Thanks to Dakota County and Zak’s Auto Service for their support.
City Council interviewed 20 applicants for city committees, approved sanctions for alcohol and tobacco compliance check failures, and approved a first reading for an exemption for Net Ministries.
Alcohol & Tobacco Compliance Failures
City Council approved sanctions for alcohol and compliance check failures.
- Smith Liquors, Garibaldi Mexican Restaurant, and BLVD Tavern all failed the alcohol check and will pay a $300 fine and potential gross misdemeanor charges for the employee responsible. The owner of BLVD Tavern showed up to take responsibility, noting it’s the BLVD’s first failure since they opened in 2006. No one from the other businesses appeared, prompting Council Members John Justen and Pat Armon to take issue and consider increasing their fines. Both are under new ownership in the first year of their license. On advice from the city attorney Justen and Armon backed down, but did talk with Police Chief Brian Sturgeon about changing the notification language in the future so they had that option.
- MGM Wine and Spirits failed the tobacco check and will pay a $600 fine for a second violation and a $50 fine for the employee responsible. State law mandates penalties and Council had little to no room to make changes.
Net Ministries Exemption
In the past, City Council has approved an occupancy exemption for Net Ministries while they attempt to consolidate some of their housing to meet zoning. Last approved two years ago, the exemption expired again and needs to be renewed.
- Council approved the first reading unanimously and the next meeting will include a public hearing and the final reading.
- Council Member Pat Armon pressed Net Ministries to come up with a plan B for the final reading. He appreciated their situation, but didn’t like making continued exceptions.
Other Items on the Agenda
- Federal freeze: During citizen comments, a resident asked about any impacts of President Donald Trump’s executive order freezing federal funding. City Attorney Pam Whitmore and Assistant City Manager Dan Nowicki both weighed in, noting the situation is in flux with court action happening earlier that day and they are monitoring it closely. Nowicki noted the city has one federal grant where the funds have been released since the freeze order and others they don’t think are in jeopardy.
- Interviews: The entire Open Council Work Session consisted of interviews for committee applicants. Council interviewed a total of 20 applicants for 13 potential openings (an additional six incumbents reapplied for their positions). A number of people commented on the energy and enthusiasm of so many eager volunteers. Appointments will be made at the next meeting.
- Watershed: The consent agenda included a contract for restoration of Mud Lake and a survey of Lilly Lake for potential restoration.
Engage
- Watch: City Council and OCWS meetings are archived online.
- Learn more: Guide to West St. Paul City Council.
We believe in government transparency and provide these West St. Paul City Council recaps with the support of our members.
