Thanks to Pace Automotive, Block Portrait Studios, and Minnesota Locks for their support.
City Council will consider a few changes to zoning and permitting that could impact future businesses, as well as review a rental license for 1064 Robert Street.
Expiring Conditional Use Permits
Council will consider a new ordinance to expire conditional use permits (CUPs):
- What: A CUP is required for a number of uses, usually when it doesn’t quite meet zoning or it needs special review. This often gives the city more authority to guide what goes where, for example if there are too many auto parts stores or if the city wants to limit drive thrus.
- Why: CUPs currently “run with the land,” which means once approved, they are tied to the property, regardless of the current use. So if a business gets a CUP, then goes out of business, and a new business comes in wanting to operate on the existing CUP, they can do so without any city approval. This gives the city more control over certain business uses.
- Change: The proposed ordinance would expire CUPs if the use is discontinued for one year, as well as a few other cases.
Zoning Changes
During the Open Council Work Session (OCWS), Council will discuss changes to the zoning code. Staff is recommending cleaning up the language to make it more accessible and at the same time make a number of tweaks and changes where they’re seeking Council input.
- Changes: The proposed changes up for discussion include not requiring CUPs for certain uses (e.g., medical/dental, used merchandise, etc.) and restricting other uses (e.g., car washes, gas stations, etc.).
1064 Robert Rental License Review
Council will review the rental license of a single-family rented home at 1064 Robert Street. The property has a history of license issues and in the past year has had 13 police calls and eight code violations. Staff is recommending a provisional license with a number of conditions to address the issues.
Other Items on the Agenda
- Branding & engagement update: During OCWS, staff will give an update on branding and engagement efforts, including character development, Explore West St. Paul Days events, and community activities.
- Expansion: LTS, formerly Tapemark, seeks approval for a 2,600-square-foot expansion to one of their buildings. It’s a relatively minor tweak and was approved unanimously by the Planning Commission with no comment during the public hearing.
- Fixed: Council will consider adopting St. Paul Regional Water’s policies and rules, something that was required in a 2001 agreement but never actually done.
Engage
- Watch: The public can watch the meeting live on Town Square TV or cable TV starting at 6:30 p.m. (5:30 p.m. for the OCWS) on Monday.
- Learn more: Guide to West St. Paul City Council.
These West St. Paul City Council previews happen with the support of our members. Local news is a group effort, and we couldn’t do it without them.
