas from May 12-16, 2026. Adopted. - RES 26-530: Approved change of ownership of the Liquor Off Sale license for East 7th Liquor at 385 7th Street East. Adopted. - Item 5 (RES 26-505) was pulled for separate discussion (see below). Public Comments & Testimony - On Ordinance 26-19 (Immigration Enforcement Training & Reporting): Several residents testified in favor. Kathy Quick (Ward 4, UNIDOS-Minnesota) expressed support for the ordinance, noting it strengthens accountability and public safety. She referenced the November 25, 2025, ICE incident on Rose Avenue and called for an independent investigation. Laurel St. Marie Jerusalem (Ward 7) described police use of force during the same incident, including chemical irritants and sponge bullets, and stated the police violated the city's sanctuary ordinance. Reverend Karen Herring (Ward 8) testified as a constitutional observer, describing the scene and urging passage of the ordinance. Jill Toll (Ward 6) read a letter from Caroline Hagen (Ward 5) who witnessed the Rose Avenue event and expressed disappointment in St. Paul Police actions. Discussion Items - RES 26-505 (The Ivory Liquor License): Council President Noecker introduced a version 2 correcting a technical error regarding notice requirements. The resolution was adopted as amended with a 6-0 vote (Johnson absent). - RES 26-535 (National Black Bookstore Day): Councilmember Bowie presented the resolution declaring April 7th as National Black Bookstore Day. She noted that black-owned bookstores represent less than 8% of all booksellers in the U.S., declined from over 325 in 1999 to 54 in 2014, and now number nearly 300. Dr. Artica Tiner, founder of Planting People Growing Justice Bookstore in St. Paul, spoke about the role of black bookstores in literacy and community, highlighting that only 18% of Black students in St. Paul read at grade level. Councilmembers Johnson and Bowie gave additional remarks. The resolution was adopted 7-0. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Adopted as amended (6-0, Johnson absent). - RES 26-505: Adopted as amended (6-0). - RES 26-535: Adopted (7-0). - Ord 26-17 (Fire Chief Qualifications): Public hearing closed; laid over to April 15, 2026, for final adoption (7-0). - Ord 26-19 (Immigration Enforcement Training): Public hearing closed; laid over to April 15, 2026, for final adoption (7-0). - Ord 26-20 (Rental Application Fees): Public hearing closed; laid over to April 15, 2026, for final adoption (7-0). - Ord 26-21 (Department of Safety and Inspections): Public hearing closed; laid over to April 15, 2026, for final adoption (7-0). - RES PH 26-34 (Hamm’s Brewery West End TBRA Grant): Adopted (7-0). - RES PH 26-35 (Rondo Revitalize SEED Grant): Adopted (7-0). - RES PH 26-74 (Sound Variance for Get in Gear Event): Adopted (7-0). - RLH SAO 26-21 (Appeal of Mark Puchala II): Adopted (7-0). Ward News & Announcements - Vice President Yang announced a Spring Holiday Carnival on April 4 at Arlington Hills Community Center. - Councilmember Kim recognized Trans Day of Visibility (March 31) and reiterated support for trans rights. - Councilmember Bowie announced the Black Authors Expo at George Latimer Central Library on April 18, a Hallie Q. Brown anniversary event on April 4, spring break programming at rec centers, a prom dress sale at Hazel Park Rec Center, and the opening of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (applications April 1-2 at stpaul.gov/ERA). The next meeting is scheduled for April 15, 2026, due to spring break.

This meeting of the Transportation Committee was originally listed on the agenda for Monday, April 6, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. However, the system-provided date for this summary is March 31, 2026, creating a discrepancy between the source materials. No minutes or transcript were provided, so only the agenda item is known. Agenda Item - Arlington Avenue Reconstruction – Presented by Jary Lee of Saint Paul Public Works. No details on discussion, outcomes, or public testimony are available. Key Outcomes - No decisions or votes can be confirmed due to the absence of meeting records. The conflicting dates (March 31 vs. April 6) should be clarified by referencing the official meeting schedule.