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A new LoanMax Title Loans location opened in West St. Paul last month in the former Cardinal Corner space. But it might not be around long.
Why: According to the City of West St. Paul, the zoning for the property doesn’t allow that type of business. State law and city code define an “alternative financial establishment,” which includes small loan lenders. That property is zoned B-5 Gateway North Mixed Use and the list of permitted businesses does not include alternative financial establishments.
What happens now: The city has notified the property and the issue is in process. A number of things could happen. The city could send a citation and levy fines. The business could ask the City Council to consider a change in the zoning. There could be debate about the nature of the business and what zoning applies. Ultimately, if LoanMax doesn’t fit the zoning, they would have to relocate. Alternative financial establishments are allowed in the B-4 Shopping Center District with a conditional use permit.
Complaints: These kinds of issues are generally complaint driven in West St. Paul, and in this case the city did receive a handful of complaints, which they said is unusual.
Vacant space: This building is home to Mike’s Butcher Shop and, until about a year ago, Cardinal Corner. Since Cardinal Corner closed there have been several rumors about what would go in the space, including Papa Murphy’s and Little Caesar’s. Ultimately the former Cardinal Corner space was subdivided, and LoanMax opened last month in the larger space. A sign on the door of the smaller space says 365 Cryotherapy would open in October, but it remains vacant.
Feb. 6, 2025 Update: Still Determining
According to a story in the Star Tribune, the City of West St. Paul is still working with LoanMax to determine if they qualify as an “alternative financial institution.”
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