Public Meetings - St Paul, Minnesota

The St. Paul Public Library Board convened on March 4, 2026, with five members present (Councilmembers Bully, Coleman, Naker, Yang, and Chair Joels) and two excused (Councilmember Johnson and Council Vice President Kim). The board approved the February minutes, adopted a resolution authorizing a transfer of funds from the Friends of the St. Paul Public Library for the Hayden Heights renovation, and received detailed updates on the Hayden Heights and Rondo Community Library projects. Consent Calendar - Minutes 26-9: Library board minutes for February 4, 2026 were approved unanimously (5-0). - Resolution 26-49: Authorizing execution of an MOU to support transfer of funds from Friends of the St. Paul Public Library to the library and amending the 2026 financing and spending plans. The resolution increased the capital budget for Hayden Heights by $1.65 million, allowing on-schedule construction. Adopted unanimously (5-0) after a public hearing with no speakers. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing on Resolution 26-49. Discussion Items - Hayden Heights Library Update (Staff Report 26-20-28): - Director Hartman, along with staff Marika and Zina, presented an update on the Hayden Heights renovation. The project will transform the library to be more visible, flexible, and connected to nature, with a new story time garden and green space. - Construction contractor has been awarded to Stall Construction (same as Hamline Library). The library will close to the public on March 24, 2026, with construction starting mid-April and expected to take up to 18 months (opening Q4 2027). - During closure, materials will be moved to Sunray Library; holds can be transferred. Library Go service is not available at county libraries, but St. Paul Public Library cards can be registered at Ramsey County libraries. - A community meeting is scheduled for March 10, 2026, to gather input on temporary service needs and potential mobile library stops. - Councilmember Yang expressed strong support and gratitude, noting community excitement. Chair Joels echoed gratitude for the library team. - Rondo Community Library Update (Staff Report 26-29): - Branch Manager Alex Riley and Public Services Manager Marlena Okechuku reported on the temporary location at Hallie Q. Brown Center since the January 8, 2026 ribbon cutting (attended by 200 people). - Highlights: Homework center is full; Createch and Fun Lab programs reaching new youth; computer classes leading to employment; partnership with Friends of the Library for author events; community engagement for renovation design (surveys, dot polling, coffee & community events). - Design options for the permanent Rondo location (461 Dale) have been narrowed to one that includes relocated restrooms (multi-stall), separate teen space, larger meeting rooms, additional study rooms, a wellness/lactation/prayer room (with sink), and staff focus rooms. Surveys have been translated into Somali. - Councilmember Bowie raised questions about safety at the Rondo corner, noting improvements due to multi-agency presence (Ramsey County Sheriff, Metro Transit), but emphasized ongoing need for collaboration with ONS, small businesses, and community partners. Director Hartman confirmed coordination with ONS, SPPD, and other departments. - Councilmember Yang asked about broader safety conversations; Councilmember Bowie outlined plans for a Ward 1 meeting and use of opioid settlement dollars. - Renovation timeline: community engagement through March, schematic design and cost estimates in March, construction documents in April, bidding in May/June. Key Outcomes - Votes: Minutes (26-9) approved 5-0; Resolution (26-49) adopted 5-0. - Hayden Heights: Closure date set for March 24; construction to begin mid-April; community meeting March 10. - Rondo Community Library: Staff to continue community engagement on design; safety discussions to continue with city partners. - Next Meeting: Board adjourned; referenced upcoming Read Brave event on March 5 (Lobizona panel at Arlington Hills Library).

Staff Presentation: Prescribed Burns - A staff member explained that prescribed burns are used by the department to manage over 200 acres of burn area. The burns are described as controlled fires that mimic natural wildfires to clear unwanted vegetation and protect biodiversity, making them a safe, efficient, and cost-effective restoration method. The presentation also noted that before European colonization, Minnesota's prairies spanned 18 million acres, supporting diverse wildlife.

The St. Paul City Council met on March 4, 2026, from 3:31 PM to 5:12 PM. The meeting included the election of new council officers, final adoption of several ordinances, public hearings on a sign variance and the Bronze Line transit project, and the first reading of a temporary extension of the pre-eviction notice period. The council also approved numerous consent agenda items, including tax assessments, grant applications, and license transfers. Consent Calendar - Items 1–12 (Consent Agenda): Approved unanimously. Included approvals for demolition assessments (RES 26-145, RES 26-146), a master contract with MN DEED for Right Track (RES 26-303), layover of AFSCME collective bargaining agreements (RES 26-307), Parks grant applications (RES 26-328, RES 26-366), ordinance permits for Highland Bridge sidewalks (RES 26-344), auto repair garage license transfer (RES 26-345), fire department equipment donation (RES 26-355), gift acceptance for Deputy Chief (RES 26-373), liquor/tobacco license transfer (RES 26-380), and Ward 6 event food expenditure (RES 26-396). All adopted 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Sign Variance Appeal (ABZA 26-2): Matt Duffy, representing the sign company, testified in support of the appeal, noting the Fort Road Federation’s letter of support and that the new sign would be smaller and less bright than the existing one. - Vacant Building Fee (RLH TA 25-420): Beth Jackson, property owner, testified requesting forgiveness of a vacant building fee, describing two years of water damage restoration and a subsequent insurance nightmare. - Nuisance Abatement (RLH SAO 26-11): Nigel Neely, the property owner at 1079 Western Ave N, testified that the pallets had been removed after the inspection. Discussion Items - Item 13 – Election of Officers (RES 26-365): Council President Noecker recognized outgoing Vice President HwaJeong Kim and welcomed Nelsie Yang as the new Vice President. Councilmembers expressed gratitude for shared leadership. Adopted 7-0 as amended. - Item 14 – Geothermal Energy Franchise (Ord 26-9): Final adoption. Adopted 7-0. - Item 15 – Port Authority Bonds for St. Joseph’s Hospital Site (Ord 26-11): $6 million in bonds to support redevelopment, leveraging $60 million in taxable value. Adopted 7-0. - Item 16 – TNC Fee Categories (Ord 26-12): Created new license fee categories for transportation network companies. Councilmember Bowie highlighted support from small business owner Marie from Move. Adopted 7-0. - Item 18 – Drive-Through Zoning Amendments (Ord 24-26): Public hearing held; no testimony. Councilmember Jost led the final adoption, noting the balance between allowing drive-throughs in limited areas and requiring pedestrian safety. Adopted 7-0. - Item 20 – Bronze Line Transit Support (RES PH 26-64): Metro Transit staff presented the 10-mile route from Union Depot to Maplewood Mall, serving over 60% BIPOC and low-income residents. Councilmember Yang expressed strong support. Adopted 7-0. - Item 21 – Sign Variance Appeal (ABZA 26-2): Staff explained that the BZA’s failure to approve a motion resulted in a denial; the council considered the appeal de novo. Council President Noecker argued that the practical difficulties finding was met and the new sign would be smaller and less bright. The appeal was granted 7-0. - Item 22 – Immigration Grievances (PH 26-4): No public testimony. Continued to March 11, 2026, 7-0. Suspension Item – Pre-Eviction Notice Extension (Ord 26-18) - Councilmember Kim introduced a temporary extension of the pre-eviction notice period from 30 to 60 days for non-payment of rent, sunsetting December 31, 2026. Councilmember Johnson flagged a drafting error regarding the effective date (the 30-day notice is not yet in effect). Councilmember Coleman noted that 501 evictions were filed in January in Ramsey County and that the council recently allocated $1.42 million to emergency rental assistance. The item was laid over for second reading and public hearing on March 11, 2026. Legislative Hearing Items - Item 27 – Vacant Building Fee (RLH TA 25-420): Hearing Officer recommended approval. Councilmember Coleman moved to amend the payment to a 5-year installment plan. Adopted 7-0 as amended. - Item 35 – Nuisance Abatement at 1079 Western Ave N (RLH SAO 26-11): Hearing Officer recommended finding that the nuisance (pallets) was not abated due to missed deadlines. Property owner testified pallets were removed. Councilmember Kim moved to approve the hearing officer’s recommendation; Councilmember Bowie voted no. Adopted 6-1. - Legislative Hearing Consent Agenda (Items 23–38 except 27 and 35): Adopted as amended, 7-0. Key Outcomes - Officer Elections: Nelsie Yang elected Vice President; HwaJeong Kim stepped down. Other leadership changes: Cheniqua Johnson became Budget Chair and HRA Chair; Anika Bowie became Public Safety Chair; Saura Jost became Library Board Chair; Molly Coleman became a Vice Chair. - Ordinance Adoptions: Geothermal franchise (Ord 26-9), Port Authority bonds (Ord 26-11), TNC fee categories (Ord 26-12), and drive-through zoning amendments (Ord 24-26) all adopted 7-0. - Bronze Line Resolution: City transmitted support for the Locally Preferred Alternative to the Metropolitan Council and Ramsey County. Adopted 7-0. - Sign Variance: Appeal granted; dynamic display sign allowed at 1305 7th Street West. - Pre-Eviction Notice Extension: First reading held; laid over to March 11, 2026, for second reading and public hearing. - Vacant Building Fee: Assessment approved with 5-year payment plan. - Nuisance Abatement: Finding of non-abatement approved (6-1); property owner may face assessment for inspection costs. - Next Meeting: March 11, 2026, at 3:30 PM for continued public hearings and second readings.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting occurred on March 6, 2026, but the provided date for this summary is February 27, 2026. This discrepancy is noted; the summary below uses the given date for the title but reflects the content of the March 6 transcript. The St. Paul Planning Commission met to conduct a quasi-judicial training, approve a conditional use permit (CUP) for an assembly hall at 928 West 7th Street, and elect officers for the coming year. The meeting opened with roll call and approval of the February 20, 2026 minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of February 20, 2026 Minutes: Moved by Commissioner Holtz, seconded by Commissioner Martinson. Approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing for the CUP item. No public comments were received on any other item. Discussion Items - Quasi-Judicial Decision-Making Training (Item 5, pulled forward): Assistant City Attorney Daniel Staley presented a training on best practices for quasi-judicial decision-making, adapted from a presentation by Sam White. Key points included: treating the commission as a judge, avoiding ex parte communications, relying only on evidence presented at the hearing, and the importance of findings. Commissioner Sah raised a clarifying question about legislative vs. quasi-judicial matters (e.g., rezoning is legislative; CUPs and variances are quasi-judicial). Commissioner Presley asked about encouraging public participation; the attorney advised only logistical information (date, time) can be shared for quasi-judicial items, but not opinions on the merits. The commission requested a copy of the slides. - Conditional Use Permit – 928 West 7th Street (Keg House): Staff presented a CUP for an assembly hall (seating capacity 607) in the former Keg House food hall, which closed in 2025. The applicant (Outlaw Development, represented by Colin Obelsbay, Tanner Elts, and owner Sean Devine) plans to operate a boxing gym and event space, with potential for car shows in the parking lot. The staff recommended approval, finding all five CUP standards met. Commissioners discussed parking (72 on-site stalls plus an additional 40 nearby and overflow options), occupancy (previous occupancy 1,000; new combined occupancy 1,100, but typical events about 200 people), and the historic preservation value of the building. Commissioner Riley proposed adding policies HP6 and HP15 from the comprehensive plan to the findings; after discussion, HP15 was removed via friendly amendment, leaving only HP6. The motion to approve with the amended finding passed unanimously. - Election of Officers (First Vice Chair, Second Vice Chair, Secretary): The election was conducted via a slate nominated by Commissioner Riley: First Vice Chair – Commissioner Starling; Second Vice Chair – Commissioner Thomas; Secretary – Commissioner Riley. Commissioner Holtz initially withdrew from consideration for first vice chair. The slate was seconded by Commissioner Martinson. After discussion (including a suggestion for a nominations committee in the future), the vote was 6 in favor and 3 opposed (Commissioners Hackney, Holst, and Tagiaff voted nay). The slate passed. - Site Plan Review: Staff announced upcoming site plan review meetings (March 3 and March 10, 2026) for projects at 1488 Grand Avenue, 120 Plato Boulevard West, and 1645 Energy Park Drive. Commissioners asked for clarification on the purpose of site plan review and the process for pulling items; staff explained these are technical reviews delegated to DSI, and the commission can pull items if desired. A request was made for a future presentation on site plan review procedures. Key Outcomes - Approved: February 20, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous). - Approved: Conditional Use Permit for an assembly hall at 928 West 7th Street, with the addition of comprehensive plan policy HP6 to the findings (unanimous). - Elected: 2026-2027 officers: First Vice Chair – Commissioner Starling, Second Vice Chair – Commissioner Thomas, Secretary – Commissioner Riley (vote 6-3). - Next Steps: The city attorney’s office will distribute the quasi-judicial training slides. A presentation on site plan review processes will be arranged for a future meeting.

The St. Paul Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) board met on February 25, 2026, to receive staff reports on the citywide down payment assistance and inheritance fund programs, and the emergency rental assistance (ERA) eviction prevention program, including proposed 2026 guideline updates. The board also acted on a resolution to transfer housing trust fund balances for ERA staffing. Five commissioners were present (Coleman, Joast, Kim, Yang, Chair Johnson) and two were absent (Bowie and Kim, though Bowie participated later; roll call indicated Bowie as present — discrepancy noted). Discussion Items - Down Payment Assistance and Inheritance Fund Update (Staff Report SR 26-21): Rachel Finazodal, Housing Program and Policy Manager, presented 2025 outcomes and 2026 proposed changes. Key data: In 2025, the programs opened interest forms three times, receiving 162 applications; 49 loans closed (44 citywide, 5 West Side Flats Inheritance Fund, plus one Rondo Inheritance Fund scheduled to close). Average purchase price was $265,000; average household income $67,000; 88% of buyers were former renters. Racial demographics (from lender data) showed about 66% of closed loans went to Black or African American households. The West Side Flats Inheritance Fund exhausted its $500,000 allocation and tapped other sources. Commissioners Bowie, Naker, and Kim raised concerns about excluding renters displaced by I-94 construction from inheritance fund eligibility, noting the administrative nature of the property-ownership verification requirement. Chair Johnson supported exploring inclusion of renters. A proposed 2026 guideline change would split the citywide down payment amount: up to $40,000 for households at 60% AMI or below, and $20,000 for 61–80% AMI, to stretch dollars further. The change will be voted on March 11. - Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Update (Staff Report SR 26-22): Rachel Finazodal also presented ERA program data. In 2025, the program was open 23 days and processed 190 of 610 applications over 76 days. Average grant was $2,014; 53% of applicants requested over the $2,500 cap. 46% received a flat $2,500. Average need for those with a housing court summons was $4,463. 17% of applicants had a court date; 40% lived in protected affordable housing. Racial demographics: 66% Black or African American, 17% white, 4% Hispanic/Latino. Proposed 2026 guideline changes include: - Increasing the grant cap from $2,500 to $3,500 to better meet average need and reduce administrative delays. - Accepting PHA subsidies (e.g., housing choice vouchers) as proof of income. - Reducing proof of income from 60 days to 30 days of pay stubs. - Introducing timeline restrictions: not accepting cases with a writ of eviction and requiring applications before the summons date. - Moving to a limited application system (open two days per month, with lottery selection of 50–60 applications) to improve processing capacity. - Staffing: current 2.5 FTEs; proposal to add 1 PM from 2026 budget and 1 accounting tech from housing trust fund. Chair Johnson pushed for an April launch rather than June to address urgency. Commissioner Naker supported an earlier launch and explored potential collaboration with Ramsey County. Commissioner Bowie suggested outsourcing to community nonprofits for faster deployment, but staff noted the need to adhere to program guidelines and that partnership development takes time. - Resolution RES 26-331 – Housing Trust Fund Budget Amendment for ERA Staffing: Deputy Director Green explained that $926,222 from the Families First Housing Pilot Program (housing trust fund) would be transferred to PED operations to hire two permanent staff for ERA. Combined with 2025 carryover ($700,000) and new LAHA allocations, total ERA program funding for 2026 would be approximately $2.5 million (excluding staffing). The resolution was adopted unanimously (7–0). Chair Johnson noted this ensures multi-year staffing stability. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously adopted Resolution RES 26-331, transferring $926,222 from the housing trust fund for ERA staffing, with the intent to support the program for multiple years. - Staff will bring formal guideline updates for both the down payment assistance program and ERA to the board on March 11, 2026, for approval. For down payment assistance, the only proposed change is the split of citywide assistance by AMI. For ERA, the changes include increasing the grant cap, income verification adjustments, timeline restrictions, and a lottery-based application system. - Chair Johnson directed staff to target an April 1 launch for ERA, rather than June, using existing staffing if needed. - Commissioners requested further exploration of including displaced renters in the Inheritance Fund program and more detailed data on application status reasons (e.g., denials vs. non-responses) and on the sustained homeownership of past DPA borrowers. - The board acknowledged the West Side Flats Inheritance Fund’s success (full allocation used) and expressed desire to see similar uptake in the Rondo Inheritance Fund. - Staff emphasized that any future partnerships (with county or nonprofits) must adhere to the city’s program guidelines.

On February 25, 2026, the Saint Paul City Council's Public Safety Committee convened at 10:00 AM in Council Chambers to review the role, jurisdiction, and procedures of the Minnesota Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Board. Councilmember Anika Bowie chaired the meeting, with six members present (Coleman, Jost, Kim, Yang, Johnson, Bowie) and one absent (Noecker). The primary agenda item was a presentation by Eric Missel, Executive Director of the POST Board, followed by questions from council members. The meeting was held during Black History Month. Discussion Items - POST Board Overview: Eric Missel explained that the POST Board is a licensing and regulatory agency created in 1977, part of the executive branch, with 17 members appointed by the governor for four-year staggered terms. The board oversees pre-service education, testing, licensing, continuing education, and violations of standards of conduct (Minnesota Rules 6700.1600). It does not regulate corrections officers or tribal officers without a state compact. One vacancy exists among the peace officer positions. - Jurisdiction and Misconduct: The board has jurisdiction over criminal convictions (felonies result in automatic revocation) and violations of standards of conduct. Since 2023, the board can act on an "engaged in" standard (e.g., domestic assault even if pled down to a lesser charge). Prior to 2021, only convictions were actionable. The board does not handle personnel issues, agency policy violations, or quality-of-service complaints—those fall under employer-employee relationships. Chief law enforcement officers (CLEOs) must report misconduct since 2021, leading to a significant increase in complaint volume. - Complaint Process: Complaints must specify the standard of conduct allegedly violated and identify the officer (name or badge number). Approximately 80-90% of citizen complaints about service quality are baseless or outside jurisdiction. The board's Complaints Investigation Committee (CIC) reviews complaints and can recommend discipline; final decisions rest with the full board. Discipline becomes public only after final action. - Continuing Education: Licensees must complete 48 hours of continuing education per three-year cycle, including mandatory topics (use of force, bias, crisis intervention, etc.) set by statute. Courses must be POST-approved for mandatory credit; otherwise, they count as general education. The board can deny credit for warrior-style training, as it did for a New Jersey vendor. - Local Policy and ICE Interactions: Councilmember Bowie asked about training for interactions with federal agents (e.g., ICE). Missel noted that local policies on such interactions are outside POST's jurisdiction unless the legislature mandates a statewide policy. He acknowledged this is a new issue without existing training guidance. - Board Composition and Representation: Councilmembers asked about geographic diversity and local representation. Missel confirmed that appointments are made by the governor, but in practice, geographic spread is considered. St. Paul has a representative: Commander Jim Yang. The elected official seat for small towns (under 5,000 population) was questioned; Missel did not know the original rationale. Key Outcomes - Staff Report Received and Filed: The committee received and filed SR 26-32, the review of the POST Board and investigation processes. No formal votes were taken. - Clarification on Roles: The presentation reinforced that POST is a licensing board, not an internal affairs or employer-employee disciplinarian. Councilmembers gained understanding of the limitations and processes. - Next Steps: Councilmember Bowie invited further policy discussions and offered to share Missel's contact information. The Public Safety Committee will continue meeting every fourth Wednesday at 10:00 AM (previously 1:00 PM).

The Saint Paul City Council met on February 25, 2026, at 3:30 PM in Council Chambers, adjourning at 7:42 PM. The meeting covered a wide range of items including resolutions, ordinances, public hearings, and a special recognition. Key actions included adoption of a resolution supporting the METRO J Line, a resolution urging comprehensive cleanup of Ford's Area C, recognition of longtime city attorney Portia Hampton Flowers, approval of mayor's appointments, and a contentious debate over writing off police staffing costs for cultural festivals. The council also adopted a festival security credit program and added funding for emergency rental assistance. Consent Calendar - AO 26-14 (Amending LAHA Project Budgets: $500,000 for Emergency Rental Assistance) was received and filed. - RES 26-65 (Emergency Management costs), RES 26-92 (Police refreshments), RES 26-232 (Parks grant application for $25,000), RES 26-263 (Winter grooming grant up to $175,000), RES 26-271 (Cooperative agreement with Ramsey County), RES 26-272 (Police assessor costs), RES 26-275 (Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Unit expenses), RES 26-276 (Variance for 10-foot lanes on Arlington Avenue), RES 26-314 (Ordinance permits for Highland Bridge signage), RES 26-325 (Mississippi River Learning Center grant application up to $3,000,000) were adopted unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 22 (Black History Month resolution): Representatives from Minnesota HBCU Alumni, National Pan-Hellenic Council, Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta, Sigma Gamma Rho, Iota Phi Theta, and The Links Incorporated spoke, expressing gratitude and highlighting their community service, scholarships, and mentorship programs. - Item 24 (Write-off of police costs for festivals): Multiple festival organizers and supporters testified, including Harry Colbert Jr. (Power 104.7), Marina Neil (Rondo Days), Adrian Perryman (Rondo Block Party), Bob Cruz (Synchronomia/Mexican Independence Day), and Clint Roberts (Lowertown Sounds). They described financial burdens and the importance of free cultural events. Some also requested systemic changes to reduce security costs. - Item 18 (Drive-through zoning amendments): Jacob Hooper (Sustained St. Paul) supported the ordinance, citing tax value data. Brian Holmes (Sustained St. Paul) presented visual examples of tax value per acre. Joe Burkholz (McDonald's owner/operator) requested clarification on stacking and setback requirements. John Perlich (St. Paul Area Chamber) expressed concerns about the 660-foot transit buffer and stacking requirements. Michelle Molstead (Sustained St. Paul) supported the ordinance. - Item 29 (Alley vacation): Petitioner Mary Ann McEvoy spoke in support of vacating the alley right-of-way abutting 2105 Scudder Street. - Item 31 (Immigration grievances): Two residents spoke, urging safe zones around schools and hospitals, and better communication about emergency rental assistance. Discussion Items - Item 10 (RES 26-311 – METRO J Line): Council President Noecker and Councilmember Jost spoke in favor, noting the long-awaited transit improvements on West 7th Street. The resolution was adopted 7-0. - Item 13 (RES 26-330 – Restoring Ford's Area C): Councilmember Jost detailed the cleanup options for the contaminated site on the river bluff, urging support for the most comprehensive alternative (Option 6). She noted that MPCA is the regulatory body. The resolution was adopted 7-0. - Item 14 (RES 26-343 – Recognizing Portia Hampton Flowers): All councilmembers gave remarks thanking her for over 20 years of service as a city attorney. The resolution was adopted 7-0, and February 25, 2026 was declared Portia Hampton Flowers Day. - Item 15 (RES 26-326 – Mayor's appointments): The council approved and swore in new policy aides, constituent services associates, and a director of public engagement. Adopted 7-0. - Item 16 (RES 26-341 – Wizards Auto Repair penalty): City attorney Monica Schaefer presented evidence of license violations. Licensee Mohammed Mohammed spoke, requesting probation instead of a $1,000 fine. The council voted to impose the matrix penalty, 7-0. - Item 24 (RES PH 26-59 – Write-off of police costs): Councilmember Bowie proposed writing off $75,000 in unpaid police bills for seven festivals. City attorney memo indicated it could be an illegal gift. Debate ensued over fairness and funding source. Councilmember Bowie motioned for a two-week layover; passed 5-2 (Noecker and Jost opposed). - Item 17 (RES PH 26-37 – Festivals and Events Security Credit): Council President Noecker moved version two, providing up to $7,000 or 50% of police security costs for qualifying festivals. Deputy Chief Holstrom explained the process. Adopted 7-0. - Item 18 (Ord 24-26 – Drive-through regulations): Councilmember Jost introduced version three, increasing the transit buffer from 300 to 660 feet. Public hearing held; continued to March 4 for final adoption. - Item 23 (RES PH 26-62 – Emergency Rental Assistance staffing): Councilmember Johnson moved approval of $1.4 million total ($500,000 from LAHA and $926,000 from HRA) for staffing and program expansion. Adopted 7-0. - Item 31 (PH 26-4 – Immigration grievances): Public hearing continued to March 4. Key Outcomes - Adopted: RES 26-311 (METRO J Line), RES 26-330 (Ford Area C), RES 26-343 (Portia Hampton Flowers recognition), RES 26-326 (mayor's appointments), RES PH 26-58 (Black History Month), RES 26-341 (Wizards Auto Repair penalty), RES PH 26-37 (festival security credit), RES PH 26-62 (emergency rental assistance staffing), RES PH 26-42 (Dale Street roof replacement), RES PH 26-38 (historical grant), RES PH 26-55 (Como Zoo grant), RES PH 26-52 (sound variance), RES PH 26-51 and 26-53 (alley vacations), RLH TA 26-11 (Edmund Avenue assessment), and legislative hearing consent agenda items. - Laid over: RES PH 26-59 (police cost write-off) to March 11; Ord 24-26 (drive-throughs) to March 4; Ord 26-9 (geothermal franchise), Ord 26-11 (St. Joseph's hospital bonds), Ord 26-12 (TNC fees) to March 4; PH 26-4 (immigration grievances) to March 4; RLH TA 25-420 (Hamline Avenue assessment) to March 4. - Consent agenda adopted as amended. - Meeting adjourned at 7:42 PM.

The city council's policy committee met on February 18, 2026, to discuss two agenda items: a proposal to formalize a permit program for custom bike racks in the public right-of-way, and a presentation on the draft update to the Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP 2.0). Councilmembers present: Bowie, President Naker, Joast, Coleman, Vice President Kim, and Yang. Councilmember Johnson was excused. No public comments were heard. Discussion Items Bike Rack Permit Program - Jimmy Schumacher (Public Works) presented a proposal to create a formal permit program allowing private entities (district councils, businesses, etc.) to install custom or branded bike racks in the public right-of-way. The program aims to increase bike parking, track installations, and ensure proper siting, design, and installation by qualified contractors. - Councilmembers discussed: the difference between standard city-funded racks (purchased and installed by city) and the new permit (private purchase and installation); the need for design review to ensure functionality and avoid inappropriate designs; ownership and maintenance after installation (racks would become city property, but the city would replace damaged racks with standard ones, not custom); potential permit fees (councilmembers favored minimal or no fees to encourage participation, but some supported covering staff costs); and the role of the Commercial Corridor Organization Assistance Program (CCOPE) in funding such racks. - Council President Naker praised the presentation as a model for policy sessions, emphasizing early feedback before legislation. Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP) Update - Liz Boyer (Climate Action Coordinator) and team presented the draft CARP 2.0, summarizing progress since 2019 adoption (net-zero goals for 2050 community-wide and 2030 for city operations). Key achievements: 46% reduction in city building emissions from a 2015 baseline, EV car share program, fleet electrification, and community engagement. - The draft plan includes 8 categories, 25 priority actions for the next five years, and a proposed target to spend at least 1% of the city's budget on climate actions (approx. $8.8 million for 2026). - Councilmembers raised questions about: ensuring adequate funding to meet goals; linking vulnerability assessments to specific actions (e.g., air quality sensors for Northern Iron in Ward 1, Southport neighborhoods); partnership with Ramsey County; tree canopy and tree preservation ordinance; and the need to explicitly address racial and environmental justice. - Councilmember Bowie highlighted the importance of a public health lens and life expectancy disparities. Councilmember Yang asked about EV car share expansion to the East Side (confirmed ongoing). Councilmember Joast suggested a timeline for adoption by end of March 2026, which the team agreed to. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; both items were for discussion and feedback. - For the bike rack program, staff will develop a draft ordinance incorporating council feedback, with a focus on minimal fees, maintenance responsibilities, and design guidelines. - For CARP 2.0, the team will incorporate council feedback, finalize the plan with visual elements, and aim to bring it for adoption by the end of March 2026.

The St. Paul City Council met on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 3:30 PM in the Council Chambers. Six members were present (Councilmember Cheniqua Johnson was absent and excused). The meeting lasted until 4:46 PM and covered consent agenda items, a contested zoning appeal, several ordinances at final adoption and first reading, and multiple public hearings. Key actions included final adoption of a law requiring law enforcement to remove masks during operations, a first reading of a geothermal energy franchise, and approval of a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district for the former St. Joseph’s hospital site. Consent Calendar - Items 4–13 were approved by a single 6-0 vote with no separate discussion. These included: a three-year lease for the Historic Como Streetcar Station with District 10, grant applications for trail connections and outdoor recreation, a police grant application for the HIDTA program, liquor and auto repair license ownership changes, acceptance of donated tickets from Tickets for Kids Charities, reappointments to the Recovery Act Community Reparations Commission, acceptance of a Knight Foundation travel gift, and use of Neighborhood STAR funds for street and sidewalk work. Public Comments & Testimony - Drive-through zoning ordinance (Ord 24-26): Two speakers testified. - Steve Jurdigan (698 Sherwood Ave.) expressed support for the ordinance but argued it does not go far enough. He criticized the stacking requirements, called for a ban on drive-throughs near light rail, and urged the addition of a provision requiring equal pedestrian access at all hours. He also highlighted litter problems from drive-through customers. - Meg Dore (Board President of District 9, West 7th Fort Road Federation) advocated for a moratorium on new drive-throughs and a conditional use permit requirement. She presented data comparing Minneapolis (which banned new drive-throughs in 2019) and St. Paul, claiming the ban did not stifle restaurant growth. She also argued that drive-through businesses yield lower taxable value per acre. - Immigration grievances public hearing (PH 26-4): Peter Sentner (Ward 2 resident, Neighbors Protecting Neighbors) testified about the growing eviction crisis. He noted that 1,365 eviction notices were filed in the metro area in the previous month (up 44% from baseline). He criticized the city’s emergency rental assistance website for being outdated (last updated December 8, 2025) and for having closed applications. He requested more details on rental assistance funding and distribution. Discussion Items - ABZA 26-1 – Appeal of fence variance denial (Minnesota Department of Administration): Councilmember Yang moved to deny the appeal, arguing that the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) correctly found errors in the staff report. She stated that a 10-foot fence with trident blades in a residential neighborhood would be “imposing and fortress-like,” inconsistent with the comprehensive plan and zoning code. Council President Noecker dissented, arguing that the BZA’s decision contained procedural errors (e.g., a commissioner appeared to have pre-written findings) and that with proper landscaping the fence could meet standards. The motion to deny the appeal passed 5-1 (Noecker opposed). - Suspension Item – RES 26-320 (Fire training exercises at 753 Front Ave.): Council President Noecker explained the item was brought under suspension because the training was scheduled for February 24, before the next council meeting. She noted that the department had been reminded of the preference for non-suspension items. The resolution was approved 6-0. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 26-7 (Law enforcement mask ban): Final adoption passed 6-0. The ordinance adds Chapter 268B to the Legislative Code, requiring law enforcement officers to conduct operations without masks or facial coverings (with exceptions). Councilmembers emphasized accountability, transparency, and public trust. - Ordinance 26-8 (Administrative Code amendment): Final adoption passed 6-0. Authorizes up to three assistants to the mayor to execute certain contracts and increases the dollar value threshold for contract execution by designees. - Ordinance 26-9 (Geothermal energy franchise): First reading. Laid over to February 25, 2026, for second reading and public hearing. The franchise is for The Heights Community Energy, Inc., a nonprofit geothermal utility serving the Heights development. The 20-year franchise includes a 5% fee and approximately $5,000 annual regulatory fee. - Ordinance 26-11 (Bonds for St. Joseph’s hospital site): First reading. Laid over to February 25, 2026. Authorizes the Port Authority to issue up to $6 million in general obligation bonds for demolition and remediation of the former St. Joseph’s hospital site. Fairview will cover debt service for up to 10 years. - Ordinance 26-12 (Transportation Network Company license fees): First reading. Laid over to February 25, 2026. Creates a three-tier fee structure based on driver count: $5,000 (≤300 drivers), $11,000 (301–1,000), and $18,000 (1,000). The current flat fee of $41,115 is replaced. - Public hearing on drive-through ordinance (Ord 24-26): The council adopted an amendment (version 2) that does not ban drive-throughs but increases buffer zones, stacking requirements, and defines walk-up window service. The public hearing was continued to February 25, 2026, for final adoption. - Public hearing on sewer assessment (RES PH 26-7): Adopted 6-0 after no testimony. - Public hearing on parks grants (RES PH 26-39, 26-40, 26-45): All adopted 6-0. Includes $250,000 for commemorative statues/memorials, $2.5 million for Conway Recreation Center, and $551,205.97 from Como Friends. - Public hearing on sound level variance (RES PH 26-44): Approved 6-0 for Pro-Life Action Ministries’ Good Friday prayer vigil on April 3, 2026, with amplified sound. - Public hearing on firefighter grant (RES PH 26-46): Adopted 6-0. Accepts $679,543.63 for firefighter physicals and training. - Public hearing on Fairview/St. Joe’s TIF district (RES PH 26-50): Adopted 6-0. Establishes a TIF district for the 5.5-acre site, with a $60 million estimated redevelopment value and $1.5 million in annual property taxes. The Port Authority will acquire the site for $1 after demolition, and Fairview covers costs. - Public hearing on immigration grievances (PH 26-4): Continued to February 25, 2026, with a 6-0 vote. Council Vice President Kim noted that the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) chair is seeking additional rental assistance funding. - Legislative Hearing Consent Agenda (items 29–49): Adopted as amended by the legislative hearing officer, 6-0. This included decisions on tax assessments, a summary abatement order appeal, a fire inspection correction notice appeal, and a rehabilitation order for 799 University Ave. West (referred to April 14, 2026).