It's a full city council to order Roll call, please him. Here provides key here. But we hear Johnson here toast here. Council PRESIDENT Maker here 7 present. No one absent. Welcome everyone. So glad that you can take time to join us in our council chambers for our meeting today. I want to first start by welcoming our brand new interim or for Councilmember, MR. Progress Guy. Really glad to have you with us that your 3rd meeting of the day already or maybe even 4th. So you hit the ground running. I want invite everyone to join us in standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. It and all. Consent agenda items to for 20 or before you for your consideration. There anything to be taken for separate consideration? Seeing none. I'll take a motion from Brzeski to approve the consent
agenda. Any discussion on that motion? All in favor say Aye. All opposed 7 in favor nor opposed the consent agenda is adopted. We're going to do a slight reordering because we have some significant public hearings tonight that we anticipate will take some time. Suspect for couple individuals were on the phone for legislative hearings were actually going to do that section of the agenda. First. So I would welcome up. Ms Martin's to let us know what is on the docket. Well, commitment. Good afternoon from space council members. There are addresses that I would like you to The first one is item number. 29. This farm in. Did you want to do item 27? 0, excuse me. Has 27 and a special. Thank you. Okay item. 27 is our
latest. He a 24 dash 3, 3, 5, ratifying the appealed Special tax assessment for property at 5.86. Burgess Street Ms Harman. Cuts This is an assessment that you had a public hearing on, I think about a month ago. And the question was whether or not the assessment could be divided over more than 5 years. We have wrked with the city attorney's office and then through the state law on this. And I believe that, yes, it can be divided over 7 years that the council member was interested. Therefore, I devote put together an amendment for the council member that tale of love or 7 years. Separately. I am asking you that you refer to council research and the assessments office to develop a section of the assessments policy that deals explicitly with payment time periods.
Moment. So there's a recommendation in front of us for the 7 years as well as a recommendation that we assign staff too. Develop that pivot, policy looked and this belief or a motion. A motion to approve. I just want share I think you for doing that work. I learn more particularly about that out of the fight that motion as well. Thanks to motion on the table and discussion of the motion. Seeing none all in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed 7 favorite. No one opposed. The resolution is adopted as amended. Item 29 is our latest. He a 25 dash 2018 ratifying the Appeal. Special Tax Assessment for property at 7.59. Charles Avenue. This moment. Council PRESIDENT, this is a vacant building and the assessment. Was for the full amount of my computer is not
quite experience. $2,618 is the full assessment bing put forward the The appellate indicated in the appeals process that the Department of Safety and Inspections had granted to three-month waivers and therefore, thought that he should be extended grace and a probation should be of the entire fee for. 6 months and so cut it in half just because of. Those 2 waivers that waiver time period, however, is billable a wave or simply means if you finish it within they waved time period that it's waived. If you go beyond that, it is not waived. This went beyond that. And so I'm recommending not for to be cut in half because it's 8 months out of the 12 rather reduced
to 1964. At 8 months and normally wouldn't make the recommendation to reduce it all. But for the Department of Safety and inspections, representations to the owner. And we have we have so much spend the phone. We do it. Great. So this is a public hearing will first go to the phones council PRESIDENT. Can you hear me ok week at? I have quickly on the line. MISS Lee, please press star 6 Unmute yourself. You will have 2 minutes to address the council. Start with your name. Thank you. Go ahead and sleep. The Steelers are not hearing anything in Chambers. There we go. We can hear him. You're in. I Gavin and took place and feel for my property at.
I done it. At 7, 5, 59. Harold Avenue. The the building. They see. I want to add on the waiver that For the first ad and it did Reggie Federation that. And I don't know said that had for thought likely month. And at that, I'm I'm not in ad and out plea and at at Iowa I call for Can you say that? It MAY laid bare foot at? Thank you very much for your testimony. There anything else you want to say? We still have a minute left. If you wanted to. To add to that. Thank you so much. The sailor. Do we have anyone else on the phone to testify? And that not on this item. And is there anyone here would like to testify on the side? Seeing none. I'll take a motion from his plea to close the public hearing all in favor say Aye.
Aye, all opposed 7 in favor nor opposed the public hearing is closed Philly. What I really appreciate getting that feedback and input from the resident. I know had a chance to talk directly with Marcia about, you know, what is more equitable, particularly with the payments and with the also testimony that was given. Marcia, can you give me a brief my apologies because I'm also trying to make sure I have clarity on what exactly was within scope and what we can actually move from. What you have in front of you as a tax assessment that covers the cost having a building in the vacant building program for a year. What we do and the hearing process is trying to create an incentive for people to
rehabilitate the building more quickly and we try to push that incentive together as if you get this done in 90 days. That's the most common waiver. You would not have a vacant building fee. So it gets all over that get the building done and you've gotten yourself from underneath the $2600. it is occasionally extended to 6 exceptional circumstances. it is not in opinion to be extended beyond that 6 months, rather to have the consul make the decision all cases. At that level of this particular building. was in the vacant building. 4. Of the 12 months. And that
is Fast. I mean, I'm recommending 1964. So that is a significant reduction. And it takes off basically one 3rd of the bill. So I wouldn't recommend the council Bozeman deeply Defendants cut. Certainly you certainly have the authority to do And then also how many months so they have to pay our is this over the course they have to pay this within a year. Do we have a generation for them? The recommendation in front of you has the assessment payable over one year the council can divide this. I would recommend no more than 5 years a maximum for the division of this. I think I would like to motion for 5 years. So the most is for the application of
the vacant building. C has recommended that a legislative hearing officer. But Campbell, over 5 years. Great. Thanks, Billie. There's a motion on the tables. Any discussion of that mission. Seeing none all in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed. 7 in favor opposed the resolution is adopted as amended. So another item, this Mormon for separate consideration. Just number 39th place. Item. 39 is Leach 25 dash one, 20 ratifying the Peeled Special Tax Assessment for property at one 20 light place. This moment. This is another vacant building c file that you have in front of you and the time period for this fee is MARCH of 24 through MARCH. 25. The 25 26 vacant building. Registration fee was actually in front of the council on MARCH 19th at that meeting,
you decided that this. Next fee, the 25 60. Could be waived for a period of 90 days. So if the work is done, that would be the outcome. What we're looking at right now is a case where the building has been in the vacant building program for the entirety of past year. And I would recommend approval of the assessment and hall on the owner and representation are here to speak to If you have any questions on for after of previously. Thank thanks so much. This moment. This is public hearing. Is anyone here to speak to the side? And this is just for all folks are going to be speaking during a public hearings today when you come to speak just and right between the 2 microphones, you don't need to touch them. They'll pick you
up just fine. Say your name and where you're coming from And then at the end, please make sure that you sign in on either the 2 clip art either side of you you have 2 minutes to welcome. Thank you. Welcome Council. PRESIDENT Council members. My name is Michael o'Neill. I'm an attorney with the law firm of Martin Squires. I'm here on behalf of the building owner. In this case, Michael, born. So I just want to give the council and the PRESIDENT A little bit of additional information. This is an unusual case where I think the equities speak to the council and the PRESIDENT Considering waiving this assessment. So my client, MISTER Bourne, lived
next to the parties who had the vacant building. There was a fire they couldn't afford to build the house because of the fire. They had to leave. And so my client made an agreement that he would go in and that he would do what is necessary to become owner of that property. So what he did is he contacted our firm. We did what's called a decree of dissent. Owner of the property had been dead since I think 2003, it was someone who had never had the property transferred. So my client hired us. We are able to get the petition and signed in APRIL. We are before the court in JUNE and then we had the decree of dissent ordered such that JULY, the ownership actually transferred to my client, MR. Bourne. Then once that hppens before you could
do destruction of the fire damaged property, he had to get city approval. The city approval was given at for him to start working on that. In a letter dated OCTOBER, 25th, my client never received that. I don't know what the issue was. Once he knew that he had the ability to just destroy the fire damaged property. He did that in FEBRUARY of this year for all these reasons. I'm just respectfully requesting that the court consider waiving the assessment against my client because of the investment that he made over $17,000 tanks thank you very much. Appreciate that. Any of what else here to testify on this issue? All right, seeing none. I'll take a motion from his plea to close the public hearing all in favor say Aye. Aye, all opposed 7 in favor nor opposed to public hearing is closed. This week.
Well, thank you Michael for being here and I'm testifying and also a fine if you are an audience. Thank you for also being present through this appeal process. I would share, you know, just hearing this information. It's a lot of information to take. And and I looking. At some of the notes here and for for some reason, I'm not able see the unity notes from the public hearing that for the public hearing. And I'm sorry, I didn't hear that. But for that, was there a public hearing like that? Tuesday's public hearings? I don't any of those. Yes overseer. There was a legislative hearing connected on FEBRUARY. 25th. Okay. I would just because we're getting this information now and also just kind of let
brought before me. I would need more time to consideration. Marcia, just, you know, hearing from you and this matter you know, like to lay this matter over a week with that change, anything substantially about this vote, if we were to take it today or can this be made over for next week's change? About? I would like to put ito the record that the inspection report that was referenced was a code compliance inspection report. So the trades going through in creating a punch list of the things that needed to be done that was generated on OCTOBER 25th of 2024. And the building permit applications were made on APRIL. 3rd of 25 and FEBRUARY 20th 25. you're here, I would like to lay over because I think, you know, I do have questions. They just, you know, just want to make sure we have the
committed to to this decision. So I would like to ask my colleagues for a motion approval for a motion to lay this all for one week. Thanks i would appreciate having that additional time as well as to understand what's going on here. So thank you for the motion all support it. Is there any discussion of that question? Seeing none all in favor say Aye. Aye opposed. 7 in favor nor opposed the resolution is laid over to APRIL 16th. Is there anything else to come before us for separate consideration? Item number. 46. Item. 46 are leached 25 dash. 76 ratifying the field Secial Tax Assessment for property at 11 41 University Avenue and this is another appeal of a vacant building fee at this address in this particular case, the owner indicated that
he had acquired the property. Without the previous honor have been disclosed to him that it was in the vacant building program. Because of that, he is saying that he should not be responsible for this vacant building fee. What I usually reference in these situations is that It is the responsibility of the seller and the buyer to resolve these kinds of disputes that the city was not a party to the transaction on the property. And so if there is a concern that he's facing a fee that doesn't believe he should have, tat the city is not where that concern would be appropriately directed the I do have on camera, the building in question and the. Parse all. 2 persons connected here. There's a while building and then this parking lot connected to it as well. That's what we're
talking about. Their university. I can field any questions now or later. Thanks swim and any questions from this moment before we hold a public hearing. Looked like it and I know we have someone on the phone, the sailor, we are ready. Yes, Council PRESIDENT, I have. Should. They do has a recap on the line. MR. Hazare Ek please press star 6 to unmute yourself. We start with your name. You have 2 minutes. Thank you. Thank you. MISS Naylor. Thank Council PRESIDENT And council members. The reason present information. I sent to a copy of a letter that was given to me by the Department of Inspection where that letter. From 2022 prior to our ownership. Also, you know, this is my first property outside of our home that we
all here in Saint Paul. A small business owner the hope with just with building, what to get our business back up and running and it's been a long process. It's something that we've working through. In the midst of it. In our home. We basically had to deal well going out and have to pay for well. And it's basically prolong the process of getting the building up and Our hopes are that you could see that. With us. Not knowing that the building not ours. At the time that he got in this program. And just being so property ownership. You know, it's basically turned into something that was unexpected. We've been just trying to do our best to work through it with the limited resources
that we do that. So my hope is that the council could take that into consideration. Possibly way that Great. Thank you so much for your testimony. And is there anyone else here to testify? The side? Seeing that none. I'll take a motion from MR. Provides key to close the public hearing all in favor say Aye. I opposed 7 in favor nor opposed to public hearing is closed, Thank you. Chair an are and as and I'm curious, the I think you did a good job laying out the basics of the situation in terms of the current. Status of the building. I'm seeing some. Communication where the building is now have a double and usable. Are we currently still in the point where we're
short of that code compliance. At this point, we have active issued permits. 4. Interior construction. Furness replacement furnace. Drain. And some lighting work to be done. All of those permits are active issued, which means there's a permit out there. But there's been no phone call fr a rough and inspection. So that would tell me that we're earlier in the process rather than later in the process. And with so many open permits, that's not telling me that were. Close to that finish line in this case. nice thank chair. Make or MISS Mormon dicey to some communication about. Possible request for reduction or other. Have there been other sort of asks on that side from
MISTER? As a in terms actions, the council will take. Not to my knowledge, I can search for Okay. And sorry Journei current storm and are you? What your recommendation would just be to ratify the special assessment or would there be any further recommendation? My recommendation is that the council ratified the assessment. Unfortunately, the condition of the building, the fact that U.S. And the registered vacant building program that the certificate of occupancy was revoked 6 months prior to that. Those are things that don't go away with the change in ownership. They are sold with the property. And so I's unfortunate. But I believe and these cases are advice is consistently them too. Seek.
Recompense through the title company. And if not that, then through the cellar, these on matters of disclosure are covered clearly and closing documents. Thank you, chair acre thank us Mormon for the details on that. I I tend to agree with a legislative hearing officer. I think it's an unfortunate situation that a new business owner be caught in this in this position. But I I do tend to agree that well, unfortunately, I think it's not quite the city's role to help help resolve, although I will say to MISTER, as Henry will plan to reach out from our office to see how we can be helpful in the build-up to this new business. I live in the I've walked by this building 1000 times. I'm excited to see it used. So I'll reach out and try be reconfirm our office, but I would move approval of the legislative. He wraps his recommendation. Okay. Thank you, MR. Prescott, there's a motion
people. As part a discussion. I did have one questions sort of along lines. What you're asking a moment ago, I know we've talked about tonight and another space is the ability to. To extend the fee over a number of years. And I heard the testifier whose names I also strongly support talking about the difficulty of just the start-up costs of opening up and wondering if any conversation was had about extending the fee over 5 years. I agree that it should not be on the city to pay but I wonder about whether that option was discussed. All right. There was not a discussion of. The vacant building fee prorated over time. The discussion was focused on pro rating. It if the work was done by the deadline. So certainly the council could
divide this assessment over time given that it is in the $2500 Range, I would say a maximum of 5 years. Thanks smart. And I recognize that there's a motion on the table and at. I would defer to you, MR. Prescott on this. But given that information, I wonder if it might make sense either to leave the matter over for a week to give time to ask whether or not that's of interest to the applicant or perhaps just too. Extended over 5 years today. I. Defer to you. PRESIDENT Maker thankful for that recommendation. If it's all right with the legislative hearing officer, we absolutely could could lay over and I could have some communication with the building owner. Certainly just
to gauge what length of assessment period would be most helpful or So definitely of that. So we'll take that as revised motion let the matter that. The couple said, Okay. So much. Just a little over from weakness. Council PRESIDENT. I am supportive of the revised amendment. And do want to share that. I remember we had a legislative hearing item like this come up maybe a few months ago and we did decide to take the legislative hearing after office's do think that it would be inappropriate for us and the city to waive the fee, especially since houses already been on the vacant building program for over a year. Now. So again, supportive of I. I'm just wondering for any future fees
that do come before us for this property is It sounds like there's already after active permits, which is great. You want that to be happening. We want that building to be up to Co 2 inin compliance. And so the option to prorated, they were to finish the work before a year, for example, that option is still on the table. Tank. Yet t fill us front of you today is AUGUST. 24 through AUGUST, are our city 20. Yeah. 24 3.25. And he will be rebuild if it is still in the vacant building program. The center of the bill in JULY and if that Bill is appeals 90 day waiver could be recommended to you at that juncture if it goes to assessment again, a probation possible at that point. So there's a couple different ways we can be of assistance down the line. Think expect any other
discussion of the motion. Seeing none all in favor say Aye. All opposed 7 favorite. No one opposed. Resolution is laid over to APRIL 16th. there any the force for separate consideration this moment? I'm not aware of anyone else to testify at a legislative hearing item. If there are people who don't volunteer now, I'll be here to talk 2 great. We will then call a public hearing and all of the other items for the legislative hearing portion of or agenda. Which are items. And PRESIDENT, their items 28th through. 54 28 their 54. So if you're here on a items, 28 to 54 you want to testify, please come on up. Let us sorry. Let us know which items which her for 33. Okay. So I just one second read into the record and the local the public 3rd. 33. I've
Item 33 is our Leach 25 dash one 15 ratifying the Appeal. Special Tax Assessment for property at 66 Edman Avenue. Moment. This is a vacant building fee assessment, the vacant building feet come first the time period MARCH, 20th of 24 excuse me. OCTOBER 5th of 24 through OCTOBER. 5th of 25. What my recommendation. Would have then is that the council reduce the assessment in half. If the work was completed by today, the work has not been completed by today. And therefore, the resolution in front of you recommends that the assessment be ratified in the hall. That assessment is $5,077. And We have. Just check to see if there was
anything that there's been no changes and that so and this part. Just to clarify, since we're talking about over 24 through 25th OCTOBER of 25, yes, and we are get out OCTOBER of 25. If the worker to be completed before OCTOBER of 25, that was that's when the prorated would take effect. This particular bill you have in front of you. What I would do when I look at these say want to take on the program, Oktoberfest. So NOVEMBER, 5th. Tobar, DECEMBER JANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH, APRIL. So we're 7 months into the annual all building c and when it passes that halfway, mark, I invariably recommended approval of it its entirety. Any other questions for MISS More of an otherwise we will hold a public hearing. This plea. Thank you, so is there. So
you mentioned like it will be prorated are reduced in half based off of if you able to get the project or excuse me, renovations complete it. Is there the ability for us to prorated? If there's like no for 3 fourths into the year, I'm just wondering that's a action for us. The exact recommendation front of you is ratified and payable over 5 The council has the ability to reduce any assessment. Again, you do not do that outside a very exceptional circumstances. And the recommendation would be, you it's beyond the 6 months. This is a public hearing. If you're here to testify. Coming up and just as a reminder just and right between the 2 microphones, you don't need to adjust them. Start with your name and where you're coming from. And then you'll have 2 minutes and
don't forget to sign it after its welcome. I think guys ladies and gentlemen from on to say counts for the same fire. My name is Sunday Kong. The owner. 66 and then Avenue. Its $5,000 is I don't have that lane around. Springtime. I did put my permits. I'm doing what I best I can here at point time to get my the ball rolling. I want get this all. I want to be out of program. I don't wnt to do at point time anymore. I got done. I am here today just to Pete's. I know that it's pass a 6 point. I'm doing everything that I can at this point time to get get of the problem If you guys can tease, you know, help me out here. 5,000 is a lot for me to all the money that I've been doing that then ding a lot of
stuff with my premise. I take stuff you know, from there. So I just want to. I get Whoa, help thank you very much, sir. Appreciate it. I think there's a question from Israeli. I just want to make Thank you, MR. Khan, for being here and want to make sure you're making good use of your time soaking when you mention that you have done all that you could can can you share with the count? So how are you at with the work and so what is and what is necessary for you to complete that Yes, I shape palm a sigh. I actually took pictures on my phone, but it's my phone. I knocked on. But the garage itself, myself, took that out. Dumas and then I went inside my house. Whatever recommendation that I had to I
reports here. I have you know, couple pays for mayor that I see did what I can without being the stuff that I mean, I know that have to have license on it. I'm waiting for that. Just to get close to from there. If I could say I've done this everything ready. But whatever I can, if I could try to save money help myself as much I can. Amanda to do it, put my hands on it go from there. I'm trying. And just want to again, so I get you mentioned that the cost was high. Do you have an estimate of how much time it will be for you to complete this? I know what to say that i have until OCTOBER chime to hit it before that a job or 5th right there. I'm hoping I don't have to come back here again. You know, China make it
before my plan is. It end SEPTEMBER. I'm trying to get get that out, trying to get up and that that the ball rolling China at that they've done deal by Thank you. Thanks so much. We're going to take a motion that started last year find the Seeing none. We'll take a motion from his way to close the public hearing all in favor say Aye. I'll post. 7 a favorite known to post a public hearing is closed. That's I the PRESIDENT, Marcia, just have quick question. A point of clarity as well, because I know you mentioned the ridge and recommendation item that's before us is to do a reduction of half. If the project was completed. We have heard that is not complete. It. also have heard there is a need for more time. So I'm wondering, what's
your recommendation if you, I guess for what it's worth, if you're able to like, you know, make a revision to that recommendation to where it can be proactive to wear, save MR. Kang is done by SEPTEMBER. That is, you know, I'm not able do te math right now, but it's prorated in such a way to wear. Know he doesn't have to pay the entirety of that. They They can building fee. At this juncture tat would be a motion of the council to make that adjustment. My recommendation is of record at this time. Just for the background on the building permit situation. So you have the details from the file. The property went into the vacant building program, OCTOBER 2020, it could compliance inspection was performed in 2023. There have been 2 building permits polled. One
is for demolition interior. The other is for building permit to address the code compliance items that was pulled, both of them in JANUARY of 25. The other permits. There's 5 pages of corrections in the code compliance. It covers all of the trades area. So there are no permits pulled for for major trades areas. I my view, I think we are realistically looking at being helpful in the future. But at this juncture, it's completely up my estimate would be that it would be into. All that time. Thank you, Marcia, for that. I think. You know, it is fair to say MR. Khan had shared that he's doing he can. And it sounds like there's some financial difficulties to be able to do all the work and that the this fee will add on to that. But I would would like to share from
MR. Khan, that my staff is here to assist you for outside resources to help you with renovations. I know being a homeowner is a lot of responsibility. And, you know, it's really unfortunate circumstance that you're in right now, given the flexibility we have heard from Marcia flexibility from the council. I think no, you do you have until OCTOBER to to get this incompletion. So I'm going to move forward on the recommendation for mileage that of hearing officer. On that. And also share with you, MR. Khan keep, you know, stay in communication. You can work my staff look at some some resources to support you as you're renovating your house and getting it to a place that is safe to live in. So thank you again for being here. I'm gonna also welcome my colleagues to support the
recommendation our show. Great thanks, Lisa. We have a recommendation to support the motion of legislative recommendation alleges that coming up, sir. Against that. And an often for help from the word when office as well. To the constituent, any discussion of that motion. Thank you. I just wanted to understand a bit more about the Marcia, what you mentioned earlier. You it said, am I understanding correctly that? typically your recommendation would be for us to ratify it. The fee like 6 months into the year they get the work done within 6 months. Then. The recommendation would be to ratify program Okay. Okay. Can you just can you explain? Can you explain the motion here? I'm understanding I correctly because MAY be I'm not understanding Thank you for the question could 30 for
me too. As I understand it, the motion is to accept the recommendation of the hearing. Officer. There was discussion, I believe of laying the matter over to SEPTEMBER and bringing it back then for examination. But I think that that was discussion and actually put in to the form of a motion. Well, I guess I was withdraw my motion. I too, which you know, and you're definitely open for discussion prior to the motion. And I think your question of clarity is is helpful for all of us to know exactly what we are voting on, what Marcia had shared, particularly and also, you know, for what it's worth, what I'm MR. Khan's to make sure that he is clear on it is that we were going to pro rate the vacancy building fee if he was to gate and can and completion within 6 months is
now. Getting to that point of 6 months. The work has not been done so we could lay it over. But by the time it lays over, it's just going to be a month, which which he aked for SEPTEMBER, will be already like over half into the So is that if that is something that, you know, council members are feeling strongly interested in, you know, that is something that we can, you know, we have the authority to make that make that revision. And that's why I asked the question earlier to of like, wait, what is a way we can. I change that pro rate so is that it? Is that something that you will want to support COUNCILMAN Reaching out share my my an initial pass, which is that it's in. Definitely
seems like there's still time for the property owner to be putting in work into their property, bring it into compliance. And so my preference would be that the I suppose it would be a layover. We would bring it bck in SEPTEMBER and then we can make a decision there on what to do with the fee. And hopefully by then the work is done because it's but why her from testimony was that the on your set? I would like to finish by this by SEPTEMBER, but definitely hold them to their word. I would encourage for the property owner to stay touch with you because it sounds like there's permits that are being pulled, that they would actually need to in order to get the work done. So that is going to be really important part under so that that would be what I what I would like to see in terms of
emotion not sure if I would a friendly amendment or if you constantly, if you would like to make that motion instead. I think that's the to consider. I also just want to be clear that Mr, Khan is not able to get the done by OCTOBER, he would be still be in the vacant building program and then we will be looking into another year. I think, you know, then center is to get the work done as soon as possible. But also hearing from our let's say, of officer that there's quite a few. Permits that still needs to be pulled. You know, for someone especially representing, would want be, as you can see, like there's there's a high number of vcant buildings in Ward. One. This is has been a
challenge for our residents. I have, you know, have seen even like my family in and I my community that this is the issue that I think like council address when it comes to investments. So but to your point to give Mr, Khan, another chance. To come before council and to ensure that. Those items are concluded, I will entertain our I would motion and to lay over in SEPTEMBER 2. So not taking the recommendation from our let's say the officer, but making a motion to latest matter over. But I don't have the dates in front of me particularly around when that layover would sure you can assist while we're looking at but looks like it would be. We have many dates in SEPTEMBER to choose from, but maybe SEPTEMBER 10 with the the closest to today. Well. Just 1, question and clarification, as I do think it's important.
So what we're voting on. So yeah. it's OCTOBER. 24 OCTOBER. 25 are already 7 months into the year that's being built. So we're past the 6 months at which point you could have just half the year built. If we wait until SEPTEMBER will be 11 months into the year. I I just want to make sure. Yeah, understand if we're talking about laying over to SEPTEMBER, if the work is done, then are we talking about taking essentially a month off of a year's worth of the vacant building program? At that point, are we talking about waiving the fee completely, which is? It's just not something that I think that we typically have done. So I just want to make sure I'm clear with that that I appreciate from And our
shove, you share cause. What I at least what's before us is just a pro rate. And that's why I said the pro rate is like per month. Correct? So if we are laying it over to SEPTEMBER pretty much, it would just be a pro rate of one month like you still have to pay the 11 months. But you have one month prorated. They'll be deducted from that. So I think it is important that we, you kow, have clarity on that point because that's going to determine how mch we're going to actually assess for this vote. If if if project is completed, then it's prorated a month. But if he's not, we I mean, at that point and be into another year, the vacant building program. And is that what you want to do with your original motion? The original motion was a ws not since he did not complete the work. It
was not approving the pro rate. So that was the contingency that Marcia, okay, my preference. We think we can knock up to one month if they were to come back in SEPTEMBER and the work was already done. So I think we need we have a motion table 2. I accept the motion legislative recommendation legislate hearing officer which was essentially too apply the vacant building fee. In total. And then I think that's new ad suggested us another motion to lay over to SEPTEMBER. I think unless you're willing to accept that amendment to your motion really we should vote on your motion. First. Well, would rather well, I guess, yeah, we can run the vote on on that motion. But I also just one I want to make that just just meant. So I think Gary, like withdrew that motion now ready. Okay. So you're you are trying my niche original motion in the spirit of just like transparency in
the spirit of like collaboration. You know, I think Councilmember Yang brought up a good point, particularly around giving if you know, since I'm MR. Kang I How much more time you'll need and stating SEPTEMBER, but also giving I want to give the ability to where is done like earlier. You know there if there's a a process where he can come before the legislative officer and get that were completed and then we can talk about what that pro rate would be. I just not sure because that's not our decision. That will be kind of more. So like the pro rate of like when that work is done. But to answer your question with drying my motion, bringing for it on the motion that we just discussed with Councilmember and ourselves. So the motion on te table is to live the matter over until SEPTEMBER at which time we
might consider pro rating and the flying only. One month of the vacant building fee if the worker completed that hat current, is there discussion on Johnson? So I appreciate the conversation here. And I we'll be going against the motion. But I think it's really important to center like not because I don't necessarily hear some of the challenges that are that MR. Khan has shared its because I'm not quite sure if we have done at in the past. And so I just think that's really important that when we're reviewing that items, we remain consistent. And so that is an area from units slightly confusing and would have supported original motion. But genuinely today, I think I'll just voting on that in sense of. I would agree that I will also be voting against the motion because I think it's important for us to
be consistent. I know we're we are evaluating this policy as we speak because mny of us have expressed concerns with it. But in the moment it is the policy on the books. And as Mr Been said, unless they're sort of extenuating extreme circumstances, we haven't typically removed the after the six-month point, we can extended over time as we have talked about doing tonight. But I think this would be a departure from that practice. And not sure I see the justification either. Appreciate as much reported 30, we have we have done in the past, but I do understand why it has not been consistent like the. Usually like it's more like at easier, couldn't drive taking adopting the recommendation of the legislative officer are just like completely the leading the fee, which we do have the ability do that. I think this
is that equal compromise has we? We are at we're like pretty much he wouldn't if he is done soon enough, we wouldn't want him to have to pay a full year for him to be in the vacant building program. So I as a as a council member, you know, is Michael to incentivize people to get their work done as soon as possible. And if they are innocent of is that they don't have to pay a full year to be fbi. Think that's instance of actually like support our our residents to make sure that their homes are feasible or nephews. Whiskeys me are sound and safe. So but I do appreciate, you know, people sharing where they plan on voting. I would like to bringing the bold and also support the motion. Okay. Any other discussion on the motion? Seeing none. I think let's take a roll call
that Cam. Perfect ski. Yes. Johnson, n, just yes. Council PRESIDENT Maker know 5 favorite who oppose us being councilmembers. Johnson, an acre. The resolution is laid over to SEPTEMBER 10th. Thank you so much for the thoughtful discussion. Those of you who are here saying democracy in action and it's all tese rapid, but hopefully you're seeing the thoughtful deliberation we're giving to these Anyone else here to speak out items. 28 to 54. And not seeing anyone. So we're going to hold a public hearing on those items. Anyone here to testify. Seeing none. We'll take a motion from vice PRESIDENT Came to close the public hearing on all of our legislative hearing items and adopt the recommendations of legislative hearing. Officer
all in favor say Aye. All opposed 7 in favor. No one opposed the public hearings are closed in the consent to Joe's adopted as amended. We're back to our regularly scheduled program. Number. 21. Item. 21 is resolution 25 dash 4.34. Amending appendix a to of the administrative code to establish the creation of the City Council, Public Safety and Community Wellness Committee. fully I understand there's amended version. Yes, I would like issue a motion to amend version to. I know my colleagues have received a copy of it and also upload and legistar. So. You can the amendment. Expressions hope. And I believe that is on on with just our it listed there
as a I was just checking to see if we need to vote for amendment for it, but it's there. So we're just gonna discuss the amended version, which is great. Great. Well, first, just want to say, I want to just say I appreciate my colleagues. I know this have a resolution and a discussion. For some time now as of DECEMBER and going into a retreat. And here we are now. You know, we're voting on a resolution to establish a public safety committee on that functions as a subcommittee. One that mirrors our structure exists. Council committees such as our finance. W have our housing and operations. I want to take a moment also to thank not only my colleagues, but also the central staff in a city attorneys who took the time to craft this language. It was
really. It was really just it was a lot. Ilearned so much particularly around this process of how we can design a process actually help our work moving forward and making sure that is written in clarity and purpose and also want to acknowledge the partnerships, a strong partnerships that we've grown throughout this process with the mayor and his administration and our dedicated officers are upstanding firefighters and so many others who work every day to keep sane pass 8th. Most importantly, I'm advocating today for the residents of same pot and for the people who call the city of Saint Paul home who are asking us their counsel to prioritize
public safety within the same structure, the same transparency in the same focus that we give to all of our other essential services. And for me, this vote is simple. This vote is calling the question of whether the sme pot and council believes we should hear from city departments and staff and government agencies and stakeholders on public safety. And we're doing that within the existing structures that we already have. And we're doing that within the tools that we have to create that space. And as council members we in no, we convene on a monthly basis to receive updates on library like we did earlier today on our budget in on water services proudly
serve on and we are gathering. We gather regular regularly for deep dives into our library systems. And I think public safety designs that same attention public safety is no less important. And arguably it is. In in my ward, some of the most most visible functions of our government. And this vote is about managing our council business better, really internal processing of information, making sure we have adequate time to hear from our department heads. So when we make one of the most important decisions of our jobs with the budget that we're doing so in such transparent way. So it's about giving the public a
transparent space. Understand and engage with the largest portion of our city's budget and the systems that most affect their Iso. I'm asking for my colleagues for us to vote. Yes. Vote yes for safety. Vote. Yes. For public safety vote. Yes. For the work that we do vote yes for improved process and how we get there thanks so much. There's a motion to table any discussion. I see the start. I have a question clarity and that's just from the version that you're moving forward. Is it for him version 3? And I'm asking for 3 was the one not is one that is including specifically which there specifically which changes version 203. So I'd like some clarity on which version you like to move forward. And then the version I like to see if we can have the resolve language that's different. Read into that
records. I know which version were moving or to get some clarity on that because that will a difference this. Mike, can you clarify that, Yes, Council PRESIDENT Council member. In Legistar version 3. It's actually the second it. Version reality of what it was. But when the file was entered, there was a mistake made human mistake where the when they went to enter. The files they hit new in a place where they went have it and it created a nw version. So there are 2 versions numbered 2, 3, So 3 is the newest one. If you are on the public website and click on the file up at the top, you'll see a little version and you just click on the arrow to get to version 3. It's like an apartment building with a 13 to
the right into the record. I just want to clarify that. The public could you be the definition for public safety a number. So at under 5 and the committee functions ad just to clarify for the record, then item the section. That's number 5, the Public Safety Committee. Can we just clarity on specific definition for that? Request. We are sure doesn't matter. Well out, living sold for what comes marriage on sand is getting a is item. It's actually to this is the amendment to line 5, which is the definition of the committees. So we will be establishing adding to our committee lists, which says Public Safety
Committee, the Council Committee on Public Safety Show oversee policy development and review and recommend legislation and areas public safety police, fire and emergency services community for his public safety framework, safety inspections and code enforcement neighborhood safety crime and violence, prevention diversion programs and community partners and agencies. Thank you follow the I just want to say thank you for since them out work that has went into councilmember weigh in. Council PRESIDENT Other leaders I I went through weeks - and weeks that the committee really being transparently on the side of not necessarily understanding why we should do being vocal about just who I felt like you to be brought up. Brought along during the
process been shared with my colleagues to my thoughts, especially as it was written previously. So that's why wanted to clarify on the language and what things haven't changed. But think it's really important that if we're establishing committee that we're doing so in partnership with the department's the same department that we are looking to work with since that as well. I've also had my own level conversations wth some of department's, but also with the an acc the neighborhood Safety Committees council as well. So as a members from the Office neighborhood Safety staff team. And so being able to actually hear from them directly, just the questions. And even just what we're trying to do, I think I'm admissions aligned when it comes to being able to establish a public safety committee. Also think the multiple iterations and just
being able to include the feedback from the city attorney's office feedback from what you've been hearing council, really from your colleagues as well is why, you know, I've kind of transition from a being really, honestly, not necessarily a once a skeptic, but definitely wanting to make sure that what we were establishing would be productive. I really love meetings. Don't get me wrong, but I enjoy when I can accomplish the goals that we spend our time dedicated to. And I think public is incredibly important. And so just wanted to share that with you. And also kind of fill in the blanks for my community. Members of my colleagues too, who have heard me just ask questions to try to buy more time and the space. But and I today out vote favor of But
and it's really because you take a lot of the feedback into consideration of what the school will be for this committee. And I think the things that are listed here is within the scope of the council member and what ability is to do. So I appreciate the time you spent on it. I appreciate the feedback and the reception of that feedback and thankful that we were able to have those conversations. And I just I wanted to reiterate that Ithink it's really important that when we established committees, council members are included in the process. And so I think over the last couple weeks we've gotten there. I just wanted to say thank you for that. And also thank you for the members of the nsc that spent time with me to morning
actually talking about just some of their concerns. And I know a lot of folks are looking at. What this will be. And I think the eu said very perfectly like this is a committee that the council is looking to continue to have organizations and goups like an sec, common present in front a dedicated space, an opportunity to talk about public safety directly. And I think that that is well within our rights to do so. So thank you for that. It's the other discussion of the motion. And time. Is your Thank you. Council PRESIDENT And I first want show gratitude to comfortably for all the work you have put into the resolution here. I don't want to give two-year legislative aide a shout out because they've done a tremendous job reaching out at council offices, take it our input and just really make sure that they're getting their versions of resolution
here and getting updates overall. Want to share generally die like initially I supported the public Safety Committee because I I thought it was really important for us us to have more spaces as an entire council to have really important conversations. So whether it's around public safety already hve about a budget and finance committee that than Oregon Policy Committee to end this interests around having a public safety committee. From my understanding, from conversations that we had during your last budget season all. Over time, especially in just how over the years we have and spending more and into that and just as as counsel, especially penny, MAY have I would say checks and balances into it and figure out what is the direction we informed on how we can resolve
issue and prevent the if over spending from from happening in Seoul. I am. I also initially very committed to serving as a vice chair for the committee as fall, bt wanted to share that it in the recent weeks I have decided to rescind my support for the committee and in serving as vice chair because as our 8 county committees rollout and as as our budget chair, too, I really have seen the overlap that the public Safety Committee would create with the 2 Crane Committee said already have from there. It is going to be topic of relapsing budget that the the topic Abboud. About on budgets for emergency response departments. The it's a part of the Public Safety Committee hearing that testing site. It's really clear that that's going to be on the table. So
if there's already questions to referred over to me on whether something that we are going to be discussed and that the council is going to live within the Finance and Budget Committee or is it going to be within the public Safety Committee? And I don't have any issues figuring all that out and starting at all. But I do think that what is really important, especially in my role as a council member, we are understand. We have so much on our plate from responding to constituents. And we also have many other boards and committees outside of our official City Council role here that we serve on to which we have yet to completely felt are still vacancies. And still trying to figure out how are you going to fill all of them and who's going to be serving on them? There's definitely a lot of overlap here having clear
distinctions between our roles in our committees is really important to me. S that that we can state organizing wcan be disciplined and we can also be very efficient. And on top of that, continue to prioritize or time, really, for the residents to be serving our word and also there's many things that come up citywide that we respond to as well. Even if it's not in my ward and so I wanted to see what I see in the resolution here is that and what's in the code is committees can be made up of at least 4 cars members. And so should this committee here, the Public Safety Committee be do wish that committee success and customer success and also always willing to offer my my input to further advance the work of the committee. Flying it just, you know, I I think overall MAY concerns as a budget chair here are very serious. And to
date, I have not really heard what, how how we are going to. I'm really distinguish the rules that we have as council members on these different committees and the committees as a home. So I want to see overall, but I'm really proud of is that. Get t serve alongside all of you who e champions of public safety our city. We have an office of neighborhood safety. We have a neighbor, Community Council. We have so many things that are unique to was that our city here. Jus really beautiful place to live. And we are in innovative, creative and we always put committee members at the center for work. And that's why we have all of these different and unique initiatives and that's something really proud And looking forward to how he can continue advancing investing in all of that work. There.
Thanks for staying. The other discussion, the motion. Thank I am very excited to be supporting the creation of this committee and much like our other committees be Cree strong policy have a new lens in view of the city and serves the offerings of services that we have. I just want to really extend gratitude to council member. Billy is spent an incredibly internet process, but not because there have been issues but much more because you have been taking into feedback of multiple perspectives and your colleagues of the administration. And I just want to commend you because you have never once wavered o what the goal and intend for this committee has been. There is language around now that
scapegoats communities like ours. There's narrative right now around scarcity of space are creating experts and who gets to be an expert for our community. And so I just really applaud the way that you're approaching the work, including more community voices and also, I think pushing back against the idea that there can only be one committee. The looks of public safety for the city isn't more better. Is it more voices, more ideas? More people included in the process better for more robust approach. This is something we've been thinking about in different ways in terms of programs ad policies. But I think in terms of the committee that something that you have spearheaded for the council
and as I have watched if work in the last year and also sort of develop your own lens for the city committee, first public safety is absolutely one that I've seen. You be clear and very direct about the last thing say is all the part might have been addition. All. I'll see what I said to behind closed doors. They're absolutely powers that be insistence that the that require communities like ours to be unwell in order to pull perpetuate the harm that they cast upon us. Things like not offering a lvable wage not offering safe, affordable and decent housing not being able to for child care, not being able to afford medical expenses. They're absolutely
systems that are created by quite frankly, the city, the federal government, the state that are system enticing in creating. Social impacts. We are criminalizing social impacts decisions and there's one. And so I'm very, very proud to stand by the U.S. Today because I believe that the root of all this year after wellness and not just wellness in the way that we can afford the things that we need to put eggs on the table for breakfast. But wellness in the way that communities like ours and like yours and across the city, you deserve to thrive in the well and have joy and not in spite of what's happening in the world that because they just deserve it. So I'm very proud to stand by. You and I'm very, very appreciative. The Internet
process. I absolutely see my feedback being included in the committees and I look forward to supporting the committee. Thank you, And the other That's a perfect Thank you, PRESIDENT Maker and thank you. Councilmember I I definitely think the bulk of the goals of this committee are shared by all 7 of us. I think public safety, particularly the way described in this resolution. It's just such a temendous amount of what the city needs to focus on what the community needs to focus on seeing as it's my and a lot of this contact has been lost urban outside of my personal experience. I do have a little bit of a reservation about some of the concerns we've seen from Director Blakey, another shared with today. So
I I view the discussions that would take place in the committee being possible, both within, you know, in this particular language in the city operations space in the finance and budget sace. Whether this committee exists or not, I think conversation should be taking place some of that's deeply committed working on these issues. So very supportive of the goals and aims given how quickly it's come about from me and my very and the concerns we've seen from some of the staff leadership, all of the voting. No, but I would be excited to be investing in these conversations supportive of the work going forward. Thanks so Just look at this. Any other comment. I will just say I want to echo the thanks to you for your leadership.
MISTER Lee I have been a stalwart supporter of this idea from the very get-go and one of the things that appreciate most about yo persistence and frankly, the where councils approaching the work in general this year is that we're not just talking about the work for not just asking questions that go nowhere during a budget conversation and well, we hope that somebody figures that out right, we are committing to actually solving sometimes very complicated thorny problems that we're identifying in these conversations and your work to create this committee. I think it's going to help us do that and also grateful same to you for your leadership of the budget committee year-round. Not just after we received the mayor's budget proposal because I think that mirrors this committee and its attempt to really get some of the systemic changes we need to make Vice PRESIDENT Come to
your point we can't do that. And I'm just hping that someone else does it and we can't do it in a couple months out of the year. So will be supporting this as well. And I think saying I take your point to hurt that and helping facilitate all of the conversations. All these committees, we are going to need to be very mindful of avoiding overlap. And we will I will commit to helping to do that. With that. There's no further discussion. I think we'll take a roll call. Vote. Provides know Yang now. Johnson, I just yes. Council PRESIDENT Maker, I. 5 in favor to oppose being council members provide ski in the resolution I adopted as amended. Item 22 its first reading of ordinance. 25 Dash 30 amending chapter 3.10, point all 4 of the legislative code
to regulate a more efficient method of cancellation when licensees is not in compliance providing materials to be engaged in licensed activity. That's what is super exciting. Everybody hold onto We have a staff report from I believe director into the sea. She's here. She's coming. Meant to say it's not exciting to get everybody excited. Mean, is Ngc director safety and inspections. Thank For the time today. Yes, this is something that we're actually really excited about. 2, I so just kind of to lay the groundwork. Many people believe that the business license is similar to a gym membership. If you don't pay, you no longer have a gym membership. But because of the way the ordinance is crafted around business licensing, you actually still have a license is just delinquent tell you, pay it and get here required.
Materials to us for renewal and then which case, you know, you go through the renewal process because so many people believe it's more like a gym membership. We often get folks who go out of business for any number of reasons. You know, we're not their first call and to notify that and to request that their license be canceled. So just stays there on the books. And that creates a number of And I think one is that some of our licenses actually have things like separation distances. And so if there's a license on the books, then another business owner can't take advantage of of that opportunity that might be presented because they're not eligible again, distance requirement between. Different basis for that took Really? You know, we've been wanting to do this for was just one of those things that never get to
the front burner. Really the impetus and the reason why we're bringing it now is because of our Polly Project and in order to go from our legacy system that was built in the 90 is so, know, technology in the 90's is really like ancient. To a modern system. We have to transfer all of those records into a new system. And we really don't want to be transferring records that we know really don't exist. And there is in the business anymore. We still have to go through all of the things that you see in the ordinance in order to confirm that they're longer in business and anywhere where there's a it would still come through the normal council process order to tonight, Thanks so much,
director. I really appreciate the work that the department does to bring issues like this to the front We hear all the time that. It is difficult to open a business in Saint Paul. It's difficult to operate a business. And I know that your department is constantly looking for ways to make that easier. And I it MAY seem like a mundane change, but it is these sorts of changes. Adding up that debt to create a climate that is that's healthier, more open for business. So I appreciate the fact that it is your department. My name is on it. But it came from you. That is constantly originating these great ideas. I encourage all departments to come forward with our ordinances are no longer helping better MAY be harming the kind of productive development that we need. This is just a first reading. We will have a public hearing next week and we will have a vote at the week after. But any questions from as we see
what we have her here. Not seeing any. Thanks so much. Thank you. That witness is laid over to APRIL 16 for second reading public hearing. Item. 23 is a public hearing of ordinance 25 dash 21. Granting the application of Central Internal Medicine Associates pa to rezone property at 6.35, Cleveland Avenue south from os Officer Vista, t to traditional neighborhood and the many chapter 16 of the legislative code pertaining to the zoning map. And we have staff report and said last week. So this is the public hearing. Is there anyone here to testify on this item? Seeing none. Take a motion from that's just to close the public hearing and living better over the next week for final adoption. Any discussion, the motion. All in favor say Aye. I opposed 7 in favor nor opposed the public hearing is closed in. The ordinance is laid over
t APRIL 16th for final adoption. Item 24 is a public hearing of ordinance 25 Dash 29, many chapter one. 93 a 0.8 of the legislative called pertain to rent stabilization. And although normally we have a staff reported the first reading, we actually saved our staff reports for this week since we were going to have public hearings. And I think some lot folks in attendance, so I would welcome that actually, before we do the public hearing, so started everyone. We're going to quick staff report. You are also in the fall, though I'm impressed. S it come up. I believe McMahon to give staff report. And then we'll go to the public. Thank you so much. I am Melanie McMahon. I am that deputy director of the Department of Planning and
Economic Development. Here to give the staff report for the rent Stabilization Ordinance Amendment. Certain was just a little bit of the history of the rent stabilization ordinance. This was a voter past initiative that passed in NOVEMBER of 2021, the ordinance as it was drafted for the election include provisions to mirror other communities. But the only other places with rent stabilization in the United States or coastal states. There are no other Midwest states or cities with it. And so there are things that wre needed for Saint Paul that were missing from the ordinance on the ballot initiative. Just make it work for our city and so amendments that were first made in MARCH of 2022. Included things like adding definitions. You know, originally none of the terms are defined, which which is really important, for example, at limited rent increases to
3% but didn't define what would actually count as adding definitions of that and others for added and Ministry of placement was added. So in the original ordinance, the city didn't have the legal authority to administer are enforced law because it wasn't placed in a department in our administrative code o given that legal authority. So that needed to be added in order for the ordinance to work again for the city of Saint Paul. There's no severability clause. You know, that's getting into the weeds. But that was missing that needed to be ordered. That need to be added with other things. It was effective on MAY. First of 2022, and then council action was taken again in SEPTEMBER of 2022. With additional amendments again, to make the ordinance really fit within the city of Saint Paul's laws and practices. So they needed to be a process for applying to the exceptions. The 3% rent limit the original ordinance did eplicitly give and allow
for exceptions to go above 3% rent increases to get a reasonable rate of return. But it didn't provide any guidance or any process for receiving those exceptions. So those were added to the ordinance as well as a new construction exemption. It was not a single other jurisdiction in the country with rent stabilization. That did not exempt new construction. So that was added at that time. So moving on specifically to that construction exemption. So it's it's a to b 4 jurisdictions with rent, stabilization, exempt new construction and they do this across the country for a variety of policy objectives because we want and need new residential construction in our communities for more housing that we desperately
need. The same poll ordinance currently exempt new construction for a 20 year time period after has been built and opened. And so that's measured by looking at 20 years from the date that the city issues a certificate of occupancy for that building. So the proposed modification of this existing new construction exemption would be to exact new residential buildings that receive their certificate of occupancy in 2005 after provisions provide certainty for financing. So you know what buildings would be exempt. And for one. And the reason for 2005 because I know it's been asked before is because the current exemption, again being that 20 year exemption is from that date of the issuance of a certificate occupancy. So buildings with that issue in state in 2005
and after are currently exempt. So what this modification does is it keeps the status quo. Then for those. So this shows the age of rental have the rental housing stock in Saint Paul. There's a lot of different ways to try. And, you know, measure and define rental housing. You can look at construction permit issuance states for various different construction permits. Certificate of occupancy dates look at Homestead versus Non Homestead properties because the ordinance itself uses the date of the issuance of certificate of occupancy. That's what this map is showing. And so it's looking specifically at again that date of the certificate of occupancy. If you look at those dark pink or magenta, almost colored dots on those, those are buildings with a certificate of occupancy that
was issued in 2005 are after. And as you can see by looking at this map, it shows that the vast majority of all rental housing in Saint Paul was built before 2005 and would remain covered under the rent stabilization ordinance. It's also important to note that just because a building might be exempt from the rent stabilization ordinance under the new construction exemption, that doesn't mean that it doesn't have other rent increase protections from other parts of our city law or state or fderal. You can look, for example, at income restricted housing units that would have protection for rent increases maybe because they're tied to funding sources like from hud or maybe they have deed restrictions on the property as we've done as
well. So when you see here that the vast majority of all rental units do fall under the rent, stabilization ordinance and would continue to with this modification to the new construction exemption. No, that an even larger percentage also have rent increase protections through different sources of protections that exist within our city. Here next is a chart showing housing production in Saint Paul. You know, housing production just want to know often can lag behind for a few years because like behind policy changes, sorry for a few years just because of how residential construction financing work. So it's really hard to finance residential housing construction, and it takes a long time. And I think we've all really seen that over the past year. You know,
looking at different projects moving forward before hra seeing that, you know, you'll hear folks described the one or 2 or even longer year process that really takes to get the financing to be able to move forward with construction. So a policy change, for example, in 2021 might show up and it hurt like this in 2004 and after which is where here you see that significant drop and housing production in Saint Paul. Also wanted to give some other examples o the new construction exemptions across the country. As I mentioned previously, there are no Midwestern states or cities. So not really. And, you know, direct comparison that we can have jurisdictions that are like ours from looking at rent stabilization laws. But other jurisdictions on either coast with rent stabilization. As I
exempt new construction and many of those have a fixed date for the new construction exemption like this modification would be. Take a look at San Francisco, Washington, D.C., La New York City. Examples like that that has 6 states for their new construction exemptions. So again, just little bit of that back on history and information about this proposed modification. Really appreciate your time. Great. Thanks so much. As pan any questions for MISTER Van before the public hearing. Seeing none. Thank you so much. Appreciate it. And with that, we'll start a public hearing. I do want to invite someone who has a very young constituent with us tonight. Just stepped out to go first if she would like to because it is hard to bring a young child to public meetings and I admire it and I want to
respect it. So. If she is here and able to come to the front of line. Your first thank you for teaching democracy at young and it. Have built 2 minutes just to set to set a second. I have it. I thought this is the price is right. I thought I right here Take it. Take it you guys and I've been working on this. My boss. Okay. I'm half. Okay. I know just a my name is Sandy team. Lot last AUGUST I was harassed continuously 20 times oer 20 times 18 hours by somebody who found my personal address, my personal phone number. They tend to harm. Not just me, but my very few months. For at on a Saturday night, they vote after the wrong
ones. you're going to die. We hope kids, they're going to get there. When the harassment started. I wasn't home. So for 4 days I cannot go home. I cannot even go and stay at my family's members. House because I was afraid for their safety. I had no no diapers, no close, no charger. I would like you to guess who this person was this event had a Who had made ferries charge Austin her, cut back on. Purdue had extensive criminal back on her parents who also said he had a gun. To protect yourself from a baby. Ididn't go on to the property for 3 weeks and the time it got there, the renter had chosen to abandon the property out of their own free will a lftover
$2,500 in front. I had see that unit empty for 7 months. Because I was too traumatized to market to show the Union. My parents mom who are people of color CIOs invest in this community. Do this for 30 years. I've done this for over a decade and community organizer. I have marched on the highway and high-heel boots. Nothing shakes me in this written me to the core. You can catch an outside the bar, but you cannot harm a child. When you ordinances includes an eviction found to be pushed out 30 dys. If this venture had threatened to harm me and there are still on the property and this ordinance and existed, then they would have loved them to actually follow through. I cannot be a
mom to my baby boy, if dead. I'm so sorry you need you to wrap up. And think it sounds like your comments might be related to our tenant protections which is my fault because I called right up So we're going to we're going to assume that this applies to tell protections when we have that about this. Think. new stand up here for specific renters who don't want be held accountable for that. And 2 directions. My question is who's standing up for? Thank you very much. Please remember to sign it before you Thank you. And as we move forward to their testimony again, just my apology. So we're on number. 24 rent stabilization. Just a reminder. Please come to the front stand between the 2 microphones. They should pick you up just fine without adjustment. So your name where you're coming from, if you'd like to tell us whether you're a renter or homeowner, a landlord for context you're
welcome to do that. Again, I I don't like to interrupt people, but at my job tonight is to keep every one to 2 minutes which goes by fast. Please remember that you can also submit written comments for us. If you feel like your time, it's just not enough tonight and you can continue to do that after tonight as well. We will not be taking a final vote on this for several weeks, but please try to wrap up when the time get close to 2 minutes. Otherwise I'll help you do so welcome. And we get. Absolutely. My name is Rogers, executive director of Catalyst for System Change. Thank you for this time. Just here to speak about my lived. Experience with 1000 bears and I'm just state. You know, when I first moved to the Twin Cities that a family was actually exploded by the landlord market who took money for applications. But deny those housing due to our lack of Minnesota rental history.
This led to housing, instability and homelessness for my family. A young age and also this personal experience fueled me to actually continue this work and expand access to stable, affordable housing. And when I do see both sides as a current, a renter, no idea if we do understand the pressures that renters are under. But also recognize blanket rent control isn't the answer. Is limiting new housing supply and unintentionally hurt. The very people is meeting to help. There are better solutions. We need. We actually need deeply affordable, permanent housing. That policy is a slowdown. New development endorsed small community-based landlords. Also been able to help secure 20 million dollars for from the state legislature to reduce youth. The family homes create more housing,
stability. Structure is structural investments like this. And we need more. What I'm saying is. So I also worked with you here in and in Saint Paul, specifically, who might actually did a psa analysis showing that youth and family homes. This is going up. And also Colin to study with health partners as well as where we worked 30 other youth and top priority was deeply affordable, permanent housing. So with that big said, just wanted also state that his overall there are opportunities for schools to help another untraditional of frmats in ways that we can go about such as Gap School on the West Side was building affordable. Housing also created a policy but the Legislature's well for the Minnesota housing Grant, program like could have. Restate it so much. Please be sure to sign
in. And coming up. My name is Cody Fisher. I live in Ward one at 10, 17 Ashlan Avenue. PRESIDENT Maker members of the council. Thank you for having us here today. I urge you to support the proposal to permanently exempt new residential buildings from rent control. We want Saint Paul to be a place where people want to stay and always have the option to stay a place people can afford to move and have stability once they are here, affordable housing is essential for renters. And the current ordinance locks in our current housing shortage for decades, without more housing renters will remain in poor unstable conditions in the city will struggle to grow its tax base. Saint Paul needs to grow our tax base needs at our vibrancy and quality of life as a community ned it and we needed for climate reasons as
well. We need people living in our core urban environments that are less car dependent. Why a blanket cut as is being proposed here starting at 2005, it's simple as a real estate developer who tries to raise money from investors. I know it's predictable. It's clear and it'll make it easier for developers to go to the market and try to convince investors that Saint Paul as a stable low-risk place to put their money. It achieves this while preserving the benefit of the ordinance. Because 94% of our rental stock. Will be still subject to the policy. Opponents of this common Sense Amendment Amendment argue that it weakens tenant protections and housing stability to the advantage of big developers. That's a false choice. And frankly, it's political pandering. Given our housing
infrastructure and fiscal climate challenges. Saint Paul can't afford to willfully ignore economic reality. And the overwhelming evidence we have available to us already. As a city. We don't have to choose between housing, stability and housing. Abundance. We don't have to choose between broad base, housing, affordability and enabling investment in housing development. We don't have to choose between broadening our tax base and protecting people who rent te common sense proposals. This and the one to follow before the council present a 3rd way a path of both and a path of housing choice and abundance. I urge you to take that pass. Thank very much. Perfectly times come out at for decide. Thank you, chair. My name is kept this up in that and I work for the Saint Paul in Minnesota Foundation,
which is located at 3.70, while Russia Street north in downtown Saint Paul. At the same Paulina sort of foundation. We believe both I possible to hold the balance of simple voters supported like protecting tenants rights and maintaining affordability and adapt to the city's rent stability. Still a station policy to support much needed housing development, which is why we commend the council members for embracing and and old clients that and showing a willingness to amend the rest of list station in strengthening tenant protection coach in a way that reflects community values and evolving needs elevating renter voices must remain central to this process. Biannual survey measuring indicators of community vital a day in the East. Metro revealed that use Metro
resident identified affordable housing as one of the most critical issues facing the region. The data also shows critical differences between renters and homeowners. Renters. For more likely than homeowners to call their community just a place to live rather than a place they belong and they were much more likely to worry about making their rent payments, having enough money to put food on the table and getting out of that. Despite these worries renters and homeowners alike had positive impressions of the East Metro us a place to work play and interact with people from different backgrounds. We know they use. Metro is at the site will place to live with great amenities. But affordable housing is a real concern that impacts renters ability to feel a sense of belonging. Therefore, on behalf of the same poll in Minnesota
Foundation, we strongly support the ordinance. 25 Dash 29 amending Rent Stabilization ordinance. 25 Dash 31 amending strengthening tenants Rights Protections. Thank you. Thank you very much for Decided. Come on that. My name is Michael backs and 18 63 Iglehart Avenue and Marian Park and I am a social scientist at the University of Minnesota. Proud. Same highlight since 2015 and as both a renter and homeowner. Now a parent of 2 kids thriving at Oakland Park Elementary and Saint Paul public schools. And I'm here to speak also and support the proposal to permanently exempt new residential buildings from rent control and this to be a necessary step to make Saint Paul Place where other people can move and find places to
rent and then by and live and thrive. I've been alarmed by seeing news articles and studies showing the slowing of new development in Saint Paul. The continued rising rents while our neighbors to the West continue to go their housing stock and stabilize the rents without this kind of on policy. Our housing shortage is locking renters in poor and unstable conditions and without increasing supply further, we will continue to strain our community, our local property tax base, which will impact renters and homeowners as they try to remain in Ramsey County and Saint Paul. This is also important in addressing a primary council agenda. Push of addressing climate change to increase our urban density and get people less car
dependent and more carbon neutral. This exemption will provide stability fr event investors as well, which seems very important in this uncertain tme as Washington seems to be throwing everything into chaos. We don't need to have another place causing difficulty in making investment in our community. So I urge you to adopt this commonsense measure as it stands. It feels like a very expensive way to make an ideological point. Thank you for your consideration. Thank you. Don't forget to cited Welcome councilmember. That's key. Thank you for your service. My name is Carolyn. I'm a renter and Ward 4 and I'm opposed to this amendment to the rent stabilization ordinance that 53% of Saint Paul voters approved to protect ourselves and our neighbors by intentionally
creating reasonable guardrails around developer and landlord profits as everyone's already spoken. I am not naive. I understand Saint Paul is facing existential challenges and I knowledge the deeply entrenched narrative, generations and billions of dollars in the making that the housing market will do right by renters. If we leave it up to those who profit most. And I also know from personal experience over 20 plus years of being a renter that virtually any measure that gives renters any meaningful power is met with developers and landlords patting us on the head and saying, no, no, no. What we really need is more supply. But trickle down affordability is both grossly insufficient and fundamentally unjust. And there's a large growing national network of not just renters in organizers, but economists, academics elected officials
who have taken a more critical analysis of the supply will save U.S. Data and logic and are clear that we need a different approach. To truly solve the affordable housing crisis. We need interventions to stabilize the unpredictable and unfettered rise in rents. And honestly, if we're banking on this amendment, unleashing a bonanza of new development, I fear we're being simplistic, as was noted, yes, in recent years prmits have dropped 81%. Saint Paul, but they've plunged 88% in Minneapolis, 77% in Cincinnati. 68%. St. Louis. 52% in Denver. The list of comparable cities goes on. But outside of our city limits, the real estate industry doesn't have the luxury of blaming rent stabilization for conception. Challenges. And we have 2 minutes. So as you can read in our commentary in The Star
Tribune today, Trump long and I lay out some of the real drivers for its slow down fom the industry's own publications and sources ad spoiler alert. It is not rent stabilization. So lets not throw away the long-term affordability protections for thousands of current and future rent or households to capitulate to developers who will still be hard pressed to deliver results. Thank you very much get Good afternoon. Councilmember Nick are council members. My name is Scott Korda Sullivan. More 3. I'm here on behalf of Project for Pride, Living a Twin cities based community development organization where we operate 1600 affordable units across the Twin Cities about a 3rd of which are in Saint Paul. Details been actively engaged this discussion. Ging bck to the 2022 rent stabilization
stakeholder Group where we participated because we believe that we are. That in order to adequately address housing, affordability and housing security for the long term, we need both reasonable protections for renters and we need more housing of all types, especially affordable housing. Its well documented Saint Paul and the region has a long-standing housing supply shortage that has been driving up to the cost of housing for the better part of 2 decades dating back to 2008 and pause rent stabilization ordinance does have an unintended impact. Chilling housing development at a time when we need it. The most. For example, together with fellow. Nonprofit affordable housing developer, Combine communities we've been proud to Island bridge to develop 760 units of
affordable housing on 10 parcels to date. Only 3 of those 10 parcels have been or will be under development within the next year and the other 7 parks parcels, which will generate over 500 units of additional affordable housing indefinite pause due to a lack of funding. That only becomes available. One additional marker of development occurs on the site. We believe this ordinance change will help unlock market rate development across the city, which will in turn generate additional funding to build more affordable housing at Highland Bridge and beyond. Furthermore, pairing amendment with rent renter protections included. And 25 31. Provide a reasonable path forward enhance housing stability throughout the city. We greatly appreciate the council's consistent support of affordable housing and we urge approval of this
amendment to help ensure we have more people with a more stable place to call home. Thank Thank you very much. To it aside. Coming up. Good afternoon. MADAM Chair and mmbers of the Council. My name is Joe Nathan. I've lived in Saint Paul, 3 children in Saint Paul and Saint Paul public schools and 5 grand daughters, all of whom live in Saint Paul. I'm here to support the twin approaches that are suggested and these 2 ordinances. A number of years ago, I was asked by the National Governors Association to be in charge of this project chair might be especially interested several of you because one of the things we recommended 40 years ago in 1985, was much more invested in high-quality early childhood education based on consider research 1985, I'm a big believer in taking a look at the research and in the written testimony that I'm
submitting and we'll ask you to take a look at the first paragraph. Recent research piece of research by 2 economists at the University of Southern California. They conclude what has been the result of a well intended ordinance. Result is number one, that property values in Saint Paul of gone down by 1.6 billion dollars. Number 2. The people who have benefited mostly affluent and white. They conclude to realize the impact of this law was the opposite of its intention. I think it was well intended. I think we ought to take a look at what actually happened. I think that route when approaches are excellent. My colleague MR. Rodgers has pointed to the value of having high school kids learn
construction skills, which is actually happening in the city as they are building on as they are building low-income housing. There are things that we can do. We need to take a look at their search and we need to approve both of these ordinances. Thank you very much for your consideration. Thank you so much for your time. Don't forget to say come out of what next. Thank you to the city Council for holding this. Welcome to the Nation Council meer. Appreciate having you. My name is Jacob. I'm a renter from the Como neighborhood. I supported passing rent stabilization. I still support rent stabilization. I would point out that most cities that enacted successfully do so with a new construction exemption. I know that you're going to hear a lot today that. Do this is to pass this
amendment is. To go against the will of the voters supported the rent stabilization amendment. 53%. I do think Saint Paul voters sent a message with the vote on rent stabilization, that housing affordability and protecting renters from displacement. Need to be top priorities of the city Council. But those priorities right now are being undermined by ongoing housing shortage and by the barriers to financing new homes in Saint Paul. The truth is that all policies are imperfect. They can all unintended consequences. And when that becomes clear, it is not of the trail to amend the policy to better achieve its long-term goals. As elected
officials we rely on you to smart policy that makes our priorities a reality. And the current reality is that the current structure of rent stabilization is hurting Saint Paul. Average rents in Minneapolis just fell. We are seeing constant property tax problems here in Saint Paul that do affect renters to. We are impacted by that as well. With this change we can bring in new construction that can actually address long-term affordability crisis. And if we pass especially alongside the renter protections, we can still keep renters protected from displacement. This is going to affect 90% o Saint Paul is still going to be rent stabilized after this passes more than 90%. Please pass this amendment. Thank you very
much. Don't forget to sign who are. Coming up. afternoon. Council PRESIDENT And members of the City Council. My name is because I am PRESIDENT And ceo Saint Paul Area Chamber. Behalf of our 1600 members and affiliates. I'm here to express our support for the proposed amendment to Saint Paul's rent, Stabilization Ordinance this amendment is a necessary step towards addressing the housing shortage in our city. Saint Paul is already facing an 11,000 unit housing deficit when the rent stabilization ordinance went into effect. New housing permits have plummeted. Since then, the city only issuing 404 permits last year. According the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Saint Paul has ambitious housing plans. The downtown investment strategy envisions chipping
the downtown population together. The city and chamber are supporting initiatives like the Cup tax credit. The Heights to bring new energy and housing to our neighborhoods. These efforts depend on private capital. And right now investment is being driven elsewhere. The uncertainty created by the worker ordinance continues to make financing projects in Saint Paul. Very difficult. We want to support this amendment is a step in the right direction, though. We remain fundamentally concerned about the rent stabilization ordinance as a whole. Our primary interest is policy that advances opportunity, advances growth and limits risk even with the proposed changes. The framework continues to cast a shadow over seen possibility to attract and sustain housing
investment. I'm members consistently share how this policy limits opportunity, delays, growth and that's risky projects. The city badly needs. Ultimately we see this amendment as important course correction. If you want to bring stability and choice to Saint Paul residents need to expand that housing supply that begins with the policy environment that invites investment and not one that Richard So I thank you for the opportunity to speak today. Thank you so much get excited. Welcome that. Good afternoon Council. Thank you for hosting this hearing. My name is finance and I live on the 1400 block of Eleanor Avenue in Saint Paul. I'm one of the board of an organization called sustained Saint Paul that champions abundant housing, low-carbon transportation and scene of a land use. I'm here in my own Kasey and on behalf of the organization to speak in
support of this proposed amendment to the rent, Stabilization Ordinance. Want to respond to an ocean of heard from some uphold opponents of the proposed amendment that time that any changes to the ordinance as it was originally passed by voters in 2021. Undermines the will of the voters and it's a betrayal the voters. I don't think that's correct. I think that the outcome of the ballot referendum as the person before me from the side said expression, the voters values, the values voters care about housing, affordability in the city and care about the welfare of tenants. But we have a representative system of government for a reason and Saint Paul and that's at the problems facing our city. Let the housing related at tax base and number of issues are complex and sometimes are
local policies. Don't have the consequence for have consequences that we don't expect vters understand and even expect that our elected representatives, the council will modify policies when they don't succeed at balancing of the complex and sometimes competing priorities that we have is community. The rent. Stabilization ordinance is a great example of this. This cause housing production, employment and Saint Paul and ways that can't be explained by the simply by the macroeconomic factors that are affecting Minneapolis and other municipalities in the region. I think that this ordinance is a common sense step towards course correcting. A way to ensure that the ordinance will still ensure stability for most tenants in the city. Well, removing the major impediment to housing development, the essential not only for long-term housing
affordability, rents and housing prices, but also increasing the tax base and reducing the burden of that property tax increases are currently having, especially on the low income renters and homeowners. So I urge you to pass that amendment and also the tenant protections proposed. Thank you for your consideration. Thanks so much. To forget to sign it will come up. So I'm Elaine to own word for welcome. My new representative. I'm a member of the Metropolitan Council Interfaith Council on Affordable Housing. I'm hearing that people are behind more affordable housing, especially for working people I am in favor of the tenant protection part, but I have a lot of questions about reasons
for and the support for the the additional exemptions for For rent stabilization. And I'm relying today. Just want to make I've limited time the Carolyn Chapin ski. Also word for spoke earlier and Trump won in 2 days started had a very good article that I would urge you all to read very carefully. And one of things that struck me was fair point that there is no peer reviewed research evidence that rent stabilization slows. The development of have a saying none. And I'm hearing a lot of people trying around the idea that it does slow housing and ideas are not. Peer reviewed research and one of the samples that they gave is
important in Maine. And this kind of contradicts that. What was said in introduction that we had initially that said that there is absolutely rent stabilization ordinance. It didn't have no new construction exemption. Apparently important in Maine. Twenty-twenty voters passed the strongest rent stabilization ordinance in the United States. It had no new construction exemption. None. And 3 years later, Portland shot a 10 year high and housing development. Now that research, it's a fact it happened. I'm not hearing anybody talk about that. So I I have questions and I urge us to really be focused on what is the outcome we need more affordable housing. Thank you very much. If decide unwelcome
up. Hello, everybody. My name is Joe Beierle. I live in lower town and war 2. Idid submit formal comments to the hearing email address, but I thought show up in person. Paraphrase for everybody. I support both of these amendments. I've lived in Lorton for 7 years. You could argue my wife and I moved in at the height and we've seen, you know, for sense. But we're going to stay for the long haul and make comments will reflect that downtown needs new residents. Many, many more residences. I think everybody agrees you've all heard te goal of doubling and tripling the population to achieve that. We need housing downtown, small, medium and large affordable mid-level
luxury. Rental and resident on all of it and to get those things Saint ii's investment. I think we need to relax the stabilization too attracted investment as some of stated here tonight here. And as we've read in the papers. This amendment by itself isn't going to work. Magic and make it all happen. But I would argue that it's one of the things that need to happen. 2 create the environment to enable it. So I encourage you to to support and pass. 25 25 29 and I consider the 31 to be the other side of the coin. Rental rights rental needs are super important. And I think that this amendment looks like a good, positive step in right direction. And so keep an that
one as well. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign an unwelcome up. Thank you, council members. My name is Jean given pine from Ward 4 former renter. Former landlord, current home owner. I'm concerned. Exemptions on new builds will incentivize tearing down. Existing rent controlled apartments when an existing apartment needs maintenance and upgrades. I'm concerned it MAY be seen as a better financial move. At too tear down and build something new which won't have rent control. Thank you very much. Be sure to sign in and come up. Good afternoon. My name is Brayton homes and I'm a cabinet maker and renter on west 7th in Ward. 2. Despite the fact that I live in a newly built apartment, I do support the rent stabilization amendment, especially in tandem with the addition
additional tenant protections. I believe that opening the door for new and denser - development will be better for Saint Paul. A long way and provide more and better options for other folks who are or will be renting within the Thank you vry much. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign unwelcome up. My name is Adam going where I live in north and I own a house which is a privilege not shared by half of our citizens. But for this ordinance, change is a vote to make those people homeless because we will no longer be able to protect them. I don't care just like what she said. We'll just tear down the old buildings and they'll build new ones and those won't give us peace. Are people protections? I voted for this and the majority of our citizens voted for this. And I read the economic analysis of red rent control across the nation. We have this proposal
and the reason that I voted for it was because we didn't have the same exemptions that every other city who did this hat, those exemptions in all the analysis were given as the reason as to why the rent control didn't work for those cities. That's why I voted for this. And it's assault to us as a democracy. 2, get rid of that because some wealthy man, Florida or property developer decide that they can't. Bild anymore. Are totally capable of building new housing. You can separate to whatever you want when you build a new house, a new, a new apartment or anything and it's just absurd that you can say couldn't build. And this is all just ignoring the fact that condos can also be built. And I know there's other issues with that. But the rental housing is not the only kind of housing that we can
have in the city. And we already have half for citizens as renters. We need more opportunities for people to actually live here and stay here. And that's what I think we should do. Council president, you said that we're seeing democracy happened or is happening here now said is an assault on the Democratic will of the people. And I urge you to not capitulate to the whims of the Capitol strike. Thank you very much, Simon. Good afternoon. My name is Dan Haren. Guess I live in Ward 4 and a simple homeowner. Former mentor, welcome interim council member Gretzky. I am also a long time. Scholar and writer and the housing crisis, the author of book Escaping The Housing Trap about America's Housing Crisis. So I'd like to grandma commentary just in a couple
kind of big-picture ground troops, the housing affordability crisis is everywhere. It is deeply systemic. It is deeply rooted and when you have a problem like that, you have to do both things. You have to treat the symptoms you have to manage. You know, the patients waiting on the operating table. You also have to treat the underlying cause. Which means having a housing market that is responsive, 2 local demand that can build enough homes for everyone who lives here now and everyone who would like to live here in the future. That includes people like my young children who I hope will have good options to stay in Saint Paul and they are grown. It includes me when I want to downsize and the longer on my home and I want to rent option and the existing research, the the expert understanding of this. Policy details of how you
respond to the housing crisis MAY be wickedly complex, but there are some basic ground troops. And one is that you cannot meaningfully protect renters in the long run. If you don't build. And the reason for this, it's not arbitrary theories about supply and demand. It is the housing market is a giant game of musical chairs. You know, the actual game of musical chairs. Everyone in the game can be an Olympic caliber sprinter. But I there are not enough chairs for everyone who needs one, someone will lose that game. The housing market is no different under conditions of an overall supply shortage. You cannot meaningfully protect tenants. All you can do is put a Band-Aid. On a gaping wound. The people who we need to build housing in Saint Paul. Telling you that right now they cannot finance these
projects and that is a 5 alarm fire for community. Thank you very much. Don't forget to sign in and hello, my name is Matthew McMIllan. Time for more foreign. I oppose this amendment. I oppose it because permanent exemption from rent for new construction is insane. It's bill for cannot build a an apartment building that will be sufficiently profitable within 20 years. The cannot build a apartment building at all if they need. 25 years, exemption or 30 years, exemption that we should we should amend a law so that it is 25 years or 30 years. They definitely is just giving landlords development companies and capitalist the ability to extract profits
indefinitely from the residence. And I see no reason all that is not necessary since 2022. Minneapolis and Saint Paul, so similar decreases can new construction, even though Minneapolis doesn't have any rent control, which begs the question, does rent control significantly decreased new construction? It's not obvious that that's the case. So I don't see why it's necessary. And I think that it removing it entirely roofing work. It was entirely for new construction is far too much it's kind of production. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign welcome that. Good afternoon to take House members. Thank you for your time. My name's ever, Dalton. And I'm a student health to college and a recent addition to the Saint Paul rental community. Finding adequate and affordable housing as a
student is a challenge. So I checked, I share rent stabilization score goals, standing communities, protecting runners and keeping housing affordable for those need it most. We must be honest about what's working and what's not. Since the ordinance passed, new housing construction has slowed rent. Stabilization is not the only factor, but it has impeded necessary construction that matters. But housing isn't built its renters students and working families who are left with your options. We see that in Minneapolis increase housing protection does lower rent? Well, not a cure. All it's a proven tool to advance hosing justice. That's why I support new construction exemptions and I'm glad to see the tenant protections
alongside with that as a student and a renter. I believe these policies achieve true housing justice for Saint Paul, thank you for your time. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign it and welcome. Good. Good afternoon. Chair taker and council members. My name is prepping. Ken, I'm a renter here in lower town and I'm opposed to the ordinance amending the legislative code pertaining to rent stabilization. The ordinance as exists fall short of helping most team points because there's no uniform of force mechanism and there's a little guidance to help residents find a way to challenge a rent increase of exceeds the ordinances limitation of limitations on rent increases. The proposed amendment forever exempt a considerable chunk of housing from rent stabilization for waters down the original
wardens, the assertion that the existing ordinance exacerbates the affordable housing crisis I dubious. New York City where he lived for most of the 20 had accepted a new construction firm strong ranking showing stabilization boys actually also also reportedly incentivized new housing giving tax credits for new construction all the promise for creating more affordable housing. But that affordable housing never came. Simply stated promises to water down infrastructure that ensures affordable rent will not guarantee increase in affordable housing supply rather than looking to market solutions. The city should use the ordinance as is to ensure that rental units will remain
affordable, especially when the country is facing potential runaway inflation from a growing trade war. And that leads to my final point. We all know that the economy right now is extremely volatile. Many economists forecasts both a spike in inflation and either a stagnant or shrinking economy. This means that many will to his jobs. All of us will struggle with costly costlier needed goods and the cross cost of construction materials. Rice. That's all to say that we face an environment where people have less money to pay rent and construction companies will not be able to afford additional of supplies to actually build housing. Regardless of what you think. The proposed amended ordinance MAY finish my son's ticket are considered. Of many in the morning says is a little biased, given market
conditions. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign an unwelcome at. I think the council for the time to speak. My name is Adam and I love it when 66 s we have a new student McAllister college and I rise in strong support of this amendment because of recent experience with finding housing. I needed to find housing recently that that meant looking for a place to rent. But not a great deal in which to choose from me, too. I'm supply was limited. And the real effect of this was that we no bargaining power ad ended up charging or ended up about $100 more per month than otherwise. If we had had more limits to kind of play off each other. We could the last. But many people cannot. Situations like mine will only become more common if we don't pass the amendment and start increasing the supply of housing, it will then renters we more power to
negotiate with landlords. Agree that older buildings need rent control for Friday reasons. We cannot put the pocketbooks of those removing this amendment. Does a great job of making a compromise between these products. Also, just want know that rent control jst because I heard Ed about the data backing. All right, Rob, one of the common effects controlled does is it reduces mobility right? The idea being I'm staying your current apartment, it's really, really cheap. But moving is really expensive. So if your landlord has, you know, you know, not really keeping building very well. Then. You know, you're kind of stuff are you are you can't move. So really when talking the rent control, talking, like, you know, making people more free to move around to escape, just get Landlords
thank you for your time. Thank you so much. Make sure to sign in and we'll come Good afternoon Council. My name is John Benda, a resident of Ward 3. Years ago when I began my teaching career out of my salary, I was a renter for a number of years as well as my spouse. Both of our children have also been renters in. Our grand total children will no doubt the renter someday as well. Everyone no matter what their race income or zip code should have a safe and stable place to live. So if the renters, they should predictable, manageable rent increases, especially during these precarious times and particularly for those with low incomes. 16 are in affordable housing. That's why I think the rent stabilization ordinance is critical. I do understand, though, that Saint Paul as an extreme shortage of housing that needs to be addressed and then exempting new construction firm rent
Stabilization has been targeted as a way to accelerate the building. More housing. What puzzles me is that this ordinance exempts to construction firm Instapoll stabilization indefinitely like forever. That's a large number of years. Like an infinite number. In calculus terms. It's one over excess. Tax goes to 0 large. I'm not trying to be on serious here. I am totally serious. They know the city council is to. It really seems like a 20 year exemption with a 20 year. Look back should be more than sufficient. But if not, I ask that you please put a cap on the number of years about 25 or 30, but not infinity. That truly is unserious. That we MAY grandchildren and all that today's children can have stable, predictable and manageable rate increases. This alternative proposal would allow developers and investors to make their
profits. But I'm sure that as many records as possible in Saint Paul can be protected under rent stabilization. I sincerely hope. That the city's desire that developers will build more housing as a result of this ordinance comes to pass. If that doesn't occur, I expect that the city will revisit this issue and explore what adjustments need to b made to better built her commitment to housing supply and housing equity. Thanks for this opportunity to speak. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign an unwelcome at. Hello. My name is Michelle. I'm a renter and would want graduate soon. If using the soda and my city housing. And I'm here oppose to this amendment. Last week, the entire staff of the low-income heating Energy Assistance Program were terminated. Thousands of low-income
households tat depend on federal assistance to pay utility bills and no longer receive those funds. All aware of the federal forces pressure us. And at the time we're going to see an increase in inflation. Bales, construction costs and decrease assistance from a federal government. The use of how it actually be doing everything in their power to protect constituents to help us use all the tools at their disposal to help us stay in our homes. And yet here we are talking about amending an ordinance that actually helps us stay in our homes. The same city who a few years ago has one of the most incredible rent control ordinances now could pitch a leading to developers next truck. Even more profits from Saint Paul. Renters simple. Renters already. Have high burdens one in 4 seam? Paul
renters pay. Over half their income to rent and these plans are not felt equally. Only 16% of work, Florence's path or income. But one in 3 wood, 7 renters pay. Half their income to rise. The cement is that this amendment is asking too much of us. It's asking us to give up long-term affordability in exchange for no guarantees and your gas letting us into thinking it's a good deal by dangling. Tenet writes in front of our faces, we should not have to give up before ability for tenant rights. That should already be ours. This is absolutely a supply issue. It's a property tax issue. It's a downtown issue for rent control is not the cause of those problems. We want to work with you to address these challenges. We do. Let's develop housing ourselves. Let's get rid of surface parking lots and build
more housing and businesses. I beg you. We can do this ourselves. We can't do this if we abandon rnters. Please vote against this ordinance. Thank you. Thank you very much. It's sure to sign it. Sharon members of the council, thank you for hosting this item today. My name is mayor and I live in downtown Saint Paul Lifetime resident and a renter and proud to be here today. Listening to all of the passion at and smart comments on both sides. I'm a career city planner, including 11 years in Saint Paul. Alright, worked hard to reduce regulations and zoning to make building housing easy as possible, including a master planned at thousands of housing units at Highland Bridge with a significant number of them affordable. I think everyone in this room cares about housing choice and affordability. Sentiments that
voted the voter referendum on rent stabilization tenant protections. It's a well-intentioned idea, but it doesn't work in or housing market system. Developers and invest and investors have many choices about where to sell their housing product in this region and across the U.S. In this region alone, there are at least 70 other communities with infrastructure and zoning that welcome multifamily development, but don't have rent stabilization rles. Rent stabilization. It's having the opposite effect of its intention. It isn't increasing the supply reasonably priced housing instead suppressing new housing production, which oaks supply and tried prices over the long term. Across the country. The places that have been most successful and addressing the housing price
crisis are those that are meeting and with robust supply. Saint Paul must do everything it can to encourage housing development, nt driving away with rules that nobody else hat. I'm strongly and perhaps desperately in support of exempting new housing development from the rent stabilization terms. We've seen the devastating effect that it's already had on housing production in the city. And we cannot let that continue. More housing strengthens our economy and gives renters more choice and power in the future. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign an unwelcome at. Hi. Good afternoon thank you all for taking te time to listen to all of us. My name
is Jessica Sherman Ski and I am a policy attorney at the Housing Justice Center. Located Lower town and I'm also a former renter and work for I have been. Really glad to see that this council is continuing to enhance and support rent stabilization. But a the Housing Justice Center a fundamentally opposed to the creation of a permanent exemption looking forward. And I've been disappointed today by the amount of scapegoating that rent rent. Stabilization has received. Regarding lack of development. Rent stabilization truly the cars, we wouldn't be having the same rates all around the metro area in Anoka County, Washington Dakota. Everywhere the rates are
down and none of them have run stabilization. There is fundamentally difference between a correlation causation. Sure. Every there's so many factors that. Participate in this that we can't say rent stabilization is the cause and another important point that I wanted to point out is that. By creating a permanent exemption moving forward. We are going to categorically exclude most of the accessible housing in Saint Paul and that the folks who need accessibility in their housing will be shut out from the possibility of rent stabilization protections. The ada housing started building like those production started in 1991. And so if we consider that anything after 2005 is
excluded, that's only 13 years of housing development that folks with disabilities will have access to that have rent stabilization protections. And that will never change if we continue to excluded as a permanent deadline. Thank you for your time. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign an unwelcome at. It could. Afternoon council comes PRESIDENT Acre Council. My name is Kevin Gallatin. I live in Ward 3 18. 22 Parkway. I support both the amendment to rent stabilization as well as the tenant protections ordinance. We need more housing, more residents, more housing choices and we need more tax revenue getting all of that often takes public investment. And we need those tips districts to pay off such as my neighborhood Highland Bridge where over 50 million dollars in public investments have been made in infrastructure alone and need revenue to pay that off. We
need the development to proceed we should remove barriers to private investment our city that helped to meet those needs. New housing lowers costs everyone by filtering people of all incomes. That's the musical chairs that John and mentioned that lowers cost approximately 1.9% a year. According to our data from Syracuse University, we're all over the property. Taxes are increasingly burdening all residents. This amendment could encourage adaptive reuse of downtown buildings, which is critical for fiscal health. I do think it's really noteworthy that it's the certificate occupancy that determines whether they be exempted, not when they're built. So some of those old buildings that we're currently Class b class, office buildings are vacant, could be repurposed as residential and this amendment could help encourage that adaptive reuse less. Just know that the rent stabilization ordinance today
and as originally envisioned, it allows landlords to pass higher property taxes directly to renters in public. But Haitian so over time, if we don't address our our continued property tax issues, we are going to continue to see a hgher share of renters monthly payments being property checking generated so thanks very much. Thank you so much. Make sure you sign an unwelcome up. Michelle, most Edward One PRESIDENT And sustain Saint Paul Board member thank you, Councilmember Necker and counsel for the time and Councilmember. That's key. I'm a little nervous because I'm having some really bad calculus. Flashbacks, several things I supported rent stabilization and I support this ordinance which feels a little weird. But good governance is about making
adjustments without fully abandoning values. Ordinance. 25 29 help. Same poll become a nicer, friendlier jurisdiction for home builders. Well, protecting renters. When I moved here, I asked people how long should I say I'm here and the answers ranged from 10 years to the rest of your life. As others have said, we'll hope. I hope we all hope that sinkhole same poll can be a city where people want to stay even after 11 and always have the option to stay and called home. I support this ordinance and I hope you do, too. Along with the tenant protection ordinance. Thank you for your time. Thank you. Make sure to sign Welcome that. Good afternoon council. PRESIDENT City Council
members. My name is Melissa Wenzel and it was at 7 Michigan. Yes, that's right. Left him a homeowner at that are under most of my adult life. I just need a little while ago. I urge you to permanently exempt rental developments and those built since 20 2005 from the Rent, Stabilization ordinance. We need to focus our priorities expanding their city. Housing supply will strengthen, intended protection, ensuring that renters are treated with fairness and dignity. It's no secret, at least to me that the initial rent stabilization ordinance passing in 2000. 22 had unintended chilling effect on housing development. Since then, our housing stock is sold. Well, demand continues to grow. This limited limited supply is contributing to rising rents and increased competition for very few available units. If we want Saint Paul to be a city where
people of all incomes can live and thrive. We must encourage the development of new housing while also safeguarding renters from instability and discrimination. This ordinance ensures that new construction. Which brings much needed housing and increased property tax revenue won't be disincentivize, increased rental units often have lower cost. And as we've seen with a in Minneapolis without rent, stabilization limit limitations. Rents have been stable and have gone down. We owe it to interest to do what is needed to increase rental stock, which will allow for more choices, stable or lowered rents and more people that in our wonderful city. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure cited will come up. And I'm just going to a quick call. If you are here to speak on this item, it would be great if you could light up. Just we have a sense
of how many more folks we have to speak. So this will be opportunity line Lock-u-up. Thank you. Good afternoon. A career in city council in welcome to my news City Council member. I'm worried for residents. I'm Jenny DeLuca. a leader with I say at. I home owner here for 34 years. But I'm here to speak against the proposed new construction amendment. I love the city and I loved hearing how all of you love this city earlier this today. The you want that you care for the people that live here and and I also care for the people that live here, too. And I want people to live here in a safe environment with no. To a place to call home with no exceptions. And I. Have been listening to all conversations. I hear. What I hear in my head is
profit and greed. And I call Saint Paul home. My house is my home. And at some point I know because I have 112 year old bungalow and the stairs are really difficult. Climb up. I'm going to have I'm going to sell at House and I'm going to want to live in a rental unit. I want to have an elevator and wanted to be new shiny. New after 112 years living in House Senate and I respect City Council and the mayor are at between a rock and hard place. You've got at all of our organizations possibly wanting to keep this amendment possibly against this amendment. And developers breathing down your neck because they want to have an unlimited infinity exemption on hats Ithink that's wrong. I would be willing to compromise on that, though. MAY be 25 30 year exception on
this. I can't imagine they can turn a profit and that amount of time. And right we know that there are many residents here in Saint Paul where costs Newt. If this exception go still, it's going to affect those of lower income and those who are seniors trying to fixed income. So whichever. Path you all choose to go to. I hope the commission says from developers. That they will develop. Thanks. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign unwelcome at. Good afternoon, folks. And just resident of Port 7 states. Plus the old record. wrecked building in sort of neighborhood. This is my first city council meeting So I don't really know how these things are supposed to go. And they prepared a really nice eloquent statement that a lot of facts and data and all good stuff. But I'm not worried that because what I'm hearing from your constituents on both
sides 2 different realities. There are people saying that building condos is going to fix everything that's wrong with Saint Paul in their people saying that incident growth for Evers. Really terrible in get a break. Saint Paul. What I would ask from this council is that you go into the sort of sessions with your minds open. And you determine what those metrics are and what the state of sources are that are true and speak to. What do you think your voters values are personally? I'm going with the person who works ad housing justice who said that this would be a disaster. And I agree with that because based on the language of this amendment, having exemptions only for people who can afford to build large new places is. Kind of counter to the interests of pretty much
everyone else. I also want to say just for the obviously old white women and men who are here representing their development companies are. Whatever at call of the conglomerate's they've assembled. That this also is a big bill finger to every single small landlord who has renovated. They're built tour of Saint Paul and her beautiful history here. And that's issue resonate with everyone regardless of where you stand politically. I would ask that you take those things into consideration and also want to know forward for you were not elected your interim, crrect? I would encourage you to reserve a vote on something as contentious and MAY be of State. Thank you very much for
your time. Appreciate your time. Thank u next. Well, council members, thank you, council PRESIDENT For your time. Cole Hansen Award for resident. I'm a dad and a renter and I give half my public salary to my landlord every single month. I wanted to speak to fairness as a part of this amendment because I think I is fundamentally unfair to renters like myself as well as the small landlords and folks trying to build housing in maintain housing in the city. They're investing time and time again and all the properties I live in Ward, 4 Island University and I go for a lot of runs through the south, part of the word and see all the buildings along Marshall Summit Avenue. I see Ellen eyesore, buildings Santee Park Raymond and those buildings would be prime targets to be torn down. So a
new developments could be built. Rent could be set wherever it wherever they wanted to be. And that's where be forever. In my building. Buildings like mine. I benefit from income controlled housing. But if you don't, you benefit from rent stabilization, you don't worry that your public salary won't raise every year by 3 or more per cent to match or rent. That is the reality for those of us who work for the public. My thanks my salary is not going up 6% a year like my like my retirement, went to, you know. So making sure that our rent matches with what we are actually living with day today's public employees as renters in this community as parents, people just trying to get by. I ask you to consider fairness for those of us are
trying to make this work. I also asked parents for the again, the property owners are investing all the properties. You're trying to do their best to do right by our has taught that it's always cheaper to keep what you have and find something new. And I think the city has an opportunity here to keep a lot of good that we already have instead of insisting on every moment trying to build something new. Thank you very much. Thanks very much. Good evening. Council pesident means a simple city Council. My name is Cecil presidency of the Minnesota multi Housing Association. Known as ha ha isn't industry nonprofit representing 2300 members with 320,000 units of housing, the state serving 600,000 ranges. I'm here today to offer the mha support for the proposed ordinance. 25 29. But also provide some unsolicited
advice. The vast majority of economists calling including Paul Krugman. Raise red flags about ring control for one simple reason that does not But here we are again, fixing a broken policy. Now, this amendment MAY actually help generate new development. And so we encourage you to adopt ordinance. 25 29, because same poll desperately needs new housing. Let me tell you a story from this morning. I was at a capital markets meeting with industry leaders from Chicago. There is 325 billion dollars of liquid capital in this country. Currently looking to invest multi-family. As was stated that this meeting the first underwriting criteria for this 325 billion is now regulatory risk. In particular, rent control. In other words, they look at markets without rain control. I can tell you from personal interactions with
national investment capital that the presence of rent control in Saint Paul has had a negative effect on the entire Metro. And even the state. It is impossible to measure what being for out housing in this region and even same poll if not had ring control during the most recent building, boom. But the real estate cycle will return t development and redevelopment, especially with 325 billion dollars of liquidity. We'll same poll be ready. Will you repeal bring control? That is the real solution and we urge you to take action. Thank you. Thank you. Make sure to sign and come up. Hi, my name is Steve. To care and a resident of Ward over. For rent or I guess you could say. In 2021. 3% Rent Stabilization initiative was passed by the voters. It was intended to allow the renters to plan their lives are certainty of how much housing will cost them. Now in the
future. It was not a developer. Profit stabilization initiative. A year later, the certainty was got into a set of exceptions path to the City Council. Now we're here again to try to further weaken, rent control. The voters passed. This time at the behest of a large developer, Ryan companies who is slow walking the Highland Ridge development in the hopes of killing stabilization. The word for temporary appointment shenanigans is further evidence of what will be done to subvert the will of the voters the next time there's a of up for a vote in Saint Paul. Why should voters consider voting at all knowing their wishes will be ignored? At a time? Where we are wondering about the strength of our democracy nationally, we must do our best to maintain our democracy. Locally reject this rent
control amendment. Thank you very much. Make sure to sgn in. Well, coming up. Thank you, MADAM PRESIDENT. My name's for Peters. I am from the fighting 4th forward ad I'm very proud to finally have representation on this council by Matt Brodsky. Thank you. And thank you for voting tonight for the short tme that you'll be here, giving up her entire summer. I see, That's good. And I saw Cole was here already. And I know he's part of the people that's running in a tough team. It's very good comments. I have been a renter in Saint Paul. I've been a property owner. I represent as attorney, many, many property owners who are small landlords. And I know a lot of tenants and some of those people are scared
because even though the first speaker tonight for the public hearing, talk about how she was scared out of her wits. But the threats for a person, a lot of the property that shouldn't down. I think number 31 ordinance with sugar type greater is tied. To what we're talking about. Do you care? Keep them separate? You've got to protect the small landlords. The city of probably show that one of the presentations, all of housing in Saint Paul, that's not going to be affected by this ordinance. You know that to accept any rent increases except problem with rent increases yet understand when I was in the Army infantry when we made a decision we realize or be unintended consequences. Every decision we made, we call those first order of facts and second
order effects. We've got to be careful because what you do, it's gonna hurt all the areas you showed in the inner city. There people that choose to live in smaller buildings. They feel safe there. They can walk the walk ability in those buildings. So it's great to grocery stores and other things stood is to put my time, sir. Okay, please give me Cardinal. But anyway, a lot of you councilmembers don't know. Of the PRESIDENT Does know me. I have had this council many times excuse me, the city many times. And I've always while and I never enjoyed it because I live here. I pay taxes here. And I really would rather lose one thing you need to do because there is an equal protection argument. If you pass this ordinance, you have great city attorneys. Are a time get a legal opinion pledge very
much. It's a winning argument to listen. I'm just kidding. I think yeah. A few more speakers us and for public hearing on the side. Welcome. Hi, my name is Lou said I live in Ward 2 on Martin in Ottawa people have brought up a lot of stuff today. I guess what I want to talk about is the type of housing that will get built from this amendment. I have no faith that it will be affordable for the people who are already living here and especially considering the fact talked about this building before. But the Union Flats building in Ward 4, you should check it out. Built in 2019 water damage throughout the whole building. You walk
into the entrance. The carpet is discuss teen state. There's mold growing on it. I was talking to residents from They've had cracked windows that have taking a year for them to fix. So saint that property management like that can indefinitely increase the rent is very disrespectful to those renters. Also, the people who will be building. I saw that common Bond got mentioned. I've been to the Tories, San Miguel, 6 minute drive from here. They At least the way they manage that property is laughable. If those are the people who are going to be building, I have no faith that they will respect the residents who live there that they will do timely repairs. So I would just really ask you
to think about Lake. Who I building. Have you talked to renters under properties owned by those places. One of their experiences, Ben? Because yeah, the people who live at the Tory San Miguel water comes through the windows. Well, it rains. I see tiles turn up in the hallway. Ayers abandoned property there that people were going into an out and that common bond and do anything about it. So those are the people building I don't want it so. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign it. But it caution coming up that little medicated. So on the one standing. My words I'm here to represent. Same year. Disabled veteran communities. I'm here personally to support part of ordinance. I was one of the guys on committee for
Rent Stabilization. I see this as a livable document. People don't like or not. Never going to like it. But there can always b changes that helps everybody is caught mediation. Right now. You have like tis gentleman just mentioned. Property owners. That our lex of days ago and there upkeep of the properties that we live. There's going also be. Our kids, our grandkids. That's going to be looking for affordable housing and they they're going to need protections. Also. I love I was a two-time elected board member from West West community organization. My name Marcus Troy. Black student Union PRESIDENT And Minneapolis College. And so I have access thought of clubs there. I mentioned. One 1 of my talks here. Renters are now looking uionize. And that's additional protection. We feel
we need. And that the city council might not provide, but we're still willing to work with the City Council to help maintain our. Protections. We're not going anywhere regardless of what at a cozy putting our place. Generational winners, our kids, our grandkids. He saw slide up here where you had certified. I could Pence what's going t happen? Tere was a small percentage they disappeared. Those numbers are going to come back up. So figure always been have renters. We're always going to need protections. Thank you. Thanks so much. Don't forget to sign in help you feel better too. PRESIDENT City Council finance translated
live and words 7. And I'm the senior organizer for the Metropolitan Interfaith Council on Affordable Housing. There's a couple of folks who are here when we fight get stabilization past. And it's been a bad all. With big money the whole time Ryan companies makes about 1.8 billion a year. Manage about 8 billion dollars in properties. Put $300,000 into the anti campaign. And they've continued and continued and continued. To slow walk or undermine and Councilmember Joe Stack. I know that this sport I've been working at make up for about 20 years. And so the Ford plant and and the redevelopment has been a long, slow, hard fight. There's a
lot of tif going into that. And I think that Ryan is trying as other folks have said, slow, walk this to get this from out to get this taken out. Madison Equities. My city. And you've got most of that downtown. I just think it's really interesting listening to folks because everybody professes to white renters to have a great life. I remember before rent control. We didn't have enough affordable rental and the market was free and we put a small control on it. They freaked out. This is what we got. Chuck was at our own. I was reading about housing and strong towns and Iwent and got the Internet. Now I can look this up. We need to move away from a model or large developers and centralized financial institutions have
unprecedented sway over what is built and where. That's what we got in this country. That's what my historic City Council needs to say. Yeah, we can pick up and we can make a change. I urge you t not support this. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in and welcome that. The best to noon. PRESIDENT. So let me take this and that you it's a welcome. I. Use. It end there. From Also resident in water for. Who doesn't never own a house. So I don't know how old are staying, but the experience that I have for us and the renter, one of the buildings that the initiate of the other side, which is in a pretty private. It's 2019. The cobra to the U.S. What we.
Talking about today, which is. If need the housing, give us indefinite. Access to have a waive the front, the The View from an exception. I the policy they have is if you have a broken into new house, they will have a fix. It. I had a win here. I just wish it wasn't working complete a lot, even talk to my city council member. It would tell you we have those in place and we we have nothing to do with it. And thing I think we have almost 50. 100 units. We as a staff community got a lot the alleged communities. They have. 5, 3, bedrooms. The rest one-bedroom two-bedroom. This New Brunswick, new building coming up, I got into That would even have won 3 bedrooms. Well, that would that. Leave us that. Leave us nowhere. The rent stabilization. The idea has fixing the mic. The maintenance is did you want to to get out so that they
increase the next next tenant? I then it was when I was going 2019 was $1200. Right now. I pay $2000. 2000 adults. So I'm supporting the idea let's meet halfway. To date, years. 25 years. And that's the holdout. Also works. I it less to do was to develop. But it's not and find out. Who they managing their properties? Thank very much. Thank you. Make sure to sign in and welcome up. Good afternoon. My name is Sheriff Utah. Live in the lower town neighborhood. I was a homeowner in Saint Paul raised my children here and then my husband and I so their home and came downtown Saint too live So we did for a number of years until he got sick and we are renters. We were renters. My husband died and in a rental unit and a
lovely rental unit. And I am still in that building and I love it. I love a lot of things about it has become unaffordable. And I had wanted to die in the same apartment. Then my husband had. But I couldn't because the rent was too much. And so every year the rent goes up 3%. And I can live with that. But what happens in the meantime, is that the landlord's also added morning utilities that we had to pay for that were not included. When we first signed the lease. Every year there seems to be another uilities utility that we have to pay for or the parking goes up for the storage units go up or something goes up in those in those situations. And I am I'm going to be 80 in 2 weeks. I don't have I live on limited income. You know, I I'm not going to be
out there working. 20 or 25 hours worked to meet hours a week to make and meat. And so I don't I trusted when I paid when voted for this, that. That the government would live up to that promise. And I see that eating away. And I see landlords and I don't trust them. I don't trust that they will not race fans go around the corners or try to do stuff because business, they're business people. They are not there for the just the goodwill of the community. They're there for, you for business. So I don't trust him. So I am opposed to this. And if you if you still want to do it, then for goodness sakes, don't have it for eternity. Thank you very much. Early happy birthday. Don't
forget to sign it. Welcome at. City Council. PRESIDENT Scott also grew. On the east side know I grew up Grand Avenue in my dad's 5 plex learning how to take care of a small little community. Until te last day. A 7th grade. When I climbed out the in-school detention window and we left Saint Paul not to look back until after college. My family came back to help my sister with her I live in the east side. Like I Voluntarily subsidized affordable housing until 2021. Y'all came after my boundaries. Tat's the next. The next one. But no naturally occurring affordable housing. That's what happens with the free market. I kept rents really low so that I wouldn't
have turnovers. So so they could just. I wasn't greedy. And then in Twenty-twenty we get all of these marks is saying that landlords are greedy. We'll check it out. This is selfishness. Now the the opposite. I revoked half of my supply. Only have 5. They're not my name because a family member help refinance it 20 years ago, the 20 years I kept them. Low turnover. Back to back the next day rented again. Since 2020, 50% because you're just assaulting property and contract right? Life, liberty and property almost made it into the Declaration of Independence. Until the second continental Congress, like you all negotiated and they replaced it with pursuit of happiness instead of property because property enables us to pursue our happiness because that's
how we build. Our generational wealth in America and everybody has duty in America to own your piece of the pie renting is simply one step on the ladder. But this is had going in electric dialectic effect. Thank you for your at had people raise the rents 200 bucks just to survive the egregious properties at the end of At Thanks so much. They took that away. I dropped the rents. Thank you to make sure to sign in and welcome. Hi, name is Brent Homes. And I just wanted to share a couple things about my experience. Hopefully it'll help the council as you plan for the future. But I think rent control does have a suppression on asset value real estate. Taxable value. I think as an example in AUGUST of 2021, my partners and I put under contract a 15 million
dollar portfolio of brownstones sort of in the highlands mackerel and area. The actual purchase price was 14 Million 20. I think that was AUGUST. In OCTOBER. The appraisal came back above 16 Million. When rent control Pratt past, lenders require that it was re appraised because they wanted to reassess the rest. And the new appraisal came back at around 12 and a half million specifically because of rent control. Everything else was the same. I'm sorry. Just just start just had testified, ok, and so and so and so when we close that what we had to close the property of the purchase price and not walk away from an otherwise we would have had lost $200,000 of hard earned money. And so we have this experience. The whole yield curve rose since
then, a lot of Makar economic things have happened since studied further suppressing asset value. But recently we've had hundreds of thousands of dollars of tax refunds from our apartments, our values of apartments. We honor and 1000 units, maybe one and a half percent of the 65,000. We've lost, you know, millions of dollars of write-downs in tax value. While in my house, I own 1400 square foot house and my taxes went up 20% on that. So Ijust I think we're going to have maybe another 3 years of suppression of value. I think it'll be 7 years until apartment values outside of Saint Paul go back up to where they were at their peak. So I think we're in this big
transition and just for your budget, I just typed. Yeah, thanks thank you very much. Make sure decided. Well, come up. Just as a reminder, you can always submit public testimony via writing. If you feel like you run out of time to say we had to welcoming high. Thank you so much city council everyone who's here. There's an amusing minute of my time for. Are there any developers are representatives of developers here who are willing to go on record and say yes, if this goes through, then I will absolutely 100%. Create affordable housing. I'm gonna roll amended to my my own time here. If you're here. One minute, we're going to sit in silence. And so when he comes through. Recorded. I thought you're going to jump up. Let's say. Okay. not going to have a back
and forth so you can use your time to speak or not, but they could stand. Are you done with your testimony? No, I I have the floor. I have. 22 seconds left. Because this silence is part of my testimony. So what's in it together? One, wow. That's interesting. That silence is deafening. Okay. Are you done testifying? Tests are you still have 7 seconds. Okay. Thank you so much. They signed and welcome that. of the council PRESIDENT Is one of the first doing something like this and Saint Paul. My name is Melissa. I have a safe address. So that's home say I have lived
experience. My biggest concern is that one of the fastest growing populations, people who are going homeless are. People at age. 55 and above. Single women. Who don't have the opportunity to actually have a voice. People whose ban. Estranged. They can't be here to represent today. population. People. When it comes to trying to keep up with these ordinances. They're not share. They don't know what's going on. There's very, very little representation. And even when you do get housing. Trying to keep it. I've been in a population where there's 151,000 people
who are homeless and don't know how to get through the system. It is so important to actually stand up. And represent. This issue. It's literally like fighting for your life. And with that, I want to say that a lot of the money Sutter taken for these causes. To build more quality, affordable housing. Although I've been very fortunate to be in some places that it is affordable. They're a very small percentage of apartments within very large units. Ultimately that secure the moneys. Those units, you know, ultimately they still go up and pricing in some way. And they also don't cover for the disabled. So with that, I will say thank you. Please. Please do consider the need. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. And this is the last calls or anyone else here tonight
would like to testify on this issue. Sorry. This ordinance 20 21. Thank you. All right. Thank you all so much for your testimony and look to my colleagues to see if there any comments around the table. And as I mentioned, we will be laying better over until MAY 7th and we'll be leaving the public hearing open until then for further comment. So feel free to submit them. But looking around the table to see if there's any comments now. That's it. I just want to see generally, thank you so much to everybody who the time to be here. We have also received. Lots comments through e-mail and calls, too. So that's a part of the 10 day here. And I look forward to more conversations with folks, especially those who but in my down, we still have a few more weeks to go before the final vote soapy she shun for
everybody here. Thanks staying. Any other comments. Just I just it's really quick as sponsors of resolution. I I really appreciate everyone that showed up today. I think we heard from wide range of folks from all across the city and I want to thank you for taking your time out to be here and we will be adjusting all this information over the next the next few weeks here and just really appreciate participation. Just. I will add my thanks to everyone for taking the time. Was a lot o time. Please know that it really matters to us to hear from you both again in here. And if you choose to submit testimony, I think what you've heard tonight, what you've said tonight really helps paint the picture of the complexity of this issue and also of the full range of views that our community holds on this. So thank you for taking time to show up and
share your perspective. I would suggest before we have a staff report on the next item that my colleagues, my ticket. I'm so we are going to have take a motion from his chose to to leave that at are open MAY 17 continue. The public continued public MAY 7th all in favor of that motion say Aye. Aye, all opposed. 7 favorite. No one opposed. The public hearing is continue to MAY 7th. And as you can tell, I think all of us at least I could use a moment to just stand and stretch before we go into the next item. Simon, this just my colleagues and I take a moment to do Like to add to anyone else here, if you'd like to stand and stretch before we move on to the next item. city council back from recess. Roll call, please. Provides here. here we hear Johnson Care. Just Council, PRESIDENT Maker
here 7 present know an absent item. 25 is a public hearing of ordinance. 25 Dash 31 creating chapter one 93 of the legislative code pertaining to pertaining to tenant protections. Thanks s much to everyone for allowing us all to take that much needed break. Hopefully we're back extra sharp focus for next really important piece of legislation that we're considering tonight. And again, we have a staff report from director we see. Welcome back. Thank you. Good evening. director safety inspections. So I'm gonna walk through the ordinance as proposed we have time for questions, if you so just ovary, the different sections are security deposits and prepaid rent, applicant screening. Written notice for
non payment notice of sale. Relocation assistance. And then the complaint process and penalties. Yes, I will administer the ordinance, iffy in the ordinance is tasked with creating some of the educational materials and other resources in the city's ap languages. So starting with security deposits and prepaid rent For security purposes, they're limited to one month's rent and then prepaid rent is also limited to one month's rent. There is an exception that if the tenant would screened out for landlords tenants screening criteria they require an additional months rent as kind of a offsetting of that For the tenant screening. There's really so there's 2 options. But really
the big thing is about transparency and disclosure. So the that's the prize doubles. So starting out with that, the screening criteria has to be pesented and made available to the applicant. And there's really 2 options here. So there's the uniform criteria which was really prescriptive and lays out the different. Elements that can be screened and they're related to credit history, rental history and criminal record. Option to is to have an individual assessment. Again, in both cases, they have to be made available to the applicant. And in both cases they have to be applicants have to be provided the opportunity to supply additional information or to correct something when
presented it. There is an exception in this and that's just related to local state or federal funding our loan requirements. And that's we don't control that. Say the junta rule is for tenant screening therefore there's an exception related to This also includes merging of of 2 chapters chapter 54 in trapped in this new chapter one, 93. And so there's 3 additional things that were in chapter 54, which are being added into this. And that's the the cost for the application. Fee cannot exceed the cost to process actual screening. The - collection of the so they can collect the application fee, but they can actually catch it or deposit it unless actually to the screenings. If there are people in front of them in
line that need to be screened, they just essentially hold that fee until they need it. And if they don't need, needs to be returned. And then the last is transparency. So any denial is to come with the name of the screening agency or the credit reporting agency. So under the uniform screening criteria you can see here. This is the say this is the church versions along the list is much longer. If you read the entire ordinance, but a restaurant it is out in a conviction and these are good things that they cannot screen for it's essentially like a list of things you cannot do. Participation in our completion of a diversion program. Court file that's been exposed or just writers, not public. Cnvictions that were vacated exposure. State. Convictions for crimes that are no longer legal in Minnesota. Juvenile
convictions. Criminal petty misdemeanor offenses, MR. Meaner, misdemeanor offenses, which over 3 years old, felony convention convictions over 7 years old with an exclusion and then specific felony convictions that are over 10 years old and a specific actual like that those pertain to are listed the ordinance. For credit and rental history. Cannot screen out for credit score by itself. Or insufficient credit history the exception to that is if it's if the insufficient credit history is being bad faith. For rental history. Cannot just allow for a pending eviction action. Any eviction that has not resulted in a vacate judgment. Eviction action. That's more than 3 years old. Insufficient residential history. Again, unless it's being withheld in bad faith. And if there is an income test utilized for them and learned must also allow
the tenant to. Demonstrated history of successful rent payments. And this is something that has come up through conversation about people, prioritizing rent payments over some of their other bills and that credit history might not be the ig's the full picture on being able to commit to a rent payment. For the individualized screening. This is, you know, if they're going to use more prohibitive screening what I just laid at, they have to consider all the finance related to the screening, essentially things happen in our lives. And if there are some and just to Haitians are some extenuating circumstances or any other things that can offset individual screening criteria. They need to be able to present that to the landlords for consideration. But it comes to denials. So before denying an application for criminal history, Milan
must consider supplemental evidence. Internet also needs to notify the applicant within 14 days of rejecting the application and identify the specific criteria related to that. Tonight. So that denial notification can within 14 days, the basis. And this is for the individualized screening. And then any supplemental evidence and why it did not adequately compensate for what was found in the landlords to termination. And they do have to retain them as a required to retain that notification for 2 years. So moving on the affordable housing definitions in this really relates specifically to. Notice of sale and protection period when there's a sale of a property. To do that first, we need to define what portable
housing building is related to this ordinance specifically so that any building where at least 20% of the units are affordable housing units. So going on define what an affordable housing unit is a rental unit in affordable housing building. That rnts for an amount. And more than one-third of 60% or below of area median income. And it's the specifics of where we find that area. Median income. These are both really important because you could look at into Google search for affordable housing or affordable housing building. You're gonna find probably 15 different definitions. And so it's really important that we define what it means for city. Next is written notice for nonpayment of rent. At least 30 days before an eviction action alleging non payment rent or other unpaid financial obligation, landlord must provide written notice to the tenant. I do want to be clear
that this I only for nonpayment rent is not a carte blanche 30 day. Notice for rent eviction. Irsay, eviction notice and its specific about nonpayment. Really, this is about transparency and giving tent opportunity to pay the amounts total amount due. The accounting for the amount due. Address and location of the online locations since a lot of as patient portal. Now. So where to submit the rent. And then there's some prescribed language that is provided for that renters know where they can get assistance. Should they need it? They have to deliver that notice either. Personally or first class. Notice of This is for formal housing buildings in the
affordable had it units in those buildings. So all have to be noticed of the sales. To notify those units who their new owner is there is a protection period. It is 3 months and the projection period needs to the notice has to address these items. So start out with that. They cannot terminate tenancy agreement without cause. This is not be new, but you cannot renew tend to agree with that cause. So double negative, but cannot raise rent. Can every spring the tenants without giving required notice and paying relocation assistance. That's the key here. So they
could do all these things. But they have to provide notice and they have to provide relocation assistance. It's a different way to say that. This last line here is what's required also to be on of all the notices in the city's lmp languages. Tis is important information about your housing. If you do not understand it, have someone translated for you now or request a translation from your landlord. And this is again, part of the piece set Office of Financial Empowerment. Oh, really give a great assist to you know, for sure. And all the appealing, which the ordinance as but. Our our departments are really
Just confirming probably think the 10 top languages spoken so that those are available to him this use because really it's about providing the resources we're not trying to keep information for folks. Location. Assistance is equal to 3 months of rent for the rental agreement and the landlord must pay the relocation assistance within 30 days after receiving the tenants written notice of termination or within 30 days that that notifies that the road to agreement will be terminated or Inforcement. It looks really large of the screen. I didn't mean for it to look so for there is freshman and several. Avenues here. But if somebody impacted can file a complaint with tsa Dsi will make a determination where appropriate provide written notification or make a correction. Notice is
something that people like refer to that as appeals are heard legislative hearing officer makes a recommendation to council. And there's easy availability of a private right of action. I put this kind retaliation prohibited like across the bottom because in all cases and this doesn't just apply to this. Chapter one. 93, it really it's it's a state that we reiterated here because of its significance. Wheeler's are not allowed to retaliate for any complaint related to rental property. So once ministry of citations, they do at this are established an ordinance. Will we anticipate coming back and adding at air as it relates to this stuff? And lastly, just a couple other changes and that we know we're going to come
back to that just show up as different actions by City Council, the Department Safety inspections we don't currently have. This is 30 in our cadre of abilities. And so there is an administrative chant chapter related to the s I come back to make sure administering this ordinance is in that. So chapter 13 of the admin code, there was budget that I believe was coming to Cincy are Passed in late 24 and that will have pay for up and have a budget amendment related to the staffing implementation funding related to this. And then lastly, because we have this existing chapter, 54 in especially the transparency piece the prescriptive criteria that is in one 93,
their conflicts now with 54. So piece is a 54 that our value add to a 93 have already been added in the version that you're seeing. But we'll be coming back with just a full deletion of 50 force to remove conflicts thank you so much for the comprehensive information about this ordinance and just from my colleagues, we're looking at for some too and legistar. That's the that's the version we're talking about. Any questions for Director easy. Before we go to the public hearing. It does look like it. Thanks so much. Factory. See, I think will be around and you're welcome to email U.S. Cummins. We'll now go to the public So once again, let's invite people to line up on both sides. 2 minutes to speak only to adjust the microphones for your name, where coming from
and make sure to sign it afterwards. And again, this is specifically about the tenant protections ordinance. So inspection teams. Vision to just put in today. Move version Chance. Would you like to move Russian to? Yes, the shots and those persons who are in favor say Aye, aye, all opposed 7 favor nor opposed the amendment is That little piece of housekeeping, Welcome. Your first. As for. They city council PRESIDENT. Scott also grave say police side is a park area. When I was watching slides, I noticed Forsman area will that certain enforcement area circumvents courts that are responsible of the Constitution, thereby giving dsi extensive bureaucratic extortion, extortion, punishment, power that exceeds they're entitled Department
name of safety and inspections otherwise the entire book. It's it's like an omnibus package of a few GOD things. There's some really good things in there. Things that always done. Like a Martin Luther King asked ting like, don't look at a person's credit score. Look at the content of their report for for just one. But the biggest complaint I have about it is. It strips us of our safe. Boundaries to say no to the most predatory felons, murders, rapist, all of them. And in our state. Had doesn't really have programs that really rehabilitate felons whom have demonstrated convicted of demonstrating a lack of empathy for their victims and for society elected legislators to pass
the laws that they broke in the first place. So then they go prison and that environment exacerbates Tramatic Lee their offense and defense mechanisms that. And we have nothing to help them heal. No way to prove it. And I don't care how long it's If we should have a right to say no too. Predatory felons in our own homes. Which the definition of what is the report olease is let. They still use the same word in Britain let out a flat, you know. That's contract rights right there. I they should always. Be fair. And in just the last thing we just that's discriminating against the little guys for the corporations and forgot that I didn't get to instruct in before. Thank you. Thank you very break it down into those. Single. Thank you so much
make sure to sign And before we at the end of the clip public hearing, I will admit director, we see backup just to talk about the criminal as getting paychecks. I think that's a good thing to clarify in terms of what what we're talking not taken up. We'll continue with the public coming up. Welcome. I have my name is Bob Venice. I live in Ward 5. At 10. A refutation Ward 6 in I am a needle with. And today Isaiah. Now for 24 years ago. Milo night highs MAY 16 and I was but repairs that were not listed in Monday's. He checked the fees that were outside of the rant that I was supposed to pay. I didn't know what my price for as a renter. So I paid the fee. In 2020 for 20 of the day to my daughter had a who tries also impairs on things in the apartment. There were already broken before she moved and that whole day was running and broke and it gets
so bad that the toy and they they. The price of the unit. My granddaughter has special needs children and is a renter within the last couple years. He there unit that was offensive and told her that she should gets kids to deal with the issue. Both both my daughter and granddaughter were fatal thing. Something because they were afraid losing home in experiencing retaliation. Let's do a good Demonstrates that generations of renters like myself and my daughter and my granddaughter has suffered by not having more tenant protections and Claire responsibilities, expensive for landlords. This allows him to take advantage of renters with n accountability. It's frustrating that a burden of this ordinance with a pale 5 years ago. And we've had to
wait so long to get them back in the last week I've talked to dozens of renters express. A hunger for a kind of protections. And I've been discussed as they they signed in support of this ordinance, which evidence which evidence in my hands here. They appreciate the inclusion pre eviction notice. And agree that there is still more we can do to spport renters in the coming years. I think we need to ban stores of income discrimination hand just cause protections. But now, all right, time. Right now, fact thank you so much. You can always submit written test. All right. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign an unwelcome at. Donald Trump at once. Council PRESIDENT And city council members. My name is Dwayne Johnson. I live in Ward 4. I'm in favor of this package of tenants rights
because I believe that it is vital for the health and dignity of our families in Saint Paul. I speak. You know, it's a 30 year homeowner. And before that, a 20 year round 2. I rent or what we call mom and pop units I usually had good landlords. But if you didn't respond, my concerns missing storm Windows reprises without warning theft. This left me feeling frustrated powerless. So I moved out. As soon as possible in those days you can find affordable duplexes or apartments nearby and still remain the same community. Today. Many housing option simply aren't available in Saint Paul. Affordable rental units starter homes are especially hard to find. 2 of my friends had to move out of the city for that reason. Now it is difficult to simply move away from
landlord, conflicts. Especially if you want to stay in the same neighborhood or school district. I'm a homeowner now but have for city residents are renters. It is in my interest. Our interest. The tenant should feel confidence and stability. Akin to owning her own home. They should receive timely notice is the plan, lord and tensions, especially when there is an ownership change and we put and relocation assistance when needed in short, they should enjoy a clear and Fairfield Landlord-tenant relationship reflects the values we want. In all our residents, respect and a chance to put down thrive. A contribution to our community. He's kind of protections. Take us another step in that direction. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign it. And look what? Good evening again, the council, PRESIDENT Members of
City Council, my name is Cecil Smith. I'm PRESIDENT Ceo, the Minnesota Multi Housing Association. Known as Ha. I'm here today to offer him a chase perspective on ordinance. 25 31 concerning tenant protections. Much has changed since the original twenty-twenty package of steeple tenant protections was repealed. The Minnesota election legislature has implemented significant changes to landlord-tenant laws that govern how industry must operate in the state. And we continue to train members on how to remain in compliance with these new requirements. One thing has not changed, however, is how this draft ordinance addresses the use of an applicant's credit history. The language appears to be identical to that found in the ordinance that passed in 2020, which was litigated and
repealed by the City Council. It remains unworkable. When a rental next steps. And you're isn't application? It is essential that in his confidence that the rain will be paid. That's fundamental to this business relationship. Proposal would prohibit a property owner from rejecting an applicant based on credit history. Unless the credit report demonstrates a failure to pay rent or utility bill utility bills. That's the language. This language does not allow property owners to consider bankruptcies. Foreclosures is congressman's. Well, credit scores alone MAY not fully capture an applicant's overall credit worthiness. The aspect of the credit history should be permitted when making decisions about credit risk. Additionally, we find the 30 day prediction notice
requirement disappointing. Currently same poll does not require a notice period as a city policy and the legislature recently enacted a statewide 14 day notice period. With no date are available on the effect of the new 14 day. Notice this proposal would go him more than double it. We urge you to reconsider these measures, especially when considering the totality of all the other proposed changes. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign it. Coming up. Hi, good afternoon or good evening. I guess at this point Council, my name is Jessica Sherman policy attorney at the Housing Justice Center and a former renter in Ward. 4 So I just wanted to say thank you so much for finally bringing back the safe ordinances. It was a disappointment when we lost them the first time a few years ago and just really glad
that the council has brought this back and is on ensuring that the tenants get these necessary rights that they need to have safe and dignified lives. In particular. I want to praise it's creating provisions, especially the acknowledgement that credit score is not accurate representation of weather. Someone will pay the rent on time as director we see alluding to the rent. Its first of all of the numbers that play into what makes up a credit score, whether or not they've paid their rent on time. Every month is not a factor. And so I just appreciate that. We have. Greater understanding and appreciation for what actually goes into ensuring that
attendance going to be a suitable tenant for the housing. I also am very grateful that this ordinance includes a 30 day prediction. Notice while the state standard of 14 days is an amazing start. The unfortunate reality is that 14 days is not enough for tenants to if they were losing, if they're behind on rent, it takes more than 14 days to access resources from the county non-profit assistance to be able to come up with that monthly payment. And the 30 days is a much better standard for ensuring that the rent gets paid, which is what the landlords ultimately at. So thank you so much. Appreciate all of your time. Thank you. Make sure to sign it and Good evening. My name is Sarah Collins and I'm a leader with Isaiah and I live in
Ward. One. I've been renter in the summit. You neighborhood for 19 years. I support the tenant protections ordinance and and as a renter, my full adult life, I've experienced both good and bad landlords and I really appreciate how the this ordinance addresses really practical tactical things that renters friend and tail. Tenet, I seek have a good faith relationship with my landlord and I deserve the stability of finding a properly maintain and te opportunity to set rates in my neighborhood. I also recognize that landlords are running a business investment. And one department. I've had 3 different property owners. Very different styles of property management and not okay. And so. One time I found out about the sale.
After the after the after it closed another time I was informed about the sale before the site went up. But that was really just a waiting game of a different kind. Ultimately as a tenet. My concern is we'll end up looking for a new rental at his schedule. Not of my choosing. Because who knows when it's going to sell. Will it? Well, I basically be screened out because I don't fit the new owners business model of what they're expecting. And I've talked with other renters have experiences, kind of uncertainty. And a common theme is to scramble to understand your rights. So I when you're in the situation like you just don't know if a new the new owner is going to be a good fit. And so the lack
of a common baseline definitions procedures criteria. Very, very, very stressful. So this is why this ordinance is so important laying out standard criteria. Common criteria is important security deposit caps renters screening. Criteria advance notice of sale. Relocation assistance should all be very clear and consistent across different properties and different owners at the same property. So time. Thank you so much. Thank for advancing this. Thank you. And don't forget to sign Coming up. Are you would like to speak? She went for This is yes for the tenant protections. Ordinance will come up. She did go before, but that's what yes, own a share just 2 minutes, have Yeah, you're welcome to come back That was my it doesn't
okay. Hi, my name is Sandy q a I did look at ordinances o'Donnell. Public comments. One thing like to bring up is I understand that it is saying about snow, giving mentors information, calling this number. And that number tremendous things like that. My concern is this is that I believe that it's a violation of Amendment rights. We have a right to speech, but we also have a right to not have to speak. I can recall in 2017, 2018 councilmember Kim, I did have conversations you when you win a with 5 million, I told you I would 3 time voter education manager Metro wide. I did. The work for your organization has been able to continue. And I said the government's job is to get the word out. We cannot be cut out. I understand a judge
struck that specific ordinance down to get voting information out. Believe that this mayor Seth and I just think that that is, again, a violation of son's speech. Last thing is to many mom and pop into property owners, housing providers who actually are head of you guys and do a lot of these things are reading. My thing is that instead of being punitive, I think that there was a missed opportunity to build positive relationships. 2 for us mean We met before we've met before and I apologize if I haven't made that time to cultivate that relationship. I think the folks want to come up and help if they're being validated and being rewarded for doing that. I have not part of credit score for 7 years because I know what that means in the communities they serve. And so I think there's way too in power. Now, inventors, but
also existing owners to do that in a way that is celebratory as opposed to punitive. The last thing yes, I I don't think they have the jurisdiction to make decisions. I'm really concerned with that. I believe it's government overreach. Thank you. Thank you very much. And do well decide in fact. Says are any of us here to speak on this item. Okay. Seeing none. I will take a motion from Johnson too. Close the public. He, you know, I guess we'll also continue continue the public hearing. MAY 7th. Any discussion on that motion. Seeing none all in favor say Aye. Opposed. 7 favorite. No one opposed to public hearing is continue to MAY 7th. They did. If it's alright, just want to give director. We see one moment to come out. If you Emily. Just before van from the subject and clarify the question as well representing just about the screening criteria in the criminal
history. There was question raised in the public testimony about who that was, who that would allow and that would not allow. And I'm curious about the details of that part of the policy. If you do them. Just related t the criminal history. So there's actually a through. Jay and Kristin criminal history. So and civil, But so the first one is I cannot screen out for any arrest or charge within an active case that did not result in a conviction. Second is participation in our completion of it diversion program or deferral of judgment program. 3rd is a court file that is not public or has been expunged or destroyed. 4th is conviction that leads for that has been vacated or expunged. The
applicant received a stay of imposition for the sentence and complied with the tournament of the stay. So like there's no charge if there's same or similar. 5th is any conviction for a crime that is no longer illegal in the state of Minnesota. And next is a conviction for any determination or education in juvenile justice system. This an actual specific statute referenced in that. Next is a petty misdemeanor specifying that it's not a criminal offense. And for the purposes of this chapter that can't be grounds for denial. Next is a conviction for misdemeanor gross, MR. For which the date of sense it sentencing served over 3 years old. Next is really an exception to the last one. And it's really related to controlled substances. So exception related to controlled substances goes up to 70 years, rather than the 3 years. Sentencing. It's from the date of last 8 of
sentence. And then the last one is a criminal conviction for the following felony offenses in whole host of them. was sent by state statute. They're really bad ones. If you can imagine. And that status srved more than 10 years. Thanks very much. I appreciate that clarification. That part of the ordinance, Johnson. Thank you. And just for like. For the charity as well. I heard that earlier today, a public hearing testimony provided example related to an eviction notice the 30 day notification. And I know I heard in your presentation, but I think it's really important to draw distinction again on the reason behind that they need a notice of
what it has to be. Didn't hear and that public testimony, any inability from that tenant to pay. So I didn't think it was necessarily completely equivalent. So could you just clarify again, I'm going which Ryan in which case a 30 day, 30 day, eviction notice would have to be cleared and then following Dr you aware of the other cities that have 13 notices the Twin Cities area? So this section in the ordinance is 23 Point 0, 4 in the Tyco. The chapters written notice for nonpayment of Rent. And so it's really the section is really solely based on the 9 payment of rent giving time for to come into compliance the team and peace. So all things being equal. All you know, these conditions
being met other than non payment. That is what the ordinance is providing for a 30 day time to get into compliance with the fact are the fact that this kind Minneapolis has a similar ordinance, haven't done the research and jurisdictions, but thank I appreciate that including St. Louis Park as well. Some of the other municipalities that have caught up. You know, I I know that we will have multiple different discussions on this item, but I encourage folks to continue to dive scenarios in which do include are included in ordinance and snails that are not. And the reason why encourage folks to continue to not only be a part of the discussion is just because there is an education point
for that. This is not the same ordinance that came apart in front of the party the same body years ago. It is an ordinance to try and essentially ratify the promise that we made to Saint Paul voters that has went on ratified for multiple years. And so I personally I'm just really spportive of this. I know that we'll get into the further, you know, maybe o MAY 7th. Those really throughout have a. I definitely have more things to say. But, you know, one of the things that I just want to take the time, an opportunity to say is a hge thank you to direct. We see to the city attorney's office too the director of public at skews me I'm 7.10, the the Office of Financial Empowerment director playing at and Economic
development. The lead to attorney like genuine and multiple people have been looking at this ordinance and have been working to really try and bring this to what you see here. Yeah, I was excited to be councilmember when I led it was something that I really wanted to bring in front of the spotty and also on top of that, just like genuinely I you know, you heard from other the testimonies. My board is just impacted on this issue differently than some of ours. And it's really important for us to have multiple conversations with the individuals that are greatly impacted as well. So know there's a public hearing and I just wanted to take the time to simply say thank you to those that have stayed and I definitely tracked all the different public comments came. I've personally been reading through every public comment that is coming on to the protections for or against because I think it's really
important to understand where community is on this. But I also want to encourage us and everyone who has very strong feelings or even just maybe but think that this we do have some things about this ordinance to talk to a renter about And I think that that's really where, you know, the promise we made in 2021. Around. This was to renters. And I really look forward to bringing that back up the Senate. But at the center of that and so I just appreciate the time you've taken. I appreciate the fact that have stayed before hours to give the staff report and answer questions. We know that you didn't have like candidate in the situation, but I think it's really important and imperative for folks to understand what is and what is not. And its ordinance for my
council colleagues as well. And so I look forward to continuing this work and recognize that overall this is the first time that's been brought back 4 years. So I look forward to being able to continue this journey with you all people have questions. You know, I'm got a motion to keep to that. Keep the public because I want to continue to hear from folks about it. I'm sure we'll have a couple more community events between now and that as well from our office. And more for and also most likely I were because we didn't get a chance to do that. But now we councilmember from get some. Very excited about that. And I just wanted to say thank you to those who actually sat patiently too, to testify on this item. And I hope we encourage folks to do so. I you know, one of the questions I think it to ask earlier was how many renters we had in the room and her people identify themselves as
such I represent a ward where a lot of people are young at a lot of people are people of color and sometimes that's missing a lot of the room that we have. And it was definitely missing today. And who testified didn't testify. And that's something that for m is why we not reason why we talk to people at their building about this. And so I encourage in the property owner, any developer who wants to come work with me when it comes to especially bring access to being able to talk with your tenants directly. I won't turn that down ever. So feel free to invite me and we'll go knock a building. So thank you so much. Thanks start. And then I want to think. sorry, sincerely, apologize, real thanks goes to my husband who is managing
household for the last hours isolated been playing over and over thank you. Has been making dinner doing al the trips and all the volunteering so that I could be Thank you, MR. We see and we have we let you Thank you, director, we And really thanks so much for starting to you for your leadership on this issue not be here without you and this show. Same to you and rent stabilization. This earlier as well. We have to really. Enormous significant pieces of legislation in front of us in the first 4 months of this year. And that is because of the quality of leadership that we have this council. So thank you to both. Will be talking more about that in the coming weeks. That that I think item. 26 item. 26 is resolution public hearing. 25 dash 31 ratifying the assessment for
Sanitary Sewer replacement within the street right away from the public sewer to the property line. Down with the Cleveland Avenue reconstruction profit. This project story. This is a public hearing. Anyone here to speak on this item? You take Vo? No, he did before we did. And then I started talking that's This is a Is there anyone here to speak on this item? Confusing because lots of people are getting up at. They really think. All right, seeing none. I'll take a motion from MR. Prescott to close the public hearing and approve any discussion of that motion. Seeing none all in favor say Aye. Aye. 7 favorite. No one opposed to public hearings close in the resolution is adopted. That should bring us to the end of our agenda. Thank you all so much for a marathon session. I have a great night.