The primary focus of the meeting was the financial challenges facing the Cottage Grove Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and its implications for St. Paul Park. Rising costs for essential EMS equipment, such as monitor defibrillators, and the hiring of full-time firefighter paramedics, have placed significant pressure on the budget. The expenses for monitor defibrillators have surged, with each costing over $60,000, and outfitting three ambulances requires substantial financial resources. Additionally, the cost of hiring full-time firefighter paramedics, including wages and benefits, exceeds $120,000 annually.

The city administrator from Cottage Grove outlined the financial pressures due to escalating prices and reimbursement challenges, particularly concerning Medicare and Medicaid. For instance, the reimbursement for basic life support services is capped at $452 despite being billed at $2,200, while advanced life support services, billed at $2,800, are reimbursed at only $537. This disparity is significant, as 71% of St. Paul Park’s EMS transports involve Medicare or Medicaid patients. Over the past three years, this financial shortfall has resulted in substantial deficits, with St. Paul Park requiring $817,000 in EMS services while Cottage Grove only received $27,000, leading to a write-off of over $610,000 borne by Cottage Grove taxpayers.

In light of these challenges, Cottage Grove representatives proposed a shared subsidy to alleviate some of the financial burden, suggesting a starting contribution of $62,339 from St. Paul Park, with an increase of 9% each year for the next two years. This request aims to begin addressing the financial shortfall, though it represents only a fraction of the total deficit. The sustainability of EMS services remains a concern, with apprehensions about potentially needing to sublease portions of the service area to other ambulance providers, which could lead to delays in response times and a decline in service quality.

The meeting also highlighted efforts to enhance community safety, with the Lions Club donating two Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to the city, one operational at the Lion Shack and the other at Heritage Park. A representative emphasized the significance of these AEDs for community safety, expressing hope that they would never need to be used. Craig and Emily Dowel from Teddy’s Heart Foundation shared a personal story about the tragic loss of their son Teddy to sudden cardiac arrest. They discussed their foundation’s mission to place AEDs in public spaces and provide training on their use and CPR, expressing gratitude for the support received from the St. Paul Park community and the Lions Club.

In addition to addressing EMS and public safety, the council approved several resolutions, including enabling resolutions for the Economic Development Authority (EDA) and an interim police chief agreement. A notable change in mayoral appointments was announced, with Council Member Swenson moving to public safety and Council Member Hagerty to public works. The council also approved a temporary liquor license for the Lions Club for Heritage Days and a lawful gambling permit for Ducks Unlimited.

The council moved to approve a preliminary plat for Geneva Meadows, a proposed 61-unit single-family residential subdivision. The developer, Lenar, plans to extend Lincoln and Ashland avenues into the property, aligning with the city’s comprehensive plan for low-density residential development. The council unanimously approved the preliminary plat, recommended by the planning commission.

The meeting concluded with reports from various council members. Council Member Swenson reported no new developments from public works, while Council Member Hagerty discussed citizen concerns regarding the Lincoln and Ninth intersection. Plans are underway to pursue a flashing stop sign for increased safety. Council Member Whit Hemson reported on Parks and Recreation, announcing upcoming “Movies in the Park” events and the success of the community garden.