0:00The most significant outcome of the meeting was the adoption of the Snelling and Larpender Corridor Development Plan through Resolution 2466. This plan emerged from an extensive public engagement process spearheaded by the Community Development Director, who presented it to the council. The plan aims to address community desires and interests for the corridor, focusing on potential developments at key sites such as the University golf course, the greenhouse property on Larpender, the Warner Stallion area, and Falcon Crossing.

32:51Community input played a role in shaping the plan, with residents expressing a desire for businesses like coffee shops and small retail establishments, alongside a need for more park space and single-family homes. Despite these aspirations, traffic concerns were not included in the plan due to funding limitations imposed by Ramsey County. However, safety issues along Larpender Road were acknowledged, and the council expressed gratitude to the community, business owners, and facilitators from WSB for their contributions to the year-long planning process. The plan was praised for encapsulating community interests and establishing a guiding framework for future developments.

0:00The council also discussed specific developments within the corridor. For the University golf course, identified as an opportunity zone, various conceptual layouts were proposed. These included suburban-style designs with single-family homes, multi-family units, and commercial spaces along Larpender Avenue. The greenhouse property saw discussions around an approved Planned Unit Development (PUD) that allows for a four-unit apartment building and potential townhome constructions. The Warner Stallion area was noted for its navigation challenges, with suggestions for improving the layout and potentially adding a second building to accommodate small businesses.

Concerns about Falcon Crossing focused on parking and alley navigation behind the buildings, with proposals for landscape enhancements and site redevelopment to improve functionality and safety. The proposals also suggested removing some curb cuts to enhance safety at critical intersections.

In another significant decision, the council addressed confidential matters related to a settlement of claims against Granite RE Inc. concerning the performance bond for project FH2102. During a closed session, which lasted approximately 20 minutes, the council discussed these matters and reconvened to propose an amendment to the consent agenda. The amendment involved altering the wording from “approval” to “consideration” regarding the settlement.

32:51The council also approved a proposal to extend the contract for law enforcement services with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office until February 28, 2025. This extension was necessary to align with a deadline set by the county board and to facilitate a smooth transition concerning St. Anthony’s law enforcement services.

Council Member Wassenberg shared updates on parks, noting the success of a recent fall gathering and ongoing planning for 2024. The revitalization of the Parks Commission was viewed positively, with consistent quorums throughout the year. Council Member Leahy expressed gratitude for the city’s 75th anniversary celebrations, which included the participation of former council members and the creation of a historical video project featuring past mayors.

Council Member Meyer commended the organization of a trivia night as part of the anniversary celebrations, which combined education and entertainment for the community. The mayor and City Administrator Linehan echoed these sentiments, highlighting the success of the fall festival organized by Parks and Recreation and commending Kelly Nelson for her efforts in organizing the event.

Linehan also provided updates on city operations, mentioning the busy license renewal phase, business and apartment inspections, and efforts to inform residents about racial covenants affecting their homes. An upcoming Human Rights Day event on December 10 was announced, where residents can learn about the process for removing such covenants. Despite the absence of public attendees during the community forum segment, the council reiterated the opportunity for public input at meetings.