The most notable item on the agenda was the council’s decision to approve Resolution 25-16-50, which involved appointing special counsel to represent St. Paul in legal action against the DHS in Massachusetts. The urgency of this decision was highlighted by the need to protect federal funding related to public safety concerns. By securing pro bono legal representation, the city ensures that its financial resources are not strained while pursuing this case. The council was unanimous in supporting the resolution.

Equally notable was the discussion surrounding the historic designation of Kim’s Theory buildings in the Western and Campus area. The council examined the financial implications of designating the site for the National Register of Historic Places, a status that would provide access to approximately $28 million in federal and state tax rehabilitation credits. These credits are important for the preservation and renovation of historic properties, which often require extensive structural work and environmental remediation. The Heritage Preservation Commission had reviewed and confirmed the site’s eligibility for designation, meeting three local criteria and receiving a positive recommendation from the State Historic Preservation Office. This designation is anticipated to play a critical role in financing the redevelopment project, which includes affordable housing units and a commercial marketplace to support local entrepreneurs.

During the meeting, council members sought clarification on the distribution of state and federal tax credits, with the state and federal credits each representing 20% of eligible project costs. With the total project cost estimated at $91.8 million, the combined credits are expected to offset the financial burden of historic renovations. The council also discussed regulatory protections for designated sites, emphasizing the need to balance preservation with allowing necessary changes to maintain building usability.

The meeting also featured the first reading of Ordinance 25-5, which proposed amendments to the legislative code based on the Traditional Neighborhood District zoning study. Senior City Planner Spencer Miller presented the staff report, highlighting the necessity of updating two-decade-old zoning standards to align with the comprehensive plan. The proposed amendments aim to modernize regulations, support mixed-use development, and prioritize affordable housing through density bonuses. The council recognized the importance of these amendments in enhancing land use flexibility, particularly along transit corridors, and agreed to lay over the ordinance for further discussion and public hearing set for November 5.

In addition, the council addressed the first reading of Ordinance 25-61, which proposed the designation of the Theater Hampering Company as a Heritage Preservation District. This designation would be critical in securing state and federal historic tax credits essential for financing the associated redevelopment project. The project includes affordable housing units and a commercial marketplace. The council was poised to receive more details as the project advanced.

The meeting also touched upon a public hearing regarding a rezoning application from the Housing and Redevelopment Authority, which sought to rezone property on Maryland Avenue. Despite the opportunity for public testimony, no individuals came forward, leading the council to move forward with the ordinance for final adoption.

A notable segment of the meeting was dedicated to an appeal concerning a summary abatement order at a property on Fremont Avenue. The appeal involved issues such as a parked trailer on an unapproved surface and overgrown grass exceeding the city’s eight-inch height limit. The property owner, Mark, expressed his challenges in complying with city regulations while attempting to establish a native planting to support local wildlife.

The council considered extending the deadline to November 5 to accommodate the property owner’s efforts to align with city standards. Suggestions were made to create a list of organizations or resources to assist residents in navigating the complexities of native plantings while adhering to city regulations.