Saint Paul City Council to order all copies. Hear Coleman Johnson toast. Cam here. Thank council. PRESIDENT Anger here. 6 present one. Absent that being councilmember, Justin, she's expect council Johnson and she's excused. Welcome to everyone to our first City Council meeting of the New Year. Thank you all for joining us today. We invite everyone to stand and join us in the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag there and to the Republic which stands. One nation under GOD. In fall, liberty and justice for all. Just before we begin regular business today. I want to take a moment to acknowledge that. All of our hearts today are heavy. Saw one of our neighbors in Minneapolis be shot and killed
this morning by ice. There aren't really words adequate to express how I know we're all feeling in the situation. I know I speak for all of us when I say that our hearts and prayers are with the family and all those who witness this traumatic incident. We as a council, I know, will never back down from our values and from our sacred duty to protect our community. And we're standing with the people of Saint Paul Minneapolis and our entire region against anyone who would do us harm or demonize us or divide us. And I'd like to ask us all to take a moment of silence. In honor of the person who was killed this morning. Consent agenda iems 3 through. 24 for you for your consideration. Another will be taking. And 24 for separate consideration. Is there
anything else to come off of consent? Seeing none. I'll take motion for the balance of the consent agenda from council. Vice PRESIDENT Can all in favor say Aye. All opposed 6 in favor. None opposed. Consent agenda is adopted as amended item number. 24 is resolution 26 dash 50 celebrating Saint Paul Family Medical Center's. 25 plus years of service and milestones in the East Side, Saint Paul community and the clearing Saturday, JANUARY 10th 2026 sdr flesh on and the city of Saint Paul. And I believe seeing is moving a version. 2 of this item, the same. Did you want to come into dollar? Thank you. As an any further discussion of the motion. Seeing none all in favor say
Aye. Post. 6 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted as amended item number. 25 is resolution. 26 dash. 38 approving the appointment of the city attorney. All This is a big day in the city of Saint Paul. This is I think the first of several of appointments that we will be considering and I suspect approving. Really excited to wlcome this cow to the position of city attorney and at this point. Would welcome you up to do the official. Swearing in unless we get the resolution first, resolution first come on up while we do the As amended. Sorry, a new movie version. 2 so excited. I don't even remember press, but I do before we I will move this resolution and just by way of
discussions say that I've already had a chance to sit down with Moscow. I think that that shows a great deal of commitment to partnership, not just talking the talk, but walking the walk and actually taking time to meet even before we had this swearing-in on a very busy day for all of us. I know that that's true for many of my colleagues as well. So really looking forward to working with you. Any further discussion of the motion. Seeing none all in favor say Aye. All post 6 in favor not oppose. The resolution is adopted as amended. Well, coming up and I think MR. Holmes going to be honest. And yeah, you're welcome to be joined by any. One else is here with Like to come up. that's Please raise your right hand and repeat after
me. I state your name. Do you solemnly swear to respect to support patients, to access the United States? The United States and the state of Minnesota and of the sate of Minnesota into church faithfully and to discharge faithfully duties. Devolving upon me and duties. Devolving me as the city attorney, the city of Saint as the city attorney, the city of Saint Paul, to the best of my judgment and ability to best of my judgment and ability. As you're sitting down or before, if if you want to say anything, you're welcome to a there was no need and want to about our mission. Walker. Welcome. Thank you. Council PRESIDENT Members. We just
wanted to say behalf of mayor, how excited we are to have any rain part of our team. She's got a really warm up from from all of our city attorney's office. And we're excited to officially have run forward. So thank you so much. Yes, thank you very much for the opportunity. I feel honored. I really love the city of Saint Paul, living and working here. So I look forward to serving all of the residents as well as the city. Thank you. Is gone. Item number. 26 is resolution 26 dash. 42 approving the mayor's appointments of senior assistant Mayor executive assistant to the mayor, assistant mayor systems for Mayor 6 executive director of public affairs and communications assistant to the mayor. 6 effective JANUARY second 2026. And I will take a motion from his goalie for version 2 of this, which actually interrupts the names of these
positions, which is kind of important. Those folks also obvious we're done, but separately. So today we'll just adopting the motion. Once again, just by way of discussion, I can said had the opportunity now to. talk with me with and work most of the system errors and really excited both about the individuals and about this new organizational structure. So any further discussion of the motion? Seeing none all in favor of version to say I post 6 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted as amended. Item number 27 is resolution 26 dash. 43 proving the mayor's appointment of Flake to serve as acting mayor. In the absence of Mayor Coley once again, we feel the need for version 2 here. I'll take a such from this Coleman
any discussion. The motion. Seeing none all favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed 6 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted as an amendment. Congratulations looking forward to working together. I'm sorry. Before we could going to take a motion from his yang to recall reconsider item. 24. Comey's just All in favor say Aye. Opposed. 6 in favor. None opposed. Item is reconsidered iem number. 24 is resolution 26 dash 50. So ring Saint Paul Family Medical Center. 25 plus years of service and milestones in the east side, Saint Paul community and the clearing Saturday, 1/10/2026. DR. Phil Lesh on City of Saint Thanks, council my colleagues for the reconsideration as I was looking out into the couch, I
actually saw Dr push on here with us today. So I just want to make sure that they had a chance to come and address the council for this really big celebration for the clinic. And so, but I mean to do is i'm going to step up to the front of the podium to see a few more remarks Dr Push. Invite you and your guests to join me at the podium as well. Always better when we can do it here. So this is great. everybody of the second was on and I have had the honor of don't need them through a wonderful festival that they host every year in the east side during the summer and the invite all committee members neighbors far and near to come and join us for a wonderful celebration where there's a lot of organizations and especially clinics that com provide a lot of health resources. Also our late school board member Mrni
Jean, who was the chair of the school many years ago. She was a client of DR. Push on to insult to me. It's very special to to know that you are somebody who has served committees and also many of our and wonderful life officials for so long now, I am really excited to present this. I was planning on going Saturday. And so I had on the consent agenda. But again, very grateful to have you here and what it what I really want emphasize is the contributions that Dr puts on his hat to our East side communities also can use of color, own community. And I will just read this that way. Folks can hear a lot about her bio and give you a chance to share a few remarks. This is a resolution celebrating the same poll family Medical center's 25 plus years of service and milestones in the east side of
Saint Paul community ad declaring Saturday JANUARY 10th 2026 Sdr push on day in the city of Paul. Ibelieve this is your first time ever having a team dedicated Razzaq to push on is one of the first among women physicians in the United States and a trailblazer in culturally responsive care in committee commitment. And she has earned her medical degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis in 1986 and completed her residency at the University of Minnesota's think Justice program in 1999. And whereas like to push on served at within Cities Medical Center in 1999. And it's one of the first American female physicians who opened her soul of practice. See Paul Family Medical Center in Cinco in 2002 to realize her vision of serving all families her leadership, the clinic's become a trusted medical help for compassionate personalized care for many people. And
whereas in 2005, see Paul Family Medical Center moved to the east side of Saint Paul and served 20 years as a dedicated committee routed health provider has overall served. 25 plus years of service to them on committee and comes to calling the Twin Cities. We're asking Paul Family Medical Center has since flourished offering a full range o family practice service, DR. Push on dedicated care includes having personally delivered over 500 babies and the clinic's first 18 years and 3 generations of patients since the clinic's inception, whereas like to push on, has had a deep commitment to promoting elevating and helping advance the status of men, women and girls culturally socially economically, politically mentally and spiritually and advocates for more women to pursue polls and make them
more than a wife, mother, daughter and daughter-in-law, encouraging them to become professionals, business leaders, politicians and agents of change. She desires to see many people live, healthy lives advance in the world and be recognized and respected by others. And whereas like to push on significantly invests in the training and development of the next generation of clinicians and has committed over 25 years of clinical service and mentorship to medical students. Medical assistance, pay medical students, nurse practitioners, physician assistants in family medicine, residents. The result that the Falls City Council celebrate Saint Paul Family Medical Center's. 25 plus years of service and milestones in the east side.
Simple community and for the result, the Saint Paul City Council hereby declares Saturday, JANUARY 10th 2026. As doctor put in the city of Saint Paul. Congratulations. going to do quickly. This is the business that you see being a word in after redistricting is now in Ward Council vice PRESIDENT. You're very lucky to have put in your and then we'll give you the might say a few words. Thank What a wonderful honored to be here with the City council. And to be given this resolution. I've always had the dream serving people with a loving heart and Kerry hands. And I believe that done that over the last 25 years. And I love Saint Paul. It's so wonderful place and all my children gew
up here. And here for the last 30 years. And it's my home. And I cntinue serve and I continue to. Promote our community and hope. I hope that we all build a better, greater and safer future for everyone. Thank you so much. Guys lesions. I also welcome the customers to join me on the sage of her photo and council vice PRESIDENT. If you would do the honors to with this being your word. So their event is this Saturday and wondering Putin, would you like to say a few words because in development to the public? Yes, this Saturday, the 10th of JANUARY. We're having this celebration. And if any of you are able to come, it's from 12 to 5. And we'll have food will Some of our political leaders, senators coming
senator from as senator to shown will be there. Also. And the mayor. So I hope that you can all come and join us. We're just going to have food and fun have a great time celebrating together. So come it's going to be a hat. Momentum partnership on a cage street. Issues. Yes, so we didn't consider it. So we do touting that motion for approval from his yang. Any discussion. All in favor say I almost 6 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted as amended. Item number. 2 is final adoption of ordinance. 25 Dash 79 amending chapter 107, of the administrative code pertaining to improvements to the planning commission process. So for those of you who are new to our chambers are don't watch diligently every week online.
We have 3 different stages by which we adopt ordinances. The first week they receive a first hearing, our first reading. And that is when we have a staff report on what's being considered the second week they have a public hearing when we hear from the public about their thoughts on what's being proposed and then the 3rd reading, which might be the next week or might be some time later if we have amendments is the final adoption of the ordinance. So the items that you're seeing in front of you and the section final adoption have already been heard, reviewed and discussed at least twice before today. So even though they might seem to be very big changes and often they are, they're not just coming in front of us and being adopted with little discussion. This is the end of of a lengthy
process. So this is in front of us for final adoption. There any discussion? I'll take a motion from this gangs that are just any discussion. Seeing none. I'll just say quickly that I'm really grateful to our planning economic development staff are especially director McMahon for the hard work on bringing this forward and Robinson as well with our planning department. I think this is going to make our as a former planning commissioner. And I know as Kim joins me in this, it's important for these bodies to be able to do their work effectively. And it's important for our entire community and especially for development our community, housing in our community to know that those processes are going to move forward on on track and on schedule. I think this is going to help with that. So looking forward to these changes, taking effect.
Any further discussion. All in favor say Aye. All post 6 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item number. 29, its first reading of ordinance, 26 dash, modifying and establishing certain city council staff positions and chapter 16 of the administrative code. Because this is a first reading. As I mentioned, we will have a brief staff report and what we're loking at. Welcome construct or Wells. Thank you. Council PRESIDENT Council I'm here today before a tougher right, an update and report ordinance. 26 1. It's not quite jta in that regard, but it codifies the position that I'm currently in turns out that a plaque is not quite enough. And so. You know, the proposal before you outlines the work of te director of operations
and the key thing that I want to say about this codification. Is this role or this work is already occurring as it exists in this codification. So essentially this formalizes work that has already been assigned to this position. But it puts within the administrative code. already centralize staff supervision is is occurring. Establishing department policy workflows and processes designed resource allocations budget decision in cross branch and interdepartmental coordination. However, the authority of the role is somewhat ambiguous. And what I've learned in doing this work now for for almost a year and in talking with hr and also this city attorney that these sort
of ambiguity challenges, nothing new to this rule or this council that actually have persisted throughout the years with this specific role. And so formalizing it you know, some more clarity in some more accountability into pop operations. So essentially as the last sentence, friends, it turns that, authority into accountable authority not only this council but future Council. So trying to solve and wrestle with some of the past challenges of this rule. Existing within office of the City Council. So the key things that the codification clarifies is operational decision making authority. Administrative policy authority and then Budget Contracting and resource Authority. And it's also important to
know what's not included in that. And that's policymaking authority broadly for the city. No political authority, no override of councilmember legislative agenda, judgment and no reduction in councilmember ability to set priorities or direct legislative work. And importantly, this acknowledges that this is an appointed position and serves at the will of council and sets for supervision for the position under council placement. thing that I would say to at this point this mirrors the approach within the administrative code for other departments. All the other department directors within the city have their powers and duties to find and their scope
and authority and then the for many years. Council has has lacked that definition and actually one bit of trivia that. arrests and the city attorney's ofice uncovered was at one point this position reported to the mayor's office. That lack formal authority codification, you know, fluctuated over the years. So this establishes a key. Administrative contact in a single point of responsibility for operations within the council sets forth clear expectations and performance standards. And then it keeps council members focused policy, the political or representation oversight and allows this work to clear land. The personal work to clear land with the director of operations. And so finally, you know,
any time we we make changes the administrative code. The goal is to make things, you know, more resilient, more clear and to you know, institutional with regard to outlining the operation of the city and how certain things function. So this moves away from a more person dependent how a person engages in the work and actually sets forth the clear expectations within code so I And the staff report sand for any questions and also give a special thanks to to Reese's Guard Kyle Draft 10 Greenfield and departing a charter departed director Tony Newbern who assisted in this work and getting before you today, right? Thank you so much, MR. Ones. Are there any questions
about what's being proposed? Thank you, council PRESIDENT. Thank you, Director I did get a chance to look at it. I do want to say and to a giving all of us a heads up. You know, know during my vacation did not have the chance actually review it. So I'll also just follow up with you, particularly with some of the questions I have. But since I have had some of the conversations whether council members, if you could speak a little bit, particularly around the legislative, a person now, administration at believe item c if you particularly around, how would you define or codify the process and improve? I think processes know like very self-explanatory, like processing of the hiring our separation, our compensation. What are you with this year? Your definition of like approval does that approval
actually opens up the door? You know, eligibility for things that you my not approve. I'm just trying to get a full scope of what what make something eligible to of approval. Thank you. Council PRESIDENT And council member. But we it's a great question. And you know, the way that the language is written allows flexibility doesn't set forth the conditions for, you know, certain aspects of the approval. But, you know, like referring back to what I think was the intent is to clarify. I think a lot of the work that's actually already happening. So in terms of when someone receives an offer, you know, it's typically the council member who will
appoint and decide on the person and then it shifts to me in terms of providing conditional offer, going through paperwork with hr background check, it cetera. And then, you basically making sure that those steps and those final approval, you know, as it relates to, you keeping within budget and certain requirements that we have. That's the extent of the approval. But I think it's it sets forth the lane where or doesn't change the land where really the council member does appoint their legislative aide still retains that authority that tries to bring, you know, a little more process. And in terms of my role and the human resources department. Thank you. So what I'm hearing is like is approval process. Not a it's not separate. The processing and approval
goes hand in hand. Correct? Yeah. So essentially, you know. There are certain aspects that will need to be signed off need, you know, my signature on that - and that that actually already is happening. So essentially, you know, it allows it ensures that there is the process that occurs from start to finish. Thank you. Tanks for the good questions. Other questions or comments. All right. Seeing none this really over for second reading. The item is laid over to JANUARY 14th for second reading public hearing. Item number. 31 is resolution public hearing. 26 Dash 8 approving the petition of the Department of Parks and Recreation on behalf of the city to vacate public right of way in and around Marion Prk. So just said anyone who is paying close attention, we
just went to item. 31 at 7.30. This is a anticipate to be relatively brief public hearing. And we have staff here for this items. We want to hold this first before anticipate to be a lengthy, a public hearing. So this is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak to the side? Seeing none. I'll take a motion for mis just to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. Post 6 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item. Number 30's, public hearing 26 dash, one public hearing and grievances about federal immigration operations. And as you You can go So this is a public I'm convinced about federal immigration operations as we have held in the past. And so this is open to folks who want to speak to te council on this topic. From public hearings ask that folks come and stand in between the 2 microphones will have 2 minutes to testify, which do go by quickly. And my very unfortunate role is to keep every one to 2 minutes out of fairness and to make sure that
you a full attention, whether you're the first speaker last speaker from this council we do ask you to start with your name and where you're coming from. And then when you're done speaking, you can sign in either the to sign in sheets to the left and right of the podium and we can feel for the line up and both sides of. So with that, if you're here to speak on this item, please come on up. This is a public hearing. Hello, good afternoon, everybody. My name is Heather live in Ward 6. Hello. Very nice to see you. I have been a word 6 PRESIDENT Since 2018. I moved here from California. I've served in this community, has educator and artist as well as the one who and ethnic studies, faculty member or an expert on critical race theory here in the state. I want to
have generation immigrants here from push on from Southern southern China and I am a direct descendant of the page Act Chinese exclusion acts. The continued violence of colonization white supremacy, xenophobia, be another aspects of oppression, have continued to impact my family and other people around us. I am asking for city council to continue to condemn the presence and the force of dhs and ice in our community. The racial profiling suppression of our First Amendment rights as well as excessive force or not. New. And continue to see them here in our community. The people in my community are araid of these domestic terrorist acts as well as are afraid to leave our homes, to talk to each other for support to find different ways of getting community resources and mutual
aid. This is not acceptable here in the city in the state as well as in this country. I will say that ice and dhs must go home. They are not welcome here in our communities. The people around me are afraid they're shaking their tear their terrorized. They're traumatized. And there is no way that we can allow this. And I'm looking to our city of Saint Paul Council members to do something and to act. The last thing I will say is that as of today, my community members have told me that ice has been knocking on the doors many different peoples homes, asking for the name from own, as well as other folks in our community. This is unacceptable. This is Gestapo behavior. We must stop this. As someone who is racially ambiguous, who has proudly
Chinese and Southeast Asian, I will not allow this to happen to our community and this must stop. This is terrorism. Thank you. Thank you so much. To make sure to sign in. Please give them another PRESIDENT Of Saint Paul 2010. And that's a place they chose to come to because of its diversity and welcome this. And it's something that I would like to. Do what I can to continue. That's a big thing. Such a welcoming place to all of us my comments brief to the nets go by quickly. But I have some specific asks, which is I would like council members to consider that no use of property or other resources. Is one area that has discussed. But please look at the has picks up a customary other agencies with federal agencies stuff a ride home. Not only not take on doors,
but knowing who is behind door. It's something that that say you sure Rick, federal authorities for the purpose. That's know is picky involvement crowd control to facilitate. I said 80's for civil immigration enforcement. 3, no activity by buying for speeding toward in Saint Paul, which officers are wearing mask and the are not personally. I can't Requiring that they are up for something big on the police chief to authorize the deployment of s p p d in riot gear for these types of activities but they commit. Basically, that is by happens. I just want to reiterate that I want to. As a precedent its wonderful state to that state, you kow, too, continue making of the
welcoming and safe space for months. Thank you very Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. to my to my timers, let's make sure at start the time or after folks of interest themselves and said where they're where they're coming from. Well, come up. my name Barbra. Simply assigned last meeting and grant of the Korea. But I'm here and another for another reason what a day to day is and thank you for recognizing the actions today and how hard heavier hearts are. I know they yours are too. Soho long ago. This seems now. Based on what occurred on roads, street 11, 25 and in NOVEMBER, I strongly recommend that you do take swift action to upgrade the separation ordinance. The cty is waiting. Your citizens are waiting for you to do that. Swift action with The mayor to
make that happen. We want to prohibit Saint Paul Police Department for providing security or crowd control during immigration and enforcement actions. He the spp egregiously chose to use chemical agents during that action. Because their leaders, it's up to you to ask why. It's up to us to ask you to ask why. can understand their answers and correct them were their answers are wrong for the city. The tme has come to decide on a more stringent in clear separation ordinance. If this is of the essence, do not let yourselves be paralyzed by fear, the actions of ice today, we need courage. We need resolve and we need action. Swift action. Thank you very much. Good Luck. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Well, coming
next. Hello, my name is Nancy - Calf and I live on the West side. I participate in the West. So Hummingbird initiative. This is more informational, then grievance specifically. But sometime between 09:30:10am, today, there were 2 helicopters, one Coast Guard plane into what would appear to be private planes behind the Minnesota Army National Guard station. On South Airport Road at field south of that location, a convoy with people in tactical gear moving into unmarked SUVs that were stationary in the road. Coming up from behind the convoy. I was waived forward to pass, which I did. I continued in turned west and stopped out of any potential traffic until the convoy passed. I counted
10 unmarked vehicles close to private service vehicles that somehow or between the cars in the convoy. All vehicles went north on. 52, the questions I have for you and for the city is has the National Guard been deployed in Minnesota to assist is home in field being used for ice deployments. What if any authority does the city have with respect to Homan field? Thanks so much. Make sure to sign in. Council PRESIDENT Hello, Council members. Thank you for having us. My name is Jamie Daniels. I live in lower town and I wasn't present on NOVEMBER 25th for the events that happened that day. But I have something I need to right now. Federal agents are out in our communities endangering ounce
breaking and breaking our laws blatant way our police forces should be out there, not helping them carry out. They're mostly illegal and definitely a moral acts, but rather holding them to account when they break our laws and put Saint Paul's residents in danger. Lately. I've been thinking a lot about Anne Frank and how her existence in attic of an industrial building was dependents. And the health of safe members and her commute in Amsterdam. When I hear stories like that and I hear stories about the underground railroad. I like to imagine myself as being one of those people who stepped up from their position of safety and helped out even when it didn't feel it felt risky to do so. And I imagine a lot of us have had that same fantasy. i don't know what levers of
power this body has, that it could access. They helped hold our police force accountable and protect all residents of Saint Paul. But at this council is not pulling all those route levers as quickly as possible. If you are delaying action for the results of an investigation, it is. That is an act on the side of fascism. And all that is morally reprehensible in this world. I hate the phrase right side of history because it implies that there's this fighting this and the moment. But if we can look, but if you can't look with your own eyes and see what's going on and say this is wrong and stand up and do everything you can to stop it. That I hope your grandchildren never look back and see what it was you are failing to do during this dark
time in our lives. I urge this council to pull those levers and pull them now no matter how risky it is for your political careers. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Thank you all. And I'm just really grateful that you're talking about And I was not planning to talk, but everything that happened today. And a son who works with it in neighborhoods Rec Center high School that lots immigrant families. And they're terrified. He's terrified for them. He's having a very difficult time doing his job because because of it, that kind of was what spurred me to come. I wasn't necessarily going to talk but had just going over what happened in Minneapolis today. I just want to hear from my city what what are we gonna do to protect people in the city? From what's going on? Because that was ice. That did it did that in Minneapolis. My
understanding is there was a police there. And I understand, crowd control. But what are we going to actively do to protect people from what's going on? So this doesn't happen. People are out there observing and was, you know, telling myself to try and get involved in that because I think it's really important to bear with Like said we can fashion isn't coming into our country we need to do whatever it is. We can I guess all I wanted to say. But he also said so the other thing. So thank Would you just Minding Your name sorry, Rebecca Chirs I live I thinks it's called Summit over on Hollywood near the Obama school. Very much make sure to sign thanks for being here. Coming up. councilmember again, thank you for providing this
opportunity for us to speak. My name is Betsy, where why? And I have that in simple for most of my life, I have 4 adult sons and they grew up with 2 members that are sitting on the city council right now. I'm also awarded community organizer from our beloved West Side. My name has been a plaque in the hall of this building. So I have some history. And I know some things. And I am going to submit this and right and I hope you all read it. Point I want to really bring through right now is I've been training observe are out there on the streets. Nonviolent observer. On Friday, JANUARY second, which was last Friday. Before during after 2 o'clock in the afternoon. I was on site. Ad witnessed a Mazda Cx 90 vehicle with specific license plate number at a Saint Paul police activity
incident on the east side at the intersection of still water in a coma. In Saint Paul. During this activity was notified that vehicle in plate number also been to pro tax rate in Saint Paul on NOVEMBER. 18th. As a result of this. I want to know why this vehicle was that a Saint Paul activity? So 3 of us got the car. We approach people. We saw a white male in tactical gear accessing this vehicle. He would not talk to me others. He was wearing a vest with h s eye o it. There's documentation to support what I'm saying. We had a simple police officer come out to talk to us. We were around the corner away from the building where the incidents happening. He said. That we were impeding
a violent situation and he made false statements up to me and to others or is about her behavior. Here's the questions. Why a Saint Paul, but a simple doing with Homeland Security investigations. Agents. How is it that a vehicle involved with ice activity is also involved with Saint Paul Police Department on JANUARY? 2nd? It's like a month and a half after thing started happening. And you guys became aware of things. So sorry to have to ask you end it there. But I know you have you have copies for us to realize I have you can make you can make will make more. Thank you very your testimony. Make sure to sign in. Well, coming Afternoon City Council, PRESIDENT Council serve a really quick rundown of actions that had listed here I don't know. Some of these steps MAY have already been taken, not a resident of Saint Paul from West Saint Paul.
That. Just has your Steve Smith. I'm sorry. Chief Smith this morning. So I'll just go really quick Go I appreciate the city's earlier temps to a separate local police from civil immigration enforcement limit cooperation with the problem persists. And we need stronger city action. I asked the city council to adopt a new school protections that go further, including prohibiting any city cooperation with civil immigration enforcement. Absent a judicial warrant banning task force participation passing an ordinance banning master unidentified enforcement actions requiring clear identification for any arrest or detention within city limits, preventing ice from using city property or
facilities without judicial authorization. Putting city contracts and funding that support, detention, transport or surveillance, connecting strong data. Privacy rules. Barring more of the state use for enforcement. Starting the city attorney to investigate and enforce applicable city laws regardless of the actor holding public oversight hearings to document federal enforcement activity These are tools. Same poll already controls aired swift action. Thank Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Well, come up. If you're here to testify, item 30 federal immigration operations. And if there's anyone else here to testify on this item, please stand now. Just so we have a who's here to testify because otherwise it's like our last speaker. I'm srry. I was watching online they passed 27 pretty quickly. So I'm little bit
late here. Understand tme actually. My name is Mark Schneider. I live in Ward 3 with Sir Charles Area. Member of needles, a civic organization and that sanctuary City committee. We've been wrking to protect and defend our immigrant friends and neighbors. We've had several meetings with simple city officials over the last 4 months talking about the separation agreement. Members of our group had been in conversation this week with Monique Coleman. When do Lee Hall? Coleman said that she's coordinating with council members from 2 other Saint Paul Lord's to push for an update of city's separation ordinance. She's also been connecting with Minneapolis
council him under child or we've been talking with as well. Yu MAY be aware Minneapolis City Council passed update to their so separation ordinance on DECEMBER. 11th. These folks have been looking at Chicago and Evanston and other cities to help inform with her proposing for Saint Paul. There are 4 things that they pushing for and the revision, no use of city property or other resources, data, etcetera, for civil immigration enforcement. No Saint Paul Police Department involvement in crowd control to facilitate ice activities for civil immigration enforcement. N activities by law enforcement or ice and Saint Paul, which officers are wearing masks. And we're not personally identified. And they should wear a badge within a minute or number. Requiring the mayor or someone
beyond the police chief to authorizing deployment of Saint Paul Police Department. You know, right here. Speaking Nielsen myself, we're reaching out to cty council members. I've sent a message to your office is My got back to me is that we didn't touch it. Some point. Reaching out in order to protect our neighbors, immigrants, citizens, protesters. Things we're asking for include the need for strengthening the separation ordinance in the interest of public safety. We've seen today. Hope that it can get right. And time and I have to ask you to leave it there at the 2 minute. Mark, thank you so much, though. Shouldn't make sure the Senate. Anyone else last call testify on this item? Take a motion from his comment to close the public hearing that can have some discussion all
in favor say Aye. I almost 6 in favor. None opposed. The public hearing I closed. I just want to start by thanking everyone for being here today again, on a very difficult And although the public hearing format doesn't really give us opportunity to talk back, I did hear loud and clear the questions and the expectations that you asked of us, as you probably know, we have been not just talking about doing a lot of work on our separation ordinance and on firming up anything that we can do, pulling all the levers as Jamie solemnly said to act in this time. And I want to give an opportunity to some my colleagues who have been meeting on this work to talk a bit about what's been going on elsewhere. Let folks know that next Wednesday, JANUARY 14th at 10:00am we will have a policy committee discussion of changes to our separation ordinance. That will be a public hearing. It'll be conversation, but it's a conversation amongst us held
in public that we welcome people to come to, of course, as and when we would actually make those changes to our ordinance, that would be a public hearing as part of that. But I know my colleagues who want to add any additional comments. As Yang and then comes PRESIDENT. Thank you. Council I first want to say thank you to everybody came and testified today. You showed such deep bravery and courage. And love for committee members, especially those in our are hurting most as the result of the nasty part Haitians that are happening in the rate as well. Also want to thank you to tell the PRESIDENT For allowing such this public hearing Tuesday on the agenda today. I acknowledge my actions I putting this a public hearing on the agenda is unconventional. And it's something that even I haven't
seen other customers to before during my 5 years here. But I want to me that I thought it was my calling to to end. It is a power that we have as customers. And for me, it has always ben important to create spaces for people, especially those in greeting her. The most our committee is to able to be here and share with us what it is that they are witnessing in scene on the committee because sometimes we can't be there. We have to be in meetings. We have other obligations as well. And every set of eyes out witnessing what ice is doing is very important. This is a way for us to be able to get that information and also take action on it in. I just wnt to let everybody know for those who have been coming and testifying, whether it's been here, million phone, making phone calls to us the work that you're doing, the input you're sharing is not done and
being at all. This is I know a council that cares deeply about this issue and in the bay want to you take our council vice PRESIDENT To share about the work that has been happening within the council here to strengthen our separation ordinance. I do want to say thank you to my legislative aide. Sarah Game has been doing a lot of great work on that to have to work with vice PRESIDENT. Your office council member combing your office as well. The language for this. I heard is very happy. I heard is really have it's been heavy for a very long time now, ever since we've seen tese rates happen over and over again our communities, it's especially heavy today with the life that was lost the committee member who was shot and killed by ice yesterday on Payne Avenue, you
woke up to news of ice being there. Raids that were happening at many can small businesses on Payne Avenue having to close down fr the day. There is a huge impact to that. I want to be really frank, At the things coming out of Trump's mouth are complete lies like These actions being done under the guise of safety and that is not safety at all. Our committees literally tearing apart and families having 2 children having to live without their parents bing scared to go to school. Our businesses closing down and that is an impact too. The city as a whole. We have a huge stake in this. Their staff members are not coming into work. This is a huge loss of income for our business community. And even yesterday
when I was out with mayor calling her taking her on a tour in Ward 6, we were case rec center and had to step outside because we received image that there was a vehicle right outside the building and we have to verify is that correct? And what is this vehicle in who's sitting in it also? We're receiving message even our own city staff who are out in the streets doing their work were targeted by being asked whether they are citizens are not. This is so unacceptable and I can't believe that we are putting in a time like this. But I also want to that right now is such an important time for us to stay united for us to be for us to be courageous and brave and for everybody who has continued to show up over and over again for communities, especially those who are
immigrants, refugees and undocumented. Your work is not go unnoticed and we must continue to fight and that I'm in solidarity with all of you. And I welcome you to continue sharing information to my office to give us a call to send us e-mails. And want to share too, while it was my intention to keep putting the public hearings here on 2 the agenda, the agenda every single week. I do feel comfortable with the work that's been happening in the council to strengthen our separation ordinance. Therefore, I won't be doing that. However, want urge everybody to continue paying close attention to the work that we're doing even next Wednesday at 10:00am during a policy committee. There will be a presentation and an update about the work that's been happening around our
separation ordinance and ultimately getting effect in front of the council for a vote Thank you so much pain as PRESIDENT. To speak kind of briefly about the separation several poposing. So lead officers have been more at 6.45 in Ward 4 and it's been a really great space to collaborate. really for some policy forward. So a lot of what was brought forward state is included, thankfully. So I think the best part one of the goals from has been recording this to hear all the feedback at them. She's in taxation and all the feedback that we've received by e-mail and telephone. And it's really great to hear this feedback today and knowing that a lot of already rest in the
proposal that we're bringing forward. We've had brief conversations near her about it and our colleagues are very supportive of the draft form. Right now we're gonna at moving forward to the process. We're going to be looking to engage with organizations like you need a dose and the immigrant offense that work and making sure that meeting this moment. And I think for a lot of folks, it's also good to see that Minneapolis passed a very strong, strong language in ordinance and we're using a lot of what they've offered up similar to other cities. So I think it's very reassuring to hear the concerns in a way because what we're bringing forward, I feel at this moment is meeting the moment, meeting the please provide feedback and you see post. It alleges star and I think just to have an opportunity speak freely as well has been a constitutional service inside the safe this
year. Incidents like the one that we saw this morning, the videotape of the altercation there. We say, is actually very common right now for observers on the street. There's a whole single tap that's reporting the engines assaulting and violating constitutional observers. And so it's to name that that What I'm going to describe as a murder of a constitutional server this morning actually not an incident aside. If you're out on patrol in Iran and community, the of experiences happens multiple times a day in our city right now. And so it's to name that this this person, our victim, could have been any one of us responding to a call for trial. And my office has helped train hundreds of constitutional observers and same hall council PRESIDENT Is prepared to train folks and onboard them into this movement. This resistance that we're building and it is. I have a lot of conflicting
feelings today asking a lot of our residents of Saint Paul now fearing as we have for immigrant families, but fearing for the lives the residents that are stepping up to the plate in tis moment. There is no one coming to save us. And I think that's just also really scary. But it's a silver lining in this moment. A mutual aid things that you can do. There's grocery runs. You can do. You can provide a safe ride to school. You can be a bus stop person. You can. Donate money to legal funds or even directly to a family to help them pay their mortgage. There are so many ways to plug in. And so I just I'm really proud of Saint Paul on the way that we continue to respond. And we're only weeks from DECEMBER. 21st when hsi opened fired on a wartime PRESIDENT. And so the escalation that
we're seeing across the Twin Cities is terrifying and all of us are here in all of us are in the site. She's who I feel a little bit numb about But it was the best of the worst case scenario. There is an active doj investigation for the shooting that happened in my word by nation sage and and I know that we'll be probably very robust investigation over the murder that happened this morning. But just extending a deep gratitude to my colleagues for the work for continually on really concerned and wonderful neighbors to the resistance also really proud of the collective work of this council in really grateful to my colleagues said kind of. Locked in and helps help lead My deep gratitude to council member Cullman to councilmember for your partnership than and then in the plan, I'm looking forward to earning the support of our
colleagues. Thanks. Other comments. Really because PRESIDENT. I'll brief just because I just wanted to say call on the the remarks made earlier. Cherry. Thank you so much allowing this public hearing in the space for people. be courageous enough and take time out of their to be here and ensure that there's a continuity of this conversation that, you the bowl along on our resolution. It's not the end, but there's still a kidnapping 2. Talk about what is starting to feel inevitable. In our in our society are in our city. I also just want to said pre she getting a chance to rad the
ordinance language Way, Councilmember Cole man, and we had a really really fruitful conversation around how we can really meet the moment and where there's areas of gaps in those areas of expanding. You know, I also just want to share some of the communi. Organizations that have like really been doing boots on the ground work and training everyday civilians, too. Basically resists military. It's a really scary reality. And it feels very unfair and it often. You I think the press us. it's really depressing, particularly around the
position that we are in and creates a lot of sense of hopelessness. I'm in a place reviews have more questions. I have answers. And specially just listening to some of the residents and listening to some of community members at the bit. That will be at taking down like notes and informations that I think we really should be cnsidering bringing to the governor's office. You know, at this level, it is a consecutive needs to come up with a plan. And I I that's the level leadership that we need to expect in terms of what is strong safety planned. In in terms of what my office been dedicated to on the 28th of JANUARY, we'll be inviting the coordinator of the pcr to do a
reveal what are the roles and responsibilities and encouraging people to participate and join in with the vehicle that we do have to ensure police accountability and stronger police oversight. We also be inviting the executive director from the Post board. But the Minnesota Post board to come and get the general overview around their partners and authorities and also inviting research policy organization, Minnesota Justice Research senator and Representative Cedric Frazier who who authored and passed the police oversight. State statute. So I think a lot of in terms of a lot of the the work that you know I'm invested in is understanding the policy and being able to
review that policy and no tech take this moment to strengthen the policy. But the reality is, you know, on is that going to protect? reality that we're in. But again, I just want to say thank you for everyone who showed up. And that is, you know, you know, are committing every single day too, making sure we are doing more in showing up for community. Thanks, Buddy. The council PRESIDENT, thank you all my I mean, I'll just say that I really appreciate everyone's everyone's work on this. I know that we're all united on this. I I feel that more flights in and staying less few weeks. And what's been happening with ice is that ice's presence and federal agents presence in our community is is a solution from the federal government without an actual problem that they're trying to sell. We all
the chaos and the the violence that they're creating in our communities are trying to say has been happening in our communities. It's all been created by them. That has been escalating, especially today with someone in Minneapolis that murdered. And so I just want to be clear that, you know, we've also that ice is not welcome in our community there in that adding to our community, they're not supporting our community and they don't belong I I know that we are working very hard. Under separation ordinance. I really appreciate your work on that comes from Coleman and all our colleagues. And we're working on that as quickly as we can. I appreciate the briefings i received today from for the Camden Council member Coleman. So really looking forward to that work. And we also know really need to recognize what all of our powers are actually have and what they'll do. I know that a lot of fire. There
are things we can do. But realistically, we are talking about the federal government here. And so there's only so much we can do, but we should do everything that we can. And I think that a lot of our neighbors, our residents have already had people reach out to me today about what happened in Minneapolis are feeling terrified. Hopeless, scared. And I think what I mean, I share those feelings even in my position as an elected official. And I think what gives me hope is that we are all coming together around this and the more that we can continue to stick together and not let this divide us and continue this work and be there to support each other in whatever way we can. Whatever that looks like. I think on breaking by having the public
hearing here today was a weight, went to social support for one another. And so I'm looking forward to the ways that we can do that for people in their time of need and make sure that they know that our values and simple have not changed. So. Really, really difficult day today, but I appreciate everyone's work. Thank you. Mrs this coming. Thank you. Slowly keep this brief. I sitting with the fact that on what has such a horrible day in our community and what is such a heavy moment as we are. Under this federal occupation that we are currently experiencing a lot of gratitude that's been expressed at this table. Gratitude for to testify, say
who's testified in other forms of prejudice Council related to what happened on NOVEMBER. 25th, continues to happen with isis presence in community. The gratitude for everybody in this body our city staff, everybody who has worked so diligently on the separation ordinance that we are working to strengthen all the work that I know is to come around the the additional steps that we will need to take. Because the separation that, you know, that the resolution that was step 0 separation ordinance is step one it is not going to do everything that we wanted to do. Some. There are some things that I know we want to do that we can't. There are many more things that I know we want to do and I believe we can do in the city in terms of supporting community members supporting our small businesses are going to
businesses supporting everybody who is living in fear under this current administration. So I just I'm at the contrast between the heaviness of the day and the gratitude that has been expressed at the commitments are shared this room. And I know throughout Saint Paul throughout the city, as people are doing every single thing that they can to let to resist, to protect our neighbors to it, show that we are a community that truly believes that better and stronger. We are together and united. It is. It is just very impactful. And so again, tank you. Thank you to yu want to Thank you to my health consumers. Thank you to our city staff. I know that we have a lot of work ahead maybe to stand on one of one of our speakers today. It said it called work with sense of urgency. Several of our speaker to move as swiftly as
possible and to not allow. To not slow things down and to not say we'll do things eventually. That's 2 things now show that urgency. And we all share that urgency. I know that we are constantly thinking about what are we doing right now this week next week and also next month at how are we going to continue to do everything possible and tell this horrible moment passes. So thank you to everybody. Thank you. MISS Coleman. And to to just paint a picture of that. I know that at least one of our staffers while sick on New Year's late into the night was working on some of the drafting of separation. And so we're talking about and you and your staff all of our colleagues for leaving the literally doing this. Every moment during the
break. So this is this is not just talk. Tank you, everyone. For your words. It really is helpful. I think to say these things out loud to call things out as we're seeing them and to express what we're feeling. I think it's very lonely in our own hands sometimes, especially in these moments of hearing from all of you come to testify, hearing from ourselves around this table is really powerful. So thank you to everyone. We will be keeping this conversation going and again, really invite people to join us next Wednesday at 10:00am for that policy session and us in council PRESIDENT, just a couple of I want to add. And yes, I do want to give a shoutout to 10 our chief policy officer me. I'm just a part of the investment that this council has made that's a position that we haven't had before. And that is adding
capacity to us so that we can actually operation allies. The things that we wanted the castle here protect me fighting for residents of 10 has been phenomenal. Also want to make sure that people know if he didn't get a chance to come to the public hearing today. I urge you to join our community hearing tomorrow. It is another chance for you to engage with comes numbers and that that committee hearing is really focused the concerns we've heard over and over about our separation ordinance and we'll be addressing so people can come. Brady was stories with suggestions like to share. It is going to be tomorrow Thursday, JANUARY 08:06pm, 08:00pm at Indigenous Rights Cultural Center. That's 7, 8, 8, 7, street in the east
side of Saint Paul. I the last we'll see is some cause i really love what you mntioned about the just the collective work and where they need to communicate our desires and really advocating for residents to higher levels of government like our governor. I absolutely with that. I mean, show me a playbook on how we fight against fascism. Show me up play book on how the fight against white supremacy. That is literally what we are up and gets right now. There is no playbook for that. But what I do know is that it really is about the power of community coming together, including all of us. You know, those who are in a lot positions to be together collectively and really fighting for each other. And sometimes that looks like, you know, being unconventional. And so what I what I'm seeing here is that Iwelcome all of
to to really step into that piece of courage bravery and 2 peoples and that friend of my colleagues that if there's anything that you would like to you want to share about it, you want to partner in it. You just really want to cook in spirit. Want you to know that I'm there for you and that I want to partner with you on that. And so I would love to hear other ideas that you have and look forward to our work together. Thanks missing. All right with that. And you all again for jining us will move on to our legislative hearing Legislative hearing consent agenda items. 3 2, threw 53 here before you fr your consideration. As Mormons. Good afternoon, council members cause PRESIDENT, if number 44 and it to Maryland could be read into the record. Item number. 44 is our only are our 25 dash. 33 ordering
the rehabilitation are raising animal structures and a 10 Maryland Avenue East. Within 15 days after the JANUARY, 7th, 2026 city Council public hearing. Ms Harman. as the council's indulgence for I bring up the computer. To Maryland Avenue This case is an order to remove or repair the building on this parcel. Have an aerial map up screen where you can see that the a 10 Maryland parcel is really almost half a city block. That we're looking at it is on the North side. We have Maryland. And the East Arcade to the self. It's rose and to West. It's wide. So this is big piece of land with entrances on 3
different streets. So it is very impactful. In the neighborhood has a very large footprint. Not too long ago, the council had in front of it. case over repair order for the cbs at University and Snow. The similar this this case is pretty similar to that one with a couple of differences. We are certainly looking at the building conditions being problematic. We are looking at history property maintenance problems. We're looking at a history of behavioral problems. What is different between the 2 of them? I I would venture is that university and snowing is located on the rail line, you know. And so there's a lot of commuters who passed by there. There's a little bit more foot
traffic and so problems associated with that might be larger. On the other hand, the the property to Maryland is surrounded much more densely by residential areas is so the problems that are there are more impactful for people right there because they are immediately on top of it. So I would say characteristics differentiate between the 2. This building has been vacant since mid 2023, you're in the vacant building program since then. There is no intention of the current owner, MR. John Hugo, to rehabilitate the current structure. see who's in control of the building. Is cbs. There is not an intention on the part of cbs to rehabilitate and The plan is for. MR. Hugo, who owns this property too work with cbs, cancel that and he
would enter into a new phase. With a new user who is likely McDonald's. But of course, he would be able to enter into a lease with. if he chooses. What looking at here. Is a case has brought a lot of community interests a lot. Obviously a lot of business interests and I would when you read through the testimony you have read through the testimony in the attachments to the record, you'll see that a lot of is related to the dreams and hopes for the future use of this half block. But what is in front of you today relates to the new says condition that is in the present moment. So it's not at all about whatever happens in the future. There's planning processes. There's only there's other things that will
deal with that. We're just talking about. A new says condition. That necessitates an order. All of that being Right now, the representation for cbs is asking for. The order to not be 15 day order, which is my recommendation, but rather for month or 120 day order. that would be. Smoothing the elements of the transaction to make it easier for the parties. they would then undertake the demolition on their own. It's not clear to me if the orders 15 days, if they with undertake it on their own, the city would do the removal, if the city initiates the removal as the costs for removing the building would become an assessment on to the property and would be recouped through.
That means I I'm not recommending more time for this to be removed. Privately. I have though, and want to know that I regularly come to you and ask for a delay when people want to rehabilitate a building. When there financing that's in play, too. Get the money permits polled and so on that we we do slows down those instances every time and almost. In this, there's not a shared understanding about rehab, but a shared understanding about demolition. I's it's a question of when not a question. Yes, the removal self. That being said, I stand for any questions. Attorney for cbs is here to give us are here. So big. Thanks so much. Many questions before we open up the public hearing. Looks like it. All right. Thanks so much. We might have you that was
Mormon. But right now this is a public hearing. We normally go first to the property owner, representatives will have him come up first. Give you 5 minutes and then everyone else will have 2 minutes to just Good afternoon council PRESIDENT Maker Council members. My name is at an off or Minneapolis and here on behalf of cbs. As you already know, cbs, the tenant and or commercial least with respect to the subject property and that lease is set to expire in 2030. As disclosed during the legislative hearing process. And the latest hearing officer today, the property owner who is cbs is landlord has found a new tenant. The plans to redevelop the property and that to a higher and better use. Notably the property owners transaction with a new tenant. Contemplates one existing with cbs been
terminated and to the structure. That is the subject of this hearing being raised removed. Determination of cbs least though, will not be fully effective until they're certain matters that are satisfied. As between the property owner and the new tat. Cbs does not have control over those matters. But cbs is cooperating with the property owner and the new tenant. And it's extremely confident that all matters will be easily satisfied. Cbs has prepared. And as of this morning, the landlord has signed. Lease termination agreement in anticipation of those bettors been satisfied. The lease termination agreement does permit cbs to of the structure. The ability to properly sequencing, coordinate all actions necessary of cbs landowner and the New 10 at he's in trickle to a successful transition of the property from its current and predict productive use to a future productive use.
Importantly. The necessary secrets in accordance to the parties will be frustrated if the city first race is the bully on its own. For example, if the city race the building, additional parties will be introduced to the transaction. The transition and uncertain and on patrol of contracting timing economic issues will be introduced. Although which MAY affect the feasibility of the property be in transition and the parties being able to perform the respective actions. Has requested during the legislative hearing process. Cbs simply s the party's be given 120 days, make it MAY 7th 2026. To of the structure. This will allow the parties to execute on their coordinated actions. And ability to of the structure without the need of additional city and protection or additional city resources. Consistent with representations made today, cbs is committing to its continue to increase property and security monitoring. Until the building first raised.
Lease is terminated. I appreciate your consideration and I'm happy to answer any questions. Thanks so much. And questions. Thank you. Council PRESIDENT, thank you for coming and testifying today. Can you explain why you need for months? That's an simply because there are a number of legal agreements already in place to have to be unwound. Another number of legal agreements have to be put together to make sure that demolition and the new construction, our sleepless fall. It's really a once. You know, the setting up the dominoes for the dominoes constantly. Just another question. So since the building ever since the building's vacant, up until basically when the agreement was signed, use that as of this morning, what has
happened in between all of that? Can you explain a bit? Yeah, we'll see the estimated businesses and to stop operating at that location. They had a lease with the current property owner that require them to. Continue to make sure the structures there did not have the ability to of the structure and Alice, that's kind of what the parties are working through. Now. Any other questions? Thanks much for money make sure tax banks will come comes your name and where coming from Europe a full 2 minutes. My name is and I am here represent a face-to-face health and counseling in collaboration with face-to-face academy. We're located just self. Of the property Street and arcade there. We're talking to organizations located next to
cbs and we work with young people. And health and human services, including education. Questions today are about the demolition. The timeline who will be responsible and will they be able to safely remove the structure without causing disturbances to our students? Our clients and our employees. We also want to know what happens next. For dmolition and a 3rd the community input on who the next developer is. When we raise our concerns about the tentative McDonald's that could be going in and when will there be a better opportunity How might we be able to advocate on behalf of our community on behalf of the students and clients that we have across the street during this process. We just want you to please consider our questions and keep this on
record. Thank you. Thank you very much. Thanks for the Senate will come up. Good afternoon. Council members and councilmember PRESIDENT. My name is Vivian Tran, the community organizer for the pain Fairly Community Council. I also wrote the letter that is one of the attachment of what the position of the community Council is. So we public public meeting. And it the board made in action in favor the demolition. Its been noted in some of the previous comments that this building has been vacant and used and also not maintained in this process. And although there is a difference between this property and that property on
university, it also has a very high traffic area because of how many like children move through Students pass by it every single day on top face-to-face clients have. So there's numerous schools around it and it's been a very pressing concern. And the delay has happened again and again. And when is it enough at this point like nothing has happened and community has been very vocal about what this has caused and also when will anything change? There's been a lot of promises made, but nothing has been fulfilled. Thank you. Thank you very much. Interested Welcome up. council PRESIDENT Council members, my name is Jacques Buyers. 5, 6, 7, Payne Avenue and the executive director of the Pain Felon Community
Council. As my colleague Vivian mentioned, our council has taken a position that letter is in your packet. I want to say that in the course of our engagement over number of years now on Arcade Avenue, community members have a very granular knowledge about the street about the businesses, about the opportunity stes. They understand that every square foot of property that is currently parking lot could be affordable housing, 5 spaces equal a unit of housing. So community members to see more opportunity for that site. We understand that those opportunities are not specifically in front of you today. In addition, however, in addition to the physical everyday nuisances for people
walking by that site. The condition of the site a financial nuisance for all of the other businesses, local businesses in particular on our Kate Street who are struggling to do business. And who are looking to fnd investments. There are also other small developers like face to face that are trying to dvelop our Kate Street and when they seek opportunity to get financial investment and potential investors see cbs, that is a new sense for all of the other businesses that are trying to raise funds. So I think that's important to keep in mind as well. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure sign in anyone else here
to testify on this item. All commotion missing to close the public hearing all in favor say Aye. I I'll post. 6 in favor not oppose the public hearing for 5 ever not pass public hearing is closed. Thank you, council PRESIDENT. I do have question for Marcia. I appreciate everything. And I know it's that ten a long process for it to get in front of the council. Can you just explain to me about weather, whether the property owner has received any sort of extensions that often when you first receive this until now, when this was first basically put into the system until now. There have been no extensions within the council procedures. But it's a bureaucratic thing to go from the administration wanting to force the hand of the owner. 2. That the problems so. From that perspective, I can tell you that it was SEPTEMBER 25th. Well, then the department's safety and
inspections for sent a letter to te honor, se. You need to fix this up within 30 days or we're going to schedule hearings on that. I conducted my legislative hearing on it on NOVEMBER 25th and that's the time period. That's that's usual tme period for the 30 days to a lapse there pop in a disappearance. And with the holidays to go from hearing on NOVEMBER, 25th 2 now we like to usually have 3 to 4 weeks. But we've met with having the hearing today because of the holiday schedule and how that worked out. Moving forward. So that does feel like a long time. I just want a like a lot of time from a neighborhood
perspective. Absolutely. What is in front of you now? Is that vote? You could choose to delay. Could act today if the order goes forward with 15 days or with 120 days at the end of that time. This city will take control all of the property and with its ward them go through you know, hazardous materials, mitigation process. And so on. Typically it's in the 45 to 55 Day range. For demolition to be. The 15 is 2 laps the building to actually be. So it is not fast to go from SEPTEMBER, 25th virtual or all the way through. MARCH, even maybe it That's thank you. I really appreciate the
input that's I received by the that we've gotten from the committee It's been attached to the record here. I must say that, you know, this is really up happy that I've been hearing over and over again from the committee members about just being not only an eyesore, but this is there's a huge loss of opportunity for our committees and Pistons like this is vacant. Not only that, when cbs was there, it was really an essential service that people read. But again, like with the being there being a pharmacy there. So there's a really great loss there. I know from that testimony I just want to me that for me, I didn't hear anything that really justified there being a four-month extension the recent removal
by what I'm going to do is I'm really to get this more time. 2. Coming in. Second to become a calendar. I would like to extend it so that it is till the end of FEBRUARY. And if it comes back before us again. then there won't be there not be another chance for an extension in time. And so it that would my recommendation. If there's any sort feedback comments fom colleagues treatment, Marcia, I welcome And I just wanting that for me like I think that. It's really helpful know that there was some sort of agreement from from the property owner here and they have a tenant. But at the same time, I think that it's really important for us to be to be trying to expedite the process as soon as possible. My. I would ask is that with
the Consulate, your motion be. 2 amend the resolution granting. MARCH first for the building to be removed or are you thinking to lay the matter over visit at that time? If you? Putin MARCH 1st, the order and be done with it today. That's very simple. And if something dramatic changes, the council always has within its authority to reconsider an item. And that MAY be. Also a tool you could use It would be the first option. So just amending for of what happened on. I said the end of FEBRUARY. And if every but MARCH 1st, the inappropriate. So take that as a motion. And I just say I support that motion. I appreciate the fct that we always want to think about what the future use can be and hearing from representative
cbs that there's there's a real path, I think having the extra time to try to get to that half and have a productive use as soon as possible is. In the long run shorter and shorter time frame for the community to see a better use than taking swift action on the Rays and removing them potentially having a much longer time before something that really brings neighborhood. That algae can come in. So I support the idea of giving the time for that to happen. Ad seem to hear the cbs representatives say that the for months was sort of the hour window. And I think that giving a little bit less maybe increases the sense of ugency there to get processes moving. The other question I going to ask and in the past we've had nuisance abatement plans that we've requested be put in place, especially when we're giving additional time before raising move wasn't completely
clear from the testimony, it would something like a nuisance abatement plan in this case makes sense in the interim to. Trying to do ameliorate some of the conditions that the neighborhood is experiencing in that extra time. The PRESIDENT, the council definitely ask for to be brought up in terms of the history of physical code violations and behavioral violations of the property. One thing that is helping moving forward the site this Photo, if you can indulge that little. Show you so and the overhead. You can see the building as it stands. And you can see the chain-link fence that goes around. So in terms of giving into the secured building that has been
diminish other things, Let me let me start that up again. So that is a behavioral issue. And that is the worst possible behavior that you can associate with. They could commercial spaces to have it be broken into and people be inside of that. In terms maintaining the property we have seen and maintained for the last month. It was a very, very pointed conversation and both legislative hearings. We don't have great information on the history of enforcement actions because that data simply is not available right now. What I can tell you is there have been violations AUGUST through the PRESIDENT, not inordinate level. But and the one really want I would say is there was an order for snow to be removed. And I conducted the
hearing a follow-up hearing on DECEMBER 9th and You're saying retaining if the snow is in tonight, there's an order on it and I think this is a left hand right hand kind of a thing a clarion call. The city did not have to shovel and that's that have orders on the property since that time. So myoncern has diminished 7 study contact that they can building supervisor monitors So it sounds like perhaps. There has been work done to date. I would represent that. There has Okay. So the motion table is amend this item to require the rays and remove by MARCH first. And 26. Thank you, council PRESIDENT And thank you, Marcia, for that briefing on it. I just that's been questions literally just out of curiosity. Let's this bear to no wind to remain
consistent. When I you know, here hearing item reminds me a lot of the cvs that we voted on. To raise and remove. I believe some months ago that was located on selling university. And I'm just Kerry says know that what are some of the factors that are going into your decision to grant them more time? Especially when you have this is a very similar situation last time representative have came and provided plans, you know, to the to the counts are to the council. We had no large amount presidents share how this area's a nuisance. And I'm just no just chairs around like, what are some of the factors that go into your thinking you know, differently this Thanks rape a push your question there. I don't remember. Clearly the details are what was. What the testimony was for the cvs on Stony. But for me,
me and I also want to 2 that I think, you know, for councilmembers, we each have our own different experiences under that. That's an opinions. And so the sort of interactions that MAY be cause for Coleman has had the cbs and selling. Probably different from the ones that I've had on with the Maryland. But I think for are. So what's what I heard clearly from the testimony was that there is a plan to move forward and and that it seems like there has been a sense of urgency based the testimony from the attorney ad so I you know, for me and sort of balancing. Belief in model we've also we mentioned a lot in the council here, which is that you want our city to be a city that's open for business and when I think about the situation in which there was maybe there's maybe a small business owner in front of sharing the same
testimony and they have a plan that you know what, basically they're that they're close to that basically having a new tenant and they're being transfer of the property, then I would want to give them. That's that same sort of flexibility and that time to be able to complete that transaction, too. And so that's the spirit that bring into this conversation here. And I think, you know, sometimes things are always different. It's case-by-case basis. Thanks, MISS. Coming. Thank you for PRESIDENT. I was just going I'll be supporting Councilmember Yang's motion and appreciate the thought intentionality that's gone into this. And to that point, I think trust that, you know, this case, the best. I will aso say that I have been. A member of this body for 4 months. And this is the second time that we are
dealing with the cbs property that is in use at this property that is causing immense harm in our community. This is a large corporation that is I think repeatedly now being shown to have caused harm to the city of Saint Paul. So I am. I'm immensely frustrated that this is yet another cbs that we're having this conversation about. And so to our representative who is here today on behalf of the company, I would just hoping you're communicating to your client that the city of Saint Paul has now devoted significant time and resources to attempt to mitigate the harm that has caused. I think that is unacceptable. I hope that that is understood something that is unacceptable that this is the last time that we will have to deal with the cbs. It is a nuisance property causing harm
throughout our city. Thanks coming. Also, just one thing that I do know is that we heard clearly to the testimony is that there are questions from committee members from nearby organizations. And we really urge. With a representative for team today to get in contact the people of the questions. Mean, if you're wanting to, if you're invested in our want to make sure that even, you know, the next business coming in is going to be successful. It really is going to require you to be building building that bridge so that w can continue having success here and that you ultimately you are successful in your transaction as well. There's no further discussion there's a motion to
table all in favor say Aye. Post 6 in favor not oppose. The resolution is adopted as amended. There are other items for separate consideration I'm not aware of anyone that to spend All right, will hold a public hearing that on te balance of legislative hearing items appearing here for any item. 30 to tell. 53 this is your public hearing. Not seeing anyone. I will take questions from show's to close the public hearing and adopt these items with the recommendations and the nations of legislative hearing. Officer. All hearsay. Post I think they've run unopposed. The Let's Save hearing Center. Jen does adopted as amended. That brings us and our Jenna ad to the Good News First, good news of 2026. Looking to my colleagues to see we can find any. do have some good news from word why I believe the council
chair and chills will be joining as well. We had a great meeting. What director Maureen will we will be celebrating are doing the ribbon cutting at the havoc you brown of the temporary rental community, relocation. Mayor Harry will also be there giving at brief remarks. And if you are interested, there's belief our to our child the time or you get it tore the temporary And and I also look forward to the library We have some really great announcements moving forward. Thanks to I do think at the time it's Friday from 3 to other just. think you constantly for sharing that looking forward to going that with The same public library did open temporary location, soft opening on JANUARY. 3rd of
this is like the more official opening. So we're really looking forward to that. Also share the I guess this isn't or 3, but it's very close tore through the Groveland ice rink opened this past weekend. But it was really wonderful. And then it got slushy and notes closed. But I look forward seeing again. It's operated by by volunteers. It's a really wonderful ice rink. There's no hockey state ice skates there had to skate, but ice skates for everyone to rent for free when they're open. So hopefully they will reopen again in the weather gets better. But it's a great way to to try skating in just a mode there. There would have been normally more events and parties at the skating rink coming up soon. But they're now since a close. And then I'll just say I know that we have a lot going on right now. And a lot of folks in the community very concerned. And so just always feel free to
reach out to our office. If you have any questions or concerns or need any assistance, any way. just it's coming. Thank you. I like to very excitedly share that the board for Ice rink at group Land is open. Just going But it did remind that we're part is having their fire and ice celebration this Friday I believe it's still happening despite the slushy situation but celebrating one of the many, many beautiful ice rinks in Ward. In 10 think it's gonna be really wonderful event people can make it out. The good news. All right, seeing none. Thanks much for first thing in the year we