01:05The meeting’s centerpiece was a presentation by the North St. Paul Historical Society, spearheaded by Vice President El and former President Sue Springborn. They outlined the society’s strides over recent years. A key highlight was the careful rescue of historical newspapers and photographs from the Lily building’s basement, a task that demanded considerable effort from Springborn. The society has formalized its relationship with the city and enhanced its operational procedures, transitioning to digital archiving on Google Drive. This move was part of a broader technology upgrade, which included new televisions, copiers, and a reliable internet connection — all aimed at improving the society’s functionality.

Significant enhancements to their facilities were made possible by a generous estate donation, which allowed for improved storage spaces and office renovations. These renovations included new office chairs and the creation of an administrative book for better organization. Additionally, the society filed as a charitable trust due to property ownership surpassing $250,000, necessitating a shift in operational status. A new fire notification system replaced outdated equipment.

El also shared plans for a time capsule buried in 1978, set to be opened in 2026, and ongoing discussions with the city regarding its reveal. The society’s involvement in relocating the Depot building to the state fairgrounds was also addressed, with queries about its current status raised during the presentation. The society concluded its update by offering historical books for a $25 donation, circumventing sales tax complications. The council expressed gratitude for the society’s efforts and confirmed plans to visit their facility soon.

10:35During the public comments section, John Schal addressed concerns regarding city code enforcement, particularly parking regulations for RVs. Schal argued that screening is unnecessary since RVs’ presence is evident irrespective of such measures. He highlighted the challenges faced by RV owners, especially given modern housing designs with garages at the front, complicating RV concealment.

12:32In city business, the meeting noted road restrictions for heavy vehicles, set to last for about a month, to protect road integrity. Anticipation surrounds the opening of bids for a road reconstruction project on April 7, with interest from about ten contractors. Preparations for electrical work, specifically high-voltage installations along Gerald, are underway, with secondary services continuing via existing poles. Lighting installations for the path along Cascade Lake are progressing, though weather conditions will dictate completion timelines.

The Public Works department reported ongoing efforts to install lighting along a path, with five lights currently in place and plans to extend this to twelve. Delays persist with cabinet deliveries for the Delaware and 17th project. The Police Department announced that two staff members have completed training and will begin patrol duties independently, while an investigator is slated to start mid-April. The department is finalizing hires for a Community Service Officer and another patrol officer.

Financially, a recent bond rating call was conducted, with bond sale results expected on April 15. The Finance department has closed 2024’s finances and started planning for the 2025 budget. Public Works updated the council on a student-built house, progressing with drywall installation soon. Recruitment for summer help is active, and repair of snowplow-damaged areas is planned, with hydro seeding to follow when weather permits. Lead service line testing will also resume, with weekly public appointments available.

16:29Parks and Recreation discussed potential improvements to Polar Park, planning presentations for staff members. The department will present their parks and open space master plan at the Planning Commission meeting on Thursday and has scheduled a park cleanup event for May 17, targeting larger parks like Silver Lakes, Casey Lake, and Southwood.

The Economic Development Authority is set to meet to elect new members and officers, while the Arts and Culture Commission and Planning Commission have scheduled meetings to discuss various community plans and manuals.