St. Paul Housing Authority Approves Key Amendments to Spur Downtown Development Amid Affordability Concerns

Overview: During a recent meeting, the St. Paul Housing & Redevelopment Authority approved significant amendments to the Minneapolis Saint Paul Housing Finance Board’s 2026-2027 Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP), designed to encourage housing development in downtown St. Paul. The amendments, passed by a vote of five to two, aim to leverage upcoming changes in federal tax laws to support new housing projects by introducing a minimum affordability requirement of fifteen years for downtown projects, a reduction from the previous thirty-year stipulation. This decision has sparked a discussion among commissioners, highlighting a divide on how best to balance immediate development needs with long-term affordability goals.

St. Paul City Council Votes for CVS Demolition Amidst Community Concerns

Overview: During a recent St. Paul City Council meeting, the primary focus was the decision to proceed with the demolition of a problematic vacant CVS property on Selby Avenue North. This decision came after community input highlighted the property’s negative impact on the neighborhood. The council also addressed other matters such as reparations, gun violence, and zoning changes.

White Bear Lake School Board Discusses Health Clinic Services and Curriculum Overhauls

Overview: The White Bear Lake Area School Board meeting was marked by a discussion of the Bear Care Clinic’s services and financial strategies, as well as significant proposed changes to the district’s curriculum, including new course offerings.

North St. Paul Parks & Recreation Commission Debates McNight Park’s Future as Top Priority

Overview: The North St. Paul Parks & Recreation Commission meeting focused heavily on planning for the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), particularly emphasizing the development of McNight Park. Discussions included prioritizing the McNight playground project, debating the formation of subcommittees, and deciding on the potential reinstatement of Casey Lake’s open air shelter. Other topics included park rental policy updates, grant opportunities for outdoor programs, and accessibility improvements at local parks.

St. Paul City Council Endorses Taiko Arts Midwest Project and Explores New Gun Control Ordinance

Overview: The St. Paul City Council meeting addressed several issues, including the unanimous endorsement of a significant cultural project for Taiko Arts Midwest and discussions on a proposed gun control ordinance contingent on state law changes.