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? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? >> Called a meeting of the Saint Paul City Council to order Roll Call. Please Yang. Coleman here. Johnson Johst here can. Council president maker here present one absent. Thank you, everyone for joining us at our council meeting today. We appreciate everyone being here. We invite everyone to join us in standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. >> A Consent agenda items. One through 9 are before you for your consideration. And we are taking item 7 for separate consideration. Is there anything else to be pulled
from consent? Seeing none. I'll take a motion from vice president and the balance of the consent agenda all in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed. 6 in favor. None opposed. The consent agenda is adopted as amended item. 11 resolution 20. So 7 item, 7 resolution, 26 dash, 9, 3, 3, directing the Department of Safety inspections, inspections to proceed with the 10 day license suspension. Adverse action against Marilyn Super Market Inc dba Maryland supermarket for the premises located at 4.44 Maryland Avenue West, w see counselor can. And into for my colleagues consideration. And I've got a statement to read around my decision for an upward departure and like movie version, 2 of this resolution for the Department of Safety inspections to revoke the tobacco shop license held by Maryland supermarket and moving aversion to because under the legislative code, the city Council has the ability to deviate from from the presumptive penalty matrix when there are substantial and compelling reasons to do so. The facts of this case demonstrate that this business has flagrantly violated the laws of the city which the department discovered during a routine inspection of the business. Therefore deviation
from the presumptive penetrate matrix penalty is justified. The department conducted an inspection of the business in March and found displayed on the shelves along other tobacco products. More than 50 flavored tobacco products flavored tobacco products cannot be sold without a specific license type which Maryland supermarket does nt have. And in fact, Maryland supermarket new that it didn't have the license type because that license type was revoked as part of the settlement agreement with the department in early 2025. then in January of this year, the department said it courtesy letter to remind Maryland supermarket that the department wuld be conducting its annual inspections of all businesses selling tobacco products to ensure that these businesses were complying with the loss. The letter stated that the Maryland supermarket was not allowed to sell flavored tobacco products. The fact that the department inspector visited the business ad found more than 55 0 flavored tobacco products for sale in the store demonstrates the Maryland supermarket intentionally disregarded the laws of the city. I'll add to that one of the type of flavored tobacco products products found is expressly prohibited in this city and any shop because it is not
approved by the FDA. Because Marilyn Supermarket clearly knew that it was not allowed to sell flavored tobacco products, but it continue to do so. And then a large amount. These are the facts and circumstances that present substantial and compelling reasons to deviate from the presumptive penalty matrix 10 day license suspension. The next penalty beyond a license suspension and our tobacco penalty Matrix is a relocation of the business license. Given the severity of the violation and the intentional disregard for the laws of our city. I oppose the city and I propose the city Council direct the Department of Safety inspections to revoke the tobacco shop leases held Maryland supermarket. And with that version 2. >> Thank you, Miss Kemp. So the motion is for version to appreciate the thoughtful explanation of the reasons why there any discussion of the motion? Seeing none all in favor say Aye. I post. 6 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted as amended. Item. 11 resolution, 26 dash 9.46. honoring the life and legacy of Mark Melissa and Gilbert Hrtman and proclaiming June 14th 2026 as Mark Melissa and Gilbert court Monday in Saint Paul. Councilmember. Kim, I want to thank you for your leadership in bringing this very
important and somber item before us. I will turn things over to you at this point. we have a few speakers sites mostly are here. One rising, hopefully as a complete reading. >> the council's resolution on to the record. The mayor is also made a very similar proclamations of will be presented today. I want to the rouses. I'll just read the content. That's right. Melissa Hortman was born in Fridley, Minnesota on May 27th 1970, and Mark was born in Atlanta, Georgia, November 30th 1966. >> Mark, I'm Alyssa Men, Washington, D.C., where they volunteer to mentor students at a local school and later married each other on August 13, 1993, they raised 2 children, Colin and Sophie in Brooklyn Park, along with their pets, killed her. Mark. I'm Alyssa were avid habia. Some volunteers for a gun is a shuns like helping Paws which led them to training to service dogs in their home. One of which was a golden retriever named Gilbert. Silver Charm, an instant connection with department family led to his adoption. Mark was known for his love of playing for working personal projects and his love for his children. Mark was known to be generous, outgoing and kind. Melissa preceded her
legislative career with the career of service and advocacy as the housing attorney with the Central Minnesota legal law clerk in Hennepin County District Court and by regularly volunteering locally for organizations like helping Paws. Willis apartment was first elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2004 over the course of her distinguished legislative career. She served as minority Whip minority leader, Assistant majority leader. House Speaker Pro Tempore. chair of the Energy Policy Committee and speaker of the House of Representatives in 2018. Melissa led one of the most consequential legislative sessions in modern Minnesota history during the 2023 legislative term. Guiding the passage of landmark legislation expanding reproductive rights in shining protections for LGBTQ communities. If dancing gun safety reforms and establishing the state's first paid family and medical leave program. Speaker were this and we lead with a strong emphasis on responsive governance, a focus on her constituent services and empowering leadership and ability of her colleagues. June 14, 2025 Melissa Hortman her husband Mark and their dg killer were tragically assassinated in a politically motivated attack in their home in Brooklyn
Park, Minnesota. Their tragic deaths have served as a profound loss for their children, surviving family community and for the entire state of Minnesota. The same poll city Council does hereby honor and celebrate with the mayor. The extraordinary life and public service of Melissa Hortman his 2 decades of legislative leadership produce endearing gains from Minnesota families working people, the environment and our democracy. The City Council acknowledges the profound sacrifice of Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark who together build a life of purpose, partnership and service and memory will continue to inspire all who believe and the promise of our democracy. The City Council extends our deepest condolences to all the members important family and the many colleagues and friends and Minnesotans whose lives were shaped and uplifted by Melissa's where? There for the resolve this impasse, City Council in partnership with the mayor of city, the mayor of the city of Saint Paul Cully her for Kim's June 14th 2026. is Mark Alyssa and Gilbert court Monday in Saint Paul. I would like to invite our speakers to come up and say every fritz, we have delegation chair here, Representatives Re ISA following will be yes, we've got our leader Stevenson, our
majority leader, Erin Murphy and our mayor Cawley. Her. Thank you for being here. Thank you. Council president members of the Council of our Capital City of Saint Paul. it it stop. It is I represent district 65 be where our capital city in these chambers stand. And I'm proud to be. >> The chair, the Saint Paul delegation for 2 terms sworn in with our great late Speaker Melissa Hortman. Today we honor her in our capital city that she adored so much. Melissa was a fierce trailblazing leader and I'm grateful to have had the chance said been mentored. >> Portman trained is our trifecta class. What echo? The right away that she had my back. And I want honor her commitment to etablishing a strong foundation which each member of the Minnesota House has within all levels of government in particularly the great relationships with our cities, our counties and our federal leaders who honor her as well. Every call watching Melissa Hortman as an attorney way before I was elected. She fought. For housing justice as a human right in right away. I was inspired. She was somebody that when I first ran for office said, hey. Get it. But the most important thing is that we work for the people. She was a little learned to say what is your background and work? And I said I'm a
rapper educator and she said, well. Let's educate. house with your apps. I had to pass the bar and you say have you have to write to listen. Everyone to the decision-making table and if there were bumps on the roles, she always call to say, let's figure this out and I don't want you to be upset. I want us to work together. A year ago was the very last time that I spoke to Melissa Hortman today. Are working and personal relationship. And I hope that with so much respect and gratitude. She was a champion for us in our past caucus ensuring that our were not just FOX, but we're actual opportunities to make a lot. And we did that in the miracle of 23. She let as a mother to college and so. The balance of the intense demands of state law making being the crowd, supportive mother and also friends to who had to care for our children. I'm here to embody her, join resilience my colleagues and our great of this capital city. Action that everyone focused so we can not allow political violence to be the norm that we must stand against gun violence and that we must stand for our children and the responsibilities that we have to hold for equity for all in the future. 7 generations on this indigenous land in the great capital city of Saint Paul, Minnesota. Guests.
Thank you very much. Welcome. >> Well, thank you. Good afternoon. It's good to be with you. My name is X Stevenson. I have a great honor of being the leader of the House DFL Caucus and I want to think Council vice President Kim and the city Council mayor her and represent first make of the entire Saint. Paul delegation absolutely fitting that the city of Saint Paul with declared June 14th. This Melissa Mark and Gilbert court Monday in Saint Paul, especially considering how much time Melissa spent in Saint Paul working at the Capitol. I first met most of when I was 17 years old. I am 41. Now she was the big sister. I never had. She had this special way of communicating to people that she had complete faith and confidence unique my life. And I know a lot of people who feel very similarly, it's very special when someone you respect so demonstrates that confidence in you, Melissa. Mark and Gilbert, all live lives of incredible Melissa Course being the most consequential speaker in Minnesota history for service will reverberate through generations. Melissa and Mark's son, Collin has talked about how market so proud of Willis's accomplishments. so proud to support their life
together that he considered himself a public servant to. And Gilbert. Well, Gilbert point his service start training but tried to make it up. If you're tired of the service to Melissa and the Horton family. >> Many of you will remember the remarkable statement that called itself Portman made in terrible days after June 14th where they said the best way to remember parents is to do something whether big or small to make someone else's life a little bit better your community. That's how most apartment lived. That's how Mark Horton If the lesson they leave behind for all of us to to service and real action over fancy words and symbolic victories to choose community and belief in each other over cynicism and self interests to choose love, kindness and empathy over hatred and fear. They remember them. May we honor them and they we continue the work that they devoted their lives to. Thank you so much. Thank you so much. >> Good afternoon. My name is Erin Murphy. And I'm the proud majority leader in the Minnesota Senate. And I'm grateful to be invited and included with so many today. Remember our friends, Mark and Melissa and their treasured Gilbert. >> It is impossible not to approach this week. With the
sense that something heavy is on your chest. As so many of us have lost something. dear to us, a person, a family relationship, a mentor. And their sense of safety and security. I want to spend the time with you right now. Just remembering Melissa. And met her first in 2006, 20 years ago. when I was first elected to the house, she was assistant leader and to top me what he's supposed to do because nobody really knows which is supposed to do when you get to the legislature and to And she was strong and she had high expectations of us. In the next term. I became an assistant leader with her and help with their new colleagues in 2008 with a great, big majority. I'm helping people together learn how to do their jobs and to move an important agenda for the people of Minnesota. In 2024, when they became leader at the and carried it life. I went into a room with and speaker apartment and said I'm new here. I hope you'll help me learn. And she said you're not new. Sit down and let's get to work. And the last time I sat down with her, on the night of the special session when we completed our work, the House and the Senate together. And she asked me over, she waited for me and we had some fizzy water and talked about the last hours of her work. She was so proud that the house it
completed the work before the Senate. And I was salty about She would send me messages wire your members filibustering the deal that we have created. When are you going to be done that she waited? And acknowledge the hard work that we had together. I don't want to remember Melissa for her death and it's hard to erase the images that our country to the news and when to remember her for her life. And she always brought herself and her people and the things she loved into the work and she did. 11. Margaret is speaking cakes from decorating her entire kitchen, inviting people over for dinner. Preparing the next generation of leaders. Always always talking about. So few Hartman. And Colin Portman. And while we're negotiating the budget in 2025, on the site was planning Collins wedding. We have lost someone dear to us and I think it is important for us t separate. The tragedy of the assassination. And the attempted assassination Sen happened. His family from the beautiful and meaningful life and all of what Speaker Hartman meant to all of us, Melissa Mark and Gilbert. May their memories be a bessing. Thank you so much for having me today. Thank you so much. Welcome hello thank you. City council members and council president for giving us this
opportunity to talk a little bit. Melissa. >> And then much has already been said about the public work that she's done in the good that she has left behind a legacy. And I want to share a little bit about the things that people didn't see. Melissa, with someone who care deeply about staff. mmbers. >> I think that a lot of times, you know, those of us who came when she became te speaker, we thought everything was always that but heard that she decided that she would put in the rule that we would not meet past midnight that they use to meet all hours of the And that was because she cared about staff and that they would work hours after we're done. And then it had to come back the next day. But the care that she had not just for people. And our communities, but for the people who worked in that building. She make structural changes that nobody will ever know about. She created when we get our bonding bill my first year there she was the first person to set aside specific binding dollars for cultural. Specific programs that had never been done before because she knew who had been missing from the table. She ws also somebody who changed the seniority structures so that people who are coming new into the legislature, which was usually women and black and brown
people that they would have opportunities to be chairs. And when we look at seniority structures, there were times you might have sent having the legislature for decades and not be a chair. And for the first time, some of us would only been there one or 2 terms. We're leaving this caucus. We were chairs of committees that would have never been done and or anyone else. And so like those are the things that no one will ever see of. Like we see that the policy work that was done, but a consequential leader. She was. But the truth is that much of what was done was behind the scenes and the structures that were this mantle because she was willing to have courage to do things differently. I would say that the one last thing the she taught me was that late night she was the one that brought snacks and with would push your cart around to make sure that everybody had snacks to eat and she would stock her office and she was that the caucus room with snacks so that people in she did this out of pocket that she cared so much about all of us and that that's how you make sure that your team stays together. And so when people ask me why I make a girls, but I know that, you know, we had our firefighters had a tough day or that if I know that, you know, I animal passed away.
out stopped by with cards is because that's what Melissa taught me. It's not just about the policy work that you do, but the people behind the scenes, we're doing all of the work. And so I'm so grateful for that. And also she did this with my and that when we went over Aaron talked about, you know, to know this is house. It was mark that many drinks for us. It was mark that make sure that we all had pizzas. It was marked the care the logs into that we had, you know, at the fire pit that we stay warm. Was Gilbert running around and jumping on a Sunday looking our faces and making sure that after a stressful session that you know that should he was a service animal for all of us. And so I'm so grateful to be here with my colleagues to be able to share who Melissa was. And to know that even though some people will never know the changes that were made, that the structural changes that she left behind will live on after this. And so thank you all so much for giving us an opportunity to make this market. Melissa Hart Monday, know that her legacy will live on through all of us and how we choose to Thank you. Thank you, Mayor. Thank you so much to all of our speakers as commitment take that as a motion for approval. And I assume our colleagues are going to have some discussion.
Invader speakers to. So if you like a man standing, if you like looking to my colleagues to see if there's any discussion of the motion. Thank you, council president. I want to extent my gratitude to you, councilmember Ken, for bringing for the resolution here and 2, our incredible Cup, the champions at at the Capitol. really in the eye honor to have here. >> I'm just really grateful for the space that we have here to remember. Alyssa Martin Gilbert as customer. Can your being the resolution? To me? It was there was a moment where everything just really sunk in again. And then for me, the motion can brush and because the violence so on. you know, it's like regular everyday person who loves committee who has lved ones waiting at home for for them, who is clearly in this lineup or to make a difference that know that something that all can relate to so much. And one, you know, Representative Collins, one of the first things I said to you when you saw today is I just keep thinking to myself and say to myself, I wish this a nightmare we could wake up from. It's still very surreal for me. I'm still processing this, too. And to me one at I I also see like I wish this was just something that I continue to only read about in the And that to know that it's
a reality that we all experience as a state as an entire country. It is. It's truly heartbreaking. And I know that none of us including Melissa Mark and Gilbert who never came into this line of service, a public service as elected from illicit wanting to put her life on the line. And I I would say for me personally to that's something I never considered. Bt the truth that for many of us liked it. That is something that we now have to consider. And so it to me just I have a whole know, just renewed appreciation for for everybody who is in this line of work. And I want to take this moment to extend my gratitude to everyone who is in public service because we truly do this from a place that is from love. That is from healing. That's from unity as well. And that's really the legacy that I I believe Melissa continue I remember when I was just us. - fresh out of college, I worked take action, Minnesota within the park area like $10 up and down the ballot. And that was where I met Melissa for the first time. And even though he our encounters with just it was always like in passing really quick basket eastward. only got in a few highs here and there, but I always remember how how welcoming and inclusive she was and how even that was a very young person at the time. I always felt
like I mattered. Definitely her presence and that she cared for everybody and that she is so charismatic. So kind and that that's what I will continue to remember her by and the ways in which you with a fierce fighter for all of our communities. And so this is a very special and and heartfelt resolution and I it I just wanted to say that for all of us, we have to continue the fight. can to continue the fight for for equity for justice that Melissa has fought so hard for that. The work is not done. Thank you all for being here and for the special resolution. Thank you. Vice President. Is there other discussion? I sing this Billy, thank you personally. want to say thank you so much for everyone who made it here. See so many people who have cross. >> Pathways and in the legislature wth we'll and also have shared stories of her her husband, her family as well. I jst want to say, you know, I really see. A great deep gratitude for taking space and having this on our agenda. I know sometimes we think about how are leading what's considered council business. But taking time to transform our grief into celebration of life and just so necessary. So again, thank you so mch. Councilmember, skews me, counselor Kim also for for bringing us for our so think about as a as a newbie
as a no elected official and have election certificate. And the thing real fear right of political violence and no one. We heard the news last year and it was really, really difficult time, you know, especially is as women in leadership. And I just want to say so. I appreciate hearing from our mayor and also the chair of the Saint delegation. Cause notice courage is really essential to making sure that continue having a life of service taking care of one another. And is even hearing the stories about the humanity that Melissa have shared, right? could it has been strictly about the business House speaker, but even welcoming her colleagues into her home. creating those memories I think especially as the first all-woman council here in Saint Paul. We have so much to learn from her leadership. You know, even hearing from the testimony is I would love to see a snack and counsel. I would love to adopt the her her timeline making sure we don't, you know, do business to midnight and, you know, I just think about my first time meeting of Speaker Portman is when I was a chair of the resort Minnesota Coalition. And I was at just a very ambitious. Activists in one and make sure that we're going to re franchise people's voting rights in. I wasn't in Speaker
Hartman's district, but as you remember advocate for her to come out of session and talk me bcause we have found out that station didn't make it committee. Our through the yet to the committee and she came out and we had a chance to talk. And she she was very, very receptive. She listened to me even knowing that she didn't have the power to move right. So those just a testament to who she was and how Cecil she was, the people who really kid had a passion for change. And, you know, my husband, Jim Allenby, he's also here as well. He had a chance to work with Portman. you know, when we think about the standard and high bar she set for her staff that you trickle down even how he operates in. You know, I just definitely commend the work ethic she demonstrated and the care that she had for her colleagues and her staff in no this year. I'm just going dedicate. And to making sure that showing up and doing what Melissa will want do or not get the word out. And, you know, I can say is just like Ellis. She lets lets go, you know, it's time to do the work is time to committed. So what Melissa will want us to do and that's making sure that we have Kerr age is good spirit. Today and confident and caring and loving leaders and in office. Thank you. Is brewing. See Johnson and is just and
then this can. >> And we have quite a few different things. Said 10 things. I don't necessarily be too long when that, but I just simply want to for so many people in the room currently one. There was a lot of that went probably into even just being here today. And I know time we're talking about gief and we are talking about tragedy. It can be intra incredibly triggering have lead Rumsfeld. And so I just want to echo just from my side of the city council and as the council member on the Senate calling I fully recognize and just want to stand with our state delegation as well. So as immediate family Mark, I'm Melissa Hortman on something that I will just sure I know has been felt across the region. that to to echo and So we're going to take the pain that that. Losing significant here like and her husband to try to put it into words that something that I can really do. But what I will simply share with you all is just in 2018, I 22 years old. Getting ready to graduate college and my first real genuine interaction. Most Melissa was when she sat down with the encouragement to run for office for the first time. And many of you actually know through. That at a time where I really didn't think that anyone actually let alone knew where I was or where from. But
particular was encouraged to have a 22 year-old African-American black woman, first generation college student and telling her that she should run for state representative and were they to Minnesota of all the places? I meant a lot to me and, you know, being able to even get sme of my colleagues some of are sitting here today out there for the first time really came from the strategy that was invested in making sure that no place in Minnesota felt like they weren't seen that no place under her leadership felt like they were less And that no person felt like they could into the role and the job and the work that we all do now. And I think that that's been really important to me. Every time I've it saw Melissa in person, she made it her business. Say hello to me. She made it her business to speak the culture and environment, especially in Minnesota where we tend to, you know, do the nice waiver walk past the person I never ever encounter that are felt that from And I remember just kind of going have know what what we were doing in the moment and what we may have felt that morning I hope that we never have that >> feeling. And that example or that issue. and I know that we are and crazy times in history, but to say that any of our elected leaders, you
know, do this for all. Just based off issues of on the inaccurate. fully recognize and put our heart and our soul into the work that we do. But to think that vote can costs or life is just simply not an expectation that I want elected leader to have to deal with and their families. And so I just want to sure, you know, thank you for putting forth this resolution. means a lot to a lot of people I think, Senator Murphy your point. Yes, we should remember. and not necessarily because of what. Tragically happened to her and her family, but because of the work and legacy that she had done many, many years prior and continue to do up until she was forced to not do it anymore. And so I think that that speaks volumes because of the people that are here in this room. It's one of the few things and many things that actually encourage partnership. I guess my call on and and passion is like we get to do something right. We have a calling to do something because we're all still here. We'll be doing a service to her leadership. If we don't do something with the power and the work and the partnership that we hold words cannot express my sincere condolences continuing for the for a family and for a community that was changed forever by the bigotry and ignorance that
exists from the hatred that is currently in this country. And so I just wanted to share that from my sentiments by the see this move forward. This is the day also will continue to honor her life moving forward. That's just no wait and no ands ifs and buts about it because it's fully from my and it's embedded in the exact leadership that operate under today. Thank you, sir. And it's just. Thank you. Council president. I really Everything that all of the speakers and my colleagues have said. Thank you so much for for the courage you had to show up today and your vulnerability and stories that you shared. That means that means so much. I just want to say that I'm really holding everyone in my heart today. And this week as we come up on this anniversary and certainly everyone that the loved and knew Melissa Mark and her family. So thanks for being here today and thank you, Councilmember Kym for all of the effort to bring the story. Thank you, Mr. Just a scam. >> I think he'll preaching in size for say just want to give a huge thank you to my legislative up to. This was an incredibly difficult task to placed on them. I'm asking them to write a resolution. On for the Hartman says is a tall order. So and just one extended gratitude for a very lovely resolutions. So thank
you up to him yet. I think I will just offer. >> What Chelsea are Tulsi Colin and Sophie offered up to us how you can honor the apartments. The first is to visit a park and preferably a bike trail. One that I feel like the council's going to do fairly soon as plant a tree. Golden's first make a cake. Tell a cheesy dad joke. Learn new things. Stand up for what you believe in and drink a fresh margarita. So with emotion to true. A Thank you so much again, >> as Kim, for your leadership in bringing this forward up to me for your work on this. Thank you to all of our speakers today. Thank you to all of our legislative leaders who are here and who did not speak today. I want to recognize that we have so many of you here in the room with us and we appreciate you taking the time. Thank you, mayor her for being here and for your own separate proclamation in memory in honor of the Hartman's there's very little to add to what's been said. I just want to know that when Senator Murphy ended her remarks, she said May her memory be a blessing about about Speaker Hartman and her family. And that that is a traditional Jewish of speaking. When someone has passed, it's something that we often just sort of say off the cuff without really thinking
about it. One of the things that he's really struck me this year has been how much? How much Speaker Hartman and her family's memories have been a blessing. How much people have talked about what they learned, how much people have talked about what they're passing on the work, the work that happened that no one would ever know about. Mayor, to your point, it is just is truly a blessing and it will continue to be a blessing. And I think it is really fitting that we're passing this resolution in this particular place where we do the work we are about to move on in this agenda to work that may not seem like it matters. May not seem like it's ever going to make headlines, but it is the work that is important and that matters to the people we represent and that builds a better community item. That item by item day after day. That Melissa and Mark and Gilbert would be proud of us. And again, thank you for bringing With that. We have a motion on the table all in favor say Aye. 7 in favor. None oppose. The resolution is adopted. Item. 10 resolution, 26 Dash 9.34 recognizing Immigrant Heritage Month World Refugee Day and Caribbean American Heritage Month. >> We will gently pivot to another important resolution. I wnt to welcome up and mentally whole from our city
attorney's office. >> To speak to this item. Thank our guests so much again for being here. Good afternoon. Council president council members, thank you for having. >> city attorney's office here today to present its resolution. I'd like to introduce Odell Brown used to. Co-chair are we change team and we also have with us today. I a lot for near who is our right track scholar intern for this summer is also of Caribbean American descent and is with us here today. Thank you for allowing us to present this resolution recognizing Immigrant Heritage Month World Refugee Day and Caribbean American Heritage Month. same poll stands on the ancestral traditional and contemporary Dakota homelands. And whereas we pay respect to the Dakota Elders past and present, acknowledge the trees made by that tribal nations entitled Non native people to live and work on traditional native lands. And whereas we consider the many legacies of violence displacement, migration and settlement have brought us to the current day we commit to understanding respecting supporting and advocating for indigenous people and for this land. And whereas Minnesota in Saint Paul specifically have benefited from welcoming immigrants and refugees. Into our community on traditional
and contemporary Dakota homelands. And whereas National Immigrant Heritage Month to celebrate every year during the month of June in the United States. And whereas Immigrant Heritage Month was first recognized in 2014 provide an opportunity to celebrate the shared experiences and stories of immigrants to honor their journeys in contributions and to affirm our shared commitment to fostering society, welcoming to immigrants in our communities. And whereas World Refugee Day observed on June 20th every year acknowledges and the strength and courage of millions of refugees forced to flee their home countries due to conflict persecution in natural disasters and highlights the need for global solidarity and support for their plight. And whereas Caribbean American Heritage Month to celebrate every year during the month of June in the United States and whereas Caribbean American Heritage Month first recognized the 2006 is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the Caribbean American community, United States to note that majority of Caribbean American have roots in Cuba make Republic Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago and to remember and honor notable Korean Americans left untreated to work, shared
history and culture and whereas one out of every 5 persons living in Saint Paul was born outside the United States and over 60,000, Americans call Saint Paul home and whereas the same full public schools have identified over 115 languages that are spoken in Saint homes and whereas and pass along an honor tradition of resettling immigrants or refugees. And whereas people who arrive in Minnesota as immigrants and refugees and their descendants, including Caribbean Americans, own homes, start businesses in our valued members of our Saint Paul community. And whereas immigrants and refugees are descendents, including Caribbean Americans have made and continue to make significant contributions, specific, cultural and economic well-being of the city. Be it resolved that the city of Saint Paul or cities, same full council recognizes and honors the contributions that immigrants rfugees and their descendants, including Caribbean Americans have made to the city of Saint Paul and encourages all city residents to join the city council in recognizing celebrating Mic Heritage Month. World Refugee Day Caribbean American Heritage Month in the city of Saint Paul. Thank you. >> Thank you so much. Mr. I really appreciate you bringing
for this resolution that one else wants to speak. putting my boss, Mr. Brown I can there for my boss. can't imagine a more important year to have this resolution comes forward at a time when we need to reaffirm and incest that our country is not only a country of immigrants in country because of immigrants. And this is such an important part of our history and our maternity We rassert it every year. But it couldn't be more proud to be doing at this year. So thank you so much. I will make a motion for approval. with that, my colleagues for any discussion of that motion. It has Duke on suppressing. want to echo everything that you share down and just we wanted to say thank you all for your work and do and when to especially during Operation Metro Surge or the work that you did was just truly life changing. >> And so important, especially because Paul is a city of immigrants and refugees. And so I just can't go without saying today. You're right. president, not these are resolutions e to once every every year and it even though it seems like a norm to us. It is so important continue doing that because I think about other government entities that the council's or maybe this is something that they're able choose. so this is such an important way for
us to assert our values for city at for me personally as a daughter, refugees the Fugees. I remember growing up hearing the stories of my parents and elders and on, you know, having a steep genocide, political persecution and their experiences are experiences that similar in shape by so many people all across our city. And so it's very important for us to celebrate our communities who have gone through so much to be here and continue can see Paul home. And so appreciative of that and just really grateful for the ways in which we continue celebrating your different committees, something Heritage Month this month being cared in American Heritage So thank you all for your leadership and your work in our city. And thank you. Vice president. So any further discussion of the motion? Seeing none all in favor say Aye. I all post 7 in favor. None oppose. The resolution is adopted. Thank you again. Thank Thank you. Item 12 ordinance, 26 dash 28 granting the application Mayor development group to rezone property at 2.13 Bates Avenue from H 2 residential 2 to one traditional neighborhood. And amending chapter 60 of the legislative Code pertaining to the zoning map. So this brings us to the public hearing sction of our agenda. So for public
hearings, if you are here to speak on this item when your item is called, we ask you to come up, stand right in between the 2 microphone to don't need to adjust them. You don't need to bend over the should pick you up just fine. You have 2 minutes to say your name where you're coming from and testify on the subject matter. And then at the end, we ask you to sign in and one of the to sign in sheets. You'll see that this first item is an ordinance and that is city law. That means that it already had a first reading last week this week as its public hearing. And then it will be up for final adoption next week. So we have 3 readings for all of our ordinances, at least our resolutions, which are the next items. Only take one public hearing. And then one reading and one vote. So with that, if you're here to testify on item 12, this is your public hearing. anyone here to testify on this item? Seeing none. I will take a motion for Ms Johnson to close the public hearing in Lee the matter over till June 17th for final adoption on favor. Say I'll post 7 in favor not oppose. The ordinance is left over for final adoption item. 13 resolution public hearing. 26 dash 97 final order approving the. Improvement t the alley,ounded by Hatch, Orchard Children and rde. And
I believe for this one before the public hearing, we have staff report change on. Welcome council members change on. I am here on behalf of Steve Dodge. On a project engine and public So what you have? Well, you have before you seeking public wrk is seeking the approval of a reconstruction of the alley from gavel to become this payment. The now question and the neighborhood are the como area just to the south of Kabul on lakes and as a key ally and off a alleys to have numerous changes concerning issues, challenges wealth. All and I we've been working with the with council members office with the residents of all the changes, tissues, adjusting the blowing and winter maintenance, I of it and then and then also about the funding of the alley improvement for 2. This project was planned to be what schedule far late 2025. because due to the cyber security incident has been delayed. So it is scheduled to be completed this fall if approved. So we are thank you for the city council approval for this reconstruction. The project total estimated to be $350,000 to be funded using general funds and assessment. the public works is, you recommendations for approval. thank you so much and thanks for standing in from Mr. Dodge late Notice. Are
there any questions Mr? before we open up the public hearing? All right. Thanks so much. With that. This is a public hearing on iem 13. If you're here to testify, please. Coming up. Seeing none. I'll take a motion from his camp to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. opposed 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item. 14 resolution public hearing 26 dash one. 33 approving the application of Saint Paul Pride Festival for of the variance in order to present amplified sound. For Saint Paul Pride Festival event on June 13 14 at 7.25. Raymond Aenue dual citizen. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak on this item? Hello, my name is Cedar Larson. I'm Saint Paul resident. I live at 8.30, Laurel Avenue is a fall. And here's the about this ordinance because they know that. Sound levels are important to people. People do care a lot about the day. Bility too, to live in peace to be able to fall asleep. But we also want to have the balance of you know, being able to have some festivals, some fun. I think that this goes over into another issue of we care a lot about something that happens in our city with the sound that could be bothering neighbors. But then we also send our tax
dollars to violent apartheid state that uses drones to constantly surveilled Palestinians. Persist this loud. Humming noise that always in their ears all of the time, whether they're trying to go to sleep, whether they're awake, trying to study for school. This loud sound is constantly happening not to mention the drones not only the drones, but not to mention the bombs that are constantly going off because we are sending our tax dollars to Israel. They do need speak to the dual citizen during sound level there. And so, yah, so they that good. But let's keep it that. So when we are using our dollars to do have these meetings to be able to people public comment and ability to talk to certain issues that are about our local our local issues. It's really nice. But it feels like any time that there's opportunity or a room where it comes to speaking to the is the way that these local issues connect to foreign policy and connect to the way that you use our tax dollars not to go to like we could have so many festivals. So many fun things that are provided. >> For social services that are given to us of, you Pop-up healthcare clinics, we could these festivals that give out free food. We can do all these things that our tax dollars would be benefiting the
population, but instead were using our tax dollars to go to bombing Palestinians. And when we look at Waterfall security solutions, that's a very local example of an Israeli company. Israel is an apartheid state. And when South Africa was committing the same thing, very much we did we we And thank Thank you very much. Make sure to sign anyone else here to speak on the sound of a variance for the Pride Festival for Dual citizen. All right, seeing none. I will take a motion from home in close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. >> A post 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item, 15 resolution. Public hearing 26 dash one 34 amending the 2026 financing and spending plans in the fire department and the amount of $13,000 for the 2024 hazardous materials. Emergency Preparedness Grant. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak on this item? Seeing none. I will take a motion from his plea to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. I also asked 7 in favor not oppose. The resolution is adopted item. 16 resolution. Public hearing 26 dash one. 35 to amend the parks and recreation. 26 Grant and aid fund for a donation from Comeau Friends and nonprofit to promote sport, preserve and
enhance the Como Zoo. And Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, we want to say a big thank you to friends for this generous grant. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak on this item? Seeing none. We'll take a motion from his Kim to close the public hearing and all in favor say Aye. opposed 7 in favor, not oppose. The resolution is adopted item. 17 resolution public hearing 26 dash one. 38 approving the establishment of the got here. Plus a tax increment financing district in the 7th place redevelopment project area and approving the adoption of a tax increment financing. Plan there for and the use of a project labor agreement. And this one is a little bit complex. We had first heard it at our Housing Redevelopment Authority meeting, which is the same 7 of us in the same seats, but meeting as a different authority. And we are going to transform ourselves back into that authority in a moment to take an action on this. But first, welcome up as well to just remind us quickly about the item before we have a public hearing. Thank you for being at the last Thank you. Council president council members. >> This item council president said was before the tree board last week to introduce it is the establishment of a new TIF
district to advance the redevelopment of the call. Tear Plaza Office space and 166 market rate. Housing units. The project will include 29 studio apartments. 82 One-bedrooms and 55 2 bedrooms. The units will have initial rents that are affordable at 60%. Am I to 100 and 100%? Am I? Although the units will not be income restricted, those are just did initial proposed France that they would be affordable to those households. The action before you today twofold. So the city council has to approve the establishment of the TIF district that Trey is requesting and that will be the first action following a public hearing. And then when tree reconvene, they will be considering establishment of the TIF district a well. And the approval of a development agreement that will provide financing to be Ghost Gualtieri LLC, the developer of the project and the owner of the property development agreement will include pay as you go, tax increment assistance from the newly established if district as well as spending plan. Tip. The additional action of a tree board include the removal of parcels from the Minnesota event TIF district which TIF district in place in downtown and the parcels are in that TIF district. have to remove them from the 1, 2, Include
them in a new one. So that's the and the project Labor Agreement as part of of the trees. Or the City Council's resolution as well to approve the use of for the project. Thank you as Are there questions as well before you open up the public? It doesn't look like it. Thank you again. After a fresh in our memory and we are going to hold public hearings, the city council. >> will recess. We will reconvene as the HRA and then we will take about is the tray and then we will certainly come back. So this is a public hearing on item 17. If you are here to speak to this item, please come on up and more than one person is here to speak. Feel free to line up. Just so we know many folks. We have. Make sure to start with your name where you're coming from and you'll have 2 minutes will come up. >> Good afternoon, Madam President, my name is Neumeister and council members. I'm here to strongly oppose approval to go to Plaza TIF district. Financial plan. This is taxpayer back public financing very little guaranteed in return from my perspective. seen this exact story with voiced our candy corn. city Hall. That project received millions of dollars 2 and deliver 187 rate apartments with 0 onsite, affordable units. Now we're
making the same mistake. goal This money belongs to taxpayers, not a blank check for private developer. Before any approval. This body must demand. And I for all of you know who I am. And so, you know, the perspective where I come from and I know government. Should have in forcible public benefits. >> Designate a meaningful number of units. It's deeply affordable. Don't get caught with the term affordable and deeply affordable because a lot of people don't know tat you may know what I know but many people don't. For households below 50% of area median income with long-term controls night. Just market rate units with soft targets, not just off-site Real affordability in this building. If the developer won't commit to that, reject this tip, go back to discussion like there he was with send extent with hoist but city caved on that. From my perspective and from information I know about and discussions I've had with people about it. Nomar sweetheart deals. trust us. Demand measurable returns. For the public's money will vote this down. To me. This is important us. Why? Wow, to list include indirect. just come in off the cuff. little bit. Yeah. At least you know where I stand and just pointing out some things
that it's important not to make. Thanks a mistake to aren't I-4, thank you for the few moments here thank you. Make sure to sign in. >> Good afternoon. My name is Peter down. If I love it. When 68 East 6th Street. In unit, 34 0, 4, I am the president of the airy homeowners condominium association. And I believe some of the council members may know that originally when this proposal was first presented to us, we had serious issues with due to the incredible efforts of Mister Newman. He has resolve those issues and I would encourage the council to pass this resolution to create the district and to enter into the development agreement. For a variety of reasons. The gentleman that. Presented bright right before me has some very valid concerns about to financing. However, Walter Plaza has the entire central area of the place of fake. The group that I 101 home on the top 20 floors at the tall tower. I think you can appreciate what we have invested in that tower and we want to protect it, Mr. Be ghosts proposal. Adam Neumann's efforts. will help preserve that entire block. We need it done well, we need it done now. So I encourage to pass this resolution. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. good afternoon, everyone. my name
is Adam 83. 25 was that a boulevard? I'm here to represent the Ghost Management and the >> We go Bennett, local Minnesota company. We are a local Minnesota company and we have been invested in across the Twin Cities for nearly 50 years. >> Including in lower town for almost 20 years. We are long term and long time investors Saint Pul and oerators in Saint Paul and have made have made a real claim of supporting downtown Saint Paul and the lower town neighborhood. This poject and as Mr. Donohue said te plaza space has sat vacant about 10 years now since Crane moved out and we own and operate apartments both towers connected to the plaza itself. so when we purchased this and the parking with that, it was in order to try to save this. And and get this back into the good graces and contributing member of of downtown Saint Paul with that bing said, it's it's it's taken us a long time to get there. It's taking a lot of work and a lot of conversations with councilmembers, bandwidth constituent or different parties that have a vested interest. And so we appreciate working with the city. We appreciate working with our neighbors in the building. I think there's record. the on the park on the board has also
supported this. And I have been big proponents of it as well. So I just kind of in closing want let everyone know that. We believe in this project not because it is the greatest financial decision for us to make. We believe in it because it is a long-term downtown. Saint Paul priority is a priority for us to uphold the neighborhood and to continue building Saint Paul back to what it can be and what it Thank you. Great. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Want to speak about that or uses of taxes. Let's stand for guns start with your name and where you're coming from. My name's Nathan Phillips. I'm from the 4th Ward and Saint Paul. And I want to speak. On better uses for our taxes. Want to say. I wasn't allowed to give to speak on Melissa Hortman. You didn't allow comments. I wanted to speak of Mosul. Heart. you allow me to speak on her? Sorry. We have to keep it to this subject, sir. The better use of tax is not giving it to an Israeli company called Waterfall for those on this city council that are part of the same poll. Water board. Big decisions going to be made next month. And I just want you to understand that the violence visited upon Melissa Hortman and others in state in this country O P. Also inflicted upon pople in
Palestine for which we are. Supporting. Please. When you have a chance. Please think not just of locally who we are here, we stand is beings. >> If we share common values with Israelis, then we have also become monsters. OK? Thank you, sir. We need to keep it on tax increment financing for Delta. >> But are uses for taxes. My name is Nathan Phillips. I'm Jewish and a proud supporter of the Palestinians. Thank you so much. Make sure to sign in. there anyone else here to speak on this topic? All right, seeing I will make a motion to close the public hearing and then that's me discussion. Motion to close public hearing on favor say Aye. post 7 in favor. None oppose public hearing is closed. Well, I want to first of all, thank everyone who can not to testify on and all of the staff. I know this has been a long, long process. I want to thank Mr. Newman and biggest development. I want to thank the residents of downtown the area kind of association. >> And it means a lot to hear that the developers working closely with the neighborhood and has result concerns. So thank you for coming out to say that today. I'm strongly in support of this project. I think bringing 166 market rate units to downtown Saint Paul is desperately needed,
especially the 2 bedroom units. We were just talking some of us with members of the Jeremiah program earlier today. And one of the things we heard loud and clear is we need larger units for families. So really glad to see that those are being included. I also hear the concerns about tax increment financing. And I want to thank Mister Neumeister and others who have written in to us about that. I hope that folks know that this council is really taking tax increment financing very seriously. And if you weren't able to watch us on YouTube last week, please do. We had a great budget session on tax increment financing. And one of the things we talked about was the amount of economic development that to financing has allowed us to create, but also the need for the this body in the HRA too. Take a close look when those districts are ready, ready to close and when we can consider bringing some of those dollars back for other uses and the decisions we make about pulling for affordable housing or not. So I think it's a subject that we're taking a close look at I want I want folks to know that it is not the concerns are not not being heard. If there were another source besides to financing to get these projects done. I know that not only I, but I'm
sure many of the developers would also prefer that. But many there are very few financing options available to us. And we use a third-party test to determine whether or not we need the financing. in this case, that process has come back and told us that we do. I want to know there are a few public benefits of this project besides the expansion of the tax base. And I thought it was interesting earlier today when we had the presentation on economic development from his Worthington, Towers was the tallest spike in that graph showing where taxable value is. So by adding value to that particular project that is really going to have significant impact on our city in the region as a whole. But in addition to tat, in addition to the new housing, there's also the pooling of dollars for affordable housing that will come from the establishment of this TIF district. And in addition to that, I want to thank Mister Newman and goes in general for an openness to a conversation about the sky rec facility that they run in downtown Saint Paul. That's currently open to all of the residents and their buildings. We have been having a conversation about how to expand access to that facility downtown. And I really appreciate how because Mr. Newman in particular have
been talking with us about that. And I know we will continue to so with that, I would move approval. I looked to my colleagues to see if there's any discussion. As Johnson. Thank you, council president. I also really sincerely appreciate your comments in your remarks, especially surrounding just how seriously our colleagues and our council taking the use of 10 at dollar years for folks that were kind of just monitoring like watching 2 different, especially for my residents that have reached out to our office over the last few weeks. You know, part the timeliness. And also just one of the things that I was very glad to have bring to bring foreign inspections. What seemed to be just the perfect time if you haven't had a chance, especially if you're following this topic, you know, go back through and review the Budget Committee presentation on the 3rd that was given around tax increment financing. It did talk a little bit further from what our typical like, you know, one presentations at 2.0 to that you had one of things that stuck out to me, though, was the percentage usage. And just recent the certifications of test districts, how there is an opportunity to continue to utilize that resource. That's not necessarily something that, you know, I
would argue is the go-to for funding in the go-to for sources. I call a lot of the sentiments around ensuring that we have affordable housing and we have continued investments, especially when it comes to our but for test when it comes building at TIFF district are sufficient stick or using funds. But the scene district you know, in addition to that, I would share that like the introduction to the item in part of the reason why the House and Redevelopment Authority implemented the 2 weeks role ws in being able to always bring forth any new designation to the body before there's actually a vote. And so I just, you know, had a couple folks are like this kind of seeing the pipe pop up community. And I just wanted to share with community that they're actually have been, you know, several weeks of communication, especially public pesentations around. Not only this project but to fund general and I think one of the things that will continue to work on and that's something that I want to continue to see that level of transparency? You know, one of the things that came from that conversation was an interest for council members also to know, and I reiterated here right anytime as an opportunity decertify TIF district. We want that option brought to the spotty. That
was a commitment that, you know, the plane, economic development team made as well. So as the director made and I think that's just you know, important step when it comes to just being able to have those discussions. It's where I hope to spend a lot of time in and just the amount of money that we're actually point for affordable housing investment here in the city of Saint Paul. So, yes, its about the levying. Yes, it's about ensuring that we have. You know, we're making good use of our downtown taxable. Property space because almost half of our you know, downtown area is not taxable. And so for the 40% that we have, that's not taxable for the 60%. We do. We have to continue to capitalize on that. And so just overall wanting to bring those up for folks that may be tuned in a little late to the party when it came to discussing TIF districts and tipped tax increment financing specifically what this project. You know, we have had several series of public communication around that. And I would encourage folks to go back through and all committee meetings are streamed on YouTube as well. And if you're not necessarily a YouTuber, we still have those available on the the City Council site, too. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach But overall, really
supportive of the project and I do think that every time we're svaging attacks and tax increment finance district, it means to have levels of levels of attention. Not all of them are the same. And in some cases, just makes sense. This is one of the most. Thank you. Miss Johnson and further discussion of the motion. >> All right. So again, we'll take this. Vote will recess will come back as tray and welcome back to the council. So all in favor say Aye. I'll post 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted and I think we'll do the Gabba Gabba think so. We are in recess and we are getting in the Roll call, please. Commissioners Yang. But hear Coleman gesture can't maker here and share Johnson here. >> don't have exact name tune of the language, if yes. Item 5 resolution, 26 dash 9.26. Resolution approving and authorizing the establishment of the gall to place a tax increment financing district in the 7th place. Redevelopment project area and adopting a tax increment financing. Plan there for an amendment to the tax increment financing plan for the Minnesota events, tx increment financing, district and hre budget amendment and the execution of attacks in current development agreement and related documents including the issuance of a
tiff note and forgivable spending plan to flown for the project District 17 or 2. What we were able to get that done in lightning speed. >> We had a public hearing. We were able to have a vote here at the council. And so at this time, we can be didn't have the eatery book, which as if you're watching from home, we have to be able to reconvene this body for this vote. After public hearing is held. So take a motion from commissioner maker to approve any further questions. Seeing none. All those in favor. I all the posts. We have an unwavering and oppose. The resolution is adopted. Thank you. And no further business in front of us. We are adjourned. Of the many of us a full city council back to order will call plays Yang. >> Johnson hre Johst can and council president maker here. Item 18 resolution public hearing 26 dash one. 39 authorizing the police department to accept the 27 through. 29 auto Theft Prevention program, dedicated investigator grant from the state of Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension authorizing the execution of the grant agreement and amending the 2026 Grand Budget and adding Activity budget. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak on this item? Seeing none. We'll
take a motion from. Is home and close. The public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. All post 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item. 19 rsolution public hearing 26 Dash, one, 40 in the police department to accept the 26 pathways to policing grant from the state of Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Justice Program authorizing the execution of the grant agreement and amending the 2026 grant budget and adding Activity budget. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak on this item? Seeing all commotion from is just to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. Almost 7 in favor not oppose. The resolution is adopted legislative hearing consent items. 23, 31 are before you for your consideration. Welcome this moment. >> I believe there's one person here to testify. It is for. Number 27 to read into the record. Item 27 rl 26 34 second making finding on the appealed nuisance abatement order for 2016 Fremont Avenue in Council 26 dash. 21 and this moment. >> Council president this this file in this case will familiar because there have been 5 appeals in the past 2 years, tax year and a half. >> Related to this property. 3 of which have exclusively
dealt with, you know, its vehicles is tall, grass and weeds and it's stuff in the in the yard area. That's pretty much what we're talking about. The vehicle orders are not in front of you today. Those have been handled. >> the care issues and the other. It's to your storage large surely handle not completely. Fr example, we have what was a moderate size pile of brush. was being dealt with by way of carrying it. And like have varied, according to the inspector. So it's not really to be taken care of yet, but it's on its way. Ithink that majority conversation i back to the top brass and weeks. >> This is most cannot round 3 in 2024. 2025. And now in 2026. you have seen heels and the owner of the property wants to establish native plantings in the yard. And when you receive testimony about this in the past, it has about how would someone with a lower income approach native plantings? The idea was to let the turf one grow and to remove the items growing the grasses. And so on that warrant considered native plantings. So by one and leaves things like no This is not particularly efficient and handling this. And you have again, tall grass and meats. considerable. Well, on the property. >> photos of the property
here. These home. May 5th in the orders for rich issued. And there you can see It was high. We've got all this him dead trees that have been removed. I believe forestry. the boulevard here clearly an excess of a foot closer to 2 feet. There's photo and the pile that indicates growth in the art is close to a foot in lots of dandelions. There lasted just standard bres. Again and sure exactly what that is. It looks like it might become post, but it's something. Again, a different angle where you just can't see that it's over land we And their that show folks in the you know, there's tree again. And this is just over time. We've got it. If care here in the garage that has been largely been addressed. So that's On my list. We have some fashion and saying that all day. >> Again, the same kind of thing. there is one of the if the vehicle is problematic, it isn't any longer. What I did want to see this, this particular law. And there's some brush in this All if you get the shoe, the case of this particular you can't just have. >> Morgan, your yard like that. You know, you can firewood no problem at all. There's a proper way to stack firewood, cut it. And so on. Right now, this should be put to use.
Put away. I understand that the owner would like to at some point in time. Turn this log into piece of furniture. >> It really shouldn't be sitting here and next to the garage. In the meantime, he suggested should a fence around it. The not necessarily the most practical solution, if problem at hand. But my job, unfortunately, is to talk about where we find ourselves now. And I need to in the course of looking at this case considered Minnesota statute and how it discusses native plantings. And it is kind of specific about what is allowable and what is not. And forgive me, I'm just going to this is attached to your file and it is in the record. Manage natural landscape means a planned intentional and maintain planting of native for non native grasses. Well, flowers for So on. And it does not include turf. Grass lawns left unattended for the purpose returning to a natural state. Grass lawn mans aligned, composed, mostly of grasses, commonly used in regularly cut, wants play areas, including but limited to and it was some plants intended to be maintained the height no more than 8 inches. Of course, it inches is the standard and the city's code for tall grass. it does say, except as a part of a manage natural landscape as defined
in this section. Any weeds and grasses growing up on any lot of personal in the city of greater than the height of 8 inches where that have gone or are about to go to see that are prohibited. So we are we are not who we are. Neither fish nor fowl over here. We talked plainly about the idea of putting cardboard down and killing grass of tilling the soil and putting native plant native seeds in. >> That has. And then what's happening. We've been on this for a very, very long time. my view, this is about. Cutting the lawn and starting a new area by area in the yard to convert it to a native plant in which there's nothing wrong with that. in the boulevard, of course, things need to be maintained well. >> Thank you as warm open up the public hearing in a fit for the questions we all to for you. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak on this item? >> I did see thought is that this could submitted for the record to say that hearing computers. >> just giving money to make sure know what I'm looking him. Take your time this. There had also been list of contacts they had made the day and a off It's so we pull that up with Arsenal. is hear there is an attachment in your record district politics. This
context, the has made. Is not on screen right now, but there's about a half-a-dozen contacts and do have it in front of That it has been in our record to Thank you. Yes. So. And just a reminder to start with your name and where you're coming from. The new left 2 minutes and please focus on what your ask is of the council. my name is Mark. Hello. I am the owner of the 2016 Fremont Avenue. >> Address. This has been a very confusing mess in it. >> A source of horrible, emotional distress for me. I struggle to make sense of what the orders >> Ironically, everything that was shown in. The photos that you had just seen has actually all been taken care of as far as I knew where we were now, was that. >> The boulevard and the backyard? >> I hadn't been cut down enough. And so the city is going to order everything down. >> I had a hearing on. March 24th. >> Where I explained that I had been employed within the last week finally. And so I finally have money. >> To start really investing in my yard. And I was getting limestone from a nighbor and transferring juniper and succulents along Bushes. And I had an intention to remove 30% of the grass. I had no tall
grass order given at that time. Ad I was given a deadline until June 5th to take care of that with the assurance that if I show enough project our progress on the front yard, we can leave the backyard take. It was said as taking the yard section by section to do a proper to run over. I've been working on that. But around May 5th. I was given. I don't have it exactly in order but I had given an email about how my water heater had melted. I need to take care of the water heater and I. Wanted to find an extension everything that was given so that I could focus on that on May 5th. I was given a hearing where by the end of the hearing, I said, please, I need extension so I can fix my water heater. And I was told, just mow your lawn and that was the end of the hearing. So I and goes by fast. I do need you to wrap up with what your ask is of us today. >> Keeping it simple and brief. So apologies of this is blurry. I don't know why. But what you're looking at, the only parts that are tall. Are protected plants. And the only parts that are grass are all mowed down in the backyard. This is a bit better of Here's where the grass twice. This is not even 8 inches. I don't know showing the mouse apologies. If it's not. You
can see here more of the grass that the grass was mowed down, even though I'm being told that it wasn't. And the boulevard that I was told was not done to standard. I had inspector you know, come to my house lst year and he specifically pointed at that boulevard. >> As >> not necessary to mow down because none of that is grass. Those are all. Bush's that are protecting my common milkweed. And I even saw last year. If I take those bushes down the milkweed snapped in half of storm. So just. >> Because we do need to read to not have any order whatsoever to leave things as it >> I do. I believe that the order that I did not mow my lawn well enough is invalid. And I would like to be asked to given more time to focus on the garden that I am working to maintain. please show me where the grass is too long because the grass is 30% of the dress is gone at this point. sleep garden. We're going to have you wrap up there. We may have questions for you. So don't go too far away. thank you so much. Make sure to sign in. another time goes by quickly. I will look to become the Doesn't look like it. Take a motion to host a public hearing from his Johnson on favor say Aye. pst 7 in favor
not oppose. Public hearing is closed Johnson. Thank A couple questions I get from us. More man. I just so I also understand the work. >> The order that would be Putin would win if there was something sent out to. Just to be clear on your recommendation, cage U.S.. >> Restate your recommendation at this time. At this point, the question in front of you is whether the new the nuisance has been debated and if it has not been debated, author a in the Department of Safety and Inspections to take action. I recommended finding to us that the noose is has not been debated and authorize the department to take ation. The photos that I was showing you were taken June second, which is the day we had our original follow-up hearing because Mr. was pressed for time to make it at his original public hearing last week on the 3rd, we did put it out to 10th so he could be here and the photos for more recently taken. If the crew were dispatched to go look at the yard and found that it were in compliance, no crew would take action. There would meet Dino knowing there would be no assessment associated with that. >> And then also just for the for the sake of being able to discuss Qui, it's my understanding queen itself is
not on the list of protected plants related native plant. Team can confirm. A single milkweed. Is not planting, if you will. That is the single most point. And it. Growing tall. It's kind of a rea good kind of a boulevard going on. It is not garden. It is not yet. I don't think that means the definition of native plantings as described in the law. The council can make a different finding that and weed and other things going up from like the telephone pole and so on >> Okay. And so appreciate that. This moment. I don't think I have any additional questions. I also Sarah coming out to testify, especially related to the goals I hear clearly articulating and also just in general being able to provide some of the the additional updates related your interpretation of what either has or has not been direct rectified. I had a chance to review the wreck. The record. I have a chance to review the images. I had a chance to review the the notes pretty much everything that is there was also looking through just like the email contacts that you shared. One thing I don't doubt is that you are making effort. I just doubt that. that the city and and you are in alignment with what we think what the state statute requires, especially around data plan. Teen. I
think that right now I'm inclined to support and approve that recommendation of the hearing. Officer more so because if truly has been a abated that they won't actually do service on your lawn, it hasn't been they will. And so, you know, I'm from your testimony that you have made strides to rectify situation if it is indeed not tall, not tall enough over overgrown turf lawn. >> Then they won't actually do or have service when workers are going out to your property, if it does not, they will. And I think that's pretty clear expectation, at least from my end up where we have a neighborhood. It is my responsibility to to kind of it to my residents as well and hope folks to the same standards what any other situation. And so being that this isn't the first time this has been in front of me. But just going up for what is in front of me at this time, if it's truly a baited, there won't be any service. However, if it is not, there will need to be so at this time a move. The recommendation of the of the hearing officer and hoping that if indeed you have recommends last couple of days, they won't need to be a to your lawn. If not, there will be if I'm able to get the support of my colleagues. So with probe of the legislative hearing, officer, thank you.
Johnson to the motion for approval of alleged that recommendation. I would support that motion. Is there any discussion? >> Seeing none all in favor say Aye. I post 7 in favor. None oppose. The resolution is adopted. Is there anything for further discussion this moment? >> What's President? I'm not aware of anyone else here testify in a hearing. all right. And that case we will hold a public hearing on all of the ledge that hearing items there. Anyone here to testify in any of the other alleged that Heriot's. Seeing none. I was a commotion from a scam to close the public hearings and approve the items with the additions recommendations of legislative hearing. Officer all in favor say Aye. post 7 in favor not oppose a legislative hearing. Consent agenda is adopted as amended. That brings us to the end of our agenda. And I looked to my colleagues the news or news from Parts. Vice president. >> Thank you. Council president. I wanted to up summer tire and so sorry, but we need you to sit down right at the rim to have a conversation. Thank you. called the president just want to re up an event that councilmember a series of summer. That's the customer can already share, which is
play pina. Summertime pasta. It's happens. I write on a vacant lot right Payne Avenue 9.26. Dean Avenue is the actress and >> all All summer long event where folks can enjoy a Thank you. Connect with locals. Play long games. Delve into delicious cuisine from narby restaurants on the Plaza patio. And tune in to the World Cup soccer games during outdoor viewing parties for the 11:00AM 02:00PM and 05:00PM games on Fridays through Saturdays. This is an event that does happen Wednesday's. Through Sundays. 11:00AM to 06:00PM and the folks want to learn more about at the can go on to the yes NBC website too. are thank you. Thanks. Vice President Johnson. Thank you. Council president and >> we are embarking a lot of different things happening this coming June Teenth being one of the heat. So they'll be plenty of Juneteenth events. But I also want to echo the reopening of Open Road fund committee partners there once again that was to be the 4th year of and folks be able to apply. We open up on Juneteenth. It is annual $2000 for. Identify individuals and Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. every year they pick they select 100 individuals through a lottery system. It opens up again this year on the 19th. So launched
on Juneteenth. If you aren't finding a Juneteenth event here not celebrate my birthday with me. Find places to be for You know, just in finding local areas, there's definitely going to be another Juneteenth event on the lawn at the Capitol. But most importantly, just in general, like being able to make sure people have access to those resources. And so if you know, anyone who should be applying to the Open road fund flag for them, anyone over the age of 14, 14 and older can apply both as individuals or as a group. Thanks. Johnson and happy early birthday. Thank you. This super exciting. But I just wanted to give some in my The >> Highland Park in with some periods of significant number of power outages today because of the storm last night. Lots of our schools, rec centers and libraries where without power today and some of them close for the day. So I just want to share that. You can always reach out to our office for 3 at CI same poll that MN dot us. If you're one to know where send issues with with downed trees or things like that. I would encourage folks to reach directly out to forestry at 6, 5, one, dash, 2, 6, 6, dash, 6400 or 4. She at Dot Saint Paul MN dot us. I think what's challenging when storms happen is, you know, our libraries and rec centers
are kind of a place for folks to go. You can check out Wi-Fi hot spot at your library and people know that. But unfortunately today, the Highland Park Community Center was closed for the entire day. I'm hopeful and hoping and I don't know, but I hope that open tomorrow. This is all as of 04:00PM, the Palace Community Cnter power was restored there and they're open for normal hours. I encourage folks and we're 3 to go to your nearest library. Marion Parkins is nearby. believe the West 7th Library is nearby. so those are and there's also the Central Library. Our as far as I know, open for normal hours. So that's all I have. Thanks just. And the other news reports goodness. >> Not seeing any more of a share that tomorrow night. The Parks Commission meeting is from 6.30, to 08:30PM, to 08:00PM. And it's going to of us to rec center. They meet every month. But this time I'm talking about it because they will be taking up the tree preservation ordinance. That will be before us on June 24th. As Ms Kim mentioned, he might all be planting some trees soon. So encourage folks, especially folks are tuning in now and want to weigh in on great chance. Tomorrow at the park special meeting. There's nothing else to come before us. Thank you
all for a very productive day. We are