The decision to deny the EMS contract with Cottage Grove emerged as the focal point of the meeting. The contract’s terms, perceived as overly favorable to Cottage Grove, raised significant concern among council members. A particularly contentious provision stated that Cottage Grove and its agents could not be held liable if they failed to provide the services outlined. This aspect of the contract was described as troubling, leading to its rejection not only by St. Paul Park but also by neighboring communities Newport and Greycloud. The mayor described the situation as “very touchy,” emphasizing the crucial nature of deliberating topics that directly impact community safety and well-being. The council expressed a strong preference for a collaborative approach with neighboring cities to formulate a more balanced agreement. The discussion on the EMS contract underscored the importance of careful negotiation and consideration of liability issues, with the council’s decision to reject the contract being supported unanimously.

In financial matters, the council adopted resolution 1764, which finalized the city budget and established a tax levy collectible in 2026. The revised tax levy was set at 9.8%, down from an initial proposal. The mayor and council members discussed the importance of aligning the budget with community needs, and the resolution passed with unanimous support.

The meeting also provided a platform for residents to voice concerns about local issues. Martin Carpenter, a resident of 1128 Fifth Street, raised the alarm over a 25.9% increase in his proposed 2026 tax assessment. He detailed how approximately 12% of the increase was attributed to Washington County schools, with nearly 15% linked to the city of St. Paul Park. Carpenter, a 65-year-old on a fixed income, expressed disbelief at the substantial rise, noting that such an increase could potentially force him out of his home. He questioned the allocation of additional revenue, expressing frustration over an extra $30,000 assessment in property value without having made significant improvements. Carpenter’s concerns highlighted the challenges faced by senior citizens in the community, prompting a council member to note that the initial levy for St. Paul Park was set at 14.9%, with efforts underway to reduce it by about 5%.

Another resident, Gan Matter from 1133 Marshall, voiced dissatisfaction over recent changes to Third Street, which had been made narrower and reportedly more hazardous, especially during winter conditions. The mayor explained that the modifications were intended to reduce traffic speeds for safety reasons, particularly concerning heavy trucks. The narrowing of the street was part of an effort to extend utility services while managing costs for taxpayers. Ongoing discussions with the post office were also mentioned as a means of improving accessibility and parking.

The council addressed more routine matters as well. A consent agenda, including administrative items like ordinances on sewer rates and liquor licenses, was approved unanimously, except for item O. This item, involving the adoption of ordinance 783 concerning assembly uses, prompted separate discussion. An amendment was proposed to specify operating hours for assembly venues. This amendment aimed to standardize operating hours, reflecting similar regulations in nearby cities. The ordinance, with the proposed changes, received unanimous support.

The council also adopted resolution 1765, accepting donations to the city, including a $1,200 contribution from WSB for irrigation work in community gardens. Council members expressed appreciation for the donation, highlighting its importance for local projects.

Reports from council members included updates from various commissions. The public works commission sought additional volunteers, with the next meeting scheduled for March 2026. The parks and recreation commission, despite lacking a quorum for its December meeting, successfully collected 200 pounds of diapers for a local food market in collaboration with the St. Paul Park Fire Department. Concerns were raised about dwindling volunteer numbers for events, with a proposal for a more collective city effort involving public works.