A key topic was the introduction of ordinance 24-27, aimed at tackling wage theft, which affects over 39,000 workers annually in Minnesota, leading to approximately $12 million in lost wages. This proposed legislation seeks to address wage theft locally, a shift from current practices where enforcement is solely at the state level. During the meeting, representatives from the Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity Department presented a detailed report on the ordinance, highlighting its necessity and the formation of the Labor Standards Advisory Committee (LSAC), which will guide the city in labor standards issues. The representatives emphasized that wage theft disproportionately impacts low-wage, BIPOC, and undocumented workers, making this ordinance crucial for protecting vulnerable populations.

Council members discussed the importance of the ordinance, expressing their support while acknowledging the need for public input. A public hearing was scheduled to allow community members to voice their opinions. One investigator shared a case of a single mother who received only one paycheck during her employment. Council members highlighted the collaborative process that led to the ordinance’s development and noted its potential to level the playing field for workers and businesses alike.

The meeting also marked a shift in addressing historical injustices toward indigenous communities through resolution 24-15-38. This resolution acknowledged a historic agreement between the city and Walk on TPI, focusing on land management practices at Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary, an area of cultural significance to the Dakota people. The resolution was introduced by a council member, who expressed support for restoring access and authority to the Dakota people as stewards of the site. Director Amy Rodriguez from the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department elaborated on the agreement, emphasizing the years of learning alongside Dakota leaders by city staff.

Another notable discussion revolved around the rehabilitation or demolition of a property on Charles Avenue. The council considered the owner’s failure to comply with directives to develop a work plan and demonstrate financial capacity for rehabilitation. Despite an affidavit suggesting potential access to funds, the documentation was deemed insufficient. Concerns were raised about the owner’s lack of follow-through, and the council debated the fairness of granting additional time for the owner to prepare a proposal. Ultimately, a motion was made to refer the matter to a legislative hearing, allowing the owner another opportunity to find a development partner. The motion received unanimous support.

Additionally, the council addressed an appeal related to intermodal storage containers, with the owner planning to remove the containers in accordance with council deadlines. The resolution was amended to accommodate the owner’s request.