a city council to order roll call, please. Johnson Joe cam here. Hear council PRESIDENT Maker here. 5 PRESIDENT, no one absent or sorry, 5 present. One absent being Councilmember Johnson who is excused? Welcome to everyone who's joined us for a city council meeting today. We're glad that you could be here with us. We invite everyone to join us in standing and saying the Pledge of Allegiance. to the place there and to the when they all Consent agenda items to through 15 or before you for consideration. And I know we have hands to pull items 8.16 for separate consideration. Is there anything else to come off of consent? Seeing no take a motion from his bank for the balance of the consent agenda. Any discussion of that motion? Seeing none all in favor say
All opposed. 5 in favor. None opposed. The consent agenda is adopted as amended item nmber 8 is resolution 25 not for one setting 8/12/2025, as the special Election Day to fill the vacancy of the Ward for City Council member. And I just wanted to pull this off of consent to give it a little bit of extra attention. We had interviews this morning with 4 finalists for the interim appointment for the workforce. Eat. But at the same time we have set AUGUST. We are setting AUGUST. 12th is the date for the special election for the person who will be elected to fill the remainder council member Jalal these terms. So for millions of listeners and viewers at home, want to make sure folks know. But that election date is AUGUST 12th. And we encourage all interested Ward for candidates to consider running for office. With that, I would move approval. Any discussion
of that motion. All in favor say Aye. Aye opposed 5 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item. Number 16 is resolution. 25 dash 4.61. Proving updated rules and regulations for the Department of Parks and Recreation. And looking to council vice PRESIDENT For the And we as per usual from the press were 5 and a small but mighty staff. Stephen Port from director Gregory is and the reason why I want to pull this off consent is because there's been a tremendous amount of staff work that's gone into this and always as usual, want to celebrate all the great work that they do. But also, I think realizing and focusing on equity and justice in these roles. And so fr everyone's well-being enough understanding rules rules of engagement. When you come rec
center and you can wanted t eliminate them here, the chambers. And so yeah, but you to give us your very brief, but wonderful staff thank you. Council. PRESIDENT Council members. Thank you have having me here today and your guest, director of the Parks, Recreation Department also have a some of our frontline rec center staff that worked on this initiative here. Today's want to give them kudos for this work. Really just a product of not only that, but the youth commission and others that have contributed this work over the last couple of years. The resolution before you 6 update our existing parks rec parks and rec rules and regs specifically related to commuting expectations with director spaces. The rules and regs improvement efforts. Like I said, begin shortly after the pandemic in collaboration
with Frontline staff. Ad I've piloted within various rec centers across the city. The new rules will require visitors to sign it at the front desk if they're visiting to participate, drop-in activities, this will help with things like track and usage and capacity and helping staff in the event of emergency and to better account for everyone in the building. Visitors are not required to sign in for special events, private rentals sports events or to use the common spaces or restroom. The new rules also establish consistent definitions around behavior and prohibitions around conduct within rec center spaces and provide a framework to help staff confidently and consistently address undesirable behavior across our 26 rec centers and potential consequential action. Should that be taken? If approved, will work to
ensure all staff are updates to effectively implement within our facilities as well as posting them on site for public awareness of making sure that when new staff, Rahm or they're very familiar with this process and like I consistent across our 2 facilities. But really just rooted in restorative practice and kind of a culture shift for all of us to make sure that we are meeting the needs of the community and keeping people safe and the most effective way possible. So kudos to the staff team. Those here on that made this happened over the last year. Just can't say enough about what they do every day to serve our communities. Great. Thank you so mch, doctor. It is wonderful to hear this update. Glad to know that we're going to be making these improvements to make sure the safety enjoy ability of Rx. Others remains paramount for everyone who visits
counted as present. Thanks for your leadership bringing this forward. Yes, yeah. And just the clothes I thank you for the very talking points and also opportunity think our staff Peter Rhee, said Gina and Dan for their work building in crafting the new rules of engagement and particularly because they focus on fun and also safety for everyone involved so deep, deep appreciation and with that, I motion for approval. We have a motion for approval from his PRESIDENT. Kim, is there any discussion of that motion? This just be discussion of us. Want to say thank you, director and you for your leadership in follow staff. That's here today on a day really truly enjoy the briefing on this. I know. The Wright Center's now library all of our public spaces that I young people play at. And are clear expectations and rules how we keep them safe and how we
engage people but taking accountability in getting them to that point of like making sure the community is safe. So again, thank you for your leadership. I'm excited to see how this rolls out. I know we are always tax away from each other updating how things are going, particularly at Oxford and at the community rec centers across toward. Thank you again thank Billie. Any further discussion. Seeing none all in favor say Aye. I'll post. 5 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item. Number 17 is rsolution. 25 Dash 4, 7, 2, Outlining the city's 2025 legislative agenda. this is an item that we brought today because we are 73 days into the legislative session at this point. And
typically we would have adopted our legislative agenda by now. We've got questions from several of our colleagues around this table as well as legislators about the status of our legislative agenda. And I know is paramount for all of us that we get that presented to us that we have a chance to discuss it, that we have a chance to amend in priority items from our own words. The staff are not able to join us today to present a legislative agenda. But we've been assured that they will be in front of us next Wednesday with the legislative agenda attached to legistar discussion and and for a vote. I will say that I plan to introduce legislation to clarify this process in the future and make it clear that we need a legislative agenda proactively adopted prior to any lobbying activity that takes place. At the Capitol. So that will be forthcoming
from my office, but wanted to just say a few words about why this was on the agenda. Any further discussion for many of my colleagues as Seing that I'm gonna move a one-week layover. This item until next week have legislative agenda in front of us all in favor. Say Aye. Opposed Ivan favor. None opposed. The resolution is laid over to MARCH. 26. Well, I-25. That's where just a suspension of the rules all in favor say Aye. Aye, all opposed. 5 5 in favor opposed. The rules are suspended. Councilmember toast. Thank you. So we have an item that being brought forth under suspension. And thanks its position due to resolution 25 dash 4.37. Authorizing the city to apply for 7 and a half million from the environment and Natural Resources Trust fund for the Mississippi River Learning Center Peninsula Restoration Project area at Just thank
that. Yes. So this item is being brought forth under suspension because the city is applying for this grant for the are learning center and sometimes, you know, great schedules and timelines or don't always, you at your city council schedules as much as we would love for them, too. So this is an item that's being brought to date a bill to provide this opportunity for us and for our city. so I would move for approval on this item and the park certainly hear if any consular, 70 questions about it. All right. Well, 7 and a half million dollars for a pressure tactic. Sounds like a good idea to me. Discussion of the motion for approval. All right. Seeing none all in favor say Aye. All opposed 5 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item. Number 18 is ordinance. 25 dash 23 granting the
application of Saint Paul Property Group llc to rezone properties at 10 River Park Plaza from tv. 3. And traditional neighborhood with master plan to tradition, transitional industrial with master plan and amending chapter 16 legislative code pertaining to the zoning map. So just before we start our public hearing section of the agenda, just a couple notes about how we do s when you get to your public hearing item will invite you to lineup if you wish to speak when it's your turn to must and right up here in front of the 2 microphones, you don't need to adjust the microphones. They will pick you up just fine. We have 2 minutes for most Let you know if there's a difference and that there's a couple cases where there's a little bit of additional time granted. But generally 2
minutes, which goes by ral fast, my job as facilitator. The meeting is to keep everybody to the 2 minutes. So I will becoming you off as politely as I possibly can. Once we get to the 2 minute Mark and I appreciate in advance your your patients with that. And then after you testified, make sure to sign in at one of the 2 signed in sheets on either side of the microphones. And when you start your testimony, please tell us your name and where you're coming from. So with that, this is a public hearing on ordinance 25 dash 23. Is there anyone here to testify on this item? Way to get this? With kicker? name is Tim prints and they were coming new market represents investment. Investments there. The owner, what most people refer to as the Comcast building and the
20 acres that surround it. This project was last before you on DECEMBER 18th for a comprehensive plan amendment. The site were seeking rezoning and a 2.9 acre parcel. Zoning zoning saw does the transition from tv to approximately 16.3 acres of the site would remain remain t 3 m. Traditional industrial create a transitional buffer separating the heavy industrial the residential zone. T zoning often when master plans happened, they're done with a broad brush. This takes more of a scalpel approach to the situation. The orange is the Tea. 03:00am the dark blue is the I-2, which is the pair
found rezoning and then you can see would be transitioning towards the river a little bit. Want to recap a little bit about our engagement with the neighborhood group Wesco. Our first engaged in was that with them was on OCTOBER. 3rd of 2024. Since then, we've had 7 additional meetings with West. Do all I gone very well. We will continue to have meetings up until next Wednesday when final decision is made on this zoning change, the discussions that we've been having with have generally been about community benefits agreement. We've sort of transition that community benefits agreement in 2 a deed restriction conversation with regard to those 2 parcels that would restrict, you know, up zoning a transition to more in heavy industrial use in the future would be restricted. With that. I'm happy to answer
any questions. Thank you so much. And I neglected to say that since you're the applicant, you actually have 5 minutes. But you did it within too. So. Kudos for the for the 3 minutes any questions. Our special, ok, any anyone else here to testify on the sign up? All right, seeing none. I will move to close the public hearing, this matter over till. Next week, MARCH. 26 for final adoption. All in favor say Aye. Opposed. 4 in favor. None opposed the resident. The ordinance played over to MARCH. 26 for final adoption item. Number 19 is ordinance. 25 Dash 24 amending chapter 4.27. Of the Legislative cota Reference and incorporate uniform license procedures. It's outlined in the legislative coach after 3.10, clarify ambiguous language update updated gender language and infrared heat. It's on a fitness studios to the definition license
category and change the on-duty staff. An exception. This is a public hearing. I know that we actually have one person who is calling him to testify on item. So I'm gonna first. Go to the phones we're ready for our caller. Well, we're ready for a call. Good afternoon. Good afternoon. And hi, my name is Candice Bergen and I'm calling from the Rondo neighborhood. I was calling in support of new hot work studio. Is open Paul across Somalia. Feel on slowing. And just want to share. Know that there Point of conversation on the agenda, but want to share my support and excitement to have a Fatah studio so close to home in the community, a place to be able to work out in also a nice bright spot in that area as is
currently under development. I know we have over 2 minutes, but I want to speak in support of Natalia and Malik Davis. In end new location. Great. Thank you so much for your testimony. We really appreciate it. All right. Thank. Anyone else here to testify on the side. You can't just find it coming up. Anyone else here to testify this item, if you don't, I just kind of letting up. So we know we've got to be welcome. everybody, my name is just 11 dusky live over on Dale Street here in Saint Paul, 5, 5, 1, 1, 7, It's not. Here is the organizing director for the Hammond Midway Coalition, though I would like to direct your attention to our statements from our board and our dvelopment committee in support of the Hot Works gym located on snowing today. I'm actually hre to share with
you as somebody who works full time in the Midway neighborhood attends graduate school, United Theological Seminary, a parent of 2 children under the age of 3. That's a lot of fun. And somebody who struggled deeply with persistent health issues due to long covid over the last 2 years. Covid has significantly impacted my quality of life for several years, it wasn't until about a year ago when I was finally able to get into the long covid clinic at the University of Minnesota. And now to get some serious help challenges will navigating those ongoing medical treatment and testing. But one thing that is dressed improve my quality of life since this past JANUARY has been becoming a member of the hot work studio and by the time of the care. These 2 are just exceptional business owners, the kind of people that you wants to have in your community. But their gym
itself is truly a unique asset that has radically transformed my life. The low intensity workouts combined with the benefits of infrared sauna has significantly reduced my inflation. Help me lose weight, increased my energy levels improved my ability to be the best dad student, an advocate for the midway that I can be aongside my professional medical treatment. Howard says provided critical support. When I experienced my flare ups of this terrible disease to say nothing of the sense of the community. I feel when I walk through their doors with my schedule, balancing work school and young children. There are many times I'm unable to access the gym. During their current operating hours and I strongly believe the city we sould strive to eliminate as many barriers as possible for a local businesses. The on my personal health condition,
there are many neighbors, parents, students and full-time workers who ae working busy lives and would greatly benefit from expanded gym hours. It's a chance. It would truly be a travesty to risk losing this incredible community resource simply because they are unable to operate like the more than 700 other franchises across the country in the globe, including the one just across the river in Minneapolis. Thank you so much. Appreciate your testimony. Don't forget to Coming up. Welcome. My name is Justin with Wellington Management. We own and operate that building. We just wanted to show our support for yoga studio. We've seen a dramatic increase in te positive activity that's going on around the building decrease and a lot of the crime that directly due to leak and Italian. Ability to present and be active in the area in
the community. All We just really appreciate them great stories with the property and great neighbors just really appreciate their their ability to operate in that space. So it's really great for us if this ordinance change. Thank you. Thank you very much. Get council. Thank you for having me. I want to use myself. My name is Malik Davis Saint Paul Fire Fire. I'm a Jimmy Lee also retired basketball coaches. Same process 22 years. A Saint Paul advocate in there 45 years. And I love my c want to do as much as I can to bring amenities to the city that rival others. Just want to start out about talking about the process.
Started. We started the process by talking to Piers and family members see if this is something you'd be interested We follow that by talking to the council member or Councilmember that We also talked to council member trail follows here, gathered their support, pride in moving forward. And we talk to these unique also. We talked a new way. Only way Council got support that we talked to chamber. Conversely got to support. And so with all that support, we thought we were fine talks to the start of forward got down to the city processing, wanted a license and they told us it would take about 6 months to get the ordinance changed, which is back in JUNE. So we've been we've been limping along, trying to get through the process. So after we gathered all that support, we ended up having a talk to the mayor's office as well as Dsi. We crafted a plan that I think we're all comfortable with as
far as being able to offer a product to the city that will keep us safe. Clean in a good, I guess, for the city to have opening in JANUARY. And since then, we have about 2, 7 members shows to call our plateau. We do have some members that want to join our facilities, but unfortunately, they're going to stay at their home facilities that are outside of Saint Paul, which means they have to travel from Saint Paul to another city to go to how it works because of our restriction on time. We're asking for city Council support today to allow us to operate like over 719 other powers franchise throughout the country. There's multiple ones in the city or the state of Minnesota. Woodbury Lakeville Ian Rodgers, just to name a few. But more importantly, our neighbors across the rver, they have one so we can let them beat
us. And this is also approval models safe. Every client can go inside the sauna control to sell. So not a health risk. So today we're asking for your support, rescue guys of old to give the city residents of Saint Paul, the amenities at our suburban neighbors have. We are as You are a time but thank you for your time. Thank you so much. Appreciate it. And appreciate all of your investment in Saint Paul. Pleased to sign know that it's a priority of many of us on the council to try to streamline the permitting process licensing process. And so hearing about your experience is also really valuable. So thank you. Welcome. Hi. Thank you all so much for having me. My name is Natalia Davis. I am co-owner his wife I just want to say. When I
wanted to when I came to him with the idea like I want to bring this to say, Paul, I was traveling from Saint Paul to a very every day. I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 30 years ago. And at that moment, that's when I decided health and wellness was my everything. I had 2 amazing children. Now they're 14 in 12. And that's been my mission. And when I found how it works, I was like, oh, my gosh, reduction of inflammation in my body. The way I feel when I'm sleeping, it was just a game changer for me. And I tell my husband, I want to bring the Saint Paul. I want to apologize because I did not look into how the ordinances and all the things I just know. I had a great idea that I wanted to bring to my community. And after putting so much money into it, we ran into this role I want to thank my husband for stated by my side. If it for this thing for our community and I thank all the people that
wrote letters in showing a because it is making a difference. And we're out there. We're talking people were cleaning up the community. We are all the things and I lost a paw. I'm not originally from Saint Paul, but I do have a partnership with the city where I go out and I teach kids about trauma and stress and how it lives in the body and hw to regulate the body to shift that. It has been an amazing partnership. And this all goes into my mission of bringing health and wellness to our community. In particular, Saint Paul and you are so thank you off. Thank you so much. Don't forget to sign in. Is there anyone else here to testify on item? And what we did spend lot of time talking about a particular business, which I know we're all really excited about. This is a change to our code that will allow any
business that wants to you do a similar used to operate Saint Paul. So I think the points made about allowing more uses that are currently only allowed in the suburbs. This is something that will hopefully expand options for a lots of businesses. Our city, I'll take a motion from his ability to close the public hearing al in favor say Aye. All opposed. Or in favor. None opposed. The ordinance is laid over. A public hearing is closed and the ordinance is laid over to MARCH. 26 for final adoption. Item. Number 20 is ordinance 25 Dash 25, repealing Chapter 4.40, of the legislative code related to energy benchmark. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to testify on this item? Seeing none. Take a motion from a is toast to close the public. Haley, the matter over next
week for final adoption all in favor say Aye. All opposed. 4 in favor. None opposed. Public hearing ordinance lead over the MARCH. 26 for final adoption item number. 21 is ordinance 25 dash 28 amending chapter one 89.1 of the legislative code pertaining to the duties and frequency of the truth and sailed housing fort evaluator examination. This is a public hearing. Is anyone here to testify on this item? Seeing none. We'll take a motion from the to close the public hearing, Ali, the matter over one week for final adoption. All in favor say Aye. I'll post. in favor. None opposed. The public hearing is closed in. The ordinance is laid over 5 in favor, not oppose and ordinances laid over too on MARCH. 26 for final adoption.
Item number. 22 is resolution public hearing. 25 dash 44 authorizing the Department of Parks and Rec to amend the financing and spending plan in the amount of $125,000 and to enter into a grant agreement with the Met Council except Fishing Pier Grant funds, which includes an indemnification clause. This is a public hearing. There anyone here to testify on this item? Seeing none. Take a motion for mis just to close the public hearing, Ali, the matter over one week for final adoption. All in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed 5 in favor. None opposed. Resolution is adopted item number Twenty-three's resolution public hearing. 25 dash 45 mending financing and spending plans and the Department of Parks and the Department of Public Works. Capital Budget for the Randolph Bridge Project. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here too? Speak to the Seeing none. I will move to
close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. Post 5 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item number 2022. Shipman Oh, sorry. Know. Wasn't the motion. It's been the trend of It's to We just need which ones which and we can sstain oh, did I 22? I thought I our item number, just to clarify item number. 22 was adopted a cat. a second. Item number. 23 was also adopted item number. 24 is resolution public hearing. 25 cash. 46 approving the application of Skinner's Pub for a sound level variance in order to present amplified sound on Tuesdays, JUNE 3rd through SEPTEMBER, 23rd 2025. At 9.19, Randolph Avenue, Skinner's Pop. This is a public hearing. Is anyone here to testify on this item? Seeing none. We'll take a motion from his plea to close the public hearing and
approve all in favor say Aye. All opposed. 5 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item number. 25 is resolution public hearing. 25 dash 48 accepting grant funds authorizing execution of a grant agreement and amending the operating budget. With respect to the city sponsorship of the Metropolitan Department of Employment, Minnesota, Department of Employment and Economic Development contamination. Cleanup grant for the benefit of ymca of north at Five-thirty North Wheeler Street. That was our winner for longest title. This is a public hearing us anyone here to testify on this item. Seeing none. I'll take a motion from his just to close the public all in favor say Aye. post 5 in favor. None
opposed. The resolution is adopted item number. 26 resolution public hearing. 25 Dash 52 accepting a $215 an anonymous donation to be placed in the city's general fund. I just want to take a point of personal privilege and whoever made this unanimous donation to the city's general fund to know that that is something that you can do if you are so inclined. You aso do that with your property taxes with commissioner, very grateful. But in case anyone also wants to make an anonymous donation, this is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to testify on this item? Seeing none. I think emotion from vice PRESIDENT Came to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. All opposed 5 in fvor, not oppose. The resolution is adopted item
number. 27 pc. 25 dash 2 considering the appeal of the West 7th Fort Road Federation to decision of the Planning Commission 9 and appeal of a statement of clarification issued by the zoning administrator and a proposed solid waste Truck dispatch center and maintenance facility similar to a public works yrd. Our maintenance facility and I've 60 Randolph Avenue. It loks like we might have a staff report on the Come on up. Welcome. Good afternoon Council. PRESIDENT And council members. My name is for one on one with city Saint Paul Department of Safety Yes, because just love it. And if our media folks could amp up the microphone that that would be helpful. So my name is Nomar with the Department of Safety Inspection. Here today behalf of zoning administrator to present to appeal of a decision by the
planning commission that upheld zoning administrator statement of clarification, which the proposed solid waste Truck Dispatch center and maintenance facility to be similar to a public works yard maintenance facility. If you don't mind presentation And we got we the Senate panel of a pen commission decision denying an appeal determination of similar used for Ithink you said. It's you can just send them to clear are thinks that this Mike works a little bit better than the one. at that, my apology here taller than most that. 3rd Time's the charm. All right.
Perfect. It's West, 7th Forth Road Federation, City Council Appeal appeal of planning commission decision to deny appeal and uphold zoning administrator statement of clarification that a proposed solid waste truck dispatch center and maintenance facility. Is in similar ued with public works yard or maintenance facility based on the required findings. The ground for appeal includes alleged missing writing testimony at Planning Commission, misleading Scale and label of standard GIs maps, Florida well shun in staff report of approved then comprehensive plans. The site is located at 5.60, Randolph Avenue. Its a 4.0, 2, 7, Acre parcel, which is on I one light industrial zoning
district. Propose use of the site is a solid waste. Truck dispatch center fleet maintenance and compressed natural gas. Fueling determination of similar used for proposed operation was issued JANUARY 10th 2025. Determination of similar used when a specific use is not listed in the zoning code. zoning administrator issues a statement of clarification, a solid waste hauler truck dispatch center fleet maintenance are not enlisted used in the zoning category. Determined to be similar. Used public works yard and maintenance facility. Public works. Yard maintenance facility is a peted use in zoning district which zone. I one light industrial. When a specific use is not listed in the zoning code. Zoning administrator shall issue a statement of clarification.
Finding that the use is. The use is or is not substantially similar in character and are regulated use based on the following findings. One the uses similar I character to one or more permitted uses. Traffic generated by such use is similar to one or more permitted, uses the use is not first permitted in a less restrictive zoning district and 4 there. The use is consistent with the comprehensive plan. Planning Commission decision West's 7th Forth Road Federation appealed asserting that the determination of similar use must be reevaluated because it is inconsistent with the required findings. Public hearing at Zoning Committee.
23 people spoke in favor of the appeal was ero opposed. Plus written testimonies. Planning commission voted unanimously to 9 to deny the appeal of zoning administrator statement of clarification based on the findings, fcc environmental services proposed solid waste truck dispatch center and made this facility is similar in character and impact to a public works in this facility at 5.60, Randolph. Public or government facility is a permitted use in this zone district. I one light industrial. Questions. Great. Thanks so Questions looks like thank you, MISTER PRESIDENT. I really appreciate the staff briefing here. Can you go back to the first slide? Just? It was be kept of the grounds for appeal. I do have a question related to the
slide. And then just another question. Now I asked after this. So can you share? Why there? For written testimonies that we're missing to the planning Commission. Thank PRESIDENT Nneka Councilmember game. The question is more of a legal question. Council members were also briefed on this situation. Yes, so that could be more of a legal question that I'm not able to answer at this point. Looks like at injector MAY be able to assist as Thank Council. PRESIDENT Council members just wanted to provide. The scene answer that Farhan has its play understanding that the council has been briefed on this item. We have been briefed on this item, but the question I think is germane.
That this asks, why testimony was missing from the record? Is that not something that staff can respond to him? It's my understanding that this is a legal issue at all to for council. ok, thank you. My my second question is you can define. The definition for Sony for Public Works Yard or maintenance facility. But how? How are we to finding that get weather? There's a way for you to share an expanded the yes, she So. What occurred here we use in the zoning code chapter 66, which shows all the permitted use table from residential use to business district. The I district district goes by specific districts. The use. It is not defined in our chapter 65. So there is no definition for public work in maintenance facility. However,
we how we came to this conclusion is when we made the comparison. We did also look at different uses that we attempt look at if it was similar, but the most and closest similar to that we have to this uses the public works facility maintenance facility that's located here at 8, 9, 9, bilski which has when we compare that to which number of trucks as a fueling station and also has an office for the staff member similar used to what fcc is proposing here at 5.60. We did also closely examine chapter 65 and chapter 66, which list the permitted use table to see anything that was close. We also look at other uses, but this is by far the closest use that is listed in the table. But there's no definition, no clear definition listed
injector 65 for for all. Truck maintenance facility or public works yard. Thank you. Looks like we have MR. Debt. coming. We have know as a PRESIDENT Committee members. I make think Asian. So it's unusual that we haven't used as an equal. That's not the fight. For example, we got into a situation where but in't peels? Was about school as schools that defined either. So it's something unusual. I just want put out you've any further any other questions for staff? Seeing any. Okay. Thank you so much for your report. Thank you. So this is oe of those items where we have a slightly
different amounts of time. So we will be 5 minutes to the appellant. So the West 7th for a federation 5 minutes to testify and then the applicant fcc will also have 5 minutes and then we'll open up the public hearing to everyone to comment. And that will be a 2 minute limit for each testifier. So we'll start with the appellant. Welcome that. And feel free to adjust the mikes back. I'm not exactly what happened. The part. And what happened with them. But I don't know how they're going to work Good afternoon. Council members. My name is Meg Tour and I'm here on behalf of the West, 7th for coach Federation to formally appeal the Planning Commission's decision regarding the determination of some reduced 5.61 enough. The federation represents
thousands of residents and dozens of businesses will be directly affected by this decision. And we urge you to reconsider the flawed process led to the approval of the determination of single use. So first I have to touch and how we got to this point. The Planning Commission's decision making process was fundamentally fawed and based incomplete and one-sided information. Week after the meeting, we discovered that 19 community written testimonies and the federation's own opening statement. Missing from the Planning Commission's meeting packet. City staff later admitted that this was a staff error and should not have happened. Additionally, a meeting after and additionally inaccurate maps and misrepresented zoning data were presented in the staff report for a meeting after the
public hearing had closed, meaning that we were not allowed to respond to or correct errors. These failures called into question the legitimacy of the commission's vote and the transparency and fairness of the process. Those factors alone should render decision mood. But for the rest my time focus on zoning conditions. So condition, one states that the proposed use must be similar in character to permit uses. Fcc's proposed facility is not similar to permit use is nigh one zoning district and the city's claim that this is functionally similar to a public works yard is flawed. Public works yard served, municipal needs and are carefully scaled. Whereas fcc is a private for profit operation was clearly stated expansion goals. Additionally, fcc's proposal includes a
compressed natural gas fueling station, which introduces additional safety concerns. Noise issues environmental risks not present and permitted uses. Condition to says that the traffic generated must be comparable to permitted uses. Unlike the previous use of the site, which is a small scale towing operation, fcc's operations will generate over 150 vehicle trips per day. Introducing hazardous industrial traffic to a pedestrian oriented neighborhood. Node fcc proposes to have 36 to 80 heavy-duty trucks and they would operate 6 days a wek. This far exceeds prior say uses and other light industrial uses. Condition. 3 requires the use is not first permitted in a less restrictive zoning district fcc's facility aligns much more closely with the eye to general industrial zoning. Not
I one light industrial. Zoning code for I one light industrial operations literally says uses are nt uses art to had no external impact on surrounding sites. The truck traffic generated with obviously extent of the surrounding community. An fcc scale of operations, including fueling and maintenance for heavy vehicles excuse the intended scope of I one zoning. Other municipalities such unit many Apple classify waste hauling, isn't it to our I 3 use and it always requires a conditional use permit reinforcing the fact that this facility does not belong in and I want district. And condition for states that they use must be consistent with the comprehensive plan. Voice activated project Active it. Bit of a joke because there's someone there
we go. Great. Okay. The so condition for consistency with the comprehensive plan. The proposed facility directly contradicts multiple city adopted plans envision mixed use development and improve river access at this specific site. These are not outdated or decertified plans, their formal addenda to the 24 you come plan. And in the comp plan, they're no less than 13 different policies that directly contradict a development like this at a site like this. Both the Mississippi River Court Mississippi River Corridor plan. And the Great River Passage plan described a very specific vision for housing mixed use and green connections to the river at the site. This is the Great River Passage plan. A formal addenda to the comp
plan. And that's the vision for the site around 5.60, Randolph. We also have the for development plan, the priorities that prioritizes residential and commercial redevelopment. And the 2040 comprehensive plan itself designates the area's a neighborhood node and a priority River access point developments here should enhance transit, bicycle, pedestrian and river oriented infrastructure and green space, not further entrenched industrial development with heavy external impacts. So to conclude the proposed used clearly does not meet the 4 conditions required for determination of similar use. And we firmly believe that the primary reason the planning commission rejected our appeal was because the process was deeply flawed, approving this facility were in Would
undermine years of planning. To create a cease-fire connective Justin Friendly neighborhood. This is a defining moment for West 7th in the city at large. Repeal is not about just one site is about holding the integrity of city planning, respecting community voices, ensuring that zoning laws are applied consistently. Thank you. Thank you. And we will now have 5 minutes for the applicant to testify. I'll give you a teen extra seconds on the clock. If we wanted. All to prevent. Also, PRESIDENT Council members in 7th, a Bush. Thank you for the opportunity to speak this afternoon. I am breaking every general manager for us to see environmental Services. 5.60, Randolph Avenue Saint Paul. First, I want to address what right in front of us today. And that
is. Really the appeal on similar to secure the site plan approval for rental property. We have determine the appropriate use to careful diligence. It was determined that fcc environmental closely aligns with classification. Public works facility. We are public works facility potentially right, because we're servicing the residents of Saint Paul hired by the And again, the definition of a public works facility. It operates and has struck storage truck maintenance and fueling operations. That's the similar years. The planning staff appropriately determined all 4 required findings from Apple in issuing statement of clarification and as state law and cut the comprehensive plan, take precedence over conflicting city. Adopted plans to legal framework supports this designation. While respect the position of
the West, 7th Ford Road Federation, their position. The disappointment. We understand that it's hard tell. If you folks that feel the pay. However. The scenarios for this property haven't come to fruition. And again, it's sad. But is not grounds for aisle for this 2 for the similar used determination. Next. I want to reaffirm commitment to say Paul in this community. The West neighborhood they're just not her neighbors, their customers. We are dedicated to providing reliable agrees and responsible waste collection that prioritizes the needs of Saint Paul. Our team of professionals. He's committed to safety and respect will go above and beyond to deliver exceptional service to our residents. Fcc is more than a service provider. Your
long-term prtner to the city of Saint Paul neighbor to this community and hopefully a friend on the role. Have personally engage with this community community and I will continue to do so. I am confident that in time there will be opportunities for collaboration on future projects that will benefit us all. Accordingly. We respectfully request the city Council to deny. The appeal and affirmed the termination. Thank you for your time this evening. Forward future collaboration. Thank you so much. And please make sure to sign it. All right. With that, we will open up our public hearing to all testify or so. Going ask folks if you are planning to testify, if you can light up a lot. Either side, just we can get a sense of how many folks for. Coming here from and I would welcome our first testifier up. You'll
have 2 minutes. Remember to start with your name and where you're coming from. Good afternoon. Iraq. I am the first vice PRESIDENT Of the West, 7th for Road Federation as well as a resident of that area. And I am urging you today to overturn the Planning Commission's decision following fcc environmental services to operate grbage truck facilities at 5.60, Grand Avenue. This facility is not similar. Use to public works yard. Unlike a municipal facility, it would bring increased truck traffic and natural gas refueling station and round the clock maintenance posing serious environmental safety. And quality of life risks. Our main road is already in desperate need of repair and adding more heavy vehicles 60's a week will only make it
worse. That is not what I. One zoning is meant for beyond being incompatible. This project directly contradicts the 2040 comprehensive plan and the Great River Passageway plan, which talked about earlier, both of which envision a transition away from industrial use at this site, allowing the facility would undermine decades of city planning and public trust and input. Serious procedural errors also tainted this decision with 19 public testimonies and the official West 7th Fort Road Federation statement being omitted from the planning commission's materials. Additionally inaccurate. Zoning maps misrepresented the area leading to fly justification. Council members. This is a
critical moment to stand by the city's long-term vision uphold public trust and apply zoning laws fairly and transparently West 7th has injured planning and infrastructure injustices for too long. We should be investing in a walkable, livable neighborhood. Not a waste hauling hub. I urge you to grant this appeal, reject this ill-fitting industrial project and protect the future of our community. Make sure to Sidon. Coming Council members, thank you for letting us speak with you today. My name is Kelsey Peterson and I grew up and I'm proud to live in the West 7th neighborhood. We must recognize that West 7th itself is a small community and has closed on all sides. And by sect it down the middle by highways and
marked with industrial. Uses. And in the early 2, thousands was home to the only ethanol plant in the country. I live at the renovated old slippery which 1800 feet from the interstate. 35 e 930 feet from the four-lane highway known as Sheppard Road, 100 feet from Highway 5, also known as West 7th and 3,000 feet from Xcel. Energy's say Paul Power plant, which was coal-fired from 1923, 2008. And though it is cleaner burning natural gas now, air quality concerns associated with natural gas pipelines as we previously heard and gas combustion are very real. I understand that these decisions were made in a different time when equity was not a priority and pleasing politically powerful and often white. The upper Hudson
interest was more important. Now we're not living in that time and we should not make that same mistake. Today or neighborhood has hopeful stories. Thanks to the West 7th Fort Road Federation and our city partners contaminated land that was used by ExxonMobil to store fuel and oil in the background takes is now supporting housing, a school and a park. The say for proposed by fcc to dc Dispatch their 36 to 80 garbage trucks could serve the community too. And that's why they're a decade planning documents. That support a vision of mixed use. And over a dozen 2040, comprehensive plan policies that are in direct conflict to this facility. I urge you to find a more suitable site that is not in a neighborhood node. Thank you.
Thank you. Good afternoon. My name is Joe Landsberger Day. I developed the Highbridge Park and sculpture Garden. Dan. Same poll all my life. In my recent history of Saint Paul. I inscribed all the copies. Thank you for supporting the history of immigrants and volunteers of was 78. In 18 72 Cleveland envisioned a pair a system for the city of Saint Paul. Don't along a river In the 1950's Jarred Shepherd chief engineer of Saint Paul Department of Public Works destroyed. The West End neighborhoods to build a four-lane divided highway. Along or Promoting white flight, limiting access for residents to the river and destroying In 1960's little Italy was cleared and replaced
Kaplan's metal recycling. The 1970's saw a rise of neighborhood volunteers that pollen that valued our history and culture. Ruby had daughter of a Russian immigrant graduate from Monroe High School Champion District called so representation in our city. I have a whole list. And how about tears? Basically? Pose the city. As Ed adversary rather than part In the development of our neighborhood. We are again faced with a challenge to the cultural commercial residential and historic character. That immigrants and volunteers built. Garbage trucks will replace potential river housing destroyed by Shepard at all. I encourage you to support the federation in its vision for our river and tourist corridor. Critical
date recreational environment for city. Thank you so much. Thank you. Ad don't forget side. Good afternoon. My name is used. I live it to 5, 6 Goodrich Avenue in Saint Paul. The West 7th Street community. And 8 in the past PRESIDENT Of the west of Street Federation. I was COUNCILMAN David Foods, representative for the Great River Passage plan that was adopted in 2011. The Great River Passage, MISTER Plank clearly illustrates the aspiration for housing and community connections to the river through its guiding principles. They are to be more natural. To be more in to be more connected. The community's long-term goal has been to create a critical connection between the
Mississippi River in the on. Randolph Avenue. Continued and expanded industrial use is inconsistent with this goal. And our plants, which of not supported industrial use. Determination that fcc. Cng refueling station is simply a maintenance facility is incorrect. The Department Zoning and Planning and Economic Development and Public works have misrepresented the 2040 comprehensive plan. Facing their research. And with me up and not the text dependencies of the plan. We tried to work with planning and economic development. Public works in the Port Authority. To collaborate with the fcc and
the federation to find a more. Appropriate site in city for a swap before major dollars are invested. In the Randolph site. You know, city staff leaders. Came to the table to work this current prohibit compromise. You are a time. Feeling respect and the trust we thought we had with the city. This is a major boost. Our goal. Please support or appeal. Thank you. Thank you. I know it's hard to get everything into 2 minutes. I appreciate everyone's for parents with that. Welcome. Good afternoon. Thank you for allowing us to participate. My name is Laura Severson. I lve 3.76. Saint Clair Avenue. And I guess I have been
neighborhood person for 40 plus years. I kind of lost Rick after the number 40. Those years have included a number of leadership roles throughout community. The Keystone Community Center West 7th Federation. And that just barely mentions a few. It is really a terrible idea to consider a garbage waste on Randolph Avenue. And that's an exclamation point. In addition to impacting our neighborhood riverfront, we can expect a lot of increased truck noise, orders decreased new apartments and buildings and homes traffic trash traffic impacts are connecting between the Shepherd Road and West 7th. There aren't very many
connections to make there. And today our city buses, if I look at them when they are running down West 7th Street, they cannot stay within the skinny traffic lanes. They need to share it with whatever the next traffic lane Well, also have to share it with the fire trucks, emergency vehicles and delivery trucks. Parking is very difficult in some of the businesses because they don't have families. Well, if we add a number of very heavy trash trucks heading off to the local site. It's going to be just dreadful. Surely our elected city representatives can mandate remote truck. They pull to keep the West 7th neighborhood welcoming and growing. We really want to enhance or neighborhood. With
trees. Views of the river. Residential homes and apartments. When you are a time, not a truck. Trash truck dumping facility. Thank you. Thank you. Come up. Welcome. Voice activated overhead projector. well, I'm sure I live at 9, 5, 3 Schaeffer. And I'd like to use this testimony. Time to talk a little bit more about neighborhood context. It's important that we remember that this facility is. And within our community and we need to remember community assets. fcc site is less than a quarter mile from a major transit stop at Randolph and 7th and located within a neighborhood known. It's it's a mere 1200 feet from the river. One block from the Schmidt Brewery, Historic District, 1000 feet from our community clinic and 2 blocks
from a residential area. Bridgeview Schools, Saint Paul specialized public school that serves the leading learning needs of students developmental disabilities is one 3rd of mile from the site. The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation operates a clinic and sober living campus less than a quarter mile from the site. This meant artists lofts provide low-income housing for artists and support a highly diverse population. And it's 650 feet from the site. The site is 600 feet from the Sam Morgan Regional Trail and grand rounds connecting Crosby Farm Regional Park to downtown. Although a 7th is bound by the Mississippi River Sheppard Road, the rebel tracks and the Bluffs that act as a natural barrier. Randolph is whenever neighborhoods only access points to the river. And one of the few places that
we can cross Sheppard road. This has been a hostile area for pedestrians, cyclists and residents for many decades, allowing a trash facility to be constructed here simply harden, see industrial in hospital. Character of this site. I urge you to support the federation's appeal. Thank you for your time. Thank you very much. Might welcome. So gives you can hear me. Okay. My name is Naomi Blahnik and with a 2 to 3 Coburn Street in Saint Paul in my 7th. And I also urge you to. Denied the denial of the appeal, whatever you know, what I I would like to focus on how this determination similar uses fundamentally flawed and overlooks critical differences between the proposed use. Any typical
public works operation and want to focus on impacts. So as we've heard the traffic issue, the streets running the site are ill-equipped to handle this kind of increase heavy traffic and propose pose significant safety risks. And this is also the sole access point to the river, which will further certain disconnect us from the river. It is very shocking to me that this is the access point for a whole neighborhood basically to the river when we're so close to it. And in addition, environmental and health concerns, which I'm gonna get into. So. The differences between this and a public works operation. The scale and intensity is just so wild to me that we're even thinking these the same things. This I would start with a fleet of 30 plus trash trucks, notably with traffic occurring during rush hour commute times on our already stressed main roads,
but their sec is open about their plans to exceed increase capacity to up to 80 trucks. Greatly increasing impact. This far exceeds the scale and intensity of a public works separation and this really exceeds our own communities needs. So as a private enterprise, they plan, you know, all this future expansion. So our neighborhood will have greater impacts from the truck taffic noise, increased pollution, potential, and we will bear the costs of this private companies, commercial revenue expansion, not just for serving our direct community. That is not the same as a public works facility that will serve our community directly. In addition, the zoning in consistencies that you've heard about and the repeated failures and public
engagement, it's just anybody who is paying attention. Te slightest bit to this process can see that this is not how it's supposed to go and that shouldn't be glossed over with a sorry should be rectified. That would be the first step towards fixing the damage trust between our neighborhood in the city. And we deserve that. Thank you. Thank you very much. Don't forget to sign welcome. Coming up. My name is Tony, back in it. In Saint Pul for over, 25 years of owning a sense Victoria and the West and for since 2004. They've been on the floor Road Federation for 6 years. You to express my deep disappointment in the city's decision to retain the light industrial zoning and the determination of similar is for the fcc. Operations at 5.60, Randolph. These actions are in direct conflict with the hostess city commitments for the area's future development. Also disappointed in the
improper handling of the determination o similar used appeal earlier this year where documents presented from the community were not properly shared with the planning Commission prior to the vote and word documents and maps that were shared on the federation's behalf are misleading if not outright manipulative. In addition, I do not believe the facility is appropriate to the zoning. As regular, heavy trash truck traffic and a breeze and compressed natural gas operations, create environmental impacts, not expected in the zoning Tate. The similar used comp was insufficiently similar and the public works facility in fcc operations. Are superficially similar best. Same part in talks to prioritizing housing during election cycles as a
subsidy supported housing, professional. This is important to me. But in my 2 decades here, the follow through has been lacking. Seeing the effects of low housing supply and gentrification and our community. It's frustrating that we've missed out on future development opportunities, especially among this important corridor between the river and ws 7. We were supposed to have bypass and put a strain access. I believe this decision to allow operations here has changed our community's identity, unlimited or development options for generations to come to anyone carefully considering the prospect of this operation at this location and take into account the interests of the residents and intentions that late in the 2040 comprehensive plan among other city commitments. It should be obvious how this
decision with the real prime growth opportunity for housing commercial space in green areas. The west end already shouldered enough of the burden of industrial and light industrial spaces along riverfront. In addition, the years of deferred care for streets, sidewalks and trees and anticipation of the now canceled Riverview Corridor project new at the time. I want to trust the city and their process that this decision does not reflect the 24 you comprehensive plan values were great city, but the council needs to do what it says. It will do it on it when it when the process racers flawed and fix, please fix it. Thank you. Welcome. Hello. My name is a time. I have a quick question. I submitted written testimony but I don't I would prefer just to speak today. If that's okay, you're totally welcome to speak. And it's a great reminder that all the written
testimony that was submitted is also in front of us. And we are able to view that the So again, my name is Elaine. I live at 9, 7, Randolph. I think I have a slightly different perspective than my neighbors here today and that I am. Then you are a resident the neighborhood. I was born in Minnesota. I moved back about a year half year and a half ago. My dad got and I began shopping for a home in the area areas my friends and family said, why don't live in West Saint Paul or a suburban pay less taxes? But I was really drawn to Saint Paul and West 7th in particular because of its ability the river access for
commuting because I work at the Saint Paul Airport and I have multiple route home, including Sheppard road to Randolph, which passes 5.60, Randolph. I do not believe that the planning Commission is correct in their assessment. This is not similar views. There will be far greater use the roadways. Traffic and it could put it present danger to pedestrian traffic in that area. That stretch of Randolph is a main thoroughfare for me on my bike. When I'm walking when I'm running. Ad when I'm driving to and from work and actually my introduction to the federation was at a neighborhood meeting recently when I said, hey, when are you gonna get a sidewalk? The 7th in shepherd route. And I found out that plans for that stretch of street, we're going to be much have a much
more negative impact. And that commute and issues. So I disagree with the U.S. And use. I think the volume of traffic is too large. And I think it contradicts the plans at that neighborhood has had longstanding plans for that area that I support. And for the federation's appeal, thank you for your time. Thank Good afternoon. Council PRESIDENT Council members, I'm clean o'Connor in the land use and planning Directorate friends in the Mississippi River here to support this appeal. This proposed project along with the rezoning of 10 River Park Plaza. That was also on your agenda today. But this play the same pattern, which is the city's just regard for your own plans. That guy's specific Mississippi riverfront sites to be redeveloped as mixed use people oriented and walkable. Instead, the city is recommending industrial
development that perpetuates environmental injustice in this respect hours that residents gave to developing these plants, the determination of similar use is not compatible with a comprehensive plan which designates the site is a neighborhood node and calls for compact walkable development. The plan also calls for improved connections between neighborhoods in the Mississippi River and industrial development would conflict with that goal. One established plans that are official, Dan did to the 2040 plan, including the Great River Passage plan. Also clearly state intentions for the specific site to be redeveloped differently. The Waterford Bay Redevelopment at the former island station, Parkland site already represents a broken commitment to this neighborhood. The city did not carry out the great for passage plan, a vision for
that site either and in fact, failed to secure even the minimal public parkland on that safe, that we were told what? Now the neighborhood is being asked to give up on yet another documented opportunity for more accessible and public oriented. Riverfront. When though that stop, when will these plans be respected? I also disagree that the proposed use is similar to a public works yard public works. Director said it through transparent accountable. Public process is all for public benefit. But fcc is a private multinational corporation whose primary directive profit. Fcc should not be given the same level of consideration that a public facility Thank you. Them. Thank you, Lynn Hartman, thank you. Chair Noecker in the City Council. I'm here to represent personally the Sam Morgan Regional Trail. And I'm reading a very brief passage
from our own Saint Paul Dot Gov website. Stating the Sam Morgan Regional Trail follows Shepard Warner Road along the east side of the Mississippi River from Crosby from Regional Park, 2 Indian Mounds, regional park wlkers, runners and bikers will enjoy it. Beautiful vews of the Mississippi River, the downtown skyline, the Cathedral High Bridge and more along this approximately 9 mile on paved path. Myself and hundreds of other people. Thousands of people enjoy this quiet, beautiful walk along the Mississippi River. There is nothing along it. Begins to compare to a garbage truck.
Large facility. And that would completely which would be right in te middle of this trail. I think it's I see families of workers, food. Why choose? Inter generational. Multi ethnic. It's exactly what we hoped. Saint Paul, to be. So I hope that you will rethink. Allowing this facility along it. Thank you. Thank you. Well, coming up, thank you for having m. And Julia McCauley, executive director at lesson for a federation. I'm the vet. 75 pattern afternoon in 7th and the determination that fcc. Fcc's proposed facility is similar in character to public works yard is flied. Public parks yard served the community fcc, although serving the community initially. As a private for profit profit business that will increase industry traffic in my 7th. Well pursue the expansion beyond its part-time
tracked. This facility will bring noise, pollution and safety hazards to residents and business is burdening our neighborhood for years. Zoning defines light industrial use as operations that do not negatively impact surrounding districts. Fcc's plans will do exactly that affecting homes, businesses, a historic district in the Mississippi River. The facility should be classified as general industrial. I to requiring stricter zoning review. My question staff evaluate all potential comparable uses only those that fit. I owning additionally the planned cng station poses significant noise and environmental concerns. Similar facilities like the u of m Southeast Implant have John persistent noise. Complaints from nearby
neighbors. Generators are classified, billy induce activity and are in Minnesota administrative role proper classification matters. Public works facilities followed different regulations and potentially a high-pressure cng operations which functions more like a manufacturing site. Finally, the site represents a missed opportunity for higher value development. A mixed use project with housing and commercial space would generate far more tax revenue while strengthening our community approving fcc's proposal in trenches industrial use for closing future redevelopment along this keep This is not just about was 7. It's about upholding zoning, integrity and long-term city planning. They are due to grant the appeal and reject the misclassification of fcc's
facility. Welcome. Coming up. The mill your face, they around here again. Stay 26 Irvine Park. And for 20 years that represented particular neighborhood. On the City Council. Just out of the real quick and dirty. The reason that this should should the appeal should be granted is the determination of similar use totally flawed. If you cmpare this to tail street shops, which assume is what this was modeled after there. You've got, you know, dozens 5000's, some large vehicles, all clearly kept. And I got drive. Thundering herd for every snowfall. 3 times a year. This is going to be something that
happens every single day. 40. But Ashley, to 80 trucks will be rumbling in and out of there on on a major U.S. Neighborhood thoroughfare residential, a pedestrian in a river corridor tat's protected if. If this is that kind of city w want to live and work here. The participation district planning plans for riverfront. Pope plans. He's totally disregarded every time somebody gets a seven-year contract to haul garbage. In the city of Saint Paul, tossed out the window. Not a good thing. Not a good thing for the for fcc to start out on the pad. Wrong foot as they start the beginning of their contract. By the way, as long we're talking about the deal straight shots. just 3 points activated,
protect or activate. And they're going to do this. But I was there. We are quite enough of those to to pass out to everybody. Just blocks from La Dale Street shops, there are 2 sites both owned by the that are large large enough and in an industrial area far away from residential. Fire away from national parks and trails. And are a time. Feels he's got a wonder if you've gone there for snow emergencies, it's awesome. Hard-working, wonderful people driving these immense wonderful trucks to clean my street. One of these quake. It's a good Thank But this. For this community which for years shown visioning and driven community towards success. So turn back on Israeli mistake. Plus, we need
the housing. Thank you. So thank you very much. Possible to cut you thank Tank you. Thank you. I I do one left. Good afternoon and thank you for this opportunity to PRESIDENT In a career. I'm going to try and cool something wrote to the Federation for Real Federation and Fortunately, don't have a copy with it. Is about this whole process where. You wanted to find where the MISS Connect disconnect happened. And this whole operation, how did this site? Shows I did spend some time at the old Highbridge power plant. We've following time from there. I graduated 2 nuclear power. And while issue, although that 46 years ago in 1979, 3 Mile Island accident happened. This is where I made to the heart
of mine. When something happens, a nuclear power plants. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission says take a look at all of your procedures. What are you doing to prevent x, y z from happening at your Plant? Okay. A disconnect somehow in the words I've heard today. Is that there's been a dsconnect in how piece of property got. Zoned rezoned looked at or approved. However, you want to put it. To be used at trash site. Owner says the trucks are going to be clean. I don't think so. They'll be totally clean because all you have to do is go to the paper industry. All right. Yeah. You never see. I can't. Its cross
tree. The Waldorf. Paper is paper all over the place. And I can say that's going happen here, but has potential. Present maker. What I think the city has to do is take a look your procedures on how you do things to his own rezone approved that sort thing to prevent this from happening in the fture. Thank you. I thank you for your time. And before you before you step down, I know your name, but for the record which you might your name and where you live. 3, a fight over street. Very close to site. And Bob, Roland. Happy Saint Patrick's Today, my name Hartman. I celebrate Saint Patrick's Week
here in Emerald City. And I'm very grateful for this opportunity address this AUGUST body here. I definitely support the appeal here. I sure would hate to see the beautiful, vibrant neighborhood West 7th become a garbage dump. Area. I also agree that all of those trucks going up and down. Randolph, going to do any of us any good. They're gonna wreck Randolph. They're going to lead to a lot of congestion. Course, a going into Highland Park macro all the other businesses. And so I just want to say, I very much appreciate the people who put together this appeal. And I also want to let them know there's a lot of issues here in Saint Paul and we got another one here get some signatures on a petition because we need to
stick to the issue at hand. This probably do need to stick to the issue on the agenda. Yeah, this is this is this is example of exhibit a why we need this petition and we need to put this to a vote. Know really good intentions here, but obviously the processes do get flied mistakes are Can we put this on camera? You can find us at Saint Paul's spotlight dot com have to we've to titian sign-ups or you can go to the calendar. You can find him. We have a few days left and we really appreciate all of have been you to stop speaking about something that's not on Well, actually, it is on the subject. He should show this proceeding shows us why we at time and thank you very Thank you very much. We have cards here. Thank you very my that
welcome. Thank you. Just missed recruiting the Thank you. Council John Purdy Ward to Saint Paul on the West Side. I just picture 1000 words. If you don't mind, I'd like to put the activated project or activity. side. It was this year. Is asoft? Yes, okay. I some comments. All refuse that's generated. Ramsey County stated must all. To the Rams Washington County rescues right here under 6 under under the 4.94. It's right across from Saint Paul. What tried to explain was that refuse from 6. Has to go here. Refugees
from every war has to go here. Now we have word 6 awards, 7 having to go there. A straight shot. I was 61 and they're doubt and they go back to the war to get more reference. But this. Acc program. Those trucks at night have to. So if you want to see run green dot. Now, that's halfway across town through neighborhoods. Why they have to do that because just 30 people. They have to get refueled. Properties for sale right here. The former go steel flat and they have several parcels. Those are available for sale. All that needs to happen is somebody like the city recognizing. Even from or 5 in
Ward. One. You stand to gain from having a destination filling station right at the Ramsey County tipping stage. It avoids many, many Ted had miles Cuba smiles which all cost money, fuel and time of the drive. But doing locating at this location where there are. You are a time just available. You save the taxpayers and you get rid of the problems that these people are talking about. Thank thank you very much. name is Brent. Here's a look at 4.47. Saint Clair will be going there to finish later. Kind of got a problem with the planning Commission. What you're doing with acting like what calls an iceberg in the world. United States is full of college. They've got
cold bodies that develop this stuff. So for them to come to a conclusion as to how to classify it without going to their peers in the industry, a change just. It seems like something's wrong. You belong going to other municipalities. Other states here. You've got this problem is what we're not. The only ones were not an iceberg here. So they said don't send of done due diligence is trying to classify this correctly. Those trucks all have trash. We all know in the summertime a stink. You've got make it. You've got flies and they're going even if they're trying to get jobs are certain stuff. They can't control truck sprayed on to get brought that fall to be maintained and fair to put back on the list things happen. So I think that trash on the health and safety of that launch should stop Be
that should be put on a residential there. But I think that's really flawed. Really where this comes from it. It's a shame. It seems like. Everybody, whether this is coming from the mayor's office where it's coming from, I'm not sure. But it seems like fcc was led led lower the cost for the Saint Paul residents in the same fault West End neighborhood would be the sacrificial lamb cut those costs for them. So it seems like a misleading Hochul thing is Raw because hurts them as well. The statement, well, that's not appropriate residential neighborhood. It doesn't meet the comprehensive plan for what we're trying to do, a foot bicycle lanes in. They can always have a stranded people to enjoy the new roads. Better. And then you want to throw this in the middle. And there is a lot of coverage of week. Just a collection system along Saint Clair along the picking up garbage regularly.
So it's even if they do a good job of trying. It's gonna happen, ok? It needs go someplace else. And I think the cty has an obligation to try help them find somewhere else to There's reasons for that. The order along and in the health concerns should stop fish. It's not a public works building. It's misclassified its not the same public use to bring that trash trucks. Trucks for the public works. They MAY have a couple trash trucks in inventory. All right. Time, Sir. Okay, thank you for your time. And too. Coming up in a minute, take that opportunity. Just to one last call. There's anyone else here who wishes to testify on this item, if you would mind getting in line just so we can have and a final call for folks. my name is all o lit 1, 7, 2, West Forbes evident right off West 7th. At unlike the previous speaker, I'm also new
to the neighborhood group to Paul and moved back here a couple years ago. And when I was looking for a house to buy, was immediately drawn the West 7th party from my experience is When I was younger. Kind of think about it. There were 2 key things that I was really attracted to. One is the strong neighborhood character of that, which was immediately apparent to me the historic nature of it and the everything about it that. You know, the history of Fort The old buildings the oldest part of Saint Paul. And then definitely that the connection to the river and the the natural areas around there. So those reasons why I really wanted to live in West 7th and why value it and having this fcc site. Really violates all
3 of those I feel is fcc development plan is inconsistent with those 3 strong values. I guess the only other thing think about is just Once moves West 7th and start educating myself about the neighborhood. I really got kind of excited about some of the plans that were going on both what the city. Has put in place over the last decades. A lot of which I'm learning hasn't been realized, but also the various plans for for West 7th itself and for improving. The ease of access and the just the ability to use our neighborhood. And there again, this sec plan violates those plans and that content. So for all those reasons, hope you all support this appeal the decision. Thank you. Good afternoon. PRESIDENT
Nick and members of the Council. My name is Diane Girth a long-term resident of the West 7th neighborhood I in the past PRESIDENT Of the federation. I'm currently on the board of directors and past PRESIDENT Of Keystone Community Services. I served for 10 years on the city's capital Improvement Budget Committee and was part of the group that helped draft many of the plans that have been mentioned today been around a while. I'm a lawyer by trade and I'm here to talk about due process. As you know, the planning Commission made its determination without a full record before it was a unanimous decision that upheld a very close to termination of the zoning committee. But it
did so without the benefit of 19 written pieces of testimony. The stonewalling of the staff today, which, you know, as an attorney, I can certainly appreciate. When Councilmember Kim asked or was it asked about what happened? She was seeking facts and they were told it was a legal question. Well, it kind of so it should give you pause. The materials from the District Council. The actual appellant here were not made available to the planning Commission. And I think that's really, really important thing to remember. Because of the incomplete record before the planning Commission. Their decision and the way that it
carries here should be revisit it. When a government decision maker has been has been government decision has been made based on flawed evidence or an incomplete record. The remedy is to send it back to them to do it right. And that is at the very least what you should do rather than making your staff have dodge qutions about what happened because moving forward, you do so at your peril. It needs to go back to the planning commission and they need the opportunity to consider all of this and to do it right. Thank Thank you. Our last testify are welcome. No pressure. Yes, you can just put it right there on
the Voice activated project. Council members. Thank you. I'm Kim hires and a 22 year resident of District 2 0st 7 years downtown in a 15 years on Saint Clair, bridge near West 7th wouldn't want talked about today is in addition to the letter I sent. You know, you're taking a property. That is, of course, is I'm sure many people have said it's right by month for its right by the bike path. That's right by the dog Park my question is, how do you justify the tax comparison when you look at the revenue per acre on this property as an industrial site which is based on 2024 tax records it can go up a little bit, but maybe not. Right. 22,000 per acre is the tax revenue that that is on that property right now. If you look at much smaller
properties, the 7.50, although the Victoria, if you look at 400 Spring Street, right, downtown, they are generating look at this 100 times more. This is no doubt a great case study for somebody in the future. How do how d you justify that? I want to ask you will. Do you intend to raise all of your 100 x to cover us and our neighborhood in the potential loss of what you are giving away. It by putting an industrial site in the middle of a developing residential. Revitalization. I just don't get it. Really, really would like better answers yeah, I think I haven't say. I think you all said that. And thank you so much that. There is no more public testimony to come before us.
It looks like so I'm gonna move to close the public hearing all in favor say Aye. All opposed. 5 in favor. None oppose public hearing is closed. So I want to start by thanking everyone very much for coming out today for your testimony for your time for your thoughts on this. And we've had a really robust conversation here today and there were a lot of really complicated issues that were raised in the testimony but the question before us is actually a fairly simple one. It is not whether or not we agree with this proposed use its that whether or not we think that this is the location that the site should go. The question before us is really straightforward. And it is a legal question. And the question is, did the planning Commission air, in fact, finding or procedure. Regardless of what else we
think about this particular use. I've reviewed the record. I have watched the entirety of the planning Commission meeting listen to the testimony presented here today as well as the testimony received in advance. And I believe there are 3 separate errors that justify granting the appeal today. The first there's an error. In fact. Finding number one is that the use sb similar character to one or more of the principal use is permitted. The comparison public works yard fails to take into account one crucial point which was raised here today. But the significant difference in daily traffic generated between the proposed use of this facility and the average daily traffic near a public works yard. Fcc's uses estimated to generate a minimum of 150 vehicle trips
per day. 36 of those being trash trucks and there was no discussion of no evidence presented to show that a public works yard experiences. Anything close to that level of daily traffic volumes. Instead, the discussion of the planning Commission centered on the distinction between a public a private corporation, which is completely irrelevant while omitting discussions of the critical differences in traffic that they one use very dissimilar to another. Fcc argued in their written statements in front of us that this use is comparable with other permitted uses in the district such as bus or taxi parking. But the impact of garbage trucks is significantly different than that. Buses, our taxes by nature of the type of cargo, the hall, the noise and smells. They met and the fact the garbage trucks are order
of magnitude heavier investors, taxes or the service vehicles that come in and out of a public works yard on a regular basis. The impact on pedestrians, cyclists and our roadways are simply different with garbage trucks other lighter vehicles. Ad again, this fact was not discussed during the planning Commission. And I believe that that is an error, in fact, to have that significant part of the difference omitted. The error in finding relates to finding number 4, which is that the use is consistent with the comprehensive plan. Many testifiers today talked about the addenda to the comprehensive plan. The Planning Commission was advised by the city attorney's office that those addenda should be disregarded and that the bulk, the body of the comprehensive plan should b, what does look to if there's any contradiction and of the agenda? Even if you accept that logic and only look at the body of the text and the
comprehensive plan. You can't ignore the fact that that body of the comprehensive plan designates 5.60, band office part of the Randolph West, 7th Schmidt neighborhood note and discussion of this area as part of a neighborhood know it was entirely lacking during the planning Commission discussion. That designation is critical for determining whether the use is consistent with the conference of plan. Several land use policies related to neighborhood notes directly conflict with the idea of a large-scale garbage refilling facility land use policy. 30 talks about prioritizing pedestrian-friendly, urban design and infrastructure that emphasizes pedestrian safety. It talks about clustering neighborhood amenities to create a vibrant, critical mass land use policy. 31 calls for neighborhood knows to achieve development that enables people to meet their
daily needs within walking distance and improves equitable access to amenities, retail and services, policy 32 talks about enhancing open space near neighborhood notes such as public parks publicly accessible, private, open spaces and school playgrounds and land use policy. 30 talks about promoting amenities that support those who live and work in neighborhood nodes such as frequent transit service, vibrant business districts, a range of housing choices and neighborhood scale civic and institutional uses such as schools, libraries and recreation facilities. The emphasis is clearly on walkability pedestrian sfety and neighborhood scale amenities. None of which is compatible with the regional trash truck refueling facility and finally, the air and procedure which was referenced here today. I actually think that the errors, in fact, and finding relate directly to
this air and procedure because watching the planning Commission conversation, it was lacking much of the context we heard here today because 19 of 27 letters are 70% of the testimony submitted to the planning Commission was not included in the problem. Commission members packets, including. West of a floor vote federations opening statement to the Zoning Committee which lays out the main argument for their appeal, which we heard today. That mission was admitted by staff to be an error that should not have happened. Recording of the Planning Commission meeting makes clear the commissioners did not have access to this information. In fact, that was specific question from Commissioner Thomas about whether this development would preclude future residential use. And that was a topic mentioned specifically in the letters. So it's clear that that record
was not accessed by the planning Commission member. So even if there were these oher findings, errors and finding and fact, I believe this Aaron procedure is enough to disqualify the Planning Commission's decision and grant the appeals. So I'm going to move approval of the appeal. And I welcome my colleagues comments. Council PRESIDENT. I am in agreement with all the points that you need it. So it will also be pending the appeal. I also just want to generally like all of us and said was that there wasn't a proper response to the question that the first question they asked, which was why wearing all of the written testimonies provided to the commission. And I we'll be very frank that, yes, I understand that we as council
members have received a lot information materials. The on the agenda item, all of the attachments that are there for us to reveal. We've had we've met wth staff, received additional documents to, it clearly does not cover why those testimonies are messy. To me, that is really problematic. It would be remiss of me if I didn't mention that and I I would bring this up for, I would bring this up for any other issue just as I am bringing it right now for this item on the appeal to. And so to me, it's really important that we are we are improving our process, making sure that whether you are on the end where you are submitting the testimony for an issue or you are the one
receiving at responsible for bringing it atach it to the public record giving it to whatever commission entity it is that is moving at that. That does happen. And so I hope that we did not have a repeat of the second. Thanks, Any other discussion of the motion? All right. Seeing none. I will call for a vote. All in favor say Aye. I opposed. I'm in favor. None opposed the motion of intent is to grant the appeal. With a slate of hearing consent agenda items. 28 through 70 or before you for your consideration. At Mormont? Well. Good afternoon council PRESIDENT Council members. I would just stress that Polk I
can from whatever yeah, try to put it back to its original location. I think it's the right one that's working in I did my best. I request that the first item to be read into the record, a son number 29. We have a test for by phone. Item number, 29 is our Ali age sale. 25 Dash 17 appeal of Hsien Yang to a vehicle abatement order at 7, 2, 4 Case Avenue. Council, PRESIDENT Council This is an appeal of a vehicle abatement order at this property. And we have 4 vehicles. question, we have 3 cars a trailer. I would like to show you. Photo of a some of that.
And here we go screen. So these are some of the vehicles that were talking about. And we'll also bring up for you and aerial of this property here. First, this one. This is an aerial 20 or 2011. Excuse me. And here is 7.24. And we see again in this 3 vehicles parked here. There is parking surface in this area. But this area upon further examination looking at it another years is grass. So I I understand from the testimony received now this area has been. Converted with gravel in some places, but it has a lot to visit in the gravel is quite cold. So when that happens, it's sufficiently degraded that we would say it's no longer illegal parking surface.
2 of the vehicles. Have tab slight one from 2010 1 from 2011. So those are not rent does appear that the vehicles are inoperable. In addition to being on the surface, the other vehicle has have Saturday did in 2024. Again, appearing in a purple and different surfaces in trailer as well with no plates. so we have the situation. And the the part of the safety of inspections Werder just that the Vehicles, the we moved from that location. But I FEBRUARY 24. So the order was issued in FEBRUARY 18th and the deadline is FEBRUARY 20th. The appeal was filed. My recommendation is that a little bit of an extension is
granted APRIL 14th. We spent a fair bit of time in the legislative hearing on this particular question, which is. How science to cheat one way to achieve compliance is to remove the vehicles from that area on the property where there is no a lot of parking the other way to achieve compliance is to get approval to use that various parking it put the appropriate legal surface in place. Approval would be going to the Department Safety and inspections filing a site plan getting it approved going forward. I wasn't giving advice in the hearing about whether, yes, I would require a permit application in this case but would definitely need to be brought forward. So there's a time period for
which that could occur. Does seem to fair. Standing problem. Thanks so much. As women. Any questions for MISS Harman for public hearing? Seeing none. We will go to the phones for our testimony. And Yang on the line. Danielle you will have 2 minutes to testify. Please press star 6 to unmute yourself. Thank you. We are not hearing yet. So you MAY need to press star 6 again. Hello. We can hear Okay. I'm actually chain. And Ihave a friend not wealthy making behalf off me. So all and should now. And are, you know, just that the fire himself. Okay. Kapa members. Yeah. My name Khan lying. African
for and Yang. My my question, my concern is that they never received a letter of correction like I, example, that if something wrong, they have to notify owner of the property owner what they were going to do they never done that. That on the appeal I'm gonna have to at the city for. What they paid new their protocol because I seen in the past where if something, a parking area, they should have notified the owner say that, you know, you can't park there anymore. You have to, you know, think that maintenance that the owner of the property know what there they have to do in order park vehicles. They just jump to conclusion and they just totally just. It is on their without the owner,
even knowing about the property. Know what to do about the property or to do about the main area about the grab stuff like that live there like 30 yars and you never have this problem until now. So. got a awful Well, it's not just Are they even? You me. We can hear you. Okay. Yeah. Sorry about that. First time on testifying. The only concern I have is that I want to if I was the of told to off. Have make the Write a letter. What we need to so we can correct this problem and said I'll just tell us to moving vehicles I want them to send a
letter and give us more time. Good day to not follow the procedures. So all you are at times. So can you just wrap up? Yeah. And that that that's I'm asking for for the console, too. I'm happy for appeal for the council to have notify what we need to do about the property about the parking situation writing in Florida, just jump into composing publicly moving vehicle. Then. ok, they want do. Tank you so much, sir. And and we just need more time. Okay. We're going to take a motion of missing to close the public hearing and we will discuss. Thank you for testimony all in favor of closing the public hearing say Aye, aye opposed. 5 in favor. None opposed to public hearings closed that Thank yu. I do first want to say thank you so much to testifiers here with I have questions for you, Marcia,
that I'm going to ask. I see photos here of the property. And you mentioned there was a trailer that up that was illegally parked. So looks like a boat I just want share with at the right vehicle that you are, too. So it's the one if we can pull up the photo that cause the to see the one kind the note in the abatement order itself is unknown boats last radar. Okay. So and I will see that I can do. Yet the photo that's labeled 3 dash 5 dash 24. That's the one I'm looking at. Deed the first photo here if go on camera, the the boat trailer. Situation is happening here inside the 4 foot fence area
squarely in the. And the vehicles, other vehicles on the other side of the fence, poles are illegally part. Thanks. Excuse me. The other vehicles that we see, those are legally parked, correct? Okay. And right now there is Duffy being imposed on the owners. It's just they either have to move the the boat basically or they can go to the officials city process to be able to legally parked vehicle there. That's what I'm understanding from. You. Yes, if you will permit what's in front of you is a vehicle abatement we could also call it of the vehicle nuisance abatement order and what its purpose is to inform the owner responsible Party that there is a nuisance here. It is considered a nuisance to have and abandoned vehicle which this would meet. These would meet the definitions of
abandoned vehicles on property because of the lack of tabs and they killed repair. In addition, they're parked on and and improve service. All of them. So its saying either you remove those vehicles. Or the city will remove the vehicles and charge you for it. If you want to avoid that. Then you can go about the process of correcting the surface, getting licensing tabs, getting the cars repaired and so o. But this strict issue here that we're talking about the nuisance itself. Pathway Forward is something that the owner would carve according to their own interests and financing and someone they MAY want one parking spot that they want. 3, we are in the business of dictating it simply outlining
it's a violation. Ok, great. I appreciate explaining that. And that's just my confirmation. Like the word. Those also explain to the property owner as well. Yes, okay. And then that they mentioned that they never receive notification about that about the debate in order. Can you just provide general info on when they did we see if and when they did receive those, of course. It's just and I will. Most likely. What I have screen for you is the order that was issued by the Department of Safety inspections on FEBRUARY 18th. This is the official notice that the vehicles not legally parked. It notes here the reasons d and e and there's the reference section for what
those letters stand for. This is actually this notice is actually attached to the appeal. It was brought in by the talent and that's attached to the appeal which you are considering right now. So I would say that it's definitely been provided to the owner if they're appealing it. ok, thank you. I appreciate that. Just wanted to provide context that I feel that the questions that was not only for us, also for the testifier to on that. They were on the same page here. I do think that we're in good situation. I would say where there are pathways forward if they want to continue being able to park vehicle there, if not, then they can move it or else have the city move it for them for a fee.
But I it sounded like they were wanting more time, which I'm hearing from. You are sure that you do have a recommended are ready, which does provide them more time to be would make a decision. And I would urge the testifier that if they wanted to go the city official passed, says that getting be able to park legally, they're part of a legally there that they communicate with you about it. And I would be very willing to extended the date for that. If that's the route that they choose to go down and also the last thing you want to mention, too, is sometimes they do hear from residents. He had been able to do this for many years and complaints about it. We do have a complaint basis systems also, if somebody a neighbor, somebody who sees something you're doing is is in violation city code or they just decide they want to make
a complaint about it. They can do that. And that's usually when those notices go out. So I'm not surprised to hear that from the property owner and their advocate today. It's very common. And I just wanted to name that. So with all the things that I said today, I will be. Approving the motion. Great. Thank you so your thoughtful reasoning there. It sounds like there's a motion to approve. They recognition which officer, any discussion of that mission. Seeing none all favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed 5 in favor, not oppose. The resolution is adopted. Item 31 sorry. You haven't actually. 51. Is that the next? Yes, okay. Item. 31 really Phoebe are 25 dash 12. Feel of Ozzy's Iran oig Holdings, llc to a vacant
building registration requirement at 6, 5, 8 Conley Street. That moment. Council PRESIDENT, I would first like to confirm with MISS Naylor on the phone line that we do have the trust fire online for a covid staff report Taylor, can you confirm that? We have our testify on the phone for number. 31. Thank you. The Testifier is not online. I will withhold my staff report. I am not asking for any amendments or continued public hearing. What item is next for us? My understanding is that. Owners number 36. Sorry, because we pull that off. We didn't. It just right time and a motion to approve recommendation of the legislative hearing. Officer, thank you. Sorry that step at
discussion on the motion. here say post. Favorite opposed. The resolution is adopted. He said item, 36. Item 36 is our latest. He a 25 dash 26 ratifying the Appeal Tax Special Tax Assessment for property at nightfall, Fry Street. I was in the like to request. Is neither confirm that we have the test for on the line. The thing I can confirm that we have someone waiting to testify. 36? Yes. Unfortunately, MISTER Crowley was online and he hung up. My apologies. I will take a motion from those shows to approve recommendation of legislative hearing. Officer, any discussion. All in favor say Aye. I'll post 5 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted. Item number. 52. Item number. 52 is our leach
ph. 25 dash 95 ratifying the appealed Special tax assessment for property at 3 to 7 Maple Street. As for that, I would make the same request in this case. And the owner, MISTER Krieger did sign up to testify by phone that he indicated staff he would be coming inside. Just don't he's he's not PRESIDENT. Now. Do we have so much to testify? Number, 52. We did not. Thank you. So with that story. reaction of the him, sir, in the motion. Any discussion at all in favor say Aye. I'll post. 5 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted. Item number, 53 item number. 53. Zara Leach ph. 25 dash 86 ratifying the Feld Special Tax Assessment for property at 10. 33 Maryland Avenue East. It's far
MAY I ask same questions at time Taylor, do we have someone to testify? Number 53. That person is here. MR. in front of you today for 10 33 Maryland Avenue East isn't appealed. Special tax assessment for a vacant building registration fee. The vacant building registration fee covers the time period of MAY. Second of 2024, through MAY second of 2025. That puts us basically. Excuse me at this juncture 10 and a half months 2, the time period for which the he covers. You did hear an appeal and I'll refresh your memories last year. And that was on the vacant building registration itself. And in that case, you did deny the apeal. I would
note that this was a situation where the Department of Safety inspections issued a three-month waiver as they should. If someone registers and there has been a fire in the property and there is automatically three-month waiver. The department grant to the second 3 months waiver, or excuse me, they did not grant a second three-month application was made. So in a previous case, they did I did. It would debate a difference now because 6 months is definitely shorter than the time period you're looking at for this bill of 10 and a half months. Has indicated 2 main things in the hearing. One is that insurance. Covering the fire will not cover the vacant
building fee. The other thing was she does not believe that this should be in the vacant building program at all. That is a putative fee for her and therefore does not want to hey at this is a case where we have. From its relatively recently polled and just mid DECEMBER, there was a building permit pulled. There's been a rough and inspection. JANUARY, an electrical permit was polled. There's been a rough and inspection and then feb late. At the end of JANUARY, there was support permit pulled for plumbing. So we have progress being made. My summary of that is that I think it is very likely given the progress that's being made on the permits that there will be not know forthcoming. Another year in the vacant building program that this would be the end of progress continues. Field. Any questions you have on this one? It's it's it's hard when
there's fires and trauma. Thanks much any questions from his mind. Came to see Just one question. I was having it sit. Can share whether it's common at all for insurance company to not cover the vacant building registration fee. Could I comment on them? Not doing that like it is that common and what you see with cases like this or do uually covered? Yeah, expect, okay. Expect and it has to do mostly with the insurance company listening to what the situation is with the vacant building registration. It's not something that a lot of cities have, do especially cities the size of Saint Paul, but they could building program that's been in place for a long time. So. They might say maybe selectively. They have people on the phone lines and as a representative who don't look
into this kind of it would be similar to a boarding. See if your business has been broken into and you've got $2000 for board. Could it be submitted? Yes. Would you want to pit yourself? It's within that Dr Bully. Want to do it that some people do some people don't. of their questions. So we'll go to our test fire, the phone, the seller. This council PRESIDENT, I have Giovanna McCoy by rubber on the line. This bar where you will have 2 minutes to testify. Please. Press star 6 till unmute yourself. Thank you. Thank you for you. And you 30 He really can get. Ok, good so first, I'like to say that are how will be completed next week next week. We are
supposed to move back in, but we have our final inspections next week. Then secondly, I'd like to say that I understand that they can building the is there for people who aren't planning on doing anything with the property. But I've done everything that I needed to do in my property. The city has not provided me with any additional services. They haven't heart anything away from me. They haven't fixed anything for me. Anything that the city is giving me I pay for with permits within coming out and stuff like that. And then the next thing is is my insurance is not covering I can't afford it. I just can't. For 30 day period that got expelled $1400. Still going to kind of like find that before.
I mean, it is I can't don't make enough money to continue to. Know that. And the I do pay or our boarding fee. I paid a that a couple weeks ago because I understand that it came out and did something for but it's far that they can build city and done nothing. Nothing. They haven't picked any address from out my grass and assembled by know, they've done nothing I've had people break into mount tried to go for help several times and that never work. The first time I was told that Miles, would bacon, though it was nothing police could do. And 2 weeks ago, I want to go dropout carpet and thank both them. It broke my car. It's still my baby. It and the poli there's nothing they can do
it. I don't feel like Don't anything for me for me to give them now. $2600. Thank you so much. You are exactly a time. Appreciate your testimony. We're going to close the public hearing and then we'll discuss what you shared with us. So take a motion from MISS Yang to close the public hearing all in favor say Aye. I all post 5 in favor. None opposed. The public hearing is closed. Thanks, council PRESIDENT Todd that first off, I want to thank you to the property owner for coming testify. And looking at the photos of your home and the damage that was done to it from the fire. And it is so devastating. So really feel for you and really glad to hear from you our show that there's been progress made on the property here that I am wondering. I know that. Today as of today, it's pretty much 10 and a half
months into. Into the year like a full year of of home being. On the vacant building list. So it sounds like it would be unlikely for the improvements to be by the 12 month. What you say so. They they MAY well be done that in the 12 months I wouldn't there's no quit. Arbor just indicated she expected in the next couple of weeks that they would be done. That would still put the building in the vacant building program for 11 out of 12 months, which is by far, you know, that is. The almost the entire year. So it not passed. My recollection. Yeah. Okay. If they were able to meet that timeline, which I hope they are able like that that 11th or 12th month, the stairway where we
would be able to knock that off they can building fee at all. Do we have that option? This is a special assessment and a public hearing and the council has discretion in this matter. ok, that is. That's what my preference would be. If they able to finish the project earlier than Then we would be able a deduction on the fee. However, if they are not able to and what I would like to motion is that we do break up duffel. I the fall vacant building fee in 2 5 years of payments. So the motion is to pro rate out. If the work is done before 12 and if not to spread out the cost of the 12 month vacant building up over 5 years. Make it accessible Thank you. As any discussion on the motion this moment. And at the consulate closure is that this be
reviewed for potential probation? I would ask that's referred back to a legislative hearing so that could be reviewed. And then the resolution could come back with the proposed amendment so that you have that. And if you're looking a 3rd anniversary date for the 12 months being completed. I would ask you refer back legislative hearing basics. You remember that? Yeah. Okay. Yes. So the motion would beat her for this. Back to legislative hearing with the comments that we've made in terms of our attention. I MAY 6. Any discussion on that question. Yeah, I really appreciate the thoughtfulness of this approach. I also was reviewing the photos and was reminded of this House fire. And I think at that. Remember correctly, it was a long evening that will last come testify and the
service part conversation around. They can building policy is uncertain the the usefulness of our programs, but also sort of like. The necessity for maybe more nuance or compassion and our programs to ensure that families are getting back on their feet faster when they experience such a devastating loss. So I jst that is something that I think we all remember. She look at the pictures are very seared in my mind personally. So I really, really apreciate thoughtfulness of the approach will support whatever motion is and yeah, I think just looking to to Marcia around, they cn buildings conversations and families can in a fire to revisit that conversation again, thank you. Thank you. MISS Yes, I think really appreciate the note that that is a policy change
that was spurred by this conversation originally and that we are now. Advancing as a council, not just talking about it, really doing the work so thank you. All right. Any other discussion, the motion? Seeing none all in favor say Aye. Opposed. 5 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is referred to 5/6/2025 legislative hearing. I have. other request and that is for. Items. 39 40 41. 42. 43 44, which all pertain to the same address, one hole for West. It. My request is that items. Have their public hearings continued to APRIL 2nd. I consulted for. Fair length of time with the owner in te Hall.
And we agreed that it would be easiest interpreter were present. If there's any difficulties in the conversation in one direction or the other. So will push that couple weeks that your permission. So time has come to them. Oh, I'm so next. Yeah. So item 39 is age. 25 Dash 30 trying to find killed special tax assessment for property at 104, Ivy Avenue west. question is, can play the matter over to second all in favor say Aye. Aye opposed. not oppose the resolution. A public hearing is continue to APRIL second item. 40's are ph. 25 dash. 31 ratifying the Appeal. Special Tax Assessment for property at one of 4 Ivy Avenue west. Question can too. Matter over till APRIL second, all in favor say Aye. Host 5 in favor. None opposed. The
public hearing is continued to APRIL second item. 41 is our Lakes ga. 25 dash. 32 ratifying the killed Special Tax Assessment for property at 104, Ivy Avenue Commission from his complaints that are overtly for a second all in favor say Aye. Post 5 in favor. None opposed. The public hearing is continue to APRIL 2nd item. 42 ws our Leach ph. 25 dash. 33 ratifying these peeled special tax assessment for property at one of 4 Ivy Avenue wst. Take a motion from a scam to lay the matter over to people. Second all in favor say Aye. Post 5 in favor not oppose. The public hearings continued to APRIL second item. 43 Zara Leach ph. 25 dash 34 find the peeled special tax assessment for property at one of 4 it Avenue West. Take a question from this completes matter over to APRIL second, all in
favor say Aye. Apost 5in favor not oppose. Public hearings continued APRIL 2nd. And at 44. Minus. Take item. 44 early 25 64 ratifying the peeled Special Tax Assessment for poperty and one of 4 Ivy Avenue Commission from scantily the matter over to APRIL 2nd, all in favor say Aye. Post 5 in favor. None opposed. The public hearing is continue to APRIL 2nd. Anything else to come the first for separate consideration as farming? Not that I'm aware All right, hold a public hearing on the balance of legislative hearing agenda items. If you're here to testify any of the legislative hearing aenda items. Now is your time. Seeing no take a motion from his plea to close the public hearing and approved. Let's take officer's recommendation of the remaining legislative hearing agenda items. Any discussion of that motion. Seeing that out there say Aye, all
opposed. 5.35 in favor. Not post a legislative hearing. Consent agenda is adopted as amended. That brings us of our agenda. And the good news is that it's late. So we're not going to do good lets people want to look like somebody Vice PRESIDENT It is. Yeah, I'm so sorry. Good news is we're having good news I like to share of all our spring holiday carnival happening at Arlington Hills Community Center. Is on Saturday. MARCH 29th. It's from top to 2 for all ages. There will be a jumping castle games, raffles paths face painting free books from but by key free food and more. The other event they want to share about is the prom sail from hosted by the Paul are seeing Parks and Rec department. All dresses and suits are under $5. Other items available or jewelry, shoes, ties and more. And there's many days where you
can go shopping at the Battle Creek Rec center for that the first day. That's coming up this Monday, MARCH 31st from 04:00pm to 08:00pm. I also want to point out that I have a handful of dresses that I mentioned. I would drop off to hear. And if you are interested in doing that, you can also drop it off at the Battle Creek Rec center. So I'm so glad be. Did not MISS That. Is marking its, but I me I will keep sharing it as we get closer to the rest of them are just being more dates in APRIL. Okay. Yeah, let's keep it. Let's get the regular drumbeat Belmont. Vice president. I really fun one. It's really an are good news. So thanks to our free sports initiative over 20 youth teams participated in the Minnesota Youth Athletic Services wreck State tournament this basketball season, which is
the largest number that we've sent in recent memory. Saint Paul was well represented with 9 teams finishing in the top 3 of their division. Champions are fraud. Count hustlers. 6th grade boys tier one. The mlk Kings, 7th grade boys tier one Dayton's Bluff Vipers, 7th grade boys. Here to Wilder Wildcats, 8th grade boys tier one mlk Kings 9th and 10th grade here to some of our finalists for the fraud town. Get bucket 6th grade boys tier one hpc see sharks. Grade boys tier one 3rd place while other Wildcats. 6 gray gray curls 6th grade girls, East pcc Columbia, 6th grade boys tier one. Congratulations to the champions, the finals in in
the 3rd place winners, thank you so much for representing Saint Paul. 2 free sports initiative. Thank you so much for lifting that PRESIDENT. That is a really one. Other news from the courts. Do a quick right now. You can join me at hearing for the Lower 10 so sour. There's 12 minutes left of and also after that, you can join the representative said the company any other elected officials at the 2025, Minnesota, if Harden our celebration at the armory, I think many of us are going to be there. Should be the time. fat. Truly nothing ese coming us. Thank you all for a great, many