Public Meetings - St Paul, Minnesota

The Saint Paul Planning Commission met on March 22, 2024, to discuss a variety of items including zoning requests, a comprehensive plan amendment, and a drive-through zoning study. The meeting also included a resolution honoring outgoing Planning Director Luis Pereira and several committee reports. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the March 15, 2024 meeting. Discussion Items - Director's Announcements: Luis Pereira announced his resignation as Planning Director, effective April 8, 2024, and that he will be joining Aeon, an affordable housing nonprofit. He noted that Robinson will serve as interim director. Pereira also provided an update on the EV zoning ordinance, which was introduced at the council meeting and may see amendments to focus more on multifamily uses. - Resolution Honoring Luis Pereira: The commission unanimously passed a resolution thanking Pereira for his contributions, including work on the Highland Bridge Master Plan, Hillcrest Heights Master Plan, zoning studies, and navigating the commission through COVID-19. - Zoning Committee – 1984 Marshall Rezoning (24-017-011): The committee recommended denial of a rezoning from RM1 to RM2 to allow seven townhomes. The commission voted to deny the rezoning, with a majority voting in favor of denial (Commissioners Tagia, Risberg, Hackney, Johnson Becker, Martinson, Ochoa, Starling, Presley, Taghioff, Houmas, Riley, Syed, and Chair Grill) and two opposed (Commissioners Hood and Holtz). Arguments for denial cited the community-based Marshall Avenue zoning study and the sufficiency of RM1 density; those in favor argued the project was consistent with missing middle goals along a transit corridor. - Zoning Committee – 892 E. 7th Rezoning (24-016-929) and CUP (24-016-948): The committee recommended approval of a rezoning from B3 to T3 and a conditional use permit for an additional 5 feet of height (to 60 feet). The commission approved both items unanimously. - Comprehensive and Neighborhood Planning Committee – Heights Comprehensive Plan Amendment: The commission approved a resolution recommending the comprehensive plan amendment, which updates the zoning map to align with already-approved zoning and allows the Metropolitan Council to process permits. No public testimony was received. - Drive-Through Zoning Study: Staff presented a study recommending new restrictions on drive-throughs, including increased stacking space, proximity limits to transit stations, and pedestrian access requirements. After discussion, the commission voted to initiate the study and release it for public review, with a public hearing set for June 7, 2024. The motion passed with two opposed (Commissioners Tagia and Hackney). Some commissioners expressed concerns about equity, health impacts, and the need for more analysis, while others supported public input. - Cannabis Zoning Study Update: The committee received an update on the upcoming cannabis zoning ordinance, which will align with state licensing and regulate locations. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from March 15, 2024. - Adopted a resolution honoring Luis Pereira. - Denied the rezoning at 1984 Marshall Avenue (majority vote, with two opposed). - Approved the rezoning and conditional use permit for 892 E. 7th Street (unanimous). - Approved the Heights Comprehensive Plan Amendment recommendation. - Initiated the Drive-Through Zoning Study and set a public hearing for June 7, 2024 (motion passed with two opposed). - No action on the cannabis zoning study; it will return to the commission in two weeks. Other Reports - Transportation Committee reported an upcoming meeting on the Highway 3 Robert Street project. - Communications-Nomination Committee reported no meeting; they are continuing to work on mission structure changes.

This summary is based solely on the available agenda, as no minutes or transcript were provided. The agenda lists the meeting date as Monday, March 18, 2024, at 4:30–6:00 p.m., but the provided metadata indicates the meeting occurred on March 15, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. This discrepancy is noted; the title and summary use the metadata date per instruction. Discussion Items - Safe Streets for All: Transportation Safety Action Plan – Presented by David Peterson (Public Works), allocated 30 minutes. The item likely involves a federal grant program for roadway safety improvements, but specific details, positions, or data are not available from the agenda alone. - Concordia Avenue Resurfacing Project – Presented by David Peterson (Public Works), allocated 30 minutes. This project addresses resurfacing of Concordia Avenue; no further description or testimony is recorded. Key Outcomes No votes, decisions, or directives are documented in the agenda. The meeting was informational. Upcoming Transportation Committee meetings were noted: April 1 (MnDOT projects) and April 15.

The Saint Paul Planning Commission met on March 1, 2024, to approve minutes, hear a public hearing on The Heights Comprehensive Plan Amendment (with no public testimony), and deliberate on two zoning items: a rezoning for 964 Payne Avenue and a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) with multiple variances for the United Village project at 1566 University Avenue. The meeting concluded with a recommendation on the Saint Paul Bicycle Plan and committee updates. Public Comments & Testimony - The Heights Comprehensive Plan Amendment: No members of the public signed up to speak; the public hearing was closed with a motion and second, and the commission forwarded the item to the Planning Director. Discussion Items - 964 Payne Avenue Rezoning: Staff presented a request to rezone an L-shaped parcel from H2 to B2 to allow a developer to expand its parking lot. The item was discussed briefly, with staff noting historical zoning and the parcel's shape. No vote was taken at this meeting; it was set for committee discussion. - 1566 University Avenue – United Village (CUP & Variances): This major project involves a hotel and parking structure. The commission debated eight variances individually, covering setbacks, entrance drive, building articulation, and window/openings requirements. Key speakers included commissioners who expressed concerns about pedestrian safety, consistency with the comprehensive plan, practical difficulties, and community opposition from the Hamline Midway and Union Park district councils. Commissioner Taghioff provided detailed rationale for opposing variances based on unmet findings (e.g., A, B, C, F). Commissioner Riley also cited inconsistency with transportation policies and pedestrian-friendly design. The CUP for height (75’ to 90’) was supported unanimously after discussion. - Saint Paul Bicycle Plan: The Transportation Committee recommended adding a "bikeway for further study" on Maryland Avenue between Lake Phalen and Ruth Street, after staff initially removed a separated bikeway due to space constraints with the Purple Line transit project. Commissioners debated the need for further study versus immediate implementation, but ultimately supported the committee's amendment. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: The minutes from March 1, 2024, were approved with a correction to the date. - The Heights Comprehensive Plan Amendment: Public hearing closed; no action taken (staff to proceed). - United Village Variances (1566 University Avenue) : - Variance 1 (stepback): Approved (voice vote). - Variance 2 (setback): Approved (majority vote; Commissioners Riley and Taghioff opposed). - Variance 3 (entrance drive): Denied (8–4 against; later motion to deny passed 10–2). - Variance 4 (anchor the corner): Approved (9–3; Commissioners Ortega, Riley, Taghioff opposed). - Variance 5 (west facade window openings): Approved (6–5; Commissioners Hackney, Johnson Becker, Ortega, Riley, Taghioff opposed). - Variance 6 (west facade ground floor openings): Approved (7–3; Commissioners Ortega, Riley, Taghioff opposed). - Variance 7 (east facade ground floor openings): Approved (unanimous). - Variance 8 (building articulation): Approved (unanimous). - Conditional Use Permit (height to 90’): Approved (unanimous). - Saint Paul Bicycle Plan: Approved as amended (adding "bikeway for further study" on Maryland Avenue); resolution will be sent to the Mayor and City Council for adoption on April 17, 2024. - Committee Updates: The Comprehensive and Neighborhood Planning Committee will address drive-through regulations and cannabis; the Communications-Nominations Committee transmitted the annual report and work plan.

Note on date discrepancy: The agenda for this meeting lists the date as Monday, March 4, 2024, but the user-provided instruction states the meeting took place on March 1, 2024. This summary uses the date provided in the instruction. No minutes or transcript were available for this meeting. The following summary is based solely on the agenda. Discussion Items - Jackson Street Reconstruction – Presented by Nick Fischer (Ramsey County), allocated 30 minutes. The agenda item indicates a discussion of the reconstruction project on Jackson Street. - Dale Street Safety Conversion (Como to Hwy 36) – Presented by Luis Flores (Ramsey County), allocated 30 minutes. The agenda item covers a safety conversion project on Dale Street from Como Avenue to Highway 36. - Dale Street Redesign (Grand to Iglehart) – Presented by Luis Flores (Ramsey County), allocated 30 minutes. The agenda item addresses a redesign of Dale Street from Grand Avenue to Iglehart Avenue. Key Outcomes No decisions, votes, or directives are recorded in the available agenda or minutes. The meeting was scheduled for discussion of the three items above, but no outcomes are documented.

[Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on March 1, 2024, but this summary uses the date provided in the instructions.] The Saint Paul Planning Commission met on February 23, 2024, to approve minutes, hear announcements, discuss a proposed addendum to the River Balcony Master Plan, and receive committee reports. The meeting was chaired by Commissioner Kristine Grill. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from February 16, 2024, were approved unanimously on a motion by Commissioner Overkegan, seconded by another. (Vote: all in favor, none opposed). Discussion Items - Planning Director’s Announcements: Director Luis Pereira discussed House File 4009, a state bill that would preempt local zoning for missing middle housing. He noted good intentions but expressed concerns about the language and loss of local control. He encouraged engagement with bill authors to improve it. He also reminded members of an upcoming urban planning conference. - River Balcony Master Plan Proposed Addendum – Basis Design Report: - Kady Dadlez (Planning Department) and Brett Hussong (Parks and Recreation) presented the proposed addendum to the 2017 River Balcony Master Plan. The Basis Design Report (200 pages, developed 2021‑2022 with consultant James Corner Field Operations) refines the master plan design. Key differences from the master plan: fewer crossings over rail/road, use of existing infrastructure instead of elevated balcony, fewer vertical connections (to reduce costs). Key additions include the Kellogg Cut (pedestrian access from Kellogg Mall Park to 2nd Street), conversion of 2nd Street to pedestrian corridor, traffic calming on Shepherd Road, improvements at Lambert’s Landing (boat docking, welcome center), overlooks, Bluff Steps and Garden, and interim use of a Ramsey County parking lot. - Staff assessment: The addendum is generally consistent with the master plan’s vision and goals, provides a realistic, cost‑sensitive next step. - Discussion: Commissioners asked about coordination with rail expansion, interaction with the River’s Edge redevelopment project, timing and funding (no current funding for construction; a $20 million state bonding request for Lambert’s Landing and Kellogg Mall Park; project likely phased over 10+ years), ADA accessibility (reliance on River’s Edge and other vertical access points). Commissioner Holst moved to release the Basis Design Report and memo for public review and set a public hearing for April 12, 2024. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hackney and passed unanimously. - Transportation Committee Report: Commissioner Martinson reported that the committee met on February 26 and heard a presentation on the River Balcony project and an update on the Bicycle Plan. The next meeting is March 4 with presentations from Ramsey County on Jackson Street Reconstruction, Dale Street Safety Conversion, and Dale Street Redesign. - Communications‑Nomination Committee: No meeting held; no report. - Task Force/Liaison Reports: None. - Old/New Business: The steering committee met two weeks ago to restart work; no action taken. Key Outcomes - Approval of February 16, 2024 minutes. - Motion passed to release the River Balcony Master Plan Proposed Addendum (Basis Design Report) for public review and schedule a public hearing on April 12, 2024. - Zoning Committee will meet March 7 with two items (964 Payne rezoning and 1566 University Avenue C‑UP variance). - Planning Commission will hold future meetings on March 13 (drive‑through zoning text amendment) and March 27 (cannabis zoning text amendment). - Meeting adjourned.

The meeting was called to order at 8:30 a.m. on February 12, 2024, though the printed agenda listed the date as February 16, 2024. The commission approved the previous meeting's minutes, received committee reports, and voted on a reestablishment of nonconforming use. Public testimony was not heard. Consent Calendar - Minutes from February 2, 2024, were approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Holtz, second by Commissioner Syed, all in favor). Chair's Announcements - The chair reminded members that the meeting recording starts as soon as he begins speaking. - A farewell was given for former Chair Ringle Morales, who received a laser-engraved plaque and a letter from the mayor; members expressed congratulations on his new role in Hastings. - A brief steering committee meeting will follow the planning commission session. Planning Director's Announcements - Asma (substituting for Director Luis Pereira) reported that state legislative proposals were released the previous day; the director is reviewing them and will update the commission on alignment. - Staff had a strong showing at the Capitol Mall Design Framework charettes last week. Ten projects were identified, including street design around the Capitol. Future opportunities for public input will be shared. Zoning Committee – New Business - Item 23-110-253: 475 Chatsworth Street – Reestablishment of Nonconforming Use – The applicant sought to reestablish a nonconforming automotive repair/service station use after a vacancy period. The zoning committee had previously asked for updated conditions (e.g., fencing, operational details) in response to neighborhood concerns. The applicant agreed, and the committee unanimously recommended approval. The full commission voted to approve the staff recommendation with conditions; all in favor, none opposed. Comprehensive and Neighborhood Planning Committee - Commissioner Holtz reported that the committee met on February 14 (Valentine's Day/Ash Wednesday) and received a presentation on the River Balcony Master Plan proposed addendum from Katie Dadless. Public comment on the addendum will open at a planning commission meeting in April 2024. The committee's next meeting is February 28. Transportation Committee - Commissioner Rosgard reported that the next regularly scheduled committee meeting is February 26 (delayed due to Presidents' Day). The agenda will likely include review of public comments on the St. Paul Bike Plan update. Communications-Nomination Committee - No report was given. Task Force/Liaison Reports - None. Commissioner Announcement (under New Business) - Commissioner Bradley announced that the city council has approved renaming a portion of Concordia Street back to Rondo Street, following the historic route. The change includes a section from Western to Rice and starting at Griggs Avenue. The council vote was unanimous; street signs will be updated soon. This was noted as a major accomplishment. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from February 2, 2024. - Approved the reestablishment of nonconforming use for 475 Chatsworth Street with conditions. - Scheduled a public hearing for the River Balcony Master Plan addendum for April 2024 (exact date to be set at a future planning commission meeting). - Acknowledged the Rondo Street renaming as a key milestone. Note: The agenda printed the meeting date as February 16, 2024, but the meeting was held on February 12, 2024 per instruction. The transcript references February 16 in the agenda header, but the actual proceedings occurred on February 12.

Note: The agenda and transcript indicate this meeting occurred on February 2, 2024, but the provided instruction specifies the date as January 19, 2024. This summary uses the required date. The meeting covered approval of prior minutes, chair and director announcements, a public hearing on the Saint Paul Bicycle Plan, committee reports (Zoning, Transportation, Comprehensive & Neighborhood Planning, Communications & Nominations), and adoption of the 2024 Preliminary Work Program. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the January 19, 2024 Planning Commission meeting (recorded as approved). Public Comments & Testimony - Bicycle Plan Public Hearing (IV): Numerous speakers testified. - Support for the plan, especially separated bike lanes: Annie Singer (2103 Berkeley Ave) supported the plan but requested better connections to the Capitol, downtown, and the I-35E trail. Melissa Wenzel (349 Michigan St) strongly supported off-street infrastructure. Hugo Brugman (1920 Princeton Ave) argued planning is about investing in the future. Dan Neifeld (1895 Ashland Ave) emphasized safety on major routes for meeting climate goals. Nick Suhan (543 Michigan St) noted car cost savings would boost local economy. Sherry Johnson (820 Osceola Ave) highlighted benefits for people with disabilities and climate. Tim Moorhead (1932 Baird Ave) criticized the plan's cost-benefit analysis and impact on parking and trees. Michelle Molstead (702 Holly Ave) stressed safety after a near-miss. Ted Madison (1116 Hyacinth Ave) applauded improved east side connections. Paul Seisel (400 Daily St) noted the need for better downtown connections. Mary Morris Marty (214 Exeter Pl) called the plan forward-looking. Zed Stein (3rd Street) asked for Smith Avenue connections. Alex (149 Stevens St) expressed excitement. Jamie (1190 Summit Ave) opposed a raised path on Summit Avenue due to historic district and safety concerns. X Farrell (600 Summit Ave) supported separated lanes for winter safety. Christine Danielson (1710 Palace Ave) supported pedestrian safety aspects. - The public hearing was closed, and the matter referred to the Transportation Committee with the record open for written comments until 4:30 p.m. on February 5, 2024. Discussion Items - Zoning Committee (V): No new business; next meeting February 8, 2024. - Transportation Committee (VI): Reported upcoming items (5-year capital plan, regional solicitation projects); next meeting February 5, 2024. - Comprehensive & Neighborhood Planning Committee (VII): Two items: - East Grand Avenue Overlay District (EGAD): Spencer Miller Johnson presented proposed amendments to replace restrictive size/height limits with context-sensitive design standards (entry setbacks, established building line, branch element). The committee released the study for public review and set a public hearing date of March 29, 2024. - The Heights Comprehensive Plan Amendment: Luis Pereira presented a map amendment to align the comprehensive plan with the master plan (expanding mixed-use and industrial areas) to facilitate a sewer access permit. The committee released the amendment for public review and set a public hearing date of March 15, 2024. - Communications and Nominations Committee (VIII): - Presentation of the 2023 Planning Commission Annual Report (digital and print). - Presentation of the 2024 Preliminary Work Program, including updates on the Hamms Brewery site, SEER site, downtown plan update, climate resilience plan, HUD consolidated plan, and various zoning studies. The work program was discussed but no formal vote taken. Key Outcomes - Motion to close the public hearing on the Saint Paul Bicycle Plan, refer to Transportation Committee, and keep record open until February 5, 2024 – Passed (voice vote). - Motion to release the East Grand Avenue Overlay District zoning study for public review and set public hearing for March 29, 2024 – Passed (voice vote). - Motion to release the Heights Comprehensive Plan Amendment for public review and set public hearing for March 15, 2024 – Passed (voice vote). - No other formal votes were taken. - The meeting adjourned after Old Business, New Business, and Adjournment.

The Transportation Committee of the Planning Commission met on Monday, February 26, 2024, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Front Conference Room at City Hall Annex, 25 West 4th Street, Saint Paul. The agenda included two items: the River Balcony Project and a Bicycle Plan recommendation. No minutes or transcript were provided for this meeting, so no public comments, votes, or detailed outcomes are available. Discussion Items - River Balcony Project (30 minutes allocated) – Presented by Brett Hussong (Parks). No further details from the agenda. - Bicycle Plan Recommendation (60 minutes allocated) – Presented by Jimmy Shoemaker (Public Works). No further details from the agenda. Key Outcomes No decisions, votes, or actions are documented due to the absence of minutes and transcript. Note: The meeting date per the agenda is February 26, 2024. This conflicts with a date (2024-01-17) provided in the generation instruction. The agenda date is used here.

This summary is based on the agenda provided, but a date and time conflict exists. The agenda indicates a meeting on Monday, January 22, 2024, from 4:30–6:00 p.m., while the user instruction specifies the meeting took place on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. No minutes or transcript were available for this session. Agenda Item: Purple Line Bus Rapid Transit - A 60-minute presentation by Craig Lamothe of Metro Transit was scheduled. No additional details on the content, discussion, or outcomes are available due to the lack of minutes or transcript. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or next steps are documented. Note: Discrepancies in the meeting date and time cannot be resolved from the provided source material.