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Opposition to housing bills at the state legislature and the creation of an independent arts commission were the major topics at the West St. Paul City Council meeting.
Opposition to State Housing Bills
During the Open Council Work Session (OCWS), Council discussed a group of proposed bills at the state legislature designed to address housing concerns.
- What: Formerly known as the “Missing Middle” housing bills, these proposals had bipartisan support last year but were defeated over city concerns of losing any local control or input on development. This year’s bills aren’t much different and they generally relax zoning rules to encourage increased density. They generally remove a city’s approval and public hearing process, giving way more power to developers.
- West St. Paul perspective: While Council members were quick to note the need for housing, they said it needs to be added strategically. They pointed to the work they’ve done over the past decade to responsibly add housing and that it can be done. (For those unsure about the city’s restraint, two recent housing projects failed.)
- Response: Council Member John Justen compared the state-wide approach to using a sledgehammer when you need a scalpel. “We need good ideas to solve housing crisis, but it’s not this,” said Council Member Wendy Berry, who serves on the League of Minnesota Cities board of directors.
- Action: The Council unanimously approved a letter to legislators opposing the bills during the regular meeting.
Independent Arts Commission
As part of an effort to encourage more public art but insulate the city from any first amendment concerns, the Council discussed establishing an independent arts commission during the OCWS.
- This quasi-independent group would function like other city committees but with less city support. The members would do more of the work.
- Duties would include reviewing and recommending art proposals, creating policy and guidelines, preparing calls for artists, and more.
- The city will likely start accepting applications soon (and tap into the large pool of recent applicants) as they finalize the framework for the new commission.
Other Items on the Agenda
- 424 Butler: During the OCWS, Council discussed hiring a construction manager to prepare the 424 Butler property for redevelopment. This would be preparation work for whatever final plan comes forward.
- LIRC declaration: The Council approved multiple properties for 4D1 tax classification, a state program that diverts property tax funds to building maintenance. The city won’t accept any more applications this year.
- Closed session: Council had a closed session to discuss a nuisance property case with 1650 South Robert Street, the former Burger King site.
Engage
- Watch: City Council and OCWS meetings are archived online. You can also watch the video recap from Council Members Robyn Gulley and John Justen.
- Learn more: Guide to West St. Paul City Council.
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