A highlight of the meeting was the unanimous passage of a resolution declaring February 26, 2025, as Mike Smith Day in St. Paul. Smith, whose career with the fire department began in 1998, served as the longest-tenured president of the IAFF Local 21 union. His leadership was instrumental in achieving substantial wage increases and expanding membership. Council members shared stories of Smith’s courage and service, particularly during a critical incident in May 2020, when he played a role in extinguishing a fire during civil unrest.

Smith addressed the council, expressing gratitude for the recognition and reflecting on his tenure. He acknowledged the collaborative achievements in reopening Station and rebuilding Station 1, calling his time in the fire department fulfilling. Council members reciprocated with emotional tributes, celebrating Smith’s influence and the legacy he leaves behind. One member remarked, “I know that it’s not goodbye. It’s a see you again.”

Transitioning from this tribute, the council tackled a resolution to appoint the public rights project as special counsel for litigation initiated by the city of San Francisco and others against the federal government. The litigation aims to defend the city’s separation ordinance concerning immigration enforcement. A council member provided historical context, recalling the 2004 ordinance designed to shield local departments from acting as federal immigration agents, thus protecting vulnerable community members.

The meeting also involved a reconsideration of zoning appeals for a mixed-use development on Ford Parkway. Previously resulting in a tie vote, the appeals were laid over for further discussion. Alongside these procedural matters, the council addressed amendments to the Administrative Code for tree preservation, agreeing to a six-month layover to incorporate comprehensive community input.

Routine legislative items were handled, with resolutions amending the Department of Public Works Capital Budget and the acceptance of Parks and Trails legacy funds seeing no public opposition. The council also approved the Hams Brewery redevelopment resolution, emphasizing its potential to advance affordable housing and mixed-use developments near transit routes.

In closing, the council shared updates from wards, with announcements including a business networking event and recognition of efforts to disseminate information about immigrant resources. The meeting concluded with an invitation for applications to fill an interim city council position following a recent resignation, reflecting ongoing engagement with community needs.