City of Saint Paul, MN Council Meeting

Any of the Saint Paul City Council to order Roll Call, please Johnson. Joseph, can hear Ye. Hear how present maker here. 7 present 0 absent. Welcome everyone to our chambers for our city council meeting. It is wonderful to see our chambers at standing room only and beyond capacity. So thank you all for being here. We invite everyone to join us in standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag. A United States in public one

Under GOD. Consent agenda items to 3.13, or before you for your consideration. And just and that we are going to be taking items 10 13% for consideration. Is there anything else to come off of consent? Seeing none. Take a motion from his belief or the balance of the consent agenda all in favor say Aye. A post. 7 in favor. None opposed. The consent agenda is adopted as amended item number 10 is resolution. 26 s 3.11, supporting the designation of the West 7th Corridor is the future Metro j Line. And I wanted to just pull this item off of consent because this is a really big deal as many of, you know, the West 7th corridor that both Councilor Joe stand I represent has been waiting for decades for transit improvements as well as for improvements to the streetscape, the sidewalks, the tree holes and and all of the pedestrian safety enhancement that we know the area needs.

I'm so grateful to our city staff to director Kershaw and his team for stepping up when the county's Riverview corridor plan had to be paused and working out a plan with men died and with Metro Transit to reconstruct West 7th Street, hopefully in Twenty-twenty 9 and bring enhanced bus rapid transit to the corridor with the Metro j Lyon and grateful to Metro Transit for that investment as well. So this is just supporting that designation. And it's it's a critical next step in this progress toward a better West 7. And I would look to just to see if she. Want to add anything is the other councilmembers response fear? Thank Yes, this is a critical issue to to my ward and to our West 7th neighborhood. You know, I when I joined the council, we were nearing the end of the Riverview corridor process. And I'm just so gateful to everyone that stepped up. You know, when that process ended to be able 2 see through a vision for West 7th, that is going to invest in the infrastructure of the street while looking to the future with transit oriented development and investment.

I also want to thank our former chief resiliency officer. A start really took the lead on that process championed it 2. Where does that today? So I will take as a motion for approval from council member. Just is there any further discussion of the motion? Seeing none all in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item. Number 13 is resolution. 26 dash 3.30, restoring Ford's area c just thank you and thanks my colleagues for a listen to this resolution. I this is a an issue that's really important to the folks in my community. In word 3, a little bit of background area. C is owned by the Ford Motor Company is located in Highland Park near Highland Bridge on the River Bluff. It is currently captain operating primarily as a parking lot for several decades. Ford Motor Company disposed of Pete's login solvents from its operations throughout the Mid 20th century, there also dispose of construction rubble, contaminated soil, scrap metal, variety of different things.

The site currently contains several monitoring wells which are in place for measuring groundwater contamination. In 1990, the site was removed from the Superfund program list and it is now part of the Minnesota Pollution control agency. Mpca is voluntary investigation and cleanup program, which is which was a program that was introduced after around around that time. I don't know the exact exact year. So part of the process of the voluntary cleanup program is focused on a feasibility study. So there's a feasibility study done on this site for Area c which is a rise in last OCTOBER. It outlines 6 alternative cleanup options. And basically this resolution I was putting forth our support for one of those options. Alternative 6, however, just want make sure it's clear that mpca is the regulatory body. They will be the ones that will be determining the final cleanup plan and then for double in implement that cleanup plan. So just want to share a little bit of te reasoning for this resolution.

So I've read this disability report. There are also several historic reports on this item that were available on the mpc is Web site in the city of Saint Paul's website. And if you if you read the feasibility study, there are 6 options with which increase the amount of cleanup from which them on a clean-up increases from option. One option 6 With-with 6 being the most clean up one being the least. However, wen you read report, you'll find there really are 3 options to consider because 2 of them don't meet the threshold criteria by the mpca and one of them is not very feasible. So after, you know, this information is my opinion and also the opinion my community members and the friends of the Mississippi River 11, a really strong partner on this that we would like to see the mpca consider alternative 6, which removal of all waste and site restoration. I tink it's the best option and that's what's reflected in this resolution.

Other local elected leaders, including our Mayor, Senate Majority Leader Murphy and Representative Pinto, also supportive. Going to share just really briefly my reasoning for this, which I submitted my own public comment to the mpca. A few things that concern me around this. This area see site which is on the river bluff. Is that we are likely to see increasing flood events beyond 100 year flood, which could potentially mobile was hazardous waste, which is very, which is very dozens of feet down. I'm also concerned about the risk to the stability and the integrity of the site. I do believe that a more comprehensive cleanup then the options that are at full cleanup. Is needed. If as a city, we want to have the opportunity to envision te site is being more than just a parking lot. There's also, you know, in one in our Crosby for regional plan, looking into expanding in falls, including this area, see site.

I also concerns about the surrounding ecology, you know, not just our human health, but also the health of our plants and animals and endangered species, which has been addressed in this report. I want to be clear, but just having a little bit more investigation and analysis for how each of these implications would impact. Those is important. I also think that, you know, these containment strategies that are the other 2 options, not alternative 6 require indefinite monitoring ongoing maintenance and enduring lot of uncertainty. I think a more comprehensive cleanup really minimize is the long-term financial environmental and operational liabilities to the site. Kate, U. S. Who developed the support there. The technical experts on this recommended alternative 3 that includes an amount of cleanup that does meet the requirements. I also understand the mpc is role and why the proposed plan is for alternative fr which is removing excess full waste, insight, stabilization, which also meets the threshold requirements protecting.

Human health and environment. And is it, of course, in compliance with all the rules and regulations? Well, cnsidering balancing criteria, feasibility cost and effectiveness in the short and long term. So I understand their role and totally, get from a technical perspective why they chose that option. And while I do understand option 6 is more intensive and costly. I think that thinking about the future of our community and my role is representative and representing the will of our constituents and also the values that we have for city. I think that that's the best option. You know, we also have this is a unique site, but this isn't the only place in our city where there confront concerns about environmental pollution and the impact on our community and then the future varsity decades from now. So I believe this is the best long-term solution for Ford in our community. 3, 4 focus on control in Minding The waste rather eliminating it.

I think 6 addresses the root of the problem elimination. And if we don't win nation and that containment is the only path that fully protects the community, the environment in the future of the site. With move approval of this resolution. Right? Thank you. Mistress of emotions for approval. Is there discussion of the motion? I will just is just I really appreciate your thoughtful analysis of this. I strongly support your decision. And I think it is important for the city t take a strong stance on the need for most thorough cleanup at the site as you're doing so.

Thank you for your leadership on this. With that all in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted. So I just just before we keep going, I do recognize that we are beyond capacity and the room at the moment. I want to let folks know out of respect for those of our guests who are here for item. 22we are going to move that item up right after item 15. So do not be as long to wait. Just wanted. Just folks t Yes, you can also want to encourage people that we can all be friends. So if you have a little room next to you and you can scoot a little closer. Maybe we can make some more space. And there's sign also space on the side of the room as well. If you want to a minute. Item 14 is resolution. 26 dash 3.43. Recognizing Porsche, Hampton Flowers, career with the city of Saint on thanking her for her service. So as the old Lady of the City unfortunately, I had to do a lot of the But this one is particularly bitter sweet as we recognize Porsche, Hampton Flowers, extraordinary career at the city and wish her all the best as she goes on to be the best administrative law. Judge, the

State of Minnesota has ever If this is going prejudice, all of those future cases against us for to say on the record. But you know, anything that comes from his Hampton Flowers desk in the future is just going to be an automatic approval. As far as I'm concerned, I probably should have said that on the record. Sorry. it like? You know, I would just a personal note. Know many of us have stories to share about our work with Porsche, but it has always been striking to me how I said in a number settlement conferences with Porsche. I will say one of them was. 48 hours ago. So while this is her last day in the city of Saint Paul working for the city of Saint Paul, will help you spend many more days in the city of Saint She spent Monday 09:00am to 06:00pm plus at a settlement conference. So working up until the very last minute.

And it has always been striking to me how much she deeply cares about and defends the integrity of the city of Saint Paul and always and also how willing she is too stoop to whatever level of legal misunderstanding to explain the way that the law works. I always joke that I feel like I've gotten sort of free law school just from being attempt and flowers company many times. So really grateful for your professionalism, your love of our and just the way that you do your job every day and also managed to somehow be a wonderful human being. And those things are not always the same. So I'm not going to this entire resolution, but I do want to be a couple parts of it. It's also very small because we had to get a lot of words on here. So this is recognizing question Hampton Flowers, career with the city of Saint Paul and thanking her for her service.

Whereas before she began her legal career with the asked office of the Attorney general where she handled personal injury lawsuits against the state, Minnesota and eminent domain land acquisitions on behalf of the Minnesota Department of Transportation for almost 9 years. Whereas portion joined the city attorney's office in JULY of 2002 and has served as the civil litigation deputy and then the chief deputy for over 15 years. Whereas in her time with the city, Porsche has defended the city of Saint Paul and it's mayors, City Council members and employees for a wide variety of civil lawsuits, including discrimination claims employment disputes. Personally. We want list all of the things you've defended Whereas forces guided her team through difficult challenges, including a raft of assessment disputes the garbage wars. The 2008 Republican National Convention, the covid-19 pandemic and the death of George Floyd subsequent civil unrest in the Twin Cities and a cyber emergency. And whereas Porsche has led, by example, with her hard work and dedication and mentored and collaborated the staff and attorneys ranging from the brand new to the highly seasoned each of whom benefited from for wisdom that they gain from her many decades of experience.

And whereas pushes team finally remembers her sharing her love of earners. Ginger Ale on special occasions I have to hear. That's right. And whereas Bush as always brought a steady and careful approach to providing the city council with the information needed to understand settlement offers related to her work, defending the city of Saint Paul and rule. 68. Whereas Porsche is highly regarded as a fierce negotiator, a skill that has greatly benefited the city and its residents over the years.

And whereas Porsche Service has gone beyond the walls of city hall, she has taught undergraduate courses in constitutional law to law enforcement criminal justice students at Metropolitan State University and continues to coach high school students in mock trial. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Saint Paul City Council, thanks, Porsche, Hampton Flowers for her many years dedicated public service to the people of Saint Paul and finally resolved in honor, of course, is years of public service to the city of Saint Paul FEBRUARY. 25th 2026 will be known as Porsche. Hampton Flowers Day in the city of Saint Paul.

Thank you. One of the things that I think has maybe helped me. Have such a great relationship with the city Council and department directors and clients and the people that I've had an opportunity to advise is that. I only say something really matter And so I don't have a speech. I just want to say thank you all for the opportunity to represent the city of Saint Paul to work with people that have just wanted to do a good job. For the residents and their colleagues and that's the best thing that. I take away from this. Just working with people that just want to do a good job. And having the opportunity to do so many things for so many years for such a great city is just a blessing to me. Thank you. I will MISS Everyone I get to work with at the city. I wish I could work with you all someplace else.

Doing something different us. That's not the way it works. So Thank you. I appreciate. All of you. I appreciate the people of Saint Paul because you all allow me to do good work for you. Thank you. City council members past and present. Thank you for all of my colleagues for all the support you've given me. And thank you for this recognition. I humbled beyond belief. Thank you all so very, much. And away. Ms Hanson, flowers because we might say nice things about you now and I don't want you to be too far away to hear them, but you can certainly, Stacy, that's I'm sure hear them. I I will make a motion for approval of the resolution. Is there any discussion of this motion? So I think you actually do want to sorry you would want to them on that we can see. Well, I am so excited that I was able to come back today be my first meeting back.

In time to catch you been really, really sad to not have been able to just say thank you for your time with not only with the city, but particular, getting us all through the settlement conferences when we didn't know what we're doing, what we're looking to you for guidance for clarity. I think you are absolutely correct that when you we all of us and because it Something that we assume is without substance. It's genuinely continue its continuously. Just something that adds to what we're doing to our judgment, calls to what's in the best interest of ourselves and of the city. And so, you know, I I'm just like take us with you now. But actuality, I'm really excited that I got a chance to work with you. And I'm excited that. For all of the things that you'll go on to fr state as well. I'm sad that we have to share you, bt I'm also really just thankful that I got used to be here to see it in person.

So we really appreciated portion. Thank you so much. Council PRESIDENT. I will echo everything that the council PRESIDENT Johnson said pressure that's been such an honor to work with you. I have learned so much from you every single time been in meetings together. You have moderate to me what being a great listener looks like with being a great communicator. Looks like and most importantly to me, he just always showed up so strongly and the skill of meeting people where they're at in meetings that we have with there we often talk about very complex situations. Every single situation is very different. But you have this wonderful skill be able to just make people feel like they belong, even if it's not there, then you've got something new for the first time where for maybe the 100th time and you're so patient. And so I want to say thank you for everything. You know, you're ging to be such an amazing administrative law judge and wish you all the best.

Present camp. Yeah, it is the. it's a tough day Paul. This is absolutely a loss for the city of Saint Paul. But obviously we're gaining such an incredible person and at that level as an administrative law, judge continue echo the same thoughts. But like a lot of our interactions are in close Sessions. Talking a very sensitive things. And I think the thing that I appreciate the most is like your kindness and patience as we sort through all of the information with you. It's not like choose your own adventure, but it feels like and the path we choose. The start of what outline, what are the options? What's viable for us? And I think takes an incredible amount of skill in patients. And the other thing really appreciate is, you know, oftentimes feel like a great to our city attorney already about sometimes you you asked the question we you get the answer to the question that you want from that you ask from a lawyer.

Not always the question. The answer that you're looking for. And I think that is also an incredibly unique skill that you have this regardless of the question that we ask, you hear what we're looking for and you answer accordingly. And in a way that assertive. Tight rates really complex information to provide simple clear responses. And I cannot do that in a few. Take it in. And you listen and you listen deeply. And so I I'm really proud to see you're as and also I'm sad for the city of Saint Paul, but it's just to note that your tenacity, your kindness, your care, your clarity of your work and your dedication to your craft a loss for us. But obviously can for community. So congratulations and you'll be very sorely missed. As PRESIDENT MISS Billy. And that's just thank you. PRESIDENT. Out all the things that were said earlier today. I sure that it's just been such a pleasure working with you when I think about just being a first-time city council member and trying to navigate the terrain. local policies, sate statutes and what our powers are.

You've always been so gracious and kind. I think about just your approach in terms of how you provide counsel has been just for me. And in all the things that were said, particularly around how you not only interpret the law, but how you also allow, you know, me as a council members are really wrestle with some things MAY not like right. Are even ask those questions, particularly of why is it this way right? And and just being the sound board that you always been. And it is no one is share that. I am sad that you're going to go. But I do know you are you deep roots in Saint Paul you remain committed ad dedicated to the work that doing here in Saint Paul. So thank you so much for your leadership ad not even to a. But I just remember when I was a high school student to spend and you it's a it's been a long time for someone like me, even outside of my role as a councilmember ji's. really admire acknowledge all the strides that you've made here in the city of Saint Paul made it possible fr people that look like me and would like you to see, you know, these as opportunities to work in city of Saint Paul.

So thank you so much for your leadership. Thank you. Council PRESIDENT In a portion just want to thank you again. Also. For meeting councilmember the way that you space PRESIDENT Kim said were so patient with us and explain things. I learned so much in those closed door meetings with that really helped me understand, you know how how some of these processes word. And so I just really, really appreciate your support and that I know you've done that for so many council members. And some are situations. So thank you so much. You will be missed. Don't know how we'll make it through closer meeting without you. But we'll have to figure that out. And I am really happy for you and your future as a nail Jace. I wish you the best and we will be missed. Last but not least is common. Mostly just want to echo what all of m colleagues have said. And I will add 2 things.

The first is that what I think about the time that we spent together in the last 6 months, insight on the council. is a lot of meetings and closer. Sessions r I have left with a headache because we wrestling with very challenging issues and there's a lot to think through and that is your day every day. And so just the amount of work that we can't possibly capture here that you put in to the city and ought to bring energy and the amount of thoughtful wisdom that you have brought to our city for over 20 just cannot be deeply appreciated - enough. The one other thing I will just say you know, they're at so many opportunities for million talented players to choose to make a lot of money and pursue certain career paths. And so to see people wo devote their talents to the city and then go on to continued service on the bench on behalf of the entire state.

It is just it's very likable. And I think it is something that should not go unnoticed in this Thank you so much for everything. Like others have said, you'll be so deeply missed and we're just grateful for everything you for many decades at the city. Well, thank you to all my colleagues for your eloquence, beautiful comments that Hampton Flowers. Thank you again.

There is a motion on the table for approval of this resolution. I'm not sure how this vote is going to go. I think it's time we take. All in favor say Aye. Post 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted. I just have one more thing. I want to say, which I know there's a slight typo in your name. I oh, no, I didn't see it's the apostrophe s. I thought you're going to

Catch I just wanted to sort of remind everyone that you have such a great. group of lawyers in the city attorney's office that I've had the pleasure of working with that. You will continue to receive the same kind of guidance and support that you accused me of providing I've done what they've told me to do. I just want to echo that. They're a great group and you are in great hands and now maybe people when they see me, they'll be happy to see. think I'm going to have I only say something when it really matters. Put up on a poster in my are at. Item number 15 is resolution. 26 dash 3.26. Proving the mayor's appointment of policy aides, constituent services, associate and director of public engagement in community constituent services. And speaking of the mayor, I noticed that mayor, her is in the House. But you're here. We were just in the signing and means bringing this you, too.

Yes, I'll move the person to which has all of the correct names as we've had previous resolutions to this effect. We're really happy. To see the mayor's team expanding and welcome our folks to work with us in the city of Saint Paul. So welcome and looking forward to working with you. We'll do the boat. And then the circuit. So I will move approval. Is there any discussion of the motion? Thank you. Cause a fuss, but I do want to make comments, but can you do it after the swearing-in or what do you prefer okay? A further discussion all in favor say Aye. Aye opposed 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted as amended and welcome of MISTER Wilmes will do the swearing in. If you stand in between the 2 golden columns, all 5 live cameras will capture you at once. If te this is just. And because have the state, your title use, raise your right hand and repeat after me I stay Do you solemnly swear to or to support the Constitution's of United States, United States and of the state of Minnesota and into district faithfully.

And a the duties devolving upon has to state your title as a of the city of Saint Paul. A call to the best of my judgment and ability the graduation. Welcome again. We're not going to say nice things about

You and tell you retire a really excited to work with you. Yeah, I think a comment thank you, council PRESIDENT. Why I just wanted to it near her. It's been so exciting to see her. You better your team thank you for Tom to thing and being so intent on bringing. On such skills and you're such a diverse team to work alongside at the the staff have been sworn in. It's just been a pleasure be able to work with them and get to know them all. I want to congratulate all of you. It's so exciting to Get to meet you and look forward to working with you. There's a couple of people quite do want to acknowledge on because of our work in the past and Abdul. feels like yesterday that we were on the student Senate together over at make it a state university and hear what you study hall with you. It is so special and it's I want to say thank you for your commitment to continue to serve our communities and doing that right here in Saint Paul in the city that I know we both love so much.

And also, Mary, with you are one of the first people that I met I started committee organizing almost 10 years ago and to see rise and so many so many important roles in government. You came to us from the governor's office and here you are. I really extending your your skills and talent and wisdom and leadership to the city of Saint Paul. That is also so Know that someone very near and dear to our herd or sister Lea sister morning Jean, who served as the posco porch here on scene for some public schools. She passed away during covid at a very young age. But she's here with us in spirit and celebrating que. And so I want to say congratulations to you and to all of you. Thank you as saying as a vice PRESIDENT Can. That's owe him in the fields with yet. I'm so excited to work with all of you. And I do just want to take the opportunity of kind of point of Christopher's to.

Also cll it a few folks. The Ameri I'm at you many years artists first campaign and you are just a shining star and you're it continues to rise. We are so lucky to have you here. I'm so elated to work with you, Abdul Aziz. We did a coffee a few years ago. We talked about where you're going, what you want to do. Any member telling you like you literally do anything like what you want to And so I'm so grateful that you wants to be in city Hall with a so I'm so excited to work wth you. I know there's other personal connections here that, you know, a few of us. And then to John Phillips, you can't get you can't go too far without So thank you for coming You are one of the like the sunshine of that office and I can only expect that you'll continue to be the sunshine of the new mayor's Thank you so much for supporting ministration.

And it's going to be lovely to work with you again. That's awesome. Well, I just want to say merry her am officially jealous. And yeah, you have first of your team did not come to play. Look at they dress, how they They look serious. You're in but it's been such a pleasure see the team come together. It's no small feat to put together and office and to really just decided leave this work for the city. We all had to get the same oath that you taking today. And I think that's what's most important. Yes, I can several familiar faces. How uplift, Marcus, as well, because I to give an do start Johnson Leadership, Academy alum your time at African American Leadership Forum was transformative. And so to be able to see you here as well and living in the Office of Financial Empowerment is incredibly important and crucial to the future of that work. And so welcome and Joe New sparkle today.

Literally always but just genuinely want to say that work that we're stepping into is in partnership. And I look forward to being able to work with all of you and get get a chance to know yu. You just don't know how important. Sometimes a return phone call to and to our Saint Paul residents isn't and don't take that for granted that communication and the Russians that we build here going to see us when long gone from te city. And so today is the first of many, yes, I have. Special place in my heart for many of But genuinely really for the feasibility of here as well. And welcome to the city Palm this official capacity. I'm glad that you're working with mayor her Marcus. It's great work with you again. And Mary, welcome as well. And for Laura and you know, are ready. Justice having won many with you it was a lasting first impression of just the attentiveness that you showed.

That's what all matters. So genuinely I'm looking forward to working with all of you those that having chance to t get to know, know that it's an intentional. This is my first day back after East. It will be already did that take the vote ends for yu in so again. Welcome are excited to work with you. And I will hard hit her next item. Which is item. 22. Item number. 22. Item number. 22 is resolution public hearing. 26 dash 58 remembering the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, an uplifting the significant contributions of historically black colleges, universities. The National Panhellenic Council, the Divine 9 and Links incorporated to the city of Saint Paul. Johnson Well, thank you all. We have a bit of a program planned for Sorry, not sorry. It's definitely her centennial. And so we're going to act up a little bit out o order. I'm gonna first will come Mayor her who is here to personally deliver a proclamation today for this item as well.

Welcome to a command commissioner. Ok, wonderful, but thank you. And I want to first thank council member Johnson and Bowie and also acre for bringing the resolution forward. I prepare a proclamation for today. And so I'd like to be that proclamation with your permission at Whereas 100 years ago in 1915, Dr Carter g Woodson known as the father black history. First set out to designate a time to promote and educate people about black history and culture, which included the suffered enslavement, injustice of lynch mobs, segregation and the denial of basic and fundamental human rights. And whereas historically black colleges and universities hbcu emerge through the work to Finland for Lanta and free blacks after the Civil war to provide black Americans, the most basic human rights access to a full education. And whereas te National Panhellenic Council or Divine 9 formed in 1932. Not histically black. After turn a tease and sororities facing segregation, segregation, which would become a crucial organization for uplifting civil rights and education.

And whereas in 146, Margaret Russell Rosell Hawkins and Sarah strict than Scott co-founded. The Links and not-for-profit Corporation which grew to be one of the nation's oldest and largest volunteer service organizations committed to enriching the culture and economic survival of African-Americans and other people of African ancestry and therefore be it resolved that the city of Saint Paul recognizes all Minnesota chapters of the Divine 9. The National Panhellenic Council, the Minnesota hbcu alumni and the links for there and quantify local and global impact in commitment to service justice community education and uplifting the black community. Now, therefore, I really her mayor of the city of Saint Paul do hereby proclaim FEBRUARY 25th 2026. To be Minnesota hbcu alumni National Panhellenic Council Divine 9 and the Links Inc Day in the city of Saint Paul. Thank you, Mayor. All right. So I will just start Councilmember billion. Peered a few remarks and then we're going to defer our time to several folks will be speaking in front of today because we find it to be vital and important, especially during this time to continue to make history her story and to ensure that our public record reflects that while our federal, you know, our federal administration is actively trying to erase that.

We can bet that with the truth. We can bet that with our leadership and we can bet that with black history because like history is American history like I said, black history is American history. The leadership, the innovation and service of our historically black college and university alumni members and members of the National Panel Atlantic Council and the Divine 9 members of the links incorporated and genuinely the entire black population. Overall, if I MAY say has shaped the city in tangible ways from public leadership and education to entrepreneurship, health care, arts and culture and community advocacy. It's often while navigating barriers that should have never ever existed. The centennial is more than just 100 years of what we call a black celebration last for a month. It's actually 100 years of a legacy that is not abstract. It lives in the opportunities created for young people. It lives in after created 2 institutions that have strengthened through service and neighborhoods sustained through collective Karen Investment.

Resolution is both recognition and gratitude. Its road record mission of excellence that cannot be ignored and its gratitude to black residents whose commitment to community justice and collect progress continues to Saint Paul forward for everyone. We community-centered rooted in the belief that one know that with one of us rises, we all rise. You will hear from many organizations today. Many leaders. That have truly catered to. 100 years of black history, their movement building. And we also from this by honoring that history by continuing to work and invest equity by expanding opportunity ad ensuring that our black residents and families here and all Paul can strive can thrive and the city to help lead and love every day. Thank you, fellow everyone. My name is serve as a city council in Ward. One I proudly represent Rondell from town, the midway and also the north and and I just want to say thank you so much, Councilmember Johnson.

When you get the idea for us to invite the Divine 9 and the leaks in Phc and also our Black Minister Lines and African American Leadership Council. I saw it as as as important right for us to celebrate the 100th year anniversary. And as we gather here in the chambers on the centennial anniversary of Black History Month. I am reminded of the words of James bought who says our crowds are already paid and fought for all we have to do is wear And when I think about the crowns and the jewels of our institutions, we are wearing it proudly. So. Thank you so much for being here and celebrating and honoring not only the legacy but very wearing the crown of our ancestors. Also want to mention honoring the history of Black History Month. One of Omega as are the queues Carter g Wodson. As the founder of well as History Week now, Black History Month, who was a historian and author.

I want to also mention his quote as well. History shows that it does not matter who was in power are what revolutionary forces take over the government. Are those who have not learned to do for themselves and have to depend solely on others never obtain any more rights are privileged and end. Then they had in the beginning. And when I think about the importance of these institutions and these and corporations us doing for ourselves, the search, the self determination, making sure that creating these institutions for our survival and also our advancement. So being a history maker is not a choice. When I was born, I did not think I had to make strides to be a history maker. And me myself and Johnson are history makers, but it is Inherent Inc. One passed down from ancestors who taught us to list as we climb to lead with courage to stand in. True even when the cost was high.

And as a member of this council, I do not sit in this seat alone. I stand on the shoulders of many black leaders who have paved the way - before us former council member Bill Wilson, Jerry Blake e and gunnery Nathaniel Koo-leek Melvin Carter, the 3rd Russell Ballenger and even Mayor Carter, the 3rd and now my colleague Councilmember sequel, Johnson and myself alongside them. I am honored. To continue clearing the pat for future leaders to carry a deep passion for public service and community. Today, we also celebrate our dvine. I oh, yeah, yes. Our big the links, the national Pan Hellenic Council and the Black Minister Elias African American Leadership Council. These are not social clubs. Let's be clear. These are a legacy institutions. They are built like lead with the leadership and service at the center of their mission.

Design for Black Survival, Collective advancement and self determination at a time when our existence itself was under threat. What is striking is that in many of these issues faced by our founders in the early 1920's, are the same issues we are confronted with today often and more overt and aggressive forms. And yet the blueprint remains the by 9 women leaders like Shirley Chisholm, Rosa Parks is her Standish has showed us how to fight for voting rights, access to education, economic opportunity, health equity and full quality of life. Their courage continues to guide us. Today. We will hear from many speakers whose legacies have shaped the city, this state and even the nation. And I just want to share to my the by 9. If you feel called to stroll, please let the spirit move. We we are here to celebrate black leadership lack legacy black joy. So please let the spirit move you and I'm going to pass it to Queen.

I mean, chair Jansing. Queen? It's queen. Let's keep an insult. Ok? If that being called Queen Latifa in Seoul. Someone thought that that was an insult. But we all know exactly. We all know the privilege of being unified. And we all know the privilege of unity. And that's what I hope that we will see here. So. Today was taken off. I will call up the Minnesota hbcu alumni. So if and that Lee, who is the co-founder and alumni Fisk University can join me. Sullivan who is PRESIDENT Of the Minnesota hbcu alumni have Tennessee State University and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority incorporated, MR. Brian McCoy, vice PRESIDENT And alumnae of Jackson State University and is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity incorporated and a member of 100 black men of America incorporate it. And that's the green. Who was the chaplain alumni of the North Carolina into State University and member of Delta Sigma Theta Incorporated sorority incorporated.

Thank you. Good aternoon. Saint Paul City Council members and a special thank you to Councilmember Italy and counselors sense. Johnson for inviting Their leadership ranks us all together. My name is and that Lee and I and co-founder and executive director of Minnesota hbcu Alumni, which was founded in 2022. Behalf of Minnesota hbcu alumni. We thank you for this recognition. As we celebrate 100 years of Black History Month and enduring legacy of historically black colleges and universities. I would also like to give in that Bill Wilson. A former Saint Paul City Council PRESIDENT Who has recently passed who was also an alum of Knoxville Cllege, an hbcu and a member of Omega Psi fraternity. Minnesota hbcu alumni was founded to connect and other allies graduates of institutions for didn't excellence, resilience and opportunity. So they are alumni served in a soda as educated as health care professionals, engineers, public servants, seals and community leaders Erica's found it and impact women students and recent hbcu graduates.

We have the host college fairs. And we opened doors for young people who have not yet seen and sells and higher education. We are not just preserving history building features as a co-founder and executive director, Duble issue feel a Fisk University and Howard University. A Saint Paul native. This is deeply personal to me. And I have seen what happens when students are exposed to possibility and here the was you belong here. Lives changed. Family's change, communities change. Thank you. Hello and thank you. Councilmember Johnson and Bowie and the entire council and mayor her for today's recognition. My name is Maya Sullivan and I have the absolute pleasure of serving as the PRESIDENT Of Minnesota, hbcu alumni. I'm a 4th generation hbcu alone in my family, including both of my parents. I am a proud alum of Tennessee State University where the model was think work serve. These are characteristics. I have invited professionally in my public service career or my own bsinesses as well as providing service to the community and most of our hbcu allow embody these principles to there are more than 100 hbc use with rich legacies in describing an hbcu.

A simple word I like to use is home. For many, not all people home signify safety connection. Love support opportunities for growth and so much more. And this is indeed the feeling that brought me to and kept me at csu coming of age with this type of support is significant. Many other hbcu alone would likely say something similar. These feelings cannot be duplicated in the same way at a p w I. I would tend vote. In fact, data provides that black hbcu a long report, a greater sense of belonging and support from college personnel. Then Black alum who attended Pw Weiss, some of the results. Our live Minnesota are well represented in many industries and community service. Also half of black teachers, 80% of black judges, 50% of black attorneys, 40% of black engineers and the U. S. Attend hbc use. We are representing all of these industries and so many more in Minnesota and other places.

This is not all the data. Hopefully you got the picture. Also, a proud member of Kappa Alpha sorority incorporated. Actively serving the community within the Delta Phi Omega chapter with initiatives that our PRESIDENT Will speak about shortly again. Thank you for this recognition. We continue in service. Hello, everybody. Thank you for inviting name is Brian Vice PRESIDENT Of the Minnesota hbcu Association. One quick thing I started out playing football institution. I ended up transferring to hbcu. The first thing that I learned in my first class hbcu was upward mobility, had never heard in my life and never been exposed to it. But that conversation that one word that one phrase have you want to say? It changed my life. It led me to get a master's degree. It led me to going on and working at the Capitol in dc it led me to places that allowed me to have access to people. Conversations. One thing I can say about attending hbcu is that it allowed me to see my culture.

It allowed me to see my culture in a way that advance me in tat put m in situations where I can be myself. The next thing is that moving here to Saint Paul, a movie from Scottsdale. It was a joy to see the presence of hbcu, not only Jackson State, but all of the hbc use here in Minnesota and hw they work together and how they all go inside and how they all. Piggy bank and thrive off each other. So thank you for inviting us in looking forward to the opportunities.

Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Nicole Green and I want to thank you council PRESIDENT Maker for allowing us to be here today. Thank you to council members, Johnson and bully for Comer. It commemorating this time. And thank you to the honorable mayor. Her for the proclamation. I think there's an ad in the House today and I know that I know they know what to do. When I say he used pry daddy, went on say and he use a fried egg. And we do. It is family and it is joy. And there are so many things that go on in chambers. so I am a proud a representative of the poud member of the Minneapolis Saint Paul alumni, chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority incorporated as well as an actively engaged and committed along North Carolina agricultural and technical State University. And also the chief financial officer for the city of Saint planning and economic Development Department.

Representing right, that scored a nation and the collaboration of all of our work. And most of the time when I'm here, I'm in front of you. And it's about business. And I just want to say that the existence of black people. Our business built this And so I'm still doing the work. As I represent all 3 unified forces here today, I just want to talk about the fact that as the largest hbcu in the nation. North Carolina, a t State University currently has research innovation project with the University of Minnesota. And that does mean Aggies do it. That's what all hbc use do, that we don't sit still and since we don't quiet, we reached out. We reached across. We do not exclude. As at as the building in the funding of our institutions was required because we were excluded. We do not exclude. We include everybody in the work that we are doing. So we are very, excited about that today that we are currently working with the University of Minnesota and also our alumni.

Local alumni are active and engaged. I will call to your attention. Matthew Little who moved here in 1952 and led the delegation, the Minnesota delegation to the MARCH on Washington. I will call to your attention j Tyson, who was a pemier architect, one of the first license architects in the state of Minnesota. First black, licensed architects in the state of Minnesota. I will call to your attention during the Hill who has educated for years Century College. And many, many local alumni who are reaching across and doing. The work. We thank you for this time. On behalf of Chancellor James Martin e. We appreciate you. We recognize the history and the achievement of this all women Council, you all are the dreams, right? You've it. Read it, the dreams of the nation and we salute you. Thank you. all very much. Ok? So we have more speakers to come. I'm going to introduce 4 of our speakers here. We have the vice PRESIDENT Of the end. Ph see Michelle Benson. Representing also the board member of the Minneapolis Saint Paul chapter of Kappa. This Oh, I'm so sorry. Oh, yeah. Sorry. But I didn't put that in there. Let me make

That correction. But we have the vice PRESIDENT Of the in Phca. Now. Have you also introduced the chapter that you're representing and it will have raise on Keene representing again, the Siloam, the chapter PRESIDENT Representing all Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity incorporated. And then we have the PRESIDENT Of the Delta Phi Omega Alumni chapter marshal, Henri representing all Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority incorporated and last but not also we have PRESIDENT Of the Alpha Delta Sigma Omega alumni chapter Jennifer Hair representing the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority incorporated. And welcome up. And as you come up, something I normally say before public hearings, but forgot to say today, those 2 microphones are a little bit strange, but they don't need to be adjusted. They'll pick up your voice just fine and you can stand up tall without needing to lean over to them. So want to make sure people feel comfortable. Welcome. Thank you. I appreciate all of the points.

Good afternoon. Cancer Council members, community leaders, the mine, 9 presidents and honored guests on behalf of the Minneapolis Saint Paul capture of the National Panhellenic Council. Thank you for this meaningful recognition. My name is Michelle Benson and I'm a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority incorporated. It's an honor to stand here as your vice PRESIDENT Of the council and represent an organization grounded in scholarships, service, leadership and unity. This month marks the 100th anniversary of Black History Month. What began in 1926? As History Week founded by historian Carter g Woodson has grown into a national month of reflection and celebration. This year's theme a century of black history commemorations announced by the Association for the Study of African American Life and Honors in history. Honors 100 years of intentionally documenting protecting uplifting the achievements and resilience of African-Americans. That legacy is deeply connected to the Divine 9. Are historically black. Fraternities and sororities were found it during times of limited access but limit list determination.

For generations. We have championed education, civic engagement and community empowerment. Here in the Twin Cities are members mentor, youth provides scholarships, promote voter engagement and partner with local organizations to strengthen our communities. We do not simply celebrate black history. Actively contribute to it. As we approach the centennial milestone, it ongoing conversations about how black history is told officers we remain committed to service advocacy and collective advancement. Thank you for honoring the National Panhellenic Council in the Divine 9 here today. And we are proud to continue building a legacy of excellence that strength in Saint Paul and beyond. Thank you.

So good afternoon, resign. King Chapter PRESIDENT Again as I left chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity incorporated. So thank you. Council PRESIDENT Councilmember Nikki and council members make with Johnson and congratulations on your Saint Paul, Minnesota history as well. Phi Alpha Fraternity incorporated. The first intercollegiate Greek letter for attorney established for African-American men was founded on a nice coat Tuesday, DECEMBER 4.19, '06 at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York by 7 college mayor in 19. 0, 7, for established the first intercollegiate Greek-letter chapter of an organization established for African-American man at an hbcu at Howard University in 1912, for established new chapter at the University of Minnesota Minnesota as the state was only 48 years old, making it the frst intercollegiate greek-letter fraternity chapter for an organizational established for African-American men and the state of Minnesota. And in 1946, establishing gamma Zy Lambda Chapter, making it the first Greek letter chapter for the Intercollegiate alumni in the state of Minnesota for African-American men. Phi Alpha Fraternity incorporated has a membership of 180 chapters worldwide. And the total number of members of 200,000. Our efforts are many but a few to call out. Fraternities initiative with the University Minnesota Carlson, School of Business.

But lets people as a hopeless people, including our general PRESIDENT, loosen j. Mattel is junior. Statement released on ice aggression and disregard to silver rights. The rule of law. The local foundation Ram and a Buchanan foundation and so much more. A shout-out to my fellow out was in the room and recognize and issued director for the state of Minnesota, Carlos Needy. Gammons Island of Vice PRESIDENT Richard to College brothers couldn't be here because they're in class could John night and then Jayden, Montana's and Hughes, thank you to my fellow back greek-letter organizations and their presidents. Their poll marks and that's a list for sitting at the table together to get things Thank 6. Good afternoon. And hello, everyone. Thank you to the Saint Paul City Council members, Jhnson and but we for your invitation and for this recognition. Thank you to the numbers. My

Name is Marcia Henry and I'm the PRESIDENT Of the Delta Phi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority incorporated here in the Twin Cities. We have 3 chapters in Minnesota. We have an undergraduate euro and we also have a new chapter and you'll hear from my sister PRESIDENT In a moment. Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority incorporated just celebrated our 118 year anniversary. This year. And we stand on the tenants of service to all mankind into high scholastic standards here in the Twin Cities, Delta Phi Omega Chapter has served the community for 78 years. We are more than a social club. I want to take this time to highlight just a couple of what we do. One of the things that we are more proud of most proud of is the fact that we are able to ward scholarships yearly to deserving students over the past 2 years. We've awarded $20,000 annually to deserving students in the Twin Cities.

We are in the season of the taking applications. So if you know of any students, please direct them to our website. We just held a biannual cotillion few weeks ago where we awarded 17 young ladies almost $28,000. Again. More than a social One of our national programs and I want to highlight is the Childhood hunger initiative. This implemented across the country and across the bow by our story. This is where we packed food and snacks for elementary age students hre in the Twin Cities. We ae supporting Max feel elementary school here in Saint Paul. I just want to end with one thing. And that is as we look at. Our cities have been impacted. We are also looking at what we can do supporting black businesses as well as packing hygiene kits. We are here t serve our community. Thank you. Good afternoon and thank you. Council Ian Johnson for the Honor. My name is Jennifer Harris and I bring you greetings on behalf of my Sisters of Alpha Delta Sigma Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority incorporated.

Our chapter is the second graduate chapter charter and over 78 years in the state of Minnesota. I am also a proud 1989 alumni of Southern University. And located yes, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. We are the only hbcu system in the United States where we have campuses on campuses in the city of Shreveport, Mosher City, New Orleans and where its main campus. It's in Baton Louisiana. My husband and I both proud alumni of the university where we both pledged. Alpha Kappa Alpha and Kappa Alpha Psi on the campus of Southern University. I've represented Southern University in many college fairs in the Twin Cities over the past 5 years. It is very important that we continue to bring awareness of hbc use to our cities. It out Kappa Alpha. We make sure that we provide access for all of our young people. We have provided scholarships for for Saint Catherine University and now we have that big an the bringing school supply drives too deserving schools. We are so honored to be here for the 100th anniversary Black History Month and we continue to uplift our communities and the work that we do. We thank you for the honor and the

Pleasure of being here. Thank you all very much. Rates. Next up, we have MISTER Larry Kenzie, who is the founding member and former pull MARCH of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity incorporated. We also make a sci-fi fraternity MARCH. Eric Horton, CHAIRMAN Achievement of the Epsilon Rho chapter and we have Dr Stephanie Burritt Brige PRESIDENT Of the Minneapolis Saint Paul and chapter Delta Sigma Theta Incorporated followed by Darrel Young who's the president of Sgma chapter of the Minnesota Beta Sigma us.

Fraternity incorporated. Good evening. My name is where McKenzie and I am past poll mark of the ritual, Bloomington chapter of Kappa saw along with my fraternity brothers, cap of us. I have been In Minnesota says 1924, all started at the university

And APRIL of 1924. Serving all undergraduates. We had night out the founded here in 19 54. And second alumni chapter in 1984, all we are proud man of Achievement. Kappa Psi was founded Indiana University by 10 great men who had a dream. And have been around 415 years in the state of Minnesota will probably the fact that we provide number of scholarships, mostly thing that we're proud program. What we call got right. It is a mentoring program that's are young men from 6th grade, 12 great. And so we're super proud of being able to all guy those young man right in terms of assisting them and mentoring and sent in of the college. And so we thank you for the opportunity to come in receiving be recognized today by the City Council. One of the things also proud about is our relationship with the divine. I. One of the things we've done it, you MAY have sought to take a drive.

1200 turkeys were included. All journeys just 2 already as well as all the hbcu me myself personally, I didn't go to hbcu. I took the opportunity to go to university, Minnesota, but I'm happy that the divine 9 and the fraternities sororities that were there were there for me because I did not see people like myself on that campus at that time. I'm grateful to leaders such as Mackenzie and the other leaders in the city that gave us the opportunity to to understand or heritage the same part after also is tere. So I want to both aka, I want thank the Delta Sigma Theta. Zeta Phi. Beta is because you are all family to us just anyone else's. And thank you for this opportunity city of

Saint Paul. Good afternoon Council visitors. My name is chair of Horton. I am the achievement we chair of Long Road chapter make a stop off turn incorporated. I was going to brag on off attorney a little bit things called me. And I want to just, you know, I can talk about our talent hunt. That's for high school students is coming up Friday where we highlight arts talk make a deal which the childhood reading program that me neither but turn to do. But some that called me was that we we tend to forget history. And I think what we're seeing now on America's that history forgotten tend to lead the devastation of most populous. All we've been celebrating achievement for 100 years. Correct? But as our brother Carter caught some Woodson. Founded in the road week in 1926, and was not recognized for another 50 years. That means that when Roy Wilkins who is a graduate of university, Minnesota, but first, black editor of the Minnesota Daily, it was a 20 years director for the naacp was active.

We did not celebrate a month. A black achievement to celebrate a week. Horace Hunley, my fraternity brother was part of the more he'll take more hall take over the unrest in Minnesota in 1969, we're still celebrating a week. The achievement. So black people are te history of this nation and we have to be sure to continue to celebrate them. So we don't forget them. What we see a lot use now. So forgotten legacy of the people that they come from and what we're capable of and what they're capable of. So as we accept this honor from the city and we appreciate it. 50 years is not long enough for us to sit back and relax 50 years. The beginning and as a bunch black professionals, black educators, their have given a lot to the scene. The state. So I want to make sure that we recognize real history. 50 years of the month, years of recognition of a week and a lifetime of achievement. Thank you.

We coming Well, come They're coming lot of us. Good evening. Council PRESIDENT And the honorable members of the Saint Paul City Council on behalf of the 188 members. Of Delta Sigma Theta sorority incorporated, the Minneapolis Saint Paul alumnae chapter. We thank you for this recognition. We are founded in 1913. By 22 visionary women at Howard University, Delta Sigma Theta sorority incorporated has grown into a global sisterhood of more than

350,000 college educated women with over 1000 chapters across the United States and internationally, just weeks. After our founding are. 22 founders made history and they're very first public act of service. They marched in the 1913 women's suffrage. MARCH. Procession in Washington, D. C., standing boldly for voting rights at a time when both their race and gender made that stance courageous and costly. We are still living in that moment today. We were founded, encourage. We were built in conviction and we continue in commitment. For 60 years in the Twin Cities ae chapter has carried that same spirit forward. We invest in futures. We fund opportunities and through scholarship support, totaling over $150,000. We turn potential into possibility. Through mentorship, voter education, health initiatives and economic empowerment programming. We also contribute thousands of service hours annually to strengthen this community. Our work moves intentionally throughout 5 programmatic thrust economic development, educational development enter to international awareness and involvement, physical and mental health political awareness and involvement. We mentor, we invest. We advocate and we mbilize and we do not

Stand alone as proud members of the divine 9, we stand shoulder to shoulder with Rd 9 brothers and sisters. 9 historically black Greek letter organization United in service and collected impact when one of us serves. We all serve when one of us rises, we all rise when our community's call, we answer together. Tonight's recognition that simply about longevity. It is a legacy in motion. It is partnership in action. It is a continued commitment to building communities where equity is real opportunity is accessible and every voice matters. And as women of Delta, we close with the same spirit which we began rooted in sisterhood, relentless in service and resolute in social action. We are Delta Sigma Theta still standing, still serving, still answering the call. Thank you. Thank you very much.

All right. Greetings. Hello. How you doing? Breeding time. My name is Daryl Young. I am the PRESIDENT For our Sigma. 5 some of tourney incorporated. I'm just really just taking a right now. I'm at all seen generations of leadership here of services for us. We We do a in the community, but the biggest thing for me, I'm very close to my mind. I'm a mama's boy. I probably say that. But my mom was a person of service. And that was the one thing that for officer and hears about service and soul that was really the biggest push for me. And this see here with the Divine 9 is light whereabouts service. So I want to just thank you for this time. Thank you for the opportunity. This is amazing. While really excited about. Is what's gonna happen after this. We're going mobilize when we're together. We all talk all the time. But the same time we're about the actions. So thank you. On behalf our chapter, wonderful man bag here. They look very nice, too. But also we just want say thank you and we're open for anything you want to do in the community. We are here for you. Thank you so much. Thanks very much.

How this is so affirming, I just want to make sure can say this video and play it back for my own personal affirmations. Honestly, we have. 5 more for more fraternities. We have to Phi Beta sorority incorporated. The doctors, a key Robbins McNeil, who was the PRESIDENT Of the iota. Zeta Zeta chapter. Also next is the Sigma Gamma Sigma Sigma Gamma Rho sorority Incorporated, doctor Delegates, Mahmoud vice PRESIDENT Of the Iota alumni chapter in Saint Paul that we have the iota. Phi Theta fraternity incorporated have to this said that right to Tobias. Thank you. Thank you so biased. Thank you for that correction. Heal Chapter state director of the msp alumni chapter and then we have the greater Twin Cities, Minnesota chapter of the links incorporated. Doctor Kristen Morris chapter PRESIDENT And then last but not least we have the Minneapolis Saint - Paul chapter of the links, incorporated sentiment, Haleigh Whos the chapter. Vice PRESIDENT.

Just listen to we have 2 minutes for each speaker. They say we live and listen. We go review on tv come on, come on. Get behind me. Given how to get my name is that is the key Robbins Neil and I am here from Zeta Phi Beta sorority incorporated and and I and bringing all of my sisters up here with me. I want to share my time. So I want to start with my state directive. Thank you. Thank you for having us here today. My name is Kesha Mitchell and I'm the 5th Minnesota state director for Zeta Phi Beta sorority incorporated. I want to bring greetings on behalf of our international Grand Pass Alese our PRESIDENT Doctor Stacey, is he grant our amazing regional directors should be Smith and are Minnesota chapters of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority incorporated. That would be our Minneapolis chapter are Roseville chapter and Army Kettle State chapter? am going to take the pleasure of giving a little bit of knowledge about Zeta Phi Beta sorority incorporated.

We were a created in 1920, at Howard University on the campus of Howard University. Just like some of of their counterparts. We created in partnership. I'll in partnership. Our to signal they were up here a few minutes ago. But we do have 5 founders. We call them at 5 pearls. Arizona verse 10 minutes, Carol. Anne Neal, Myrtle Tyler, Faithful Viola's had are going. And Fannie petty Watts, our 5 principles are scholarships, service, sisterhood and finer womanhood. I want to continue to acknowledge the fact that all of the members of the Divine 9, we continue to work together as the other members have stated and we will continue to do so. I want to pass it over to a my sorority says they're trees. Daniel, who will tell you about what we do here in Minnesota, specifically? I am a tree stand. You know, the PRESIDENT Of Sigma Beta Zeta. Chapter. So here in Saint Paul, these are some things we've done recently.

We had a community baby shower. We donated school supplies for Saint Paul. Public schools and we raise prematurity awareness and black maternal health awareness in the city. The Greater Twin Cities. I was a the calls we aswer when the community cause. We answer. The Annunciation school incident happened. Both stand on the people who were helping the people. So we donated to the first responders and we don't it. To children's Minnesota. When George Floyd happened. We needed to take care of the community. There was fear and there was food insecurity. We don't have time to sit around and wait to figure out what's going to help us. We show that. We made sure that people can eat when businesses were having trouble. Recently. As is happening now. There are people afraid to leave their

Houses. So we are making sure it that are. Food shelves. Stock and that people have awareness of how they can help with that. So again, Wednesday to call us when the community cause. We answer. Thank you. And thank you, everyone, Thank you very much.

It's a welcome. Good afternoon. Thank you for inviting My name Andrew Campbell. And proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho sorority incorporated, a worldwide organization formed in 1922. Anti that are element mood. It ending a funeral. So feeling We Has expanded a little bit in state of Minnesota. Arch new chapter, which established Saint Paul, the first Greek letter. Organization to be

Formed in the city of Saint ever. By No is Greater service, greater progress. We have reach out a number of different ways service to our community. I with Michelle and Barack Obama shool. Work with. Drown through pension with 1920 to swim 1922. We have a number of activities and events. One is our annual

Walk. Dry, which would be at the end of the summer left a headache come and join us and I'm going to share with less so. The if Good evening. Thank you. Council PRESIDENT And city council members for inviting us here to celebrate the 100 centennial anniversary of Black History Month. What a legacy as I stand and follow my mp ac leaders and presidents on behalf of Sigma Gamma Rho sorority incorporated. We are the only historically African-American sorority founded on a predominantly white campus. We were founded in the early 1920's when it was either politically or socially correct to be a woman or a black person pursuing higher education. It was in the height of the Ku Klux era. Birth of a nation had just dropped. It was in this moment that our founders, 7 young women decided to become educators. They just they determined that scholarly research was a pathway to uplift meant for the race for the gender. So they don, these royal colors of royal blue and gold. They were hiding from no one on that campus in the middle of an Indiana and they created a legacy that more than 100 years later continues to thrive. So I'll be on behalf of both of our chapters here in the Twin Cities. Thank you for letting us celebrate with you here today.

Thank you so much. Welcome. Promising keep this 2 minutes. Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Doctor Kristin Morrison on behalf o Greater Twin Cities, Minnesota, chapter of the links incorporated. I extend warm greetings to our chapter leaders, chapter members and our sister chapter. It is an honor to stand with you. I also want to acknowledge the black organizations gathered here today and offer deep gratitude to council members and the couple unique address Johnson for this invitation and for choosing to uplift the legacy. And leadership of hbc use the National Panhellenic Council in all 9, historically black fraternities and sororities during this milestone. You're celebrating 100 years of black history month. Linksys the service organization. Yes. More than that. We are builders of community capacity in our chapter has poured thousands. of service hours into work. Trend is families and expands opportunities. We invest in health and wellness. We are showing up consistently through monthly food shelf volunteers, tourism.

We're after and around young people through broll of programming. And raise area. Middle schools. We've helped register hundreds of youth to vote. And we brought the Minnesota are babies from Roseville to the Minnesota State Capitol so that they can be able to meet their legislators and because civic power belongs to them. We wanted to show that. Our aim is simple light a path to a better future. And make sure children can see themselves at the full story of possibility. And Eric's politics and leadership pride knowing exactly who they're. And we do. The standing on the shoulders of twin cities, trailblazers in those building potected black community through every season, including here in Saint Paul, places like Rondo. Remind us resilience looks like when it has a zip code in history. To the council, our community partners and to everyone at are today. Thank you for your time. Your leadership and your commitment. We are here. Are serving. We are not done. Still building. Thank you.

Very much. Good evening Welcome back and welcome. Thank you. My name is sentiment Ally and I'm the vice PRESIDENT Of the Minneapolis Saint Paul. After of the links incorporated. Good evening. The PRESIDENT Makar and the city Hall and the Saint Paul City Council. Is my privilege to stand before you are chapter was started on DECEMBER 10th 1972. By visionary women who believe that the strength of our community lies in the links. We fro urge between friendship and service for over 50 years. We've been a constant presence in the Twin Cities and dedicated to the cultural and economic survival of African-Americans and those of African descent. Black History Month is an opportunity to honor those who didn't just witness history but wrote it. Our chapter is home to some of the architects of Saint Paul's progress. We stand on the shoulders of educational giants like doctor Delores Anderson, the longest. And sitting at administrator and Minnesota history with 46 years of service to Saint Paul public schools and surely Kaiser Saint Paul's First Black. Elementary school principal. We're also proud to count among our members least Alyssa, more a daughter of Rondo and a legend of Saint Paul Central

Champion argue for decades. Massey Adams who led the ywca Saint Paul with such distinction and scholars like Dr, Duchess Harris McAllister College. I said a pause after all of those shout outs. From the halls of our neighborhood schools to the highest levels of civic leadership. These women remind us that the link we provide is only as strong as the leaders to forge it. The commitment to Saint Paul's you the remains are heartbeat. We're incredibly proud of past partnership with the East African Magnet School. And today we're honored to continue that work with our partnership with City View Community School in North Minneapolis. Weather is supporting the arts, health equity or the next generation of scholars. We do so knowing that black history. Made every single day, not just in our past, but in our neighborhood classrooms and within these very chambers. Thank you for this recognition. The Minneapolis Saint Paul are the links incorporated remain steadfast your partner in service and ensuring that the chain of progress in Saint Paul remains Unbroken. Thank you. Thank you very

It with that. I just want to make sure residents. number of iota of to us here today. I have to as well. With that, we will actually make a motion to close another for. Okay. I think it should open the public hearing first just to make sure anyone else so this is still a public hearing. Is there anyone else here who wishes to testify on this item? Seeing none. Johnson makes a motion to close the public hearing. Yes, we'll do the vote here. And then for everyone who is here with it would be very, really hard to do a picture here. We're going to make sometimes a picture outside, right where you walked in by the elevators. If we could have a cynical here but delegate cynical and so could help us just getting folks together. Ready for the photo. We do have make sure that chapter gets it. So we'll take it outside. The way we're gonna fit right here.

So so just to do, we did MISS We didn't MISS The most part. We've got them. But yes, go ahead. So the motion on the tables to close the public hearing and is there discussion of the motion? Thank you. Council PRESIDENT. Welcome Florida Johnson and Bully. I want to say thank you for. Thank you for bringing forward a heartfelt resolutions celebrating the one 100th year if of Black History Month. This was so beautiful on unity, the joy black excellence, the commitment to your ancestors and uplifting their chains and looking out their wildest dreams is so deeply contagious. I want to say thank you to all of you for coming and speaking. I'm speaking, choose your commitment to service to your community. See our youth. Mean, there was just there are so many moments when I was listening to the to the testifiers that I very going to be ok, we are in good hands because of all of So many leaders, people who are trailblazers, all they're doing incredible work in the communities in our use like they they see you all out there.

And that is so incredible in him. So out that today get to share such special space. If you here chambers, there was something that the first speaker said that that that I really I'm just resonated with and and this stuck with me, which is that our special guests here for the resolution. They're all here because of concert bullying counselor Johnson. And that that is really special because, you know, to me, it just really speaks volumes about how representation it truly matters. It's not going to be what saves us. Mean, the truth is that we are going be the ones to save us. We have the power to save And you out there that think that every single day and I'm so proud to be able to serve alongside an all-woman city council. You have a first own among American mayor here, too, in Saint Paul. And I know like. I'm excited. I'm excited for what's in store for our future generations and 4.

Our generation is here today, too. So thank you, everybody. Very excited to support this and in voting in favor of this resolution. Thank you. Missing Council PRESIDENT Yell to speed very brief. I am so humbled and honored to have all the here in the council. I mentioned earlier the council PRESIDENT, I said this is the best council we've ever had. So just kudos to you. And I. Yeah, I'm just very honored to be to be witness of this resolution today. It does Like at the last speaker spoke to at least making history right now and our neighborhoods, the fact that you all came t celebrate this occasion and show up in full force and it is incredibly beautiful. So congratulations to all of you. And I'm just so so honored to all of you continue to serve. That was the thread through so many of the speakers that we had was your commitment to service and community and to each other and, you know, as one resident, we all rise.

So I'm just I'm just in awe and thank you so much. I'm looking forward to celebrating with all of you. Thank you. Vice PRESIDENT. Any other discussion? The motion is thank you. Council PRESIDENT I just want to think consular Johnson accounts for Bowie for putting this together when ice. Like being tired by show up here in the chambers and just how much work that must taken to organize this. And I just really appreciate everything that you've done and everyone that showed up here today, I really want to uplift the commitment that was shared around excellence and the commitment to service and our community really appreciate everyone that came here today and all that they do for our city. I also want to recognize that, you know, I looked round the chamber's. How many folks that are city employees, Urban City Council members are mayors that have also attended hbc use and have been members of our members of the Divine 9, too.

So want to make sure that we're recognizing that as well because they are everywhere and over our city in our state and right here and city hall. So. Thank thank you. As just as common, it's really have so little to add that I was oh, the thinks you can numbers, billion Johnson for bringing resolution forward and Councilmember Joe said this must have been an incredible amount of profits Carnation. And so thank you both for bringing it to us. Thank you so much to everybody for being here and and celebrating this milestone. This was a really powerful presentation. I will echo my colleagues. Thanks to you both for that extremely hard work to coordinate all of this. Thank you so much t everyone who joined us I agree with my colleagues. I feel like we're really honored to have you all here in the chambers. This is a really special day celebrating black history celebrating American history, which are the same thing.

And I also want to note something that many of you touched on in your remarks, which is the theme of paying it forward. The service that the giving back that you are doing in so many dfferent ways. Our community is truly stronger and better because of your a commitment dedication. So thank you so much. And with that, I think we will take a vote on this resolution on favor, say Aye. I'll post 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted. Wait for for the All right. We are

Going pivot to our next item. We have a lot of other folks here for other items. So thank you all again for joining us. We are going to move I'll ask the city clerk read our next item. Item number 16 is resolution. 26 dash 3.41. Directing the Department of Safety inspections to proceed with adverse action. An imposition of $1000 Matrix penalty against Wizards Auto Repair llc, doing businesses with their daughter repair for the premises located at 95 Randolph Avenue. Well, coming up, the shipper. Thank you. Council PRESIDENT Maker members of Saint Paul City Council. My name is Monica Schaffer. I am an assistant city attorney and I here today on behalf of the Department of Safety and inspections. This matter is related to the business license held by Wizards. Auto repair, located at 9.85. Randolph Avenue. Mohamed Mohamud holds the license for Wizards specifically at the license is for an auto repair garage and secondhand dealers of motor vehicle.

Parts on JANUARY 12, 2026. The city attorney's office sent a notice and requests for adverse action of note, citing violations of various license conditions, including keeping customer cars for more than 10 days. Obstructing the maneuvering Lane, exteriors storage of car parts and parking cars on the lot that are missing body parts and using cars for salvage. This is all an exhibit 3. The notice provided the facts and the law under which City Council MAY act the department's recommendation to take adverse action. The notice statement stated that the department would recommend the imposition of the presumptive Met Matrix penalty, which is $1000 fine because this is the second violation within 2 years. In response to the notice, the licensee contacted city attorney's office admitted to the violations and outlined in the notice and the licensee requested that he be allowed to appear before council today regarding the recommended penalty. That communication is exhibit 5. My purpose today is to demonstrate for the council what happened in the spring of 2020 or excuse me, what happened how the department has reached this recommendation.

The first violation happened in the spring of 2025 and was also for violations of the license conditions, including obstructing the maneuvering lane extent. Exterior storage of car parts and parking cars on the lot that are missing body parts. Exhibit 2 shows that this was pay, that the recommended penalty of $500 was paid and that he admitted to that violation. The facts supporting a violation. Our exhibit one. Because the current violation that we are here for today happened within 2 years of that. First of that previous violation, section 3.10, point 0, 3, of the code tells us that the adverse action we are here for is a second violation. So I will walk through those violation violations before council today with the voice activated projector. He said the voice activated projector. If that's okay, making sure. Thank you. All right. So turning to the second violation, this one that we're here for today. The department received complaints about the business in SEPTEMBER of 2025.

And in NOVEMBER, the department inspector, the Tiffany Porter visited the licensed premises at 95 Randolph Avenue during the inspection inspector Porter identified multiple violations of several conditions. These photos that I'm going to show you today are all from exhibit number 3. So first up. Is page 23 about exhibit. We do need the Voice activated project. But keep going Shea for wire. Get

There. Okay. Sure. Nice. So this is the first photo. This is on Page. 23. This is photo number 3. The shows a car that is parked in violation of the approved site plan, a violation of conditions, one and 6. Next up is page. 24 of exhibit of the same exhibit. Photo, 6 site. This photo here shows the outside storage of vehicle parts, a violation of condition. Number 8. Photo. 26 shows. Page. 26 Total 13 shows vehicles not completely assembled and parked in the lot. This is a violation of condition. Number 9. Following this inspection, diff inspector Porter sent a notice of correction a correction notice. Excuse me, too. The licensee on DECEMBER first detailing the violations and directing that they need to be corrected by DECEMBER. 12th. She then returned to the licensed premises fr a follow-up inspection on DECEMBER. 15th and and and realize that the inspections have not been corrected then over the next week the Dsi received yt more violent notices of violations from or excuse me, complaints from neighbors.

So she returned to the process again. So on Page, 22 of exhibit 3. These are the photos collected from those 2 DECEMBER inspections. And one in to show tow trucks blocking again the maneuvering lane here. Page. 24 show photos 4 and 5. Show outside storage of vehicle parts, which is a violation of condition. Number 8. Page. 25 shows again outside storage of the occult parts, scrap material and tools related to the business. Also, the anti freeze not and that being properly disposed of according to Ramsey County Hazardous Waste regulations. Page, 26. Photo 11. Ad 12. Show vehicles parked for more than 10 days on the plug on the lot and not completely assembled. These are violations of conditions. 9.12. Page. 28 photos 15 through 17 show vehicles. Not completely assembled and parked on the violation of condition. 9. Page 30 shows vehicles not completely assembled and yet parked on the lot. Page. 31. Again shows vehicles not completely assembled and parked on the lot.

Page. 32 foot walls o vehicles parked for more than excuse me. Of vehicles parked for more than 10 days and not completely assembled violation of condition. 12. Page. 33 shows vehicle salvage. Which is a violation of condition. 9 that is also available on

Page. 34 photo 30. Page 34. And 35 also include photos of vehicles parked for more than 10 days. A violation of condition. 12. Finally page. 36. Shows the failure to maintain the fence, which is a violation of condition. Number one. The Department review took these photos, review them and determined that there were violations of the license conditions and the city code. Therefore, because this took place within 2 years of the previous adverse action, this is a second. This is a second appearance and therefore the presumptive penalty is for $1000. This is pursuant to the code section 3.10, point '03 Claus and supplies. One. Therefore, we respect the department respectfully request that the city Council imposed the presumptive penalty. Thank you very much, mischief. Are there any questions city attorney? Seeing My understanding is that licensee is here to speak on their behalf. So licensee, it's your time to come on up and you'll have 5 minutes. Please start with your name and where you're coming from. And then we'll have 5 minutes. My name is Mohammed on or was it sought pair on Randolph? Want to thank you for allowing me to speak I respect the city and licensing process I. Understand the concerns raised about the property during the inspection period. Intention was never. Has never been tonight.

Negatively affect the neighborhood. Around a small local auto repair business. So it's pretty hard keep up with everything. By myself. Understand the operating in residential quarter requires a higher level of organization. And accountability. Have treated this as a learning experience and have made changes to how operate. Since the inspection. Implemented. a daily close in check checklists. It's make sure the property is compliant and every single at the end of every single business day. I also have been looking

For flow lot where I could have culls that do need to be there for longer than 10 days where they can be parked. There. I care about this community and I invested by the says business. My goal is to be a long-term responsible business owner and a good neighbor. I'm here. I'm willing to accept fine, but I respectfully ask the council to allow me to demonstrate a compliance without placing a display in an air strike On my license and instead consider probationary period. Thank you. Thank you very much. And make sure Senate. One to have

Appreciate you being here. I I do recognize and appreciate your desire to be a good neighbor and 2 make sure that you understand the terms of your license, violating them. I am happy to help you connect with the department safety inspections to better understand, make sure you know the terms of the license among all of those conditions are because they hear you saying that you want to be complying with them. That said this was a second violation after earlier violation in the same year. And might have been a little bit more sympathetic to that after a first violation. It appears there's been a second violation and there have also been reports even since the inspector came out for the second violation, additional violations. Since then. I am going to be recommending the department's safety inspections recommendation today. I again would be happy to help you connect with them to better understand how to make sure there are no further penalties after this.

But at this point, it appears to me that all the facts plus the subsequent violations since the last inspection and the quickness with which the second violation occurred compared to the first violation seems to me to warrant the $1000 Matrix penalty for a second violation. So again, that. Please sign in this isn't this isn't a conversation, but I'm happy to connect with you afterwards. That's going to be my motion. Is there any discussion of that motion? I'm just a clarifying question.

Generally speaking, those payments can made over a payment plan over time, which is that? Does that look like? Thank you. It's a great question. Vice PRESIDENT Michel for do you know how metrics penalty can be staggered over time? Yes. Given my business card too. So I believe that there's a way to set it up with Dsi, but I'm not sure how that works at Dsi again wants to partner with business owners as much as possible. And so if that's something that dsi can accommodate, they will take that. So and he has contact information for Dsi as well as myself and we get into and I will certainly again assist with making those connections. Appreciate that life is presently week. The goal of this is not to a harm the business. The goal of this is to compel compliance with the conditions on your license to make sure the business is an amenity to the neighborhood.

So if there's a way that we can work that out. We will definitely do that. All right. Any other discussion of the motion? Seeing none all in favor say Aye. I'll post 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted. I'm going to do another switcheroo just because we have folks. Hear what been waiting a item. 24 something actually move item. 24 head of item 17. And then we will go 24 to 17 from there. Item the item. 24 is resolution public hearing. 26 dash 59 authorizing the right off of police staffing costs for qualifying free public cultural festivals and community events. And that this is this is a public hearing as did. You want to make any comments prior to the public hearing to introduce the item. I make it free for some of my colleagues. more clarification so essentially it's right off, particularly for events and festivals that meet the criteria and other item item 17, established that criteria, the events and festivals that's lasted for 5 years or more in area of concentrated poverty.

This is in the same spirit right of eliminating some of the financial burdens and relieving and grandson relief to our cultural festivals our legacy festival that are not able persist this year due to their outstanding balances, revealing many of the outstanding balances. Thank you so much to our partners in the police department. They had shared with us that the total amount. And for those who meet criteria, it's about 60 or Using $75,000 that essentially we will just writing off, which is particularly outstanding balance we have done prior write offs and before, like, for example, writing off the library late fees as example. They've done it with outstanding balances for ambulance fees and police fees. So this essentially would just be a very clear, clean cut vote, particularly. To support our Kaushal festivals to ensure that they can continue on this year. So you hear you'll be hearing, particularly in public hearing, many of the event organizers and residents who support contra festivals and importance council taking lead on actually eliminating these cost burden so they can have after 2 to still present or excuse me Hoster events this year.

Great. Thank you. As we will go to the public hearing now because I didn't make this a. Didn't do my usual public hearings field before the last public hearing. I'll do it now. So for a public hearing items when we call for your item, we ask that you come lineup on both sides of the columns in the middle. When it's your turn comes standing between the 2 microphones. Again, you shouldn't need to adjust them. They should you up just fine. You'll hve 2 minutes to testify, which to go by quickly. And my job is to keep every one to 2 minutes, which is not always fun, but there is a time or right in front of you. So we asked the folks try to time yourselves, start with your name and where you're coming from. And when you're done testifying, please sign in on the sign in sheets on either side so with that, this is a public hearing lovers here to speak on this item. Please come on up. And remember to start with your name and where you're coming from. Welcome thing. Thank you. Good afternoon.

My name Eric Holder Junior. I am the vice PRESIDENT For the center broadcast journalism and how one of 4.7 and as of DECEMBER, I'm a resident of Saint Paul. I representing power one of 4.7, which in AUGUST every year puts together a cultural festival. 7 Street live Sunday. Saint Paul is a free festival that celebrates the beauty of the Saint. Paul and one of the big things that is and we're not profit. Put the event offer free any funds that we do maintain goes right into our - program, which we teach youth ages 16 to 24 the ins and outs of journalism. One of our biggest expenses, though, with the festival is with the cost of security and police. And that's a really big line item for us. And so I'm here ask the council to consider. That line item being removed so that we can continue to provide the programming that we want to for our youth that we offer at no cost to them.

Thank you very much. And make sure to sign thank Well, coming up. And after Shannon, everybody. My name is kinda Neal. Mean, isn't 2 minutes. I came here in 1998, and witness the Rondo Days parade. I decided with my husband to raise my family within the Rondo community. I'm originally from Canada. I have worked. I called myself a round transplant baby. Had the honor to work a cold in time over the years. Continue to raise my amazing family, including my son, Justin Enciso and and grow within this community. Back pre-covid had the honor of hosting days as a Camel j host and now I am on the Days Board for the last 3 years working with the people. I call the fabulous 5. Okay. Sill smaller, Nick behind remain Fulford and Akron, eta. We're small but mighty team. I'm a senior event manager for a living and I take great pride. Not only being the treasurer for Rondo days, but also helping to crack the whip when it comes to making sure w stay on time with our permits are cost as well as meeting other community members needs like many other community events we survive with grants and sponsorships.

It is a very small but mighty task that we take to host Reno days. We also take great pride in hosting are safe and free events. We've had the honor to partner with Saint Paul Police. The State Patrol, many Saint Paul Black firefighters as well as many other community agencies to ensure that our main priority and hosting a safe event is accomplished every We plan to do that again for the 3rd year. I'm asking on behalf of the fabulous 5 team, the event that happens the 3rd Saturday of JULY that used strongly recommend and take in consideration that reduce our rates for the previous year and going forward that we have a say on how the fees are managed. Again, just like any other requirement. What the city we love to sit down in advance and go through our budget again. It is a great task to have the security and police in Philly feet.

We understand the need. We are. They are amazing partners, but we just can't afford it when gets outside of thousands and thousands of dollars. Thank you in advance for your consideration. Thank you for everybody being here today. Thank you so much. Make sure to sign in. Well, come up. Hello, Adrian Saint Paul resident 5, 5, 1, 0, 4 life sinkhole. Many midway. I'm going to read the the more polite words of my co planner of the around the Block party. Instead of speaking off the cuff for the 2025. Rondo Block Party with knowledge of budgeting mishap. We did not edit with adequately set aside funding for the police staffing invoice as it arrived months after the event after the event we use available funds to cover required operational costs and close out other financial obligations. When the police bill arrived, paying it in full would have required completely depleting our remaining funds. We could not fully deplete those funds without jeopardizing the financial stability of the organization ad or ability to plan for the next festival season.

A partial payment has been made and the plan would be to continue partial payments until the pills bill is paid in full over the next couple of months. Unless you adopt resolution 25 dash, 5, 9, and waves that remaining balance. For future plans for the around the community Coalition in Reno Block Party. We plan to create a public safety reserve line item in our budget and keep first, keep it rstricted. We'll set aside a fixed percent total cost, whatever the percent, maybe specifically for police security cost. That MAY arrive later. Will budget to the high end of projection that the estimate, if we receive a range will lock the upper bound as the budget amounts and treat any savings that surplus. We will separate operating funds from event funds. You separate accounts. So general operating costs, don't unknowingly absorb what should be reserved for late notices. The plan to secure a dedicated sponsor grants for public safety and secure costs and restrict that funding for safety items.

Suggestions will be to provide for the Saint Paul Police Department provide a deposit. Plus a true up model collect a reasonable deposit based on estimate for the event, invoice or refund credit. The difference quickly after provide written estimates for and scenario updates faster in invoicing progress updates during planning and also writes, I staffing was shared goals, collaborate on a safety plan. That means public safety needs while minimizing unnecessary staffing using a control alternatives. Volunteers, ambassadors and contract security where appropriate. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Come up. And we'll do the last call for anyone else is here to testify on this item. If you could line up just we know who's here, please do. And those doing again managed by crews co-chair Cinco de Mayo. Much Independence City Council members understand only the mayor can request 154,000 be moved out of the general Fund restore for festival support from 2025. But you are elected leaders.

You can advocate please publicly push for those funds to be restored. Now, looking at this year's funding, we are being told te maximum professional 7,000. Already know some festivals MAY not happen because the financial strain uncertainty. So fewer event supply and the money is not distributed. What happened to the excess money last year when money think it spent one back in the general public and why amount the same for everyone. Are you settling a flat amount for events that are not equal in size impact of cost? That's not fairness. That's a formula that ignores reality. The police presence is required and the cost arms in the police budget not on the backs of the event.

Organizers organizers. Council members were you not actually pushing to recover last year's promise credit for all the events advocate for it, fix You have tat power. But the costs were blogs and show this community that the sport is more than worth. It and start the conversation about reducing or any security charges for cultural festivals and show the community that when you say you support it shows up in the budget. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Good afternoon. I'm Clint Robertson, the founder and director of Lordstown sounds takes place on Thursday night. Summers Park. Want to share different perspective? I took over Thursday programming and Mears Park in 2018 book music there since 2008. Obviously the landscape changed. It's been a very, very difficult since 2020, especially. I do. Thank you for this conversation because it is incredibly difficult to put on events in the city and they're probably more important now than ever.

So even a conversation to help out and look at the micro financing is incredibly important. So thank you for that. Shine a light on that events go away, they're hard to get back. And I think my my issue is. We need to look at things more broadly and take a macro vision that things were seen as on. Sounds is seen as a successful event. I think that a better word baby is. We're in a stab wished But that doesn't mean we don't struggle. We've lost money last couple years in large part because of but also because perception issues alert on Saint Paul. Our attendance has gone down in that regard. When we lose tonight, Lou, several $1000 a night, we stepped up air policing fees as well. So it's and then we had to rain. It's a shared SEPTEMBER one of which is also note. So it's incredibly challenging t run the operation to get people to come out, overcome those perceptions to create an event that is a beacon for Saint Paul.

Saint Paul's proud of. But there's also business side to it as We always pay our bills. We pay bills by the end of the think that's what needs to be done. Even if we did several $1000 last year after some last-minute sponsor donations. So I would just ask a look at this issue broadly. I think events should be symbiotic with city. I think they should benefit everyone. I've said for years we've organizations to take advantage of this. We've got a stage most Thursday nights and there's park that people can come and talk about. Rhonda Vincent, talk about all these different events crossing all use that as an opportunity to spread the good word because we all need right now. I will also say that the reality is, you know, the competition and the challenge of rising costs isn't going away. And times need to wrap so I would just say the lastly that are than it used to be 12 weeks now, it's 8 weeks and fighting the weeks because that's what it cost.

Thank you very much. Make sure I All Since no one else here to speak on this iem, I'll take a motion from his plea to close the public hearing all in favor say Aye. I post 7 in favor. None opposed. The public hearing is closed as we just want to make a it something up. If we have representative here for the police department side, you have a question particularly about. Aren't paying down my apologies. If this question is kind of taking you by storm, but I think want to just make sure we have people here. Who are hosting events and have organized in the past. If you can just have one record particularly around what is the process what is process for the police to actually 3 some of the the balances because currently what's on the agenda right now is about. 7 organizations that have outstanding balance, if you can speak to what are some of the conditions?

You know, when organization has outstanding balance, what are some of the no circumstances for them? Are they able to continue on or what's the process? Police, particularly with recouping these collected funds. Thanks for the question. I will say I'm like mental health from your here. I want a full disclosure. I invited Commander Hellstrom Councilmember Johnson's request. I think for the next item to talk about the vessel's about security credit proposal. So if you're able to answer as we question, that would be great commander. But I just want to be clear that he didn't know he was here on the side. So thank you. Council. PRESIDENT Council members. The police department traditionally does not get involved with collecting of debt and bills. We submitted bills to financial services for. Payment and that is that is the capacity for the police department's involvement. And we give an estimate and we.

Calculate We submit the bill and don't want to be involved in determining. What percentage is or who gets to pay their bills. thank you for that clarification. We have anyone here from all of us. I know I request here. I'm hearing that Dr Watson had to leave. It was here earlier. I 1 of the things I wanted to share, you know, after series of weeks, if not particularly tlking with some of the directors, why of things? The reason why, you know, I'm taking this vote is because I don't believe that no police, our community should be in the business of billable expenses for something that should treated as a public purpose. And the resolution, you know, here, we're also determining that the police costs when a service these base of our criteria, these type of events that they're treated as a public purpose. There was there are some questions that people MAY have be around council's authority, but I do want to just have this discussion and also take the vote, particularly my motion is for us to, you know, decide on writing off the expenses and I can read some of the organizations into the record and I want to be clear, this wasn't just a council let selection process.

This was information was received from the police Department of those who have outstanding balances and that as we have heard earlier today. critical need to have tese festivals and the the negative impact, That not only on the festival event organizers but for our community will no longer have access to celebrate. We just had a resolution earlier today. We're celebrating that only black history, but the joy and all of the excellence that comes with our beautiful celebrations. So the organizations that we have here, particularly, you know, African African economic development solutions, Little Africa Festival. We have the 4th and Park festival little Econ night Market Rondo Avenue which host this round of days and we have the round of community coalition with Hostess, the Rondo Block Party and the Pride Festival that we know take stout takes place downtown Saint Paul and last but not least the Saint Anthony Park Branch Library Association. They host the scene Anthony Park Festival.

So those are the ones that we have the power to actually write it off. And like I mentioned, that totals about 7, the $5,000 as the saying the resolution. But I'm open for discussion. But I really want to move forward with the I think this is an opportunity for us to make make good on our promise. In terms of last year, we we're not able to administer the 155 k to some of those organizations that met our criteria. And because of that, they're paying the price. So I think this is opportunity for us to make good you know, supporting our Koch or festivals. Thanks, Lisa. We'll take that as a motion for the item for So I first of all, just want to thank everyone who came out to testify. I'm so grateful for all the vibrancy, the fun, the connection that you bring to our community. I couldn't agree more. That is more needed now than ever.

And I also appreciate all the hard work that all of us have been doing to try t find both a solution in the short term for the $155,000 that I know we're all eager to get out the door and the long term. And I know we many of us around this table have expressed concern as we heard today about the fact that we're charging these very high costs for security, for festivals at all. And how much of an impact that is having on our community festivals are community organizations in particular. And so I know what the public Safety Committee very soon. We're going to have a conversation about the opportunity to remove these fees in the future period in total and whether we can move that into next year's budget and do that next year. But we're talking right now about the resolution that's in front of us. And I will say that I have some very serious concerns about the resolution in front of us, which I shared with Councilmember Billy.

There are 3 main concerns. I have the first one is that we all received a memo from our city attorney's office letting us know that this would be an illegal gift. So this would not be legal. This would be a gift to 7 organizations that as we just named that do not. Warren public benefit and that do not meet the level of need for collections having been done as we heard my police department, we don't even try to collect on the stats for them to be written up. So. City attorneys office has opined that this would be an illegal gift. And I take that seriously. The second reason I have a concern about this is that this is just fundamentally unfair. I don't understand why we would waive the balance for organizations that held a festival last year that have not paid their bills and do nothing for organizations. Many of whom testified today who did pay their bills and in some cases, worked very hard to pay their bills.

So we heard the list of organizations that would be waived. But here are some of the organizations that would receive nothing. The Cinco De Mayo Festival paid $65,000 last year. Grandal days paid $95,000. Lower town sounds 8,000 Juneteenth 755. A new year 11,000 Mexican Independence Day, 18,000 Fiesta, Latina 9,007 Street live who testified today $5,900. All of those costs. We're heavy burdens for those organizations and they pay those bills. We don't know what kind of a hardship it was for them to pay them. But they did. Those organizations under this proposal received nothing. The 7 organizations that must mentioned that did not pay their bills, receive a complete write-off. That's not fair. That's not equitable. It's not something that I can justify to the people who came here today to testify or to the people who have rached out and submitted public comments that you can see on the record. And finally, there's no funding source for this.

We've heard of the e-mail from director Laura Logsdon that the 155,000 for this year cannot be used right off a balance from last yar. And if it were used to write off the balance for last year, that would be taking away further dollars from those organizations that we are hoping to help support this year. S this is not legal. It's not fair and it's not the right thing to do. And I will be voting against this item and looking forward to bringing forward the next item 17 for Jen to to give out the $155,000 in the fair and equitable way to our community festivals. Thanks. That's present as because of questions. I think it's really important as we are using various substantial. a legal term saying that this is illegal. I recall as a councilmember, we have written off many expenses before we have written off library fees. We have even written off people's vacancy buildings written off people's fees and fines.

We've even written off people's lawns, unforgiving people's and the benefit of building affordable housing are meeting our housing policy. I think it's really important if we're going pass something illegal gift that we have record, particularly how that law is being interpreted. It because in this resolution we are actually exercising the authority that's in our charter, which is authorizes the council to write off these expenses. Now we are the ones to determine whether someone, whether an expense of the public purpose or not. But that is a direction that I'm speaking from my colleagues to go. If we if the question is security costs for community festivals is a public purpose. I would say it is I we've heard particularly earlier today how tese festivals actually are and the more of a benefit to the city than they are to the ones he's hosting it. So I I think it's really important that we have on record MAY be found.

City attorney to particularly and reference our source. How writing off an expense that we actually have authority to do based on our charter is considered legal cause. I think those are really some serious allegations that want to clarify. Yes, and and I'll turn to MR. Sentiment to be clear, the words illegal gifts where city attorney's words in the memo that we received on the subject. And which they also clarified what conditions have to be met to do right off. To your point and that those conditions are not met here, but MR. Staley feel free to land and then go to council vice PRESIDENT. 3 by the memo that was provided to council members this morning general in our policy too. Get details. Legal analysis that we provided to council members turning client privilege to kind of give a roadmap to people who are unhappy with the decision as to how to go about something I don't feel comfortable sharing on the record.

So we all have that memo in our e-mail inboxes and we can consult that on our own council. Vice PRESIDENT. Thank you. Just Yeah, because I guess. The thing that I was going to name is that it seems is there is process for a Something else I think being defined as and collectible debt. And so I guess I have questions for because we heard from police. Well, I thought was attempting to collect a debt. Whether or not the current correspondents meats. Those definitions and steps in the process. And so my understanding is that it is deemed an illegal gifts because it hasn't met that definition. But I'd be very interested in what part of that definition of what steps has the city made so far, 2 to begin that process of doing something as an and collectible debt. So that's that was my to partition and realizing that probably waiting us into the tourney claimed her space.

But I just I've got questions about that because I do think that it's sort of articulated what that path looks like. Said the interest and what steps have already been. Every been made. And so I think my understanding just again, keep us safe. Is that because it doesn't meet that definition?

That's why it's considered a did you call an illegal gift or not you? But and that but that doesn't mean that there isn't half 4 these debts to be put into a process for that consideration. S very open to you know what other whatever path you want to take with a Scotts memorably. But that was sort of my understanding about that. And then as it turns to sort of like. You know, hearing from folks in their ability to pay. It also sits on really interested in and again, I know that you've been working with these organizations and this process a lot longer than I have. So I defer to you. But those are some questions that I have that I'm I'm interested in, but need immediate answers for us. Thank you. Vice President Simon Johnson and then this common. Yeah, I just want appreciate all of the folks that kind that made it out today to you know.

I appreciate one of one for 4.7 to be here because it's one of the few events festivals that of all U. S.. Mike heard pass exists in Ward 7. And will share that transparently. You know, of the 7 that that this resolution and inquiries are is actually talking about does not include your fees that wouldn't necessarily Stu and that the next resolution with plans for the next the next events for 2026 would pertain to it. But I have had a chance. You know, this my first meeting back in person. But I have had a chance to watch every meeting that this item was discussed. And, you know, I'll just share with you all. I order all discomfort of the vote today is in part because the briefing came this morning like a legal memo came this morning. I was kind of going through a lot of the the details. I think the end of the day, issue remains that there is and there's an appetite actually explore what being able to not have the security costs be a burden to folks executing events and festivals.

Inner city. And that's initially where this all started. Initial investment was put in place because of that reality. And folks realizing that we had for contacts as well, right? We had many different organizations that we're seeing a spark and that increase in their overall security costs. This is an item that I do tink the mission ribbon I align with when it comes to being able to supplement the police staffing costs. Originally, I was a counselor who was very like. Support of of being able to utilize the 155,000 that we were having a discussion because I saw a way for these organizations to benefit, especially for the ones that were unable to make ends meet for last yar to this year. And I think, you know, there are folks on that list that are not playing to have a festival this year there because of many different reasons. But some of them have named. They're still trying to pay off the debt from this past year. I really wish that we operated in in an environment where we would be able to

Within. But the city attorney's office with the into the Office of Fnancial, you know, services with a not necessarily a yes or no, here's a path forward has a path of how we do that. Let's find out what we want to do, which we've heard on power in the public hearings. We've heard from many conversations, folks, I have an appetite to really watch this security cost line item. The smaller. I think we have the resources and house. I think we do have the ability here in the city too. 2. Explore what it looks like to be able to not have the security costs be a burden to events and festivals. I don't know if this necessarily accomplishes it, but I have seen many e-mails from Councilmember Bowie where they get basically told the same response. I have seen, you know, the legal memo, which I'm you know, I've reviewed it, but I do have a lot of questions.

I don't necessarily know or agree with the notion that. Using security costs for an event and festival, something that plex or what genuinely the whole point of an oven, the festival's because it is for the public community. It is for the neighborhoods. I find it hard to find that not a public use and I'm struggling with that argument because I don't actually agree with. And I don't think it's I don't think of that. Is accurate. And I'm just being honest being candid. But I did councilmember believe that I would not be prepared to support. This today. I wanted lay over and, you know, the video where the boats lie, people are willing to take a vote today. You know, I make up my mind as we go along. But we tend to have these items come forward and because we operate in form, we get a yes or no answer and it's not helpful to getting us to what we really want to do, which is like.

You reach out make it more affordable. Have best of in our community and our city. $60,000 for security costs for police. 95,000 $1 to have a parade. Those expenses are sometimes double what they that's their entire budget times, too. It's not. That's not something that we should be doing in general. And so at the city So we have a $95,000 fee for Grandal days just that we shouldn't have a fee for a festival in the sentencing. Paul. And so I'm just really grappling with the fact that while we've been doing this yes or no dance and I've watched many of it. I've watched. Social media posts and all things that have been really quite and that have actually resolve the issue at hand, which is we've all ben trying to find solutions of waste to pay the city. I just want to remind us of like this item the right off is because we couldn't find we cannot be able to use the 155,000 ares we use for grants to pay ourselves and so like I'm here for the cape, the candid conversations, but we're literally are great about how the city is going to fix it.

And it's a city of the city not answer itself. And so it's really frustrating. I's very counter intuitive and whether something you know to the piece of illegal person's legal. That's what I wanted to dig anymore. And I wanted to have more candid conversations because I do think it's unfinished I will not thought to muster was about to happen even go pick up her children. This is a long meeting, but I would like more cooperation from the Office of Financial Services on this ask because I don't think it's inappropriate for folks to want to be able to interpret the law that's given to us folks and that the city attorney's office has a different interpretation of the council member. We should be getting that before 09:00am. This morning or excuse 35 and so like I just I'm not prepared to vote on this today. I will make my self-care it's something that our colleagues want to do and moving and councilmember boy, if you're I want to withdraw and ask for it, ask you on the record at least a two-week layover to be able to be able to get to a place where we can give attention to this.

I that's not something that you want to and we do have the vote today we have a motion on the table. Make it all make up my mind real time. And that's okay. Bcause at the end of the day, I just want to remind ourselves like this was an item we offered to pay the 155,000 to not have to have that be a funding source. We were told that we couldn't do that. I have yet to find that actual ordinance farm be on someone just saying we just that's not a practice that we have. I don't see anything that would preclude us from doing that legally. But hey. To ech his own. And that is the loop that we keep running in a cycle that we keep rain and it's getting tiresome. And you know, and I and I'm just and what I'm saying from that is like. That's what you're hearing. The frustration that you're hearing.

In Seoul. How saving so questions for the police department. For the next for the next one. Because I have some questions about community trust and also have some questions about how they're going to execute that fairly, how they're going to execute that. You know, and to do that role. But, yeah, I mean, at the end of the day, this item this item, is wrong? There's something about this item that I would say is wrong in my opinion, you I'm not a lawyer, but I just the main argument inside a public not public use. I don't necessarily agree with that. And that for some reason, the stat that we MAY not even collect stays this way. We don't actually go after you can't write off and that scenes contradictory at best. So I'll just say and leave it there. Yeah, yeah, and I just we're talking lot of different things. I just wanna make sure that we remain.

Clear on what we're actually what is in front of us and at what is in front of us has a proposal to write off the balances for 7 organizations because they didn't pay their bill and not to benefit all of these other organizations that did pay their bill. That's what's in front of us. Whether it's legal or not I think memo from our city attorney's office saying that it is an illegal gift. I take very seriously. But even if you set that aside, I think the question is, is it fair and equitable for 7 organizations to get this massive benefit and for all of the other organizations to be left in the that was in front of us. Some of comments and try to keep the somewhat organized. So I was with when he says Councilmember Johnson mentioned, which is just I think we've all been seen to this conversations for. You you all for much longer than I have.

But but at least for a couple of months now and have heard from so many folks from the community and it very, very clear me that bigger solution is needed here from conversations I've had with folks in the city. 25 years ago we were charging security costs for events and festivals. It was something that was baked into the city budget and we had a plan for how to cover those costs. It seems very clear to me that is a goal that many people, many all of us on this council. We'll be very interested in getting back to. And I think it is something that we cut in should prioritize in our budget this year. And I think all the conversations that we've had all the tests for years we've heard from in Chambers speaking t the importance of community celebration. Speaking to the importance of this come these cultural events has a very clear that this is something that the community is asking of us that.

I think that there are a number of questions that I don't have answered about this specific proposal at this point. It will try interesting. I think one of them is sort of to confess PRESIDENT Kim speaking about the the statutory obligation to attempt to collect the debt before or not. I look at this list of festivals and I have questions 4th in the park, Anthony Park Branch Library Association. Could they afford to pay the $72,000 that they'll between the 2 of them? If we attempted to collect that debt, I think idea of writing things off before we do that, haven't determined if people have the capacity to pay. It's not a practice that super interested in because do think that risks s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s being po doll Iwereadar fundatCobeaif aem to clth at.

Not knowing why 96 talked or whatever 96 was drafted as it was at as it was unwise and implemented as it has been. One of assumptions would be that it's to avoid pretty funny that we might otherwise be able to collect with just minimal effort. Think the other other piece that I'm a lot of concerns about that just given the timing of all this, ha d ant er ish 9. 0, 6, whh, you know, we haven't gotten guidance on it, but My read of it is that they're serious legal questions about what would happen to the festival's, whose fees we wrote off and what they be able to apply for future permits from the city that that's something that. I would not want to do something today that would inadvertently jeopardize the ability of any one of the 7 festivals to having been in the future because we've jeopardize their ability to get a permit from the city by doing that.

Think that that is a huge unanswered. The goal question and just kind of prevents me from feeling ready to vote on this today. The final thought in and becomes PRESIDENT. Your point of not wanting to it merge 2 different topics here, although they are. Hard not to do that because looking at this map and it looks like of the 7 festivals. Not saying balance of almost $82,000. Which would leave and just over $73,000 distribute for this year to the festival's. If that is again we didn't have a chance to hear from all of us today. But it sounds like that would be the funding source. Is this $155,000 that have. Been a challenge getting this year. So leaves us with less than half of that budget. And I think that without going to that process of determining if these are the 7 best was that we want prioritize. I just it doesn't feel ready to Again.

Appreciate intention. And I think that there's a lot of shared values here. I just think that as this currently stands and support it. Thank you is coming some. It's just thank you. Council I just want to say that I I agree with like the issue that we're trying to solving the problem that we're facing. You know, the cost of security, all those other additional events that council prison acre listed were, you know, tens of thousands of dollars for security. And that is a problem that we do need to solve. And I think we all are committed to that security for events should be that expensive. It's not something that a lot of our events and festivals have been able to meet. Many events and festivals have been canceled. We're had to skip years in order to even continue to put be put on in our city. And so that I a major concern. I have around the sustainability of those events ad festivals.

And I also do a grease. I agree exploring, you know, what are the other security options that we could utilize in our city? And I you know, I understand that we're trying to. We're trying to build a do what we can to, you know, some of these these organizations were supposed to receive this money last year and now we're here into this year and there are some outstanding debts. Nice. I get trying to want to help them out. I understand that. I share some of the concerns around the. Even we received a memo from the city attorney's office, just my own review section 96, we were meeting the definition right off in the situation. And so I was already concerned about that. And there is the question of does it mean a public purpose? Reviewed the city attorney's memo, but I think that's a fair question as well. And you know, for that reason, I I won't be supportive of the this approving this right up today.

You know, we have written off other debts and other situations in the city, but those have met those requirements and the requirements chapter 96. I do also I was going to flag the concern about section 6 and the ability, even if these are right now for these organizations that section reset, they are not able to lake get permits for other non-emergency services or something like that. I can remember exactly what it says. For accessing non-emergency services until te previous invoices are paid, even if you know, there was a write off. So they're just other questions and concerns that I have around that. B supportive of this today. But I do appreciate, you trying the ways that we're trying to solve this problem. Thanks, come time just as an thank you council PRESIDENT.

My first would like to thank you and also considerably for all your work that you put into this. I know we probably had been talking up with us for over your body and it's really been the both of you who have taken lead in the conversations. Really I'm grateful to the both of you. I commend you customer belief or your clarity in the direction you even want to take this conversation in completely leaving the security fees for our events festivals, which I'm very supportive of. I still remember being on the council here like a few years ago when this issue first came up, there were many organizations that asked for us to do something like a radically different and that meant we had to be really bold and think outside of the fox and here we are many years later, we still haven't resulted. I'll be I think there's definitely a pathway forward for it.

And I really appreciate you for the ways in which you have. We'll leave paved This pathway for the council here, too. Even consider completely leaving the fees in the future. I I I think it would do So a lot of good to to lead us over for a couple of weeks because there's clearly questions that council members effects, especially like I'd be very curious to find out what do they do after that, our police department does send them this sort I would say maybe invoice for the debt or the fees that are owed from organizations like what does that process look like for them to actually get those payments and from nonprofits organizations. There's, you know, there's like a few things that I have been. Just thinking about. Well, definitely one that doesn't really sit well with me like this part of Mall. Other organizations, they paid, their bills are ready. So why? Why should be? even considering the resolution to write the here for the ones who have an outstanding balance and and I finally figured out why feels very unsettling for me.

It's because I've actually heard that talking point many times before when it came to I medical debt that the city council that b approved and also list led by Mayor Melvin Carter. When it comes to even pushing for effort universal health for free college for all, which are all issues that I care deeply about. And and i'm very supportive and I see a lot of pure long between conversation and that. And you know, you you've name to fees that we've written off before in the city here very great. Very grateful to you for it to be. So she done because it really shows just the grit that you're willing. To put in to figure out a solution of how we can make this work out. And, you know, I I just I definitely a pathway forward and I want to be very supportive of And I think it's also really important that we get the questions answered, knowing died there.

This is something that came very, very suddenly to the city council here. And so wanted to let you know that I I would love to Ali were happen if you would supportive of that, it will give us time to really get answered that the questions answered. Thank you, council PRESIDENT For Want to say. I really appreciate your Councilmember eating. And I know we've been in partnership particularly around trying to find a solution. There's a couple things I want to touch on just after hearing from some my colleagues. I just want to make really clear to I think what's been said on the record, particularly is that, you know, fairness and one person receiving this relief and others aren't particularly because they have paid the bill. Ashley in the spread of Black History month. I just want to name out that that mindset something that puts us against each other and has this type of mentality that one person's liberation is someone injustice and we can't afford to move as a society are as a city, if what we're going to do for wine is if you're going frame it as it's hurting another person just like in the same spirit of college loan debt relief right with some Get in a student loans.

Wave doesn't hurt me in any way. Just like we're going to be doing a public hearing on the emergency assistance or rental assistance, someone getting their rent paid for so they can be held. Doesn't hurt me as someone who can afford to pay my rent. It's really important that we name it and distinguish exactly how we approach our bolts and that we don't function in a way that Pitts community group aainst another. We've heard from many organizations who have paid their bills and who also share the same eact experience o many of the organizations that have not another thing. I want to mention, you know, for somebody who used to work in Ramsey County, I was a clerk and used to process many people's public assistance benefits and one of the barriers I saw, particularly with people getting access to public assistance is the burden of paperwork and verifications improve people who are like deep, deep poverty who are literally homeless.

I'm going to Ramsey County and waiting in those lines and then the administration telling them for them to prove that they actually have a financial burden the burden is now on them instead of the burden being on the city's actually, you know, do something differently and do something bold to actually grant relief. I think these, you know, we have heard particularly around organizations that do have outstanding balance that the proof is going to be is whether or not they can exist this year. I dn't need to wait around and find out through a headline that Ronald Days I have to cancel because they'd did not receive support. I don't want to wait around for to hear that. Little me calm has to stop or cancel their and festival and my word because we didn't take action. I It is appealing to me to latest over. That means that we're going to get the questions answered. I take the legal guidance very seriously.

I also do challenge the fact that this will be considered illegal gift. I want to have that type of relationship with our city attorney that if we are being clear what our policy intentions that we have support from our city attorneys in terms of what is the pathway to get there. When I brought forth this resolution and it was reviewed by 2 city attorneys. I've never received. Any alerts are review are remarks, particularly that this was not a legal path. It is until literally this morning finding out that if we go this route that it can, it can cause some some legal risk. Also want to make very clear to You know, we have is 2 issues that were mentioned, particularly around a public purpose like council has the power to bring forth a recommendation or skin that resolution naming as a public purpose. Only thing that's different is just literally acknowledging if this meets a public purpose or not.

And the other thing that was mentioned really a question for ofs around how they determine what is on billable. Excuse me. I'm collectible, bad debt. Which written in the legal memo and in this from my from my awareness that their envoy says it went out. There has been reason a failure of payment. I don't it's not necessary for me to to to know why they have failed pain. I think we can literally open up our eyes and see all the distress that many of our small businesses are faced with, especially in our kasia corridors. I don't need people to come and take time off of their day to share with us what their grievances in terms of why they weren't able to pay their bills. And lstly, I will be I will be motioning to 2 latest over because I do think there's this calls into question you know, our interim director and also our city attorneys, particularly around how the laws being interpreted it.

I do want to continue having those conversations. I also want to, you know, set up residence that no, we have the power to make these decisions. And however, we get there, you know, needs to be in the spirit of actually, you know, grandson, really for these festivals and not creating hurdles and not creating environments that pits lines against the other. We have heard really strongly here and this chambers that all of our festivals are of benefit to our community. And although this vote is just about the select organizations now. We didn't Herman, which organizations was determined was based off of the need that we wanted to meet in Dallas. The organizations that have outstanding what that I would want to unless there our comments. Do intend to motion for a two-week layover. Okay. So why do we so you withdraw your previous motion and move her to weekly over so we can discuss that. Makes sense to take the motions.

We can discuss that motion. Is that what I'm The motion is for a two-week layover. Let's have PRESIDENT. Can. Yeah. The support of that time. You know, again, I think just maybe more to elf. I can't even do it or 2. He like Leno can't do reader. Is You know, I think To me, my my interpretation of this conversation is like that these these stats don't meet that definition today, but I think a large part of it is on our side, the city and whether or not we have pursued that process to make those definitions and how we're collecting the payment on these, right. Like what have we done? That continues that along sort of that that pathway to be defined. And then I also have a question around, you know, do we even pursue debt collection because of some of these organizations are just kind of in the swirl of like we owe the city money.

We want to have these events. And so I just it's to name. Those are questions that that I that I have. They don't change my confidence in what you're bringing to the table. But I do think that at least for me, they like I'd love to get some answers on tat. But I just want to emphasize councilmember believe that you have identified a much larger sort of question an issue that's happening in the city around or events and festivals. And so I just a name for myself and for my colleagues. I see what's happening as separate issues. You are after a much more systemic question around sort of the way that we even charge for the service is right. I think the underlying question here is like, why are security costs so high to begin with? I think a lot of us just now to what we've experienced proven that we keep each other safe.

And so the necessity of security costs, I think should be also on the table, which would be very interested in pursuing with you at public safety. So I think that you're bringing a very robust and systemic question to the table I also see what potentially a version, 2.17, or vision for.

As sort of like separate but similar parts of this problem. But really just commend the way that you've identified such a systemic issue the fully support approach to if you want to right, be supportive of that and would certainly take team to ensure that we are questions answers together. Thanks. PRESIDENT Is just yeah. I'm gonna support that Lee Thank you allowing time for that. I My follow-up. And I think the thing that I also just like to make sure we get clarity on before that vote, I'd like to further understand. And I'll say that to Dan as well. Be the notion that the aspect of Reyna thinks fees are basically being able to cover these fees. It's not a public I really want to dive further into that because if that is the ruling that is being place right now, that doesn't change. Even if we find the funding for that later. That's something that to me, I'm interpreting as that the the actual right of the fee itself is not a public use.

And that is actually something that I need to get more clarity on because I want to disagree. But 2, I also want make sure that that's not something that's just not a conversation in the future like we can't. You know, we have. That seems to be that there's a mission or like seems to me that there's interest from council members to potentially explore what it looks like to do what we've already done in the past, which is to not have to charge folks for scurity costs. And if we're saying that security costs are not a public use when grants like the cultural star Grant actually support compensating security. I actually didn't understand why that's being used here. And the differentiation between that because it's been deemed eligible use before. So that's my clarity. That's why would like to have the 2 weekly over. That's a clear that I need to have a for that vote.

And the differentiation to understand it fully. And I just want to be clear about that for the record. So for our city attorney's office, because that's what I'd like to see. Thank you, MISS Johnson. I think toast and then I will say something and then see if there's any other comments. I think we should yeah, I think for me, I feel like it's clear to me that that doesn't meet the requirements of chapter 9 to 6 to be that are for a definition of a write-off. And even if it met the definition of a I don't know that I agree that we should shouldn't write off for some of the same reasons that there are a lot of, you know, debts that aren't on this list. Also just I don't fully I don't agree with the the idea that this is similar to medical dead or health care like those are critical, basic needs for people that we're talking about.

Events and festivals site. I don't agree with that comparison and thinking about how we're making this decision around. If we should write this off or not, why do really value our events and festivals? And I also. I also really want to I mean, I I do it again. We've been talking about 2 separate issues, some of them big systemic issues that Councilmember Bowie has reason and brought our attention. And then the desire to get this money out the door for this year to $155,000 for events and festivals for this year. And that's more. So te priority for me right now, especially given the timeline of how we can take action to make that happen versus other issue. That is going to take a lot more I'm lot more effort. And I also just want to be really cognizant of how much time that we've already put into this. I originally agreed to one weekly over 4.

The other item 17. I think that's where it is. And now here we are several weeks later. So I just think its most efficient if we really kind of separate those issues out and I want to focus on getting this money out the door really cognizant of staff time staff time. That's already been spent on this. That is probably in the amount of tens of thousands of dollars at this point. And I just want to make sure being most efficient, how we're making our decisions decisions and taking action to do so. I will not be supportive of the layover, but I do look forward to still trying solve problems that well. Thank you. Have are I also not be supportive of the layover. I'm prepared to vote today. I I also believe that this is just for their kicking the can down the road. I want to be really clear i'm not saying that one events loss is another's gain.

I'm not hitting offense against each other. What I am saying is that we need to be fair on this council and we need to be able to justify or decisions to. Those would ask us about them tmorrow or soon as we leave this room from those who've come to chambers tonight. And I cannot justify right now saying to the folks who cannot testify tonight, you paid your bills last year and with no hardship assessment whatsoever without knowing how hard it was for you to pay without knowing how easy it would be for another organization to pay. That hasn't paid yet. We rode off one group's bills and we left you hoping that that I just can't justify that. I'm frustrated that we're continuing to go back and forth o this. I recognize the people of questions, but this is continuing to keep us from being able to get dollars out the door that we need to so I think we will take a vote on the after his bully in the common.

Just real even some vessels are a lifeline to our neighborhoods and to our commercial corridors. And for someone who's been a reason Rondo, I think rightly days is very essential. And it's really like so meaningful to many of our businesses. When we had our business awards here, some of the businesses that that award it came out of events and festivals like Rondo Days came out of a lot of our brick and mortar came out of these festivals. So this is the economic development planned. This is essential to our city. I know everyone has different opinions, but particularly in world wine, our events and festivals are a lifeline. I also want to say something on the record to this actual vote actually has way less effort and has 0 administration. It's literally a clean cut right off. We're not transferring dollars anywhere. And I want to make very clear this has actually this bill has nothing to do with the 155 k right off.

We don't we don't have to think that this pot of money is coming out of the 155 k budget we've seen in other right off before its budgets off through our Office of Financial Services. That's really a job. That's really the job and responsibility of our Office of Financial Services. 2 for that. So those 2 things are very separate. Although we're in the same spirit of talk about even some vessel that want to make it really clear for the record and also to know what was said is like really want to get the money out the door. The truth of matter is we're not getting money out the door very giving money. Back to us the money. We're just wishing the money from one department to the other department. This is not actually going out the door and none of our events and festivals are going to actually have any of these dollars. They're just going to have a particularly in the route that we go in the next item to come.

Just have a reduction to their police budget. And I already had shared. I would not be supportive of that mainly because of people have mentioned before, you know, the the lack of uncertainty with the police expense going up every year is the 7,000 just going to just basically cover inflation, right? Is that actually going to like if they're going to be experiencing a receiving a police estimate that 10,000 or 9,000 more that we have seen and current trend is actually going to cover the issue. So that's why I am taking this attempt in this a different approach because instead of going through that discussions of playing hot potato. It which department wants to do it or not. The truth of the matter is here in Saint Paul, we cannot find a director who can a man manage and administer 155 k to give to events and festivals. That's really unfortunate and really unacceptable. I think that we also like Councilmember Johnson have shared.

I want to see better relationships and better partnerships with our directors. We should not have to be figuring out right here. All 7 of us how we can actually ensure in support events and festivals like this is not just a council decision. We really need buy-in from our mayor and buy bye and from my department. I see that we have on park's director here. I want also to share have been a really great partner and build those relationships with our community events and festivals. But as we're talking about high police costs, this is the opportunity for police to come to the table and come up with some solutions. It's unfair for us to have to figure it out. And I want us to have a clear way forward and we have the authority to the term and that something is a public purpose, which I've already stated mine tensions. Doing Also we can show proof that this is collectible debt.

Then those are the 2 criteria is for us to actually make this vote. And I understand other council members MAY not, you know, feel confident are bold enough to take that chance. But I think the the the danger in not making a decision are the consequences of not making this decision is not having these festivals this year. And that is that very consequential t me. I don't want to go into a future where we have set on record that we are not willing to do anything to support these events and festivals. Thank you, MISS So that motions particularly over. Take just and then I think we're going to call the time just moments after MISTER Lee is common in the and then we're really in. My question is mostly procedural. Do nothing but he'll be able to answer because it sounds like there's disagreement and I'll say I don't have anything. I received an email from Watson today side of aisle.

Slime is something at So like I said, I'm not prepared to spur the state. I do generally, you know. Want to support efforts. Things over in order to try to improve things and strengthen things to the point where there can you know, be a vote with all the questions answered. That said because tere's the suggestion on the table or maybe the answer on the table that if we do this than it does, that's coming out of that that MAY or MAY not be coming out of the $105,000. Believe is Billy and I have both confirmed with us. I'm stunned. That is does not come out of the 100 and I want to be clear. I think, you know, you I have received that information from slot for excuse me, Laura, so I have difficulty pronouncing your last name, but I want to be clear, this was this boat that you can see in a resolution.

It does not reference the 155 k if we were to vote to write this off, the question would be what is what source our web budgets awful. We be using. And since the 155 k is a news dollars. Current dollars that we have for this year missus or had mentioned that we are able to use this year's funds for last year's ballots. So this is a right off because we've already close out of last year. So this considered particularly this is unpaid balance. And it doesn't seem like there's any avenue to collect on this balance over essentially like either unpaid, says, are remains outstanding. And these events and festivals can't exist are we can write it off. So I want to be clear. You know, I think those are valid questions to be asked. And I was here to answer them. But it was not my intention. Ally for the 155 k to be used to solve this.

And to that point, we will move forward with 17 after this, we mentioned. So thank you, MISS Me. It's just yeah. I just want to 2 About the money that the right up to still need to be budgeted. Some all there is to be a budget solve and we don't know what that is right I think that that matters the other times that we've had resolutions for a doubts that is that in the situation. I just also want to say that I'm just concerned about the comments around like departments not being willing to house this program like a lot of our department directors have put in a lot of effort the last several weeks to try to problem solve this. And it just doesn't seem fair to me to say that when so much effort has been put into this and I don't agree that it's like a partnership with them. And so that I just want like that common that really just concerned me.

Thank you. Is just okay. So I think we are now ready to vote. The motion on the tables for 2 weekly over. Item. 24, we will do a roll call. Vote. Johnson. I just know. Yes. Comes present maker. Now 5 in favor to oppose those being comes members. Justin Maker, the item is laid over to 11. Item number 17 is resolution public hearing. 26 dash. 37 establishing the festivals and events security credit. The public hearing on this is closing. This was replayed over from FEBRUARY. So this is delayed over since FEBRUARY 4th. Just to remind folks where we are version 2 is the version that is in front of us right now. I want to ask matter how strong. Really appreciate your patience matter. Hostin is here to speak to how the program would work and answer questions that folks have about it. Johnson, I appreciate you're asked police department be here to answer those questions.

And so Commander I'll trn it over to you. And I again, thank you. I think you might have had to leave hour and 15 minutes ago, but you're still here. And so here. Deputy chief with that special report and a call to commander. And keep out of known you since I was a commander saw. Support services divisions overseeing special operations conducts and coordinates and works with community. The Austin and make these events safe. So the application for this special event as they come in, have the questions that have been determined by the council to be at the qualifiers for the credit have been added to the application. We are ready prepared to push that application. Even if event is already submitted application. They're yes or no questions. If they're all answer. Yes, it will be applied to the to the balance of the of the bill based upon the the stipulations of up to $7,000 or 50% of their police security cost.

Commissioner, can you speak a bit? Because one of the concerns we've heard is just about accountability to the department. As just mentioned this question. I think it's really fair. One, one of the parts of our resolution talks about regular reporting of the department to the council as to which what the security costs were that were built and who received the credit and how much I want confirm on the record that your department is prepared to provide tat to us. We are and we've cooperated or we've worked Office of Financial Services and city partners. To make sure that we're able to accommodate that. That the quarterly reporting to the council. Thanks. Deputy Martin. And questions that I had was just the clarity. Noticed that there was a version for added. And I when it's just clarity on whether or not we're able to resolve ensuring that individuals with an outstanding balance from 2025 would still be able to get the credit and 2026, especially if they're not having the festival.

Indigenous groups with an outstanding balance from 2025. Can get the security credit if they're having a festival. I had initially considered a version for that would allow events that are taking place this year to apply the credit retroactively to their bill from last year. But I on consultation with the city attorney's office was informed that that would also be similar to the item. We just considered not legal because we would be essentially writing off now a portion of the bill rather than the whole bills that would run into some of the same considerations and concerns. But organizations that have an unpaid balance from last year. This is something that must introduced as an amendment. Would be able to apply for this credit, get this credit and have their event this year. That would not be a ding on them if they have unpaid bills from before and then I have a couple of follow-ups and just kind of taking on since you're here and I thank you so much for being here.

I was hoping that and yourself for g 4 door. Chief Henry would be here. So I appreciate you taking the time to to make it and question for you at 10, the first public haring this item was heard. There was a lot of public. The fact that came from just I think gneral notion with everything that's been going on around community trust. What is like? Is there any communication just trying understand from the receiving in win individuals due in part the Permian have to play for the security costs. Will there be any sort of communication on the staffs and, you know, fetus does opportunity to kind of rebuild some of that or will it be any communication, I guess, from staff to the entities that hosting the event said on the back in. Thank you for Yes, absolutely. Thank you for the question. I my staff spends extensive amount of time. Coordinating and communicating and making sure that the event is it meets the expectations of community and standards for safety.

But we work extensively with all of the organizers. Participate with their events and offer suggestions how to make the event goes smoothly so we do our best to engage with them as much as they're willing to engage with us. One of the things that I think would be really you know, I know that this is not to say the police department, but I will share with but take the time to just also give you a couple of things that concern The first is when I look around the chamber currently right now, every single single city council meeting that I've attended since I became a council member. There were deputies and the chambers and you know, for me, that was a big deal that, you know, and being able to have that upfront piece that some has 6 seconds to intervene in something or in a matter of security over talking about it, right. Like I personally don't understand why that's been attention.

Point. I So understand why that has changed. And it's something that I want to bring to your attention just of the presence of our police department here in the chambers during meetings that has not continued I'm not sure we do even if they're outside, even if they're watching on side, I'm not sure the reasoning, the rationale for why, but that is concerning to me. But then a year. so I understand the question is why are police officers not present? And that's one of the reasons I had. Yeah. That was that was that request of the council, which council this the city council. Ms Johnson, if I can interrupt. So I think it is important that we stay on the topic at hand. I'm happy to talk to you and I think MR. I'm just happy to talk to you about the decisions that were made about security in the chambers. I want to be able pull.

Can I stop as well? My second question to you is, d you think that if you see in recent posting from the Saint Paul Police Federation about the Saint Paul City councils bonus, it's easy for me as a committee ally to be able to talk with my festivals and my community, folks. About that trustees and to really, you know, take that on some governor to really stand by this vote today. I will be supporting it it is concerning to me, though, that we have Saint Paul Police Federation kind of mocking the Saint Paul City Council on social media using the efforts that we have made to create a separation ordinance to strengthen our separation ordinance and to put those pieces in place to have security on events that I want to trust are not doing the work of federal agents. And I just want to be clear that said, it said the mayor and caption, I think that there would be some internal conversations.

And I would hope that that same respect is given to the Saint Paul City Council, but just wanted to bring that to attention is 2 things that I have seen and I haven't had a chance to talk directly to the police department about haven't had a chance really hear from MISTER Aso as well. But I do want to bring those to you as thanks to bring back ways that we can be helpful wen it comes to, you know, that community partnership because I go back to when this was first heard in the public hearing and the comments that came from those organizers in wanting to have a better partnership with the Saint Paul Police Department because these fees were high because they wanted to see them on site. And I as a council member can be a better ally when it comes to being able to talk through the, you know that Russia now, when I also feel protected in my own chambers and when not being mocked on social media by a union that represents sworn officers here in Saint Paul.

And so I just wanted to be very clear about those and bring those to your attention because it's something that I'm seeing that are just giving pause because I'm truly just kind of baffled with that. It's not something that we've had in the last 2 years of just like back in port pieces. But I just wanted to be very clear that I really want to be able to have that partnership with in Saint Paul Police Department. I do find a mockery of city council members on on social media, especially from our union that represents are parsing police departments that foreign officers to be an appropriate. And I also would like to revisit the aspect of what it looks like to be safe even in our own chambers when we're advocating for security and sickness in our community on events and festivals, too. And so I hope that that communication fair and I hope it's landed.

Well, and even if it if those more conversation and hasn't, I just wanted to get back to you, especially in person and directly on the record. Thank transom. toast. And then I think at this present time. Thank you, council PRESIDENT, I and renders into. Is that correct? Okay. I will be supporting version 2. I really appreciate the effort to try to find alternatives for the mechanism of this money. It's my understanding that, you know, we have a pretty clear set of criteria the police department is able to check the boxes for us. It's a first come first serve basis. That was one concern I had if we get more applications than we have money for then who decides who's chosen and that's where I had a little bit more concerned about the police department being ministers of that. And I'm not gonna say that. I love it. If it either, but I do feel like it works for this year.

I'm really open. You know, 2 other options. Ad we've already explored quite a few options over the past year for how to resolve this. But in terms of this year, the seems appropriate to me at this time. So I'll be supporting this version. 2. Thank you. It's just a case of U. S.. PRESIDENT Just The finance had question for you. So. When you can you talk us through and folks apply for dollars and what that process looks like. It will point to hand it off. To assess. For these types of grants. think the question is, is how would that how would the money flow is that? Yeah, if you can just kind of walk us through thank you for the question. It's not it's not an exchange of that the applicant will answer the questions. The police department has not evaluated. The answer is on the questions. If all 6 boxes are checked, yes, that would be deducted all, whatever, $7,000 or 50% of the total of the bill would be deducted off of the the final bill and then they were final bill with the less the credit or the the most applied in the program.

And then wg by Sumption would be that you would alert that the dollars they 155,000 are with us right now. The police department would alert us to the fact that that had been the the security credit and those dollars would transfer from with us to the department. That is my understanding. Yes. From Alyssa. From all access to your department. Or from all of us to the organization. 2 police department because we're we're not cutting checks were just decreasing the amount of the security cost. Instead of giving a dollar were saying pay a dollar injured. Yeah. As Bowie in the most of us. Don't think it present and try to same vein Vice PRESIDENT. Kim's question, just like, what are the actual steps? Because it sounds like you are stated that the police does not handle or manage the accounting or the financing.

Don't collect the bills. He don't. I mean, you, you set the invoice, but the collection or payment is actually administered through ofs. So it sounds like the only thing that the police will be doing basically reviewing the application going to submitted. It. So if can just I'm just trying to understand maybe this is a question for ofs, but who actually would be the ones like reducing the balance. Sounds like that's all a fast. So. I guess why? Why are we just like having ofs likewise in the resolution to have all of and minister it once intially it's already their funds and they just need to get a signal. Our communication sounds like just sounds like instead of taking vote on how this will be administered. Really sounds like they're correspondence from the police of when event or festival checks those boxes and meet those criteria is. Yeah, I think in deputies you feel free to weigh in.

But I think the way that this was designed was to be as easy as possible for festivals to do and 4. The city to do so essentially since organizations events are already applying to the police department's when they get permit for a festival. The idea is to add those 6 criteria that the council determined to that application. So when they they submit that application. They check those boxes. And then if they check all of those boxes there and formed by the police department discounts a bill out that I was asking dollars come from. I'm sorry. Still want you repeat yourself. I guess the most simplest thing is. If event meets the criteria of who should that cool who should be organizer reach out to like, are they reaching out to the police to make sure that that credit was applied to their balance? Are they reaching out fest? Because I think we're trying to saw for You know, they're not coming back to us and we have to scramble and figure out who like exactly has the confirmation that that credit has been applied to their ballots.

It sounds like deputy packing my. It sounds like they would apply to the police department for their event. They would check those boxes and the police department would tell them. Your security cost has been reduced by this about because you qualified. And then placed will tell us that that had happened. So we would have oversight and insight into it. We would notify the event organizer that you've met, the requirements that are established in the program ad your bill is being reduced by 7,000 or half of the half of the 7,000. And just to that point to a sounds like and when the event organizer receiving the invoice, the credit will already be built into their invoice. This will be first-come first-served based off of when they are field for other events. this isn't a public hearing it's just. Yeah, I was just I think I think you get. Figured out, but it's trying to make it simple and that they already have reach out to the police for the men security in.

We're building that in as and reducing their invoice. For the police so that they're basically getting that credit and that way. And that's that simpler. I think by having go through a channel that they already have t go through, that's my interpretation and sounds like director, every cause who is still here also can speak to this city's been Maybe director do want to come up in land on how this would work Thank you. Help I'm happy to answer any all getting a civics lesson and event. Special events one on one. I had a presentation as a joke right? I really do

Not for this meeting preparing for something else. Just specific to accounting. How we work across departments is that, you know, if there's an outstanding ballots for an event and we're looking into future yars, we MAY not issue a permit to that organizer until that unpaid invoice is rectified. Sometimes there is a handoff between departments that on sends invoice to ofs. We have our own accounting units within departments. But there are times when we need to send it to accounts receivable within and they MAY seek out collections at the very rare circumstance. But it does happen. But that just - partial to the process. I mean. Please on their own for security, Cos parks. And yes, I'm public works. All have separate invoicing processes for their departments. So are many different touch points for an event. Organizers have to work with within the city, depending on the scope of your mat, you might need a permit for a generator through Dsi has a fee.

You might have the please costs. You might have. Tents and other things require invoicing for different reasons. So there's a variety of different touch points. That event organizer has to sit through. And one of the things that we're working on this, a streamlined that process and make it easier for about organizers PRESIDENT Having to talk to 10 to 20 different people across the city could be one consolidated point contact that can help work Thanks, director. Other questions for Director Rodriguez, that the process for. I my question, which is more so just clarity around. If we vote on this and we are saying that the police is going to administer this reduction. I just want to make very clear what are we telling people who should they go to the make sure that their balance was, you know, actually reduced. Is it parade coordinator? I don't what the role is, particularly when some lane some it's a permit for my expands.

It sounds like submitted online. And so I just want to have to tangible is particularly around who was the person can verify because we heard time and time again, right? There is some confusion and tensions particularly around how the bill is estimated versus the actual rules. If we just make it really clear what someone can expect if we are moving forward with this vote. Council PRESIDENT Councilmember, I can to speak to that and I'll defer really depends if it's on Parkland years, starting with citywide event coordinator in our shop, if it's not on our property or expands into the street who are working directly with the police they have a defined point of contact that facilitates any permits. All let just to be clear, doctor, because misplaced question is really important. One because we want if we approve this want this bill to get go right away. When I heard you say deputy chief says it's ready to go tomorrow.

If we approve this, if someone applies to the police department directly, it sounds like there's a process for. Having them check these boxes and tell them that their bill has been reduced if someone comes to the Parks department, but has security costs? Is there a way that you funnel folks to the police department and how would they the catch? Is that enough? Its work council PRESIDENT? Yes, we work in sync with one another. We have what are called block party permit meetings that has every single city department in the same space coordinating. These large events and festivals. So if it's on par property, we are working with the police on their billing processes but just know that police are billing for police services. Nothing else that's coming out of their shot. Does that answer your question from the parkside? And director Andy had shared that, is there. They have a point coordinator. I'm not sure exactly who within the police department handles that.

So you can sure who was. That was the point person, particularly that does the coronation for me. Police bills. Sure. Thank you, Councilmember. Special Operations unit. We have a civilian professional staff that that coordinates most of the event. But keeping so to speak and they will. receive the event. Requester will receive shall not exceed. They'll detail, though, wth a item itemized line items on it and it would clearly state that that the credit has been applied and reduced from the overall shall not exceed. And then a final bill is sent after the event is concluded. Rain delays. If event gets shortened or changes. I. The bill could go down. From the final last. And what's the name of that? What does the job title? He said civilian professional staff is that the actual event coordinator, Strong 7. It took just process question. S the credit will be applied to the final bills of festival would have to to take place for the credit to be applied or if it's applied when you when the permit is approved and it's just.

Just I intend to know which point. When that the predator proving that it is kind of like first-come, first-serve, a kind of sounds like. Thank you for the question It is it is approved in a on the first received of the application. Okay. Questions for the 5 questions are asked. It is authorized for credit. If the event is canceled, no bill with no bill would go So event itself doesn't have to take place for the credit to be in place. Well, it doesn't have to take place before the credit can crack. Credit will be applied. Day one before we even actually know what the total bill with the. I just I think that would be helpful just for folks who have events later the year. So they're not like really like run out by the time you get to them. So it sounds like they have to apply. Earlier, it's still like helpful because then they'll be It sounds like a big question.

Will be applied and given right away at the beginning. Thank you both for your help. I am moving version know this has been the subject of I really appreciate the robust discussion today. And all of our goal is to get this done. I also know that this is a one-year situation because we're talking about a public safety is hopefully a much more holistic solution to this problem. I think that I want to thank council member briefer her partnership on this. I think that we have really turned over every rock to see if there's another place for this program to live. I'm moving version, too, because I don't believe that there is. And I think that this is the most effective way to get these dollars out the door. It is already end of FEBRUARY. I really don't want to go through another year without getting these dollars out. So I'm going version 2 if this bill goes down, I will leave it to my colleagues to find a path forward for these funds.

But this is what I What I feel is the best way to get these dollars out. So any further discussion of the motion before we take a vote week and also thank you, council PRESIDENT. So I'm just for the record, you aren't moving a version for because of the reasons why you stated. With the wth the this this that this year's balance is not able saw for last year's balance. But with this version for those events and festivals that do have outstanding balances and they are applying for this year, they also will be qualified for his credit. Organizations that are happening this year that have outstanding balances can apply for this There was no way through the city attorney's office, too. Write off a portion of last year's events that if they're not happening this year. So example, if a Rondo days have outstanding balance that's rolled over to this year. If they were to apply for their credit and approved for that credit, that the credit can apply to last year's rollover balance.

Plus, this year's cost is what I'm saying. Yes, some say they would get the half of the security costs and it would go towards this year's of that case. But even though they had an unpaid balance that would not hurt them and apply fr Well, I do think like mentioned before, we're going to have much larger conversation. I do want the event says can apply for a permit this year to get this credit there is questions particularly around. If we have remaining to some events are going to take place. They've already announced that they're not taking place this year. I, for example, little Africa as a question, particularly is what do we do with the remaining funds? You know, if there's a pathway forward to make adjustments for some of those credits, if we have some remaining dollars, I just want to put that on the record on that. You know, I am in support of us reviewing, you know, with the remaining dollars, you know, adjusting knows those permits. If those issues come about. Thank you. Is going any further discussion of the motion. Do we need to take? Well, take a roll call.

Vote. Toast. Yes, yes. Council PRESIDENT. I. 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted. Item. Number 18. Is resolution public hearing 26 dash already did that story. I remember a teen ordinance. 24 dash. 26 amending chapter 65 66 of the legislative code pertaining to drive-thru sales and services and walk-up service window. All right. For those of you who are. Still here follow our legislative process, this is the scond when we have an ordinance, we have 3 readings. The first reading is a staff report where we get information about the ordinance, the second reading as a public hearing and the 3rd reading is typically final adoption that sometimes we need more time. This is the second reading of this This is a public hearing. We had a staff report last week. So this is your public hearing. If you're here for item 18, the long-awaited 18 have move I am so sorry. I'm gonna take a motion from Persian ai chasing say what it is.

She's going to say what it is now. Still here. We're still paying attention Thank So there's a version 3 for this ordinance. That's basically modifying the 300 foot buffer adjacent to transit up to 660 feet. Which is basically an increase of about a 16th of a mile. This is because we we really want to kind deer. This change towards more transit oriented development in our city? And that is why we made that up to. so essentially limiting drive-thrus to not be too of a lack of have written to Pope Francis. Not allowing Yeah, that's correct. And MR. I don't think it's still here, but he sent on as he all I can see. You never think that's where you My gosh. What is Really your work, too, as well to provide us with a map of that udate. So we can really visualize what that would look like. Thank you. Great. This is a public hearing.

If your test by the side We've ok, we are going to vote on version 3, all in favor of first. As do, the questions about the buffer. I have a question me either. You coverage billion. Take it. I a. When we had our policy committee for this topic, I mentioned that. They're you know, we now have bipoc owners who operating the vacant Wlgreens on Maryland and Prosperity that it's now a grocery store and it has a drive-thru that's built into it because it was a pharmacy. You know, at at the Walgreens and so I know that they've shared with me their intentions in the future. Basically opening up a deli and having to drive to survey a drive-thru available in their store. There. And I just want to make sure that this changes in version 3 make it prohibitive for them to actually operated drive. So if they were to want to pierce pursue that, even after the changes here, where proved what with that process look like so that if if they ask questions for me of me knowing these next few weeks, maybe I can hopefully answer those questions.

Can you share a bit more about Because the PRESIDENT Tells member. If there was a drive-thru and exists anywhere in city, there is a process to have a drive-thru there in the But it in. You know, no matter what it is, whether it's a separation distance or something else in the covid changed if there was one they can continue do it. And if there was one there in the past, there's a process to bring it back or to change it or expand that. And this case, I think that that Walgreens actually already had an issue because of its distance residential. And then there MAY be an additional issue with the distance to the nearest transit station. If There is a transit station in place. Are point today? You know, it's got a couple lines broad slide and get weather stingier age. That would potential go right by here in future. But in short, there is a process where that could be considered.

Even if it's close by residential properties and even if the Browns line were to come there's still a process for still a process that could depending exactly what they're asking for to the planning Commission or to Board of Zoning Appeals to potentially get approved. Thank you. Thank you for the question is and it's a really important one, MR. Me, one thing I would say I think it will be really important. This was a question we got when we consider this item last year from. Owners of existing drive-thrus. I think there's a different level of review and process triggered when it is expanded and these is expanded and there are questions about the definition of expanded. If I create a new menu, if I you know, move my car about 6 inches. So I do think as question because those processes do matter, having very clear guidance as to what expanded means for nonconforming use would be really helpful.

And we don't need to write that in here. We defer you to create Thank you, council president it hard to predict every situation in short, you know, zoning administrator and yes, I will make those determinations comes up. One of the most common ones that just came up recently actually for a site you know, what happens if you? Aam menu board splitting the 2 waves back and no one be answered map was it was not suspension. So that sort of situation do have recent a termination time. It's hard to predict every situational. So hopefully, you know, anybody who wants to reach out passion to so that our office to decide and hopefully from questions. All rght. Any other questions for staff before we hold a public hearing? I'm so sorry before we vote, Anderson, 3. All in favor of version. 3 to be the motion for concern. The one that we're considering say Aye, aye opposed 7 favorite and oppose the amendment is approved.

We will now hold a public hearing and version 3. If you're here to testify on this item, please come on up. Make sure start your name. Where coming from Bill 2 minutes. Make sure to sign it. When you're done. We have the mikes. Welcome. Thank you My name is Jacob Cooper. I'm here. Was the scene say pollen from the Como neighborhood due also put a little visual aid here. I don't know if that can be protected, voice activated their director so I want to thank you city councilors for your hard work on this ordinance. I do know that it has been a really long journey to get here and that drive-thru regulations are not necessarily the flashes subject, especially times like this. But this is really important to setting the vision of future development for the city. As you all know, rising property taxes are a top concern among voters. The best way to address this is to encourage sustainable land use, particularly along our transit corridors, wich are designed both serve and benefit from density for these reasons.

We are encouraging you to do Jean 3, which increases the minimum distance of that new drive-thrus must be located from existing and planned light rail brt in a brt stops from 300 to 6.60, feet as councilmember maker about one city block, probably tax data from Ramsey County demonstrates the drive-thru properties generate roughly half the per acre tax value of comparable non drive-thru commercial uses. You cn see overview of that right here and restaurants and bars. 2.8 million multifamily and mixed-use commercial. 2.9 million drive-thrus. Just 1.6 million. So it's a lot less and we're going to this data was compiled for us by Urban 3 and some other sustain years are going to show off some specific examples as well. But I'd also say not only do they provide less immediate tax value to the city. They also hamstring transit oriented development, wich has real potential to improve our tax base. Quality o city services and city experience.

We have invested millions upon millions of dollars into light rail brt and the development around them through programs like the county's critical corridor fund. These areas need multi-story residential and mixed use buildings that generate substantial tax revenue increase, transit ridership and expand the local customer base for nearby businesses. Let's not squander the immense potential with immense with it would. Let's not squander the immense potential of these transit corridors with low-intensity suburban land use. Thank you for your consideration. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign will come up. Good evening. Council PRESIDENT Maker members of the Council. My name is Joe Pericles. I represent McDonald's and its owner operators, the city of Saint Paul, thank you for the time and thought that one of version 2 and now version 3 of this ordinance acknowledging the changes that are made removing the ttal ban on drive-thrus in the mandatory walk-up window was significant for McDonald's owner operators the council us in the small business owners and residents about what is workable for their existing and potential future investments.

Well, McDonald's is a global brand. Every restaurant in Minnesota is locally owned and operated by owner operators that their small businesses run by members of the community. You've previously heard, believe many of on the council know Courtney Henry and his father who on and many McDonald's and city of Saint Paul Twin cities. Roughly 75% of their business comes drive-thru revenue for many customers, especially during the winter, for families, with young children or for individuals, ability considerations the option. Not incidental. It's important for how they access the business. We understand the intent behind the updated standards, including 120 foot residential separation for food and beverage. Use uses and 12 space stacking requirements were not asking for those standards to be changed. Our concern is there or and I wanted to hghlight suggestions we had submitted to council staff around these items. First on stacking Donald current with design often includes multiple service, wants to keep traffic moving and reduce idling.

We asked for clarification tat the stacking requirements be measured for the final service window, the direction of travel that are questions about predictability inside you. Not about reducing the required number of spaces on the 120 foot setback. We understand the goal of protecting resident residential areas. Our cncern is that when combined with - staffing and placement requirements that percent without infield and have issues with info properties that recipe Tester ada Challenge us. Respectfully, we would ask that the council incorporate these changes that we have suggested their modest adjustments. Happy to answer any questions. Whether here relay them to council staff that has them appreciate the time. Very much. Make sure to send in. We might MR. CHAIRMAN back up to address some of those Well, come up. Good evening to the council. My name is bring home to the cabinet maker and resident of war 2 and also just ancient comb and member. I would like the council to pass the amendment for the proposed drive-thru ordinance, which provides that there be a minimum distance of 660 feet between any new drive-thrus and all existing and panned brt arterial brt and let rest stops.

I present here graphic of 2 poperties, midline apartments, a McDonald's roughly the same size, lots adjacent to each other and sit just a few 100 feet from like real stuff. And yet one of these properties encourages transit use and walkable neighborhoods. While the other snarls traffic both auto and pedestrian. One of these provide substantial tax revenue for the city. While the other has barely won 17, the taxable value per acre of the other. And one can book provide both housing and ground level. Retail while the other is rigid and inflexible and its uses. If Saint Paul, it's remain true to its ideals of financial and environmental sustainability. Should the land with the greatest potential be wasted on one of the cities least efficient and most military us business models. If there is a place for drive-thrus in Saint Paul, it is certainly not in the vicinity of our great public investments. Thank you very much.

Make sure to send Well, come up. Council PRESIDENT Maker and members of the council. My name is John per Vice PRESIDENT Of Government Affairs, Saint Paul Area chamber we represent more than 1600 employers, nonprofit partners. We're committed to the future of this city. Removing the outright ban on restaurants and coffee shops and eliminating the requirement that walk-up windows mere drive-thru hours addressed important operational barriers. Even

With those improvements, ordinance continues to create regulatory uncertainty that will influence investment decisions across rgulated industries. For that reason, the chamber continues to encourage a no vote. The 6 space stacking requirement for banks, credit unions and pharmacies exceed current demand, according to our members and MAY force unnecessary site expansion of fast and prevent development at The ordinance also lacks clarity on how stacking these measures creating unpredictability during site. With you. Questions also remain about how existing drive-thrus are treated when properties are sold, renovated or upgraded. Modernization safety improvements in technology. Updates should not place existing operations at risk. We also have concerns about the proposed expansion. The transit offers own in version 3. Doubles from 300 to 660 feet. After more than your view. Introducing a change of this scale one week before possible final adoption does not allow adequate time to evaluate parcel level impacts or unintended consequences. Nearly 40% the city's existing drive-thrus fall within the proposed offer. Clear standards are needed regarding how existing operations property transfers and reinvestment would be treated under this expanded boundary. Drive-thrus remain an important operational tool that support safety, access and customer expectations.

Adding affordable uncertainty to the development frameworks into the wrong signal as the city works to attract and retain investment. Thank you so much. Sure to sign in. instead one. I'm also here is member of sustained Saint Paul. I want to talk about one of my favorite things, food and when Monday's favorite things, taxes. Can all see this And I support this version. When I look at this picture, it one of my favorite places, those pizza. Which you could probably see and then I have

To admit that I have eaten a fair amount of rv's be from cheddar's over the years. And also filet of fish so I don't think anybody saying eliminate those things you just might have to go slightly further afield go inside. There are lots of things we can talk about. 3.5 million per acre versus 1.0. 9 other statistics that other people tlked about. But I think it boils down to. What do we want our city to look like? And I think for me over the last couple of months, especially. My partner of I and I have didn't act in taking transit and driven to local businesses where we walk in. We need the owner's meet the people cooking the food. Meet people who had the grocery sores what is Saint Paul look like I can talk about the heat sink that that parking lot. He I can talk about waiting in line in a drive-thru and again, it's it's. It's not an elimination. It's just of vision of what are our values. So I encourage yes, vote on this I look look forward to seeing you al here in other similar places as well. Thanks for your time this evening. Thank you. Thanks for reminding us. We haven't had dinner yet. Just find So thanks for reminding us.

We haven't dinner yet, but I was just it actually made me feel better to see those pictures well, come up. Council, thanks for the opportunity to speak. And Luke Hanson, I live on Avenue and Ward 3. It was Saint Saint Paul. And I'd like to share some more visual examples of the attacks value per acre that drive-thrus have relative to other similar nearby businesses that don't have to drive throughs. I think the rent, examples are pretty staggering. Actually. Here's one from selling Avenue. This is the Starbucks, the car bucks that started. This whole says this will study in the first place it yields tax value per acre of about 3 million dollars. That means that they get the taxable market value of the property, the building and the parking divided by size of the land measure in acres is 3 million dollars per acre. Meanwhile, 2 blocks south of their coffee house and the building that it's again with with 5 other businesses generates almost 4 times as much tax value per acre.

We ought to be interested in this metric value like understanding the efficiency buildings, the property are generating tax revenue to pay for the services and the infrastructure that we need to maintain the city of Saint Paul are yielding for us with finding about of land. Another example here a pharmacy. This is the Walgreens near us, my home. And as attacks creek or about 3 million dollars and nearby the same corner drug, no parking on and no parking nearly 3 times much. This snowing Saint Clair. Here's McDonald's close the state Capitol at University in Marion Street. Couple blocks to the West is table restaurant. It has a parking lot and get year-olds almost twice as much tax value per acre. Here's the culvers on snowing at Brown University Avenue just a few blocks east of Snelling. 4.8 million per acre. Meanwhile, a few blocks to the east of the black car deals 30 to 40% more in tax breaker.

Here's an rv's on Suburban Avenue just south of I-94 east on the side. It's tax waiver. Acre is less than half of that of the little of and the local restaurant a mile to the North. Unfortunately, that is time. So thank you. If you want share the after its, we love to see them. Thank you so much. Make sure to sign in. Is anyone else here to speak on this item? All right, seeing none. I'll take a motion from is just to close the public hearing and that matter over till MARCH, 11th, would be like to have 1, 1, week, Lou, over would be MARCH 4th at first. Thank you all. So on the public what was coming. Should w us, sir? I just that's what yes, yeah. We should leave your it was the most infamous just has to close is to leave this to continue the public hearing. And with the matter over to MARCH 4th.

There ay discussion of the motion? All right. I want to thank everyone for coming out testify. We've got a lot to think about and some time to do it. So really appreciate the testimony and people they want to stay quite while tonight. All in favor say Aye. Opposed 7 in favor, not oppose. The public hearings continued to MARCH 4th. Item number 19 is ordinance 26 dash 9 adopting the Geothermal Energy franchise by the Heights Community, Energy This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak to this item? Seeing none. I'll take a motion from his to close the public hearing, the matter over to MARCH 4th for final adoption all in favor say Aye. All opposed 6 in favor. None opposed. The public hearing is closed in item is laid over to MARCH 4th for final adoption item. Number Twenty's ordinance 26 Dash 11 granting authority to the port authority to issue and sell bonds in the principal amount of 6 million dollars, many bonds to refund such wants to secure such bonds with the pledge of the full faith, credit and resources of the city and to use the proceeds derived from the sale of such bonds to pay for the cost and expense necessarily to be incurred by said Port Authority for a portion of the cost of the redevelopment for part of Saint Joseph's Hospital psych the port authority writes another item like that and we're going try to just get.

This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak on this item? Seeing none. I move to close public hearing better over to MARCH final adoption. All in favor say Aye. I'll post 6, 7, in favor. None oppose the public hearings close. An item is laid over to MARCH 4th for final adoption. Item number, 21 is ordinance 26 Dash 12 amending section 3.10. Point 0, 1, of the legislative code to create new fee categories and associated license fees for transportation network companies. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak to this item? Seing none. Take motion from his yang to close the public hearing. The matter over to MARCH 4th for final adoption all in favor say Aye. a post 7 in favor. None opposed. The public hearing is closed is laid over to MARCH 4th for final adoption item number. 23 is resolution public hearing. 26 Dash 62. Ending the 2026 pd operations budget to include a cherry housing trust fund funding for the emergency rental assistance staffing, citywide.

This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak to the side? Seeing none. I'll take a you have do one of the several for now. Take a motion for a shot close the public hearing all in favor say Aye. Opposed 7 in favor. None opposed. The public hearing is closed Johnson. Well, I really excited about today for a lot of reasons. But in part, this is the day that we as a city are. Taking the steps to invest additional resources into our emergency rental assistance program. This has He I would say a long process, but I think a general really response a process to what we have seen really had to bear witness to an experienced together as a city. Understand we under said before with this investment that there are a large amount of families and residents in Saint Paul who are having to choose between putting food on the table and being able to confirm Rupa for their head and we're seeing evictions rise and in many places throughout the city of Saint Paul and then also with Operation Metro Surge.

We saw that really exacerbated when it came to families who now are making painful choices, stay home because they're not feeling secure. Still to this day for him to go back to work are some families who now have the breadwinner who is no longer with us here in the n United States. But now it's all square. And so this is an effort to also respond to point, are. Attention to the administrative order. That also is on this agenda. codified the transfer of $500,000 from local affordable dollars and showing that this amendment that would also match that wth an additional $926,000 to mke the grand total today of the investment in the Emergency rental assistance fund of 1.4 million in additional funding and resources, which is a huge deal that's almost doubling essentially what w have place and to the emergency rental assistance this year. And it cannot be overlooked. And it's not a small fee.

10. I asked my counterparts your support on this. I think thanks for Jones for also stepping in and being a part of those discussions at the Housing authority with the housing redevelopment Authority with our director. And I think just everyone's emails and even just the push from colleagues to ask about this and to really see happening, we know we've been watching that.

Alright, Western pa has put in my resources for going do so since the city of Minneapolis has done the same. And so we're joining other cities that are doing this because right now is the time to react to this. I appreciate the conversation earlier to try to get these resources out of the door earlier. I'll moving to, you know, for APRIL 1st launch as you heard from today, right? It was open for 23 days and receive 610 applications. So if you're wondering if this is needed, it definitely is. And in many ways, I mean, you know, I stick around for this as I just know how important this is and how important this investment will be. And we need the staffing to do it. And that's just the facts. And so being able to get this resource and then the additional to staff are settled. Joining this team in order to get the out the door and to really be an emergency response program.

It takes people to capacity. And I've heard director McKenna, I've heard director Jewels on time talk about the need to make sure that we're investing staffing long terms. That's what that attempts to do. I wanted to say thank you to the deputy director Green who sat through this meeting for particular item. As well. And I thank you for your partnership and getting together the border ports. You all received the slides that as well for her presentation that she put together into the time for. But it is echoed in the board report and the financial analysis and so with that, I move approval. Thank you. MISS Johnson motion tables for approval. I would just say has to be a public hearing. We just hope we had that hello I move approval trauma I almost said that I want to thank you for your leadership on this. I think shows that you you said that you were following along to our meetings and it was proven when we had a public hearing on federal immigration operations.

And during that meeting as PRESIDENT, was able to read a text from you saying and we're getting emergency rent assistance out in MARCH. Actually been today. So we felt like we were being observed from above. One of our millions of viewers and you weren't from afar. So thank you for doing this except Israel to get these dollars out. Any further discussion of motion. Vice PRESIDENT Kim and the most common yet just really, really grateful. One initially had asked the question basically Johnson was like Artie on it and I was like a maternity, okay, great.

But anything. So I'm just so grateful for your leadership because we now more than ever local government is sort of the most flexible, responsive space to be especially in Minnesota. Right now, there's a bill hearing on rental assistance today. The Representative Kozlowski brought to the table and like we are likely not to get that. Not to get it done this year. But Pre pre the new year 7% of Minnesotans were at least one month behind on their rent, which equated to over like 50 million dollars. And so like if we're talking about the need, looks like astronomical, which is why we're also looking at mutual aid funds hole like I saw one that the goal for this month alone was a million dollars for their neighborhood. So it's a name that like the responsiveness under your leadership and just so incredibly grateful for it makes me feel really good to be a part of the city council to community and say yes, and her Johnson is any more money and staffing to ensure that these resources go out into community and they're going to community right now.

So just really grateful for your leadership and folks of the ability to the lobby at the Capitol because rental assistance from there as well. Thanks, PRESIDENT This comment. Well, add another which is that it sets a new bar for coming back for maternity leave and be like and also his 1.4 so nobody can ever go on maternity leave again with at. And so, but really they got a serious note Unlike vice PRESIDENT Comes out, it's just been so reassuring to know that you've got a top of this and that you're finding this funding and making this happen because this is such a critical need. Study at that and guessing many in this have seen count today for policy. Finding that in since operation that research started, there's been 106 million dollars and you just lost in the Twin Cities alone. That's devastating. The scale of this devastation is so hard to even begin to wrap.

One's had around and like comes PRESIDENT Said, this has been a need for so long and like the city has responding to lecture. Johnson has been responding to for years. Now we know that people need this type of financial support and that need has grown I want measurably, but people are measuring it. But it in hand massive, massive weighs in just a few months and it will be we know what this looks like only just are lost when people can no longer go to work with people, you know, have lost jobs, lost security, lost family members. This crisis is going to continue. And so I think tat the sustainability of the work that we're doing here is so essential in investing in staff, investing in r capacity to actually get the money out the door because this isn't going to be just something that stated today tomorrow, MARCH first, APRIL, 1st, this is going continue to be a long-term need throughout our city.

So and very, very enthusiastically supporting this and just grateful to council for continuing to find innovative ways to to forward in response to this crisis. Thanks, Chris Coleman. Just in the moment. Thank you, council PRESIDENT. I just really want to come and share Johnson since Chair Johnson's joined this council. She's been a champion for. Emergency rental assistance and she has followed through on that promise and especially because she's been working so hard and well on maternity leave and been very proactive on this issue. We are ready to go with the snow in this moment when our community really needed it. So thank you so much. Just really excited to see this this pass and the positive impact it'll have on our community. Thank you. As you Thank you. I just want to tackle everything that my colleagues already shared. Thank you to you, counsel for Johnson, Richard Johnson and also faced your toes. And all the staff for their work in Billy to the council here.

2, 4, the enthusiastic support for this. Mean, you know, covered also unites sure. The 5, 5, 1, to 6 of code, which we know is the zip code in or city that has experienced the highest levels of eviction and more families are on the verge of eviction because of the of Operation Mitchell, surgeon or committees to. So this is going to have such a huge impact to many families who are being harmed and experiencing violence in so many ways right now. So I'm very excited to support this All right. Any further discussion of motion? If not. Johnson, just I really do appreciate the partnership and the effectiveness as well of our system linger. And our mayor calling her as well because if you things can move quickly when where and when we are in partnership And so with the council, when folks on line with departments and when the mayor's office is ready to go as well.

So that's a huge part of this, too. $500,000 could nt happen this fast without their support. I just want to say thank you for that. All right on favor. Say Aye. Almost 7 in favor not oppose. The resolution is adopted item number. 25 is resolution public hearing. 26 dash. 42 ending the financing spending plan for Department of Public Works Capital and Capital Maintenance, Contingency Budget Transfer 90,000 for that, they'll Roof replacement. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak to this item? Seeing none. I will take a motion from PRESIDENT Came to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. A post 7 in favor. None opposed te resolution staff to item number. 26 is resolution public hearing. 26 dash. 38 authorizing the Department of Parks and Recreation in the finance and spending plan in the amount of $10,000 enter into a grant agreement with the Minnesota Historical Society to accept Minnesota, historical and Cultural Heritage Grant funds.

This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak to this item? Seeing none. I'll take motion common to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed to 7 in favor, not oppose. The resolution is adopted item number. 27 is resolution public hearing 26th at 55 authorizing an increase in the Parks and Recreation 2026. Grant fund budget in the amount of $510,000 reflect grant from the word from the state of Minnesota dnr for recurring operational grant of the Como Zoo and Conservatory for State fiscal year 2026. 27. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here speak to this item? Seeing none. Take motion. Vice PRESIDENT Came to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say all opposed to 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item number. 28 is resolution public hearing 26th 52 proving the application Mifi Beat dba Shamrocks Irish. Not for some a variance or never use them and provide sound for Saint Patrick's Day weekend event Saturday, MARCH 14 and Tuesday, MARCH 17 9, 9, 5, West 7th Street Cam Recs.

Irishman, I might be a holiday coming up based on our some of variance roster. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak to this item? Seeing none? We'll take a motion from is just to close public hearing and approve all in favor. Say opposed to 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item number. 29 is resolution public hearing. 26 51 approving the petition of Marian McEvoy to app to vacate easterly half of North South Alley. Right away abating to 105, scattered street. This is a public hearing. Is anyone here to speak to this item? You have waited a very long time. Welcome mat. Thank you so for Just stand right in between the 2 make a bull's eye of college, a sign. And remember, you Sorry. I'm McAvoy. And I wanted to say thank you Councilmember Coleman for sponsoring this resolution piece of land that I'm asking to be vacated even though it's on paper, it's a public right of way.

But as far back as I can remember, it's never been used that way. And I will take up any more of your time. Put myself that. Your disposal for any questions. Anyone MAY have. And I just want to say thank you very much for considering this. Thank you so much for taking time to come and speak us and I hope you enjoyed the meetings feel a lot like your son learned a lot Yu can please sign anyone else here to speak on the set. Seeing none. I will take a motion from his common to close the public hearing and approve. All in favor say Aye. a post 7 in favor not oppose. The resolution is adopted item number 30's resolution public hearing. 26, that's 53 approving the petition of Ruth Phil Mackie to vacate the westerly half of the North South Alley, right of way of funding the South. 98 feet of 2, 1, 1, 5, scattered street.

This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak to this item? Seeing none. I'll take a motion from his common to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say aye. I opposed 7 in favor. Nne opposed. The resolution is adopted item number. 31 is public hearing. 26 dash for public hearing and grievances about federal immigration operations. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak to this item will come up? Welcome pay. And my name Amelia and resident of war. 2. I'm here to speak today because I'm concerned about the safety of my neighbors and I'm urging the city council to designate safe zones around hospitals, schools and childcare centers, which would prohibit federal activity. Federal agent activity within the cell phones. Cildren should not or children should be able to attend. School parents should be able to access child care and everyone should be able to access medical care without fear of being detained by ice.

I recently had a conversation with aparent who is struggling to explain to his child. Why their friends were no longer showing up to school. Children should not have to deal with the stress of hiding at home and their not have to deal with some suddenly being gone from school. On top of that, children should not have to deal with the trauma of showing up at aschool or a child-care center. And then finally, nobody should have to make the hard choice to delay medical care for fear that they will be detained and therefore encouraging you to take bold action and designate safe zones to protect safes Saint Paul's citizens. Thank you. Thank you very much. To make sure to sign in. Well, come My name is Peter Center and the resident of Ward 2. And I'm here speaking on behalf of the neighborhood organization, part of neighbors, protecting neighbors well and personal record. I wanted to first start off commending this body for passing additional funding for emergency rental assistance.

It's been something that's been top of mind for me. And my neighbors for a long time. I I know I've spoken about this the past couple council meetings and in this moment, it's nice be able to celebrate a victory. Each one of those dollars. I will very beneficial to the people that want receiving it. So thank you very much for. Action and that tangible. Beneficial outcome. I do want to reiterate some of the recommendations that I've made to this body, both in written form at which I have not received a response as of yet I did have a productive conversation yesterday. Council PRESIDENT Maker at the community conversation that we had over in actually a really productive conversation. Councilmember Johnson with your legislative aide, Melanie, she's fantastic. So really appreciate her being there. I did send a follow-up email to her as well. I look forward to hearing a response to that. The gist of what I want to say to this to this body is that we really appreciate, you know, members of this community who have personally been putting their time, their energy, their money on the line to improve the lives of fellow citizens and fellow Saint Paul residents.

We appreciate this effort. I'm there are some things are controllable that are within the power of this city. And with this body that we can be updating to provide better information, better access to the resources that we're creating. I urge you to do that. The emergency rental assistance website. It's something that I brought up in this email over a week ago. Been has been updated in in 79 days now. So things like that. Please follow up with me. Let's talk more about it. Thank you. very much. To make sure to sign in. Anyone else here to speak on this item. Seeing none. We'll take a motion from his Johnson to continue the public hearing to MARCH all in favor say Aye. Aye, all opposed 7 in favor. None opposed to public hearings continue to MARCH 4th. As always, we thank everyone for coming out and giving a suggestions. I know that those safe zones and that communication about emergency rent assistance, ideas that we have heard and are pursuing. So free to follow up with us directly via e-mail and between meetings. If you want to discuss further as well. That brings us legislative hearing consent agenda. Going Earth and are?

But the sate of hearing consent agenda items. 33, 39 number for you for your consider 30 to 39 before you for your consideration. This moment. so item number. 32 was our Ali 8.26. Session 11 ratifying the field Special tax assessment for property at 8, 3, 9, and never this moment. Council PRESIDENT Council in this Case. The owner is not able to be present right now. He did submit a letter this afternoon and what it indicates is that he believes he was already assessed for the building, because he had no, he'll last JUNE what he actually appeal last JUNE was a letter telling him. You got mean, you your registration. You got an annual fee. When that fee from last year went unpaid, it became an assessment. And that's what's in front of you today. So just to clarify for the record that the bill's appealed unpaid bills get assessed and that will probably help out on the line. Thank you for. Thank you. Moment. So take a motion to that have Yes, okay. Any discussion of that motion. And so when we flew over want, that's right. Recommend approval by the We will hold a public hearing on this item.

Is there anyone here to speak to the side? The flight attendant and meet Okay. Seeing that there's no one here. Speak on. This item take a motion from Israeli to approve the recommendation which they have, sir, on here say Aye opposed 7 in favor, not oppose. The resolution is adopted. House for separate consideration. As moment. All right. We will hold public and all of the remaining items there. Anyone here to speak to any of those us. It's a question from its just for the Fountain legislative hearing consent agenda with all of the amendments from Leslie camps all in favor say Aye. A post 7 in favor. None opposed the legislative hearing. Consent agenda is adopted as amended. That brings us to the end of a very long agenda. But I'm looking single in some people's eyes. I feel like they're still good news in that are. The gloves or something else? Vice PRESIDENT Yet? I have so the city has developed a survey to better understand the economic impacts of recent federal immigration enforcement or business communities here in Saint Paul.

Al of our businesses and Saint Paul are encouraged to participate in this anonymous survey is available online. The survey is available in English, Spanish Smalley Hmong. And just very briefly, it is 5 questions that ask the type of what type of business you operate. Have any appointments or vencer tours have been canceled was sort of describes your business area in terms of where it's located in Saint Paul and since the summer 2025. Have you experienced any of the following challenges and assertive outlines different options for Hostess left and if you have experience and it challenges above like employees not showing up to work or difficulty hiring retention, decreased sales, cetera. What have been the impacts for your business is my could look like decreased hours. Cutting back employee hours, reduced profit, profit or owner pay. And then what is are also asking a total financial loss estimated due to the increased federal immigration and anything else folks would like to add.

So very simple. Online form again, offered him out to pulling glitches and please submit them as soon as possible because I think a lot of us are very interested. What is that dollar amount for Saint Paul how can respond accordingly as the looks like, MR. Staley has a comment. I just wanted to say that's great. People should do that. But they should not include any personally. Doesn't ask for public area to put that information.

This is information that will be maintained by the city. So we'd rather not have that personal identify identifying information. Thank Don't put section. It's why we have heard. Good missing. Yet this Saturday, every 28, the Greater East Side Community Council is having a coffee and conversation where the person get to know each other. It'll be 08:30am, to 10:30am, at te Creamer Committee so that 13, 80 Rose Avenue east in Saint Paul. Thank you. Council PRESIDENT Excuse me. So Ramsey and is hosting a Black History

Month celebration tomorrow at the Family University with some papers. At the class center, 3rd floor from Wayne to 04:30pm. Again, this is tomorrow hosted by Ramsey County and in the city of Saint There is a rsvp form that's posted online. You could call to social media are on our website for that. We'll be celebrating the 100 years. So it's our official event. And also I just want to give a shout out Cassandra consigned to who she works for Ramsey County, that she also brings a lot of joy to our work and businesses increases with bubbles. But she is actually coordinating and organizing this event. So I know I'll be there. I believe mayor, her also will be one of the keynote speakers as well. Thank you. I will not to compete with the coffee and conversation which I think everyone should go to. Maybe first. But also on Saturday, it's a busy Saturday at 08:00am.

And I think kind of throughout the day there's a Skyway 5 k. And it is exactly what it sounds like and the tagline is run where no one has run before. Literally they don't let people do sort of the first of its kind Skyway, 5 k all in the sky ways it starts at Union Depot. Yurs truly. I think it's going to actually be running. MAY be walking it. We'll see how she does. And it really fun. So encourage people. And this is all being planned by folks who just love downtown. Want to bring vibrancy to the Skyway is and it's definitely a first of its kind. So encourage people to come out, volunteer, participate. Watch. But you would like to Mrs, thank you. Council PRESIDENT. I was under the ipression that you would be there because I there, too. was like backtracking the it. They're really excited about that I all I it's a first of its kind.

I'm hearing a lot of excitement over the sea for this. I think. I forgot. But there's a lot of people signed up for it. And so it's going to be really great thing. 700? Yeah. Yes. That's what the It's word when they don't start office standards that know people there So I'll be there, too. Looking forward to it and also want to share the good news from last Highland District Council put out a big trivia night and the team. There are dozens of people there that he known as the time best in fan club words, the champions of the trivia nights. So or MAY include you're gonna have included board to award but it's really great event. There are quite a few people there. It is all about trivia from where 3 well, from Highland Park and from in from Saint Paul in general. So it was a great event m. Starry last not so.

I'm actually hosting a star in full session. We know what the Star Grant, the cautious star and also neighborhood star. MARCH 13th and those dollars go along way for many of our artists and businesses. So I'll be hosting it in full session on Monday from 3.30, to 4.30, at the springboard for the arts. So everyone is welcome the when you know, served the war going. Everyone is welcome and will be having staff. There's answering questions as well as some of the board members of the Concho star board there. Thanks. Thank you for doing This important information from staff. All And his Mormon has some has some news. Listen And the happened? 7%. Does our system just Minnesota. And so thank is that tomorrow as Red Hat Day and what the red hat

Is is. Well, you know, we use them not occupation to that they were in the resistance. And this is the anniversary of when the Nazis told them they couldn't wear red hats So what they Was they started red hats and their arts and crafts ad things. So they were able to signal its without signaling at and I just thought it would be a nice way to acknowledge how many people are the streets and signaling to each other that we are community that's what I Thank you as beautiful. Thank you for the pens that had also. It's really good on That brings us and a very productive day. Thank you all. We are adjourned. Pleasurable town.