20:29The most contentious topic at the meeting was the appeal by Ryan Companies against the Board of Zoning Appeals’ (BZA) decision to deny height and floor area ratio variances for a proposed development at Highland Bridge. The development, slated for Block One at the intersection of Fort Parkway, was part of a broader plan to create a sustainable, transit-oriented neighborhood. However, the variances requested by Ryan Companies sparked significant opposition, with concerns that these changes would undermine the master plan’s vision.

During a public hearing, six individuals voiced their opposition to the variances, arguing that they would deviate from the Highland Bridge Master Plan, which was developed over many years with community input. They argued that the proposed variances would lead to a strip mall environment, contrary to the desired walkable community.

In defense, a representative from the Saint Paul Area Chamber supported the development. They argued that the building design addressed elevation challenges and maintained an inviting atmosphere along Fort Parkway. The chamber emphasized the project’s potential to provide market-rate housing and meet city goals for increased density.

The appellant’s representative argued that the BZA’s decision contained factual and procedural errors, asserting that the denial was based on subjective opinions rather than objective criteria. They contended that site-specific conditions like elevation changes justified the variances, which were sought not for financial reasons but due to practical difficulties.

37:16Council members engaged in a detailed examination of the variance requests, questioning how they aligned with the master plan’s long-term goals. Staff clarified that while variance requests are permissible, the integrity of the master plan should take precedence, and any significant deviations require thorough public review. The council ultimately postponed a decision on the appeal, opting to lay the matter over for a week to consider the extensive public testimony and potential implications.

1:13:50In another significant agenda item, the council addressed a code enforcement appeal involving parking area compliance. Property owners argued that previous guidance from city staff allowed their use of class 5 gravel for parking, but the current enforcement contradicted this advice. The council discussed amending the resolution to extend the compliance deadline, allowing the owners time to apply for necessary permits. A representative of the owners highlighted the mixed messages from the city and pleaded for fairness and acknowledgment of the city’s role in the confusion.

1:32:39Additionally, the council considered a special tax assessment appeal related to an outstanding garbage bill on a property on Rainey Avenue. The new owners were unaware of the bill at the time of purchase, leading to a debate on whether to waive the assessment fee. Despite arguments that the responsibility should fall on the previous owner or the real estate agents involved, the motion to waive the fee failed to pass.

1:57The council also reviewed the revocation of a tobacco shop license for Peters Market due to repeated violations involving flavored tobacco products. The council unanimously approved the resolution to revoke the license, following a staff report detailing the history of violations and associated legal costs.

Other meeting proceedings included the election of new council officers, the appointment of the City Council Budget Committee officers, and several public hearings on rezoning applications. Notably, public hearings for ordinances to rezone properties and establish an Office of Financial Services Grants Section concluded without testimony.