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West St. Paul City Council will consider a second drive thru lane at Culver’s, an expanded parking lot for Zak’s Auto, a Housing Improvement Area loan for Charlton Place condos, get another look at the 2027 budget, and more.
Culver’s Drive Thru
Culver’s is adding a second drive thru lane and Council will consider a conditional user permit (CUP) for the change. The project also includes relocating a median opening on Marie Avenue to improve traffic flow. Planning Commission held a public hearing (no one spoke) and approved the measure 7-0.
Expanded Parking Lot for Zak’s Auto
Council will consider an expanded parking lot for Zak’s Auto. This comes in the aftermath of the Smith/Dodd intersection realignment. Zak’s Auto agreed to close their southern driveway access in exchange for an expanded parking lot. Planning Commission held a public hearing (no one spoke) and approved the measure 7-0.
Housing Improvement Area
City Council will consider their first Housing Improvement Area (HIA), a way for homeowner’s associations to finance improvements. Charlton Place is requesting just over $2 million in bonding from the city to pay for common area improvements. The amount will be paid back through assessments on the homeowner’s property taxes. There’s minimal risk to the city. Council will hold a public hearing on the item.
Lothenbach Improvements
Lothenbach Avenue from Robert to Oakdale is next in line for reconstruction. Council will hold a public hearing and consider the reconstruction project. The plan includes full reconstruction, new curb and gutter, sewer as needed, water main replacement, and a six-foot sidewalk on the south side. The total cost is nearly $3.5 million, with a federal grant contributing $756,800. Work will happen in 2027.
Other Items on the Agenda
- Budget: During the Open Council Work Session (OCWS), Council will again discuss the 2027 budget. The discussion will include refined operating budget projections, full capital budget and 10-year outlook, and the property tax levy.
- Emerson assessment: Council will hold a public hearing for the assessment on the Emerson East mill and overlay project east of Oakdale. Single family lots will be assessed $1,846.
- Snow clearing: Council will hold a public hearing for Robert Street sidewalk snow removal from Butler to Mendota for the 2026-2027 winter.
- 100: Council will honor the 100th birthday of resident Pat Weber.
Engage
- Watch: The public can watch the meeting live on Town Square Television 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.
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.
