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City Council will consider final approvals for the Thompson Square East townhome project and a proposal to move utilities underground at the Smith/Dodd intersection—with an early look at preliminary concepts for the expanded public space at that corner.
Final Townhome Plans
The final approvals for the townhomes on the site of the former Faith United Methodist Church will come before Council, including the development agreement, rezoning, and vacating an unused right of way.
The project, known as Thompson Square East, initially had a potential city subsidy of up to $380,000. Dakota County came through with their $250,000 redevelopment grant and the only city subsidy with be covering any utility/insurance gap, which is capped at $30,000 and will come in under that (though a final number won’t be known until closing). In addition to the $110,000 in new tax revenue each year, the city will also get $53,000 in park dedication funds plus other fees.
Smith/Dodd Utilities
Council initially discussed moving utilities underground at the Smith/Dodd intersection as a part of the coming realignment at the July 22 meeting, but didn’t come to a consensus. Staff is now recommending getting detailed estimates at a cost $10,000. This isn’t committing Council to the project, but does allow the city to move forward if it’s later approved.
- Cost: The additional cost of $450,000-650,000 is not eligible for reimbursement from the federal grant funding the project. The city does have available cash to pay for the project. These costs could potentially be reimbursed from future redevelopment, though that’s not guaranteed.
- Why: Moving utilities underground will better accommodate plans for public plaza space as part of an expanded Albert Park and redevelopment with a restaurant, outdoor seating, and potential performances/vendors/small farmer’s market, etc.
- Concept: The plans call for vacating a section of Dodd Road and expanding Albert Park. Several concept drawings in the agenda packet show different views with and without overhead power lines and with and without the expanded plaza space:
Budget
The 2025 budget conversation will continue during the Open Council Work Session (OCWS) with a look at capital projects.
Engage
Watch: The public can watch the meeting live on Town Square TV or cable TV starting at 6:30 p.m. (5:45 p.m. for the OCWS) on Monday.
Learn more: Guide to West St. Paul City Council.
We believe in government transparency and provide these West St. Paul City Council previews with the support of our members.