City of Saint Paul, MN Council Meeting

Council to order roll call, Here. The week. Home. Comes PRESIDENT Maker here, 6 PRESIDENT, one apps and that being Councilmember Johnson. She's expected shortly. Well, good afternoon, everyone. Welcome to our city council meeting. Thank you so much for joining us. We invite everyone to join us in standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Of United States of America and to Republic for which it stands. One nation under GOD, indivisible liberty and justice for all. Consent agenda items to through 15 or before you for your consideration can be taken for separate consideration. Seeing none. We'll take a motion from Vice PRESIDENT Yang for the balance of the consent agenda. All favor say Aye. is adopted item. Number 16 is resolution public hearing. 26 dash 59 authorizing the rate of right off of police staffing costs for qualifying free public cultural events and festival festivals and community events. The public hearing on this is closed, MR. Lee. I just want to share that.

Actually motion to withdraw this item. I just wanted to share a few words about this right off. It actually. I learned a lot about, you know, how a fast and as ppd. Does their billing. And there was one of the organizations and shared with us that attachment that was on that item was actually not accurate. So we wanted to make sure that we clear clarify the record in ensure that all of holiday do. The updates on the invoices are important. We have a lot of work to do moving forward in our policy committee meetings and our public safety committee meetings on how to streamline and better clarify the process. I also just want to say on the record, I really appreciate the myor's proactive us. Her on the mayor's office proactive ms looking for for funds. I'm super excited to share that. We have some support and some interest to invest in some of these organizations such as Saint and Minnesota Foundation and some other foundations and Saint Paul.

So I will be withdrawing this item, but my commitment to ensuring that are supporting our events and festivals still remain the same still remain strong. We're just going to take this off and re approach this conversation through much, more centered policy land. So thank you again for the discussion that we have had in. You made some progress, believe, follow up in the future on some of those foundations and promoting the funds that will be made available for those organizations. Thank you, MISS And I want to thank you for your leadership and and flexibility in finding the best ways to support our community events ad festivals. And I'm sorry. And that looks like and the stats the tent. Yes, thank Councilmember really fair for being able to just set the tone for think what the conversation really transpired. I agree with you know, being in a part of those meetings and actually just seeing where the competition started to where it's landing now.

You know, I appreciate. just kind of being walked through the full journey and the partnership and really getting to a place where we have, I think a really big deal and the, you know, the Saint Paul, Minnesota, Phoenicians willingness to administer grant program to distribute one time funds to the organization named in this matter like actually really important. And I think imperative to having those conversations publicly because it allows other stakeholders to sometimes come in and also be able to support us in endeavor. So that's a huge that's not a small feat. That's not something that I think she brushed over lightly at all has a huge tstament to what it looks like to take a pause and take some time as well to explore alternatives. And so just want to say thank you for that Opportunity Commission. Thanks, council PRESIDENT. I also want to commission country. 44, they're leadership and looking into this matter here, I don't believe you would have the outcome that we have today.

If it weren't for you really looking into this and spend that time and energy. just really here, not the communities the organizations that have that outstanding balance. And I want to say thank you to mayor her for her partnership and this. And really, though the committee partners Cider that willing help us problem solve this. And so to me, it's just really grounding it you know, just thinking of all a car rolls. Comes as numbers. It's always worth it to really take that time, too, to take give us give ourselves like that that time to really like it. More question questions answer to really, you know, have conversations with stakeholders, understand them. I really appreciate that. Gandhi and so again, thanks for your leadership. Thanks 10. Ad is one more comment here because I know there's been a lot of people who've either been watching and looking for some level of action to be made. And there has been some questions around regarding the security credit that we did pass on some weeks ago.

That is live its online. So for some of those organizations who MAY have question whether they are eligible you. I encourage you all to apply for that. Credit is live. It's embedded inside of the. Security permits website are excuse me. Application. So I just want make that clear because there has been some questions around. What does that? What does the future looks like for some of these organizations? And we're going to be working really Dejan diligently to make sure that we have some external funds. i'm to be able to support them in their endeavors for their events. So this item will withdrawn. Item will be withdrawn. Item number 17 is first reading of ordinance 26 Dash 17 Ministry of Ordinance establishing the minimum qualifications for the vacancy for the position of fire chief. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 12012.1 of the city charter. So this brings us to the ordinance section of our All of our ordinances are city laws have 3 readings, at least our first reading.

We have a staff report typically to give some background information on what the ordinance is proposing at the second reading the next week, we have a public hearing to hear public What's being proposed and that the 3rd reading the next week we typically vote to move to adopt te ordinance or amend the ordinance. And sometimes we need additional time. If there are amendments being proposed. So you'll see today that are sections are divided into first reading public hearings and sometimes final adoption of We don't actually have any final adoptions today. This item here is before us for first reading. We actually our staff who are going to give a report on this, unfortunately, are out sick today. So unusually we will not have a staff report a first reading. We will have a staff report next week when it comes back for a public hearing. So this item a layover till next week for a public item is laid over to MARCH 18 for second reading public hearing item number 18 is second reading public ordinance 26 Dash 16.

Granting the application of Xcel Energy to rezone property at 3 to 5 commercial street from h one residential to I one light industrial and amending chapter 60 of the legislative code pertaining to the zoning map. And this brings us to the public hearing section of our agenda. So if you're here to testify item in the public hearing section, when your item is called and I called the public hearing will just ask you to come up, stand right in between the 2 microphones. You won't have to adjust them. Don't need to lean over towards them. They should pick you up just fine. We ask that you start with your name and where you're coming from. You'll have 2 minutes to testify. And when you're done, we ask you to sign in on either the to sign in sheets. So with that, this is a public hearing for item 18. Is there anyone here to speak on this item?

Seeing none. I'll take a motion from his Johnson to close the public hearing and the matter over to MARCH 18th for final adoption all in favor say aye opposed 7 in favor. None oppose. The public hearing is closed and the item is laid over to MARCH 18 for final adoption item. Number 19 is ordinance 26 Dash 18. Amending section one. 93 Point 0, 4, of the legislative code to temporarily extend the prediction notice period and section one. 93 point 0, 4, from 30 days to 60 days as camp. I sorry. Thank you. So I am bringing before you aversion to and it includes a few changes that aren't substantive in any way. But last week, what we discovered is while the language itself doesn't need to be changed and in terms of intent, but using it to be more clarifying will be important because if we don't understand what the language is saying that how to renters and landlords and folks that are impacted, understandably good show to be very clear.

This doesn't substantively change anything but just really makes a really nice and clear what we're trying to accomplish. So it so the changes to the Sorry, this change makes clear that the temporary extension of the prediction filing notice from a 30 to 60 day starts on MAY 14th and goes through DECEMBER 31st. That was the intent and what was written. But it wasn't very clear. So we're just going to get very explicit. So the change, the only chance that you see in writing is that we are very explicit with a date to be MAY 14th. Ordinance. 26 18 extends the existing tenant protections ordinance that is not into effect until MAY 14th as such. The item can only go into effect on MAY 14th. So this also clarifies that the notice sent to tenants and a summary on the DECEMBER 31st. Timeline are still within the temporary extension period and are subject to the 60 notice.

So Flynn, Dan okay. Larry agrees that I'm trying to be as clear as possible. Perfect. So I really appreciate the support just to calm everyone's fears. The changes are not substantive is just to be as explicit as possible. Thank you, MISS Camp. So to be clear, the entire 10 protections ordinance takes effect on MAY 14th and extension of the prediction notice from 30 to 60 days. Also takes effect on MAY 14th. Yeah. Sometimes the 10 protections So we will take vote on version. 2 of them will have the public hearing all in favor of version. 2, please say aye. I opposed favor nor opposed the ordinance is approved. Sorry. The amendment is All right. A meal now hold a public hearing version 2 of the ordinance. If you're here to testify on this item, please coming up, there's a bunch of folks feel free to line up on both sides. And again, you'll have 2 minutes.

They do go by quickly. And it's my unenviable job to keep you to them. There is a clock or in front of you and you are testifying. You can test by side when you're afternoon, everybody. My name is Katie Royce overcome the Neighborhood Association want say this is a great idea. Obviously extremely needed. We opened a rent relief and yesterday for to the public. And we had over 250 folks within 8 hours. And that so we know it's a it's a crisis and ours is for Rajon Rondo. Only so still, that number was incredible. We're working through right now. But the need is obviously. Impacted more by the metro surge. Then we have a need outside of Rents are too high. We all know that we've got a housing problem, but that surge really is is getting people. And so we have a with that housing crisis and added to this eviction crisis. I think it's essential that we do this and hopefully we get the mayor and board.

Yeah. All right. Thank you. Thanks so much. Make sure to sign it. Well, coming up. Good afternoon, council members. Thank you for having me. My name is Laura Sohn was an organization called a n it's a nonprofit affordable housing provider. We have several 100 homes here in Saint Paul and thousands and the entire twin cities. Metro. We're here along with 12 of our other large nonprofit, affordable housing providers to oppose this extension. And the reason for that is based on our own experience, housing providers succeed when residents succeed, evictions are costly, disruptive and something responsible operators worked very hard to avoid. We work with residents through play payment plans, rental assistance and outreach long before an eviction filing occurs. We have especially continue to do so. And the last several months as mutual aid has so wonderfully poured in and allowed us to connect that to residents. The challenge with extending the prediction notice period is that it adds additional time uncertainty, which unfortunately oftentimes only leads to residents being further in debt.

Timelines are extended further. The gap can grow up to 4 months. At that point, the financial hurdle for many residents to overcome. It's just too great. And the unpredictability of rental assistance even being available to them is too uncertain for us to want to put them in that potential position. Fortunately, our own and other public sources of data have recently shown that residents are keeping up in a predictable way with their rent payments. So for the last few months and so far in MARCH, which we're very heartened by and it shows all of our collective efforts have been resulting so far in outcomes that we all want, which is to keep residents stably housed, disrupting that process, puts the stability of housing that risk which ultimately impacts very residents were all trying to help. Thank you for your time. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign will come up. Good afternoon. Council members. My name is Dante.

I currently reside in the Cole Park neighborhood where I've lived for the past 7 years. I'm a lifelong resident of the Twin Cities and a leader with twin cities. United performers. I do not need to reiterate the horror and pain that we have all experienced under this cruel and clumsy occupation by the fderal government. Over the past few months, every Saint Paul resident I know has been impacted by ice. And as the son of a Mexican immigrant, I personally have lived in a state of grief and fury as I've watched neighbors who looked like my family be ripped out of their homes by this barbaric administration. As I process this collective trauma with my fellow Minnesotans, one thing stands out a collective frustration with the response of our elected leaders. I'm outraged at Governor Walz's in action and unwillingness to an act, an eviction moratorium when we need Most. I was exasperated to see Jacob fries veto today of pause eviction.

Save lives in Minneapolis and I am bewildered at Mayor Hearst decision to deny an independent investigation of Saint Pul Police Department's actions on Rose Street on NOVEMBER. 25th. I understand that we are but one city standing against the full force of a multi-billion dollar federal police apparatus. But today, I'm coming before you to implore you to use the power that you have as our city council to extend the eviction notice period to 60 days. This plicy will not only give breathing room to the residents who need it most, but it is a step towards aligning the interests of landlords with the interest of tenants as we must all demand ice out with one unified voice. And importantly, it shows that you our elected leaders take seriously the commitment to using eery tool at your disposal to protect your constituents. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Well, come up. Good My name is Reagan read.

I'm speaking on behalf of Michael Dal Award for resident and the public policy director of home line on the managing organizer Home Line. Mine operated a free, confidential legal advice, hotline, serving renters across Minnesota. Last year alone, we advise nearly 2900 Saint Paul households. Evictions were the second most common reason. People called us this year. The pace is not letting up. And we're hearing from households who are afraid of eviction, something many have never had to face before because of the federal occupation. For the sake of your constituents who stand to lose their homes through no fault of their own home. Mine urges you to temporarily extend the prediction notice period to 60 days minus sing a sharp increase in rent are seeking help paying rent a 71% increase increase compared to this time last year. The level of need now exceeds what we saw during the early months of the covid-19 pandemic. What is especially concerning is what renters are telling us about the broader impacts.

Many report few food insecurity, skip medications, and forgone medical treatment. Housing instability is cascading into every part of daily life. Impacted tenants. The time to piece together the funds needed to pay their rent mutual aid in city funding MAY help some renters, but it is not enough. And 14 days is often not enough time to your assistance. It takes time to catch up on bills after returning to work. It takes time to access emergency assistance. It takes time to ask for help from family and friends. Many of whom MAY be struggling themselves and it's taking time far too much time for the state government to allocate the resources renters needed to need to catch up on rent. Give your constituents the time they need to stay in their homes and pay their rent without that time and without adequate adequate resources, we fear many renters will join the ranks of those experiencing how homelessness or severe housing insecurity.

Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Come up. My name is Lisa Nelson. I'm here on behalf of the Hammond Midway Coalition and the Hammond Man with questions supports the proposal to require 60 days. Notice before landlords can file an eviction action rather than the current 30 day. Notice. In neighborhoods like Hammond midway, nearly half of renter households are already cost burdened by housing alone. This doesn't even include rising costs for food, child care, medical bills, student loans are everyday essentials like diapers, formula, hygiene and medical supplies. For many families. Even a short disruption, income can quickly lead to housing, instability. Extending the notice period to 60 days provides critical breathing room for renters to access emergency rental assistance, seek legal support. If a notice pilots tenant protections connect with community and mutual aid. Resources or find other solutions that MAY prevent an eviction filings. Midway Collision also appreciates the city of samples, leadership in expanding emergency rental assistance funding and passing additional tenant protections that improve notice requirements and provide safeguards when a foot or affordable housing changes ownership.

Together, these actions represent a thoughtful in practical approach to housing, stability on a local level while highlighting the need for additional action at the county and state level. They haven't with Midway Coalition supports the temporary 60 Day eviction filing notice requirement as a measure that can help keep neighbors have list and provide families with to next election. Thank you. Thank you very much the site and will come up. Hello and thank you for the opportunity to speak. My name is Jessica Sherman Ski and I'm a policy attorney at the Housing Justice Center. I strongly urge you to pass this temporary extension to the prediction notice period. Families need time to access rental assistance and stabilize their households. The reality is that 14 or 30 days notice just isn't enough. Expanding to 60 days would provide critical breathing room for tenants to secure assistance, pay overdue rent and avoid the devastating consequences of eviction. This extension will prevent evictions and ensure that vulnerable communities do not become unhoused.

Now I want to combat some of the opposition narrative. So we've heard first extending the prediction notice period does not delay help for tenants. Landlords don't need to wait until an eviction or until they've issued an eviction notice to connect tenants with assistance, landlords can and should engage with tenants as early as possible. There's nothing stopping them from connecting tenants with mutual aid or other resources. Well, before the threat of an eviction filing and for the sources of rental assistant assistance that require an eviction be filed. First, the council should be pressuring those providers to change that policy. Second, if a tenant ultimately faces eviction under this extended notice, period, the accruing rental balance will not change how hard it is for them to find new housing. It is just as hard to find a future housing after being evicted for 3 months, rent as it is after being evicted for 4 months. Rent. The main difference is that the extra month greatly increases the tenants chance to redeem with rental assistance.

Furthermore, families need this extension now, not 2 months from now. This ordinance should take effect immediately after passage and approval. This council already unanimously agreed that an eviction moratorium was necessary to reduce harm and protect our neighbors. But passing this spree, eviction extension, notice or notice extension this council can prevent homelessness make sure landlords get paid their rent and ensure our neighbors are safe from Ice. Thank you. very much. Make sure to sign in. Well, come up. Thank you. City Council. My name is Cathy Bennett. I'm the executive director of the Twin Cities, Housing Alliance. We represent more than 100 housing providers across Saint Paul and that one city which accounts for thousands of rental units in the city. Our mission is simple to expand housing options across all income levels and ensure existing housing remain safe, stable and affordable. I'm here today to urge you to not support extending the notice of eviction filing period.

We fully recognize that there are renters who are experiencing real financial hardship due to Operation Metro surge. Housing providers see this every day and work hard to keep residents house wherever possible. They are neighbors and care about the residents, safety and security. Eiction is not a first choice. It's a last resort in can cost up to $10,000 per unit. The current process already provide significant time to access assistance. In reality, an eviction notice does not mean immediate displacement from a notice to potential move out as often 3 to 4 months by far the majority of eviction filings are resolved before that time during the eviction timeline, many residents are connected to rental assistance. Ultimately remained house and often time their eviction filing is redacted. So it does not go on the record extending the notice, period, risks unintended consequences if places additional strain on housing providers who are still recovering from pandemic facing rising insurance, labor and maintenance costs and operating with very limited reserves longer delays.

Also district owners, many small minority owned businesses ability to pay their mortgage tax and insurance payments threatening property in long-term affordability. Most importantly, delaying action, allows unpaid rent to accumulate damaging renter's credit and making future housing harder. The most effective and responsible response in this moment is targeted rental assistance. We stand by you to help secure that. Thank you for your consideration. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Members of the council, my name is Ben candor suddenly with Beacon Interfaith housing, collaborative begin is a leading provider of the site based permanent supportive housing in Minnesota. And we serve over 200 residents here in Saint Paul as a collaborative of over 70 congregations. We're also leaders and statewide housing advocacy. We led the bringing Home Minnesota coalition that created a noose, Minnesota rental voucher program helped create the metro sales tax for local 4 double housing 8 often known as and share. The our future starts at home campaign for statewide dedicated housing revenue.

I've just come from our lobby day at the Capitol where hundreds were advocating for supportive housing and emergency rental assistance. The real fear, chaos and harm created by Operation Metro Surge is exposed the precarious. This of our housing system. We've been advocating around for years too many Smithsonian's are living on the edge and now wondering how they will pay their rent. We believe the most effective solution is increasing. Targeted emergency rental assistance. And I really grateful for you guys, this council moving forward on that. We along with the other nonprofit housing providers are concerned this policy result in unintended and preventable harm. Our experience is that longer timelines produce worse outcomes for for residents through larger balances and higher eviction rates. We recognize that this MAY seem counter intuitive, but it is based on our experience that delays increased debt loads for many residents and this well-intentioned. Proposed policy would be Connor, but counterproductive to its stated aims.

We appreciate your goals and beacon is committed to continuing to partner with this council to provide quality, supportive housing, work for the stability of our residents and advocate for policies. So all people have a home. Thank you. very much. Make sure to sign in. Well, come up. Hello. My name is Steve took I live in the north end of Saint Paul during metro surge neighborhoods all over the city set up their own networks to help. That role deliver mutual aid and try to help of people who. You know, we're really afraid of getting picked up by ice. The one thing we know about this is that the safest place was in their home. Getting eicted, makes them. Very, very vulnerable. And so whatever we can do to prevent people from getting evicted and that involves a lot of things we could do an eviction moratorium. We could do more rental assistance. This is just one piece, but I think is an important piece to allow people now that some people starting go back to work to give them time.

You know, catch up on their rent. And I think that, you know, if if we're winning, who we should be considering more landlords or people who have been targeted by Metro surge, you know, scared of their home for months. I think we should, you know, we should help out the renters. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign PRESIDENT Maker and members of the council, thank you for the opportunity to speak. My name is Nancy McMurray and I have the privilege of serving as the director of Family Services for Project for Pride Living. Ppl is a Twin Cities based nonprofit with 53 years of impact and we own and operate more than 1800 units of affordable housing around the cities. The heart of our mission is simple. We help individuals and families remain securely and confidently housed. We worked alongside residents to create payment plans and connect them to resources. We know many Saint Paul residents are still living with fear and instability fllowing Operation Metro surge.

We share your urgency in protecting these families from displacement. Our goal like yours is housing, stability. Well, we support the intent behind extending the prediction notice, period. Our experience shows it will unintentionally make things harder for residents to Maine remain housed. Intervening quickly when a resident begins to fall behind on rent has proven to be the best way to support their housing stability. And the reason is simple. The further a resident falls behind on rent. The more likely they will not be able to recover. Extending the notice to 60 days often leads to households falling 2 or more months behind on rent a level of debt that is far harder to overcome. And one that increases the likelihood of them losing their homes. The most effective solution has consistently proven to be targeted. Rental assistance paired with early intervention. We applaud your recent investment of an additional 1.4, 2 million. An emergency rental assistance as well as the additional investment of $500,000 from lha without enough assistance, a longer notice period only grows unpaid balances and defense hardships.

We share the same important goal of keeping people housed. But based on our direct experience expanding and targeting rental assistance and not extending timelines is the most effective way to keep people House. Thank you. Very makes make sure to sign welcome up. Good afternoon council members. Name is James Dirks and I am a member of unit. A sanctuary city committee in a proud resident of Frank town in Ward. Housing stability is deeply personal me. A struggle with housing insecurity, for for years before finally reaching a stable place to live recently. And this was before the economic crisis in Metro surge. So I cannot imagine what a lot of people are going through. Ibecame homeless after being forced out of the living situation. Very quickly. 30 days is very quickly as well during that time, I was also stalked and harassed which made the living situation even more dangerous, losing housing that fast does not just mean losing a place to sleep.

It creates instability that exposes people to violence. Fear and long-lasting harm. It's very common when someone suddenly loses housing the system meant to help are not fast enough to catch them or doesn't supply enough assistance to catch them. It can take a time to access emergency shelter and emergency assistance. Even for people on the most vulnerable situations. And someone enters that system. It tends to limit their freedom and ability to stabilize their life in find new housing. Despite the arguments have been made. Going, housing going homeless is very expensive and cost a lot more. Then any. Extension little cost. During my time experiencing housing insecurity and that many others in similar situations many had stories worse than What I learned is that homeless. This is like a vortex. When someone falls in, it pulls them deeper and takes enormous effort to get them back out. That is why this amount that you that has been for proposed policies.

Very important. I urge you to support this policy to 60 days that people need and reality And thank you for your Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Thanks for your tie. I'll speak from a lot of different What about us? Sorry. Can you stay with your name and where you're coming from? My name is Malik. I'm from around neighborhood. What about us? A landlord. A couple rental properties. And to give you just a couple scenarios. Had a tenant burn my house down from an unattended candle. The city 6 months and still hasn't given me a final police report from for my insurance. Ahead, an electric socket that I had to replace an upgrade and bring a coat, a costly 6300. I had a furnace GOD at another rental property costing 5500. A lot of Sean, not a big capitalist company. I man, it's a small mom pop landlords. Personally feel like we're on the city as far rentals go because we have thousands of landlords that have one or 2 rental properties how do we survive?

I want to take food off my table for my daughter. Have a new fiction right now in court. Didn't pay rent in FEBRUARY. My first court date is MARCH 19th. After that. They're gonna give him 7 days possibly to vacate. If he doesn't have to get rid that risk, going to take another additional 5 days after he after that 5 days going to take up to 3 weeks for the sheriff to come physically remove him. S for most Once we add on to this new length of time. I don't make more use 4 months. On the back of all the other. Negative things that I've experience everybody's talking about. The rain for you guys have a ton of resources that you guys can give the rental assistance for. Bernini and other small landlords 6 to 4 months of back rent and no income. And I have to come up with it. So now we have tenant have a negative spiral.

We have a negative spiral for landlord. I don't think that's fair. You talk about fair just and equitable. Just put your hats on just think for the landlords point and what's fair just and equitable for us. Tank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Council PRESIDENT Council members. My name is 20 yards. I'm a word 3. PRESIDENT And the Macro Fund area most a member of the need. Those sanctuary. Committee providing testimony in support of ordinance. 26 18 to temporary and still a 60 day period. Eviction notice period as outlined in the ordinance, the impacts of operation that research have been widespread and ongoing. His actions have created fear, instability and significant economic harm for families across Saint Paul. The loss of wages and economic security for many household has been severe. I happen to work closely with school communities in Saint Paul and I want to speak some of the disruption students are experiencing students as young as kindergarten have been escorted to their buses as ice agents have circled school grounds.

Families have been separated due to detention, the eonomic health of families has been severed as those working have been detained or do to the rampant and profiling nature of these operations, al workers and households have been sheltering in place. We are only beginning to understand the full impact this is having on the health and well-being of our students and communities. This has created generational trauma. The need for this 60 day prediction notice period is so Community members are doing all they can to hang on financially mutual. Aid networks have strained and worked for months to secure, rents and provide for one another. As community members, local businesses are doing what they can to stay afloat. It float toward shuttering at - this time. We need action from the city level to mitigate further economic term and to prevent mass evictions across our communities. I urge the council to pass ordinance. 26 18 and help keep Saint Paul families in their homes.

This is the work that we need to be doing without action. We risk seeing a possible wave of evictions across our communities. A 60 day prediction notice period gives families time to stabilize and prevent short-term disruption from becoming long-term homelessness. Please pass this ordinance swiftly and move to full passage. Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Going to a last call. If you're here to speak on this item, that your time to get line. Looks likely to more speakers at the moment will come up. Good afternoon. My name is Norma Robert. 6 is a minor. I live in Frogtown War. One have been a resident. Property owner and landlord there for over 20 years. I support with all my heart, at least a 60 day extension. To think of my neighbors, friends and family that live in the neighborhood. What they have been suffering. From the last few months and to think about. Being evicted on top of everything else. We know there's programs out Rental relief, mutual aid. But I fully support

60 day or more. If possible. Yeah, I would appreciate you that. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in. Well, come up. Name Sarah Molins a little more one. Testifying in support of the ordinance. I just want to. I call it a day. And the others spoke to the great disruption of Operation Metro Surge. When that kind of stuff happens, it disrupts your whole life. And one thing I just want to point out as a renter for 25 years in Saint Paul, I we don't sit around as ranchers thinking about having lawyer on retainer. Right. And so knowing you have legal rights and being ready to exercise your legal rights properly so that you can make your fair case and be represented fully in the processees that exists. Can be a shock, right? So I just want to call that out. I looked at the materials that were posted. I saw the 2 page Here's how long it actually takes to evict at the end of the packet was home line.

And all of the calls they've received asking for assistance and how they They're overwhelmed with the number of renters asking for assistance legal systems. At the same time. So I I support the extension. I commend the Council for everything you're doing to provide renter assistance live into the vision where people are stable in their homes and they're displaced, right? That's the outcome we all But just wnted to remind everybody that we're lawyers. We don't all have a lawyer handy to turn to and say exactly what kind of lawyer do I need to help me here. So I know. How to advocate for myself. And when you have that, in addition to ice, in addition to food, insecurity, in addition to everything else like, I think this is a reasonable, temporary accommodation. So thank you for. That consideration. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in and welcome up. Hello, my name is 90 and reading on behalf of Twin Cities, another performer Adam.

Hello. My name is Adam Bagel and I'm a Saint Paul Hamlyn Midway resident graduate of Hammond University, an organizer with twin Cities, United performers. We're trying non profit in downtown Saint Paul. I have worked with many say pub business is and business owners. I aso perform at a local band. So I have insight into many different aspects of the Twin Cities, community and a deep love for a capital city. What I've witnessed firsthand in my own neighborhood and all of the communities that I'm connected to is the absolute reckless display of violence during Operation Metro Surge has left a deadly Stan of intimidation on many Minnesotans. So many in our communities have feared and continue to fear, leaving the safety of their homes to pursues the lives that they've known too scared to go to work. School college, get groceries and key essentials. All this feeling of fear, a slightly going away and so was staying.

And as you can imagine, it has left tremendous negative impact, especially with families with means. Not earning income rent is still due each month. It is the government's responsibility to operate for its constituents. I'm writing this testimony to urge Saint Paul City Council to provide the most minimal, really from my neighbors. I extending the eviction notice to 60 days, which is what is being asked of Minneapolis as well. This one right neighbors more time and honestly a bit of deserved grace to fulfill their rent during this unprecedented time. Ask ask of you have this today and also urge you to continue to support all related community relief efforts and oppose ice and all federal and local police violence in our city. Thank you. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign it. All Seen there's no one else here to testify on this. I will take a motion from his camp to close the public hearing all in favor say Aye.

I opposed 7 in favor. None opposed. The public hearing is closed. And I want to thank everyone for coming because we will take a final vote next week at 3rd reading unless their amendments proposed. I know sometimes we prefer to make comments today whether folks here in the chamber. So I would like to colleagues to see if anyone has any Cummins to share. I'll briefly, I really appreciate thoughtfulness. The oppression of the test fires to commit today. Today we saw across the sea of lives. Halt get overturned in Minneapolis. And so if this stands in and look for Ian to continue to run the spray, my colleagues on this will be the only one in the state that I know of that is standing up for renters in our city and standing up for folks that have been most impacted by operation after a surge. There was some conversation around Lake for communications like making sure that the city's match.

So for clarification of that doesn't matter anymore, Minneapolis doesn't have one, but mostly for me. It's I heard the ability to access resources time and time again today, the Senate, I believe is passing are past their tenant protections. Bill. The House is poised so the same. This DECEMBER timeline allows the state to respond to this massive emergency for renters in time for them to secure vendors maybe one could be in the city of Saint Paul and get money out the door and still be within that timeline. So housing evictions a save lives. This is our ability to maintain that protections for families and for communities. Yesterday I testified at the Peoples hearing immigration with the chair of the U. S. Human Rights Commission. And I share one of the stories about one of one of my neighbors who very recently went back to work cleaning houses and in between going from one house to another, she was picked up even though the surges over the threat to our residents is still very real.

The data shows that the reduction in number doesn't change. Their tactics doesn't change their violence and continues to They continue to. To broken immigration policies of violence here, Minnesota. So I just really want to emphasize the note that I heard that it's the surge is over, but the agents are still here and families are still under threat. So I really appreciate everyone evidence. Testimony say thank you. Ms Kehm. Any other comments there. Was this really over until next for? Final adoption or amendment? The item is laid over to MARCH 18th for final adoption item number Twenty's resolution public hearing. 26 dash. 56 proving the application Minnesota run series podium sports marketing for some level variance order. Present amplified sound for the mighty mites. A sippy 10 Mile event on Saturday, JUNE 6, 2026. And 2 to 6 Spring Street Upper Landing park and 25 Mississippi River Boulevard connected to Channel Falls Park. This is a public hearing.

Is there anyone here to speak on this item? Seeing none. I'll take a motion from his comment to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. Post and favoring almost resolution is adopted item number. 21 is resolution public hearing. 26 dash 65 authorizing the city to amend project in accounting unit, budgets and city special funds. To align with the 2026 adopted budget. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak on this item? Seeing none. We'll take a motion for Mis Johnson to close the public hearing and approve all in favor say Aye. opposed 7 in favor. None opposed. The resolution is adopted item number. 22 is a bza. 26 dash 3 considering the appeal of a decision by the Board of Zoning Appeals to 9 to variances from City Council resolution. 23. Dash 1, 4, 4, 2, for hotel at United Village Block at 15, 60 University West and on appeal items like these. We usually have staff reports of all come up. We have to tune up is going go. So unable do so for the record. My name the idea him to zoning administrator. And I'm here with because thing.

She is my colleague, India So we presenting an appeal over bza to board is an appeals. That technical explain later a fi a variance 5, 60 Universe know well to the just like edition here. This slide is the subject property located actually at 60 University Avenue. And West scope of the work is if you look at it, this is 1.65 acre possible. It is. What's proposed is an appointment am and a hotel.

That is 158 with ground floor, commercial space and 26209, 9.90, structured parking stalls. This last year's shows the the hotel that you see in blue there and then too. To the west of it is canoeing and also the bb gun. This southeast corner of university snowing. It to the south of it is an office of a building and also a restaurant buildings in yellow. And to south of it is the of course, the second you know, doing stadium. It's a

United Stadium. Would you say 4? So the this slide summarizes the project, proven which is really relevant to the various current of being talked about. In sring or 24. The planning Commission and City Council approved it says in the conditional use permit related to the height associated with the development hotel parcel. 3 of various is addressed windows and door openings on the other side of the building, not the North side. And that is where

The areas was about. So the request for you today is a separate variance for the North stays on the which is a of a United Village must say currently under construction with the hotel footings already in place and also the foundation. With the next slide. So the City Council resolution 20 dash 14. 42 but a quiet ground floor for run office. I didn't want streets what universe and everything it is have window door openings comprising least 50% of the length and 30% of fuss. That area. And that was that's the the requirement. And the proposal was for 42.1% open. Any which requires of areas of 6.9%. And then 23.3% opening area quieting of areas of 6.7%. We do for a slight. So this show the x 2 venturing of office the area subject various is a ground floor only in upper foors. Just a ground floor. With that The show the quest funding from indicating the propose uses along that front bench. Thank you, retail

And lobby areas along the for This summarizes the various a petition against the 6 findings. And the staff recommended approval based on the fact that stuff deemed the various is haven't been met. The findings. The wreck that before you also contain from District 10 Union Park ad also the media Chamber of Commerce supporting the cause of This slide 9 a plan to action by the Board Zoning Appeals in the matter before you aternoon. On the FEBRUARY 17th. The bza hearing the vote is in the One member contest that one of the 6 findings it specifically fighting number 3. The talks about a practical difficulty. The photo of the motion to deny. The motion fails we had for voting for the motion and one foot wooden against because did not get the full force one with the other 2 past the failed. And subsequently a second motion was made to approve. The motion did not give a second. It and also with the night. So pursuant to a 15 99, Minnesota a motion to approve Fanning is a denial. Denial is the decision before you of the

Appeal. And with available for questions. If you have thank you so much. Are their questions for staff before we? Open this up. Thank you so much for the presentation as well. And I appreciate the presentation. I most Lee was just wondering if in the presentation and I don't think I caught it. The things that were cited for finding number 3. Because the PRESIDENT, because remember, just like couldn't things that were cited from the thanks to the developer, like what were the things I didn't find number 3 that meant to demonstrate those practical difficulties. With compliance. should understand you asking what the basis for Steph recommending approval of the fighters to 3 with Yes, so mainly because hotel operations, a unique combination of public safety spaces and House operation. That island themself to head to windows as you quiet. But the coat and that was the gist of staff finding this a practical difficulty company, also by the fact that is what has for sure it is facing show is facing 4 streets.

Ok? Thank you. Thanks Johnson. Any other questions before we open to the public hearing? Not seeing any. Thanks so much. Stick around. So for this public hearing actually first give the appellant 5 minutes and then other folks who are here to testify on this item will have 2 minutes. Give a little special consideration to those appealing so they can attempt to make their case well, come up. council PRESIDENT Maker council members. My name is Mike. A I'm a resident of Ward. 5 in Kabul Park. I am an adviser to the Uited Dillard's Project and I'm here and that with my colleague Caroline Wolf, from the Tegra group, who is our project manager. I here really enthusiastically supporting the staff recommendation for this. For the variance in for this project, we believe that it properly recognizes the

Practical limitations of the overall site and the country's stance that MISTER Talked about by having a building that is faced by 4 streets that were trying to comply with including University Avenue in Elliott's Field. And issues unique to our project, which is the hotel which we're trying to orient to that site, maximize the visitor and customer experience and also maximize the interface between the community and the building. We also believe the staff report is correct in pointing out what we're proposing is practical mitigations for the fact that we are now able to achieve the glazing on the ground floor in the form of to mention the building additional pblic art and articulation with awnings. I thought I had some visuals here that I could access. But i'm going to do my best to describe a couple things that described that enthusiasm. The first really doesn't think help is on the way. Also doesn't really need it.

That. This council, our work with community, including the district councils and the business community was express to choose this location for the hotel. We could have chosen to put it back further off, off University Avenue in a way where and whatever. Less impact by the street by these challenges, but that the hotel offering directly on University Avenue where the excitement and the vibrancy of guests going in and out of the building would match with the excitement and vibrancy of University Avenue was intentional and it comes with some challenges that we need to create to soften the design. That was very intentional. The flip side of the building also is very intentional. Is that extends the guardians that are adjacent to the restaurant into the the green space and the courtyard that leads up to Allianz Field. Presents challenges. What the future with with the future variances that we work through. That's what we work through with community.

And we're grateful for folks understanding that parking ramps and great public spaces those areas. We're also very enthusiastic about what the building looks like MISTER Is presentation inside image of the front of the building. It's we think it's a very handsome building that respects the community and intersex greatly with what's going on. And University Avenue perfect front door for hotel that leads up to University Avenue. All that and skip. This is overhead image I want to show with throne. What's under construction? Donna makers, resilience,

Field. This is the office building that is currently under construction. These are the restaurant pavilions that are nearly complete in terms of the structure. And this is the subject property here that will Facing all 4 streets. One as complete one. Simpson is completed through the parking ramp in the hotel will face all. Of those sides of the street. And this is the front of the building. And the spaces that we're talking about here that we talked about with community. This is a vertical shaft, which is essentially the stairwell in the elevator that's going to serve the parking ramp. And in working with community, we thought it was more property have it solution. That includes large scale public art. This is a place holder for what's being created rather create additional glass. There. The community actually reflecting really wisely and that on the call, we were at that that. Creating prominent pleasing their be confusing to communities that would look like an entrance. And we have people that are unfamiliar with the building Approach Inc, the building in the area that they were not supposed to be. These other areas here you can see. The vertical shaft that is adjacent to the check-in function that you'd expect that the hotel when you enter. That's our design team and it working with your staff and the community. That's the proper place for that vertical integration.

There's other spaces here that are restrooms either side. placing is it appropriate to create dimension inside the building? And that is that is several seconds over times to come. So maybe concluding remarks And it's and are working with community about variances treatments like the awnings and the dimension created by the interspersing of The white exterior in the dark exterior that those are better choices creating what we call a false window. We've all seen those in places where you create placing that has obscured glass in the back. That doesn't doesn't realize the benefits that the code meeting to attend. So with that, I'll stop Carolyn and I are available for questions. We the. Recommendation that staff made a and we appreciate your consideration. Thank you very much. Make sure to sign in and will now have a public hearing where 2 minutes per person so will come up. afternoon. My name is Mark about my voice, a little 1984. Carroll Avenue and co-chair of New Park District Council's Land use Committee part supports the requested hotel window indoor variance or letter provides a detailed discussion o a rationale. But one area like to highlight from that letter, it's the zoning districts requirement for an activated streetscape.

I think o activities. Streetscape is a requirement that that first level is not a private space, but its public amenity, its neighborhood amenity. It's a coffee shop. It's a grocery store. It's a place to exercise. They believe the primary reason for the window and door requirement is to highlight those amenities windows, invite those in the outside to explore what's in invite those in the inside to explore what's outside. Why does Union park think it's ok that this will tell or any hotel doesn't need to meet that requirement? One word, luggage. The first floor of this hotel has some areas where winds are not appropriate. The check-in area in the bathrooms, but it also has a restaurant has huge windows. Those are on the sell side. They don't get to come to the north side. So what's left is you've got a wine shop and you've got a library and those have relatively small windows. So if the council requires more windows face, if they require windows, what you're doing is you're giving the people on the inside a great view of the folks on bode unloading luggage.

You're going to remind them that their vacation is going to come to an If you're on the outside, you're going to be the entertainment for the wine shop in the library. So Union Park District Council thinks of the proposals signs got the windows right? It's bill and seeing the invitation clear entrance with some privacy for loading unloading supported. Thank you very much. Thank you very Seconds Nice make sure to sign it. You balance MISTER Home. Any other anyone else here to test and the side? All right, seeing none. I was a commotion from his Billy to close the public hearing all in favor say Aye. opposed 7 in favor, not oppose. The public hearing is closed week. Thank you so much. Council PRESIDENT Says want to say thank you so much staff are providing the technical report and also MISTER Home for just giving us an update around the reasoning behind the development is miles high type phase development.

Even before my time here on the council, there's been several variances in several. I'm readings where this project has came before the council and also just want to say thank you, mark, for the colorful interpretation and just giving us a imagery around just what the experience would be like based off of the boat that will take today. I just want to just, you know, come out to Saint. I anticipate on adopting the staff's recommendation that can give some reasons why little wine. I when I first came into this office and what the former apd director Nicole Goodman, this area where the United sides that has needed a change. Update to the zoning code for allow it has been. It has been a project a priority for both district councils. Also, I think it's really important to to to set in motion that we are making a vote that is going to be very telling around whether we are pro development or not or whether we, you know, whether we are making decisions that is going to support development here in Saint Paul and and Midway.

I want this development to move forward and we have heard from our staff members, particularly around the rationale and the findings and interpretations on those findings is really important that read building at the speed of consensus and us being a consensus body and hearing from my developers who left turn now only support from my both district councils Midway Chambers and stakeholders. It is really important that we you know, we support the expertise, particularly coming from our staff. I won't list off the findings because you already heard from them, but no one of the things that really makes it clear to me that this is not a practical difficulty just based off economics alone that the uniqueness of this design and the layout, it doesn't make sense to have larger windows are expand the windows. And I see this as an opportunity for us to adopt the staff's recommendation. This was a failed vote due to membership due to attendance, not a failed vote due to the majority deciding not to to pass variant.

So I'll look to Gasol motion for us would that be grampian granting thank like and forget granting the pill for this item. Thanks for spending. So the motion to table is to grant the appeal. Is there any discussion of the motion this comment? Thank you. Can PRESIDENT. Thank you. Can swim a a sternly second considered recommendation and they say lot of gratitude to Seth and to our project team will come out to speak today and to our unique artistic council representative. As a really bull, just echo everything that comes police said. And the only thing that I really want to underscore is how mch I appreciate the community engagement that's gone into this up until this point. As you Mr, presentation, there was no opposition from the community. To this proposed variance. In neighborhood here. But from about hear about this from folks all the time. People are very excited for this to be done.

People are very excited for United Village. 2, the the economic engine in our community. That is going to So just behalf of the community, I think that people are excited about this project wanted to move forward. And in addition to that, nothing on the record in, you know, voicing concern about the variance. There has been in. Promise you that in midway when people are talking about challenges, tey're not talking about the 43.1% window and door open to its list of the of the that its Thank you is common any further discussion of the motion other was we. Can take that. All in favor. Say Aye. 7 in favor. None oppose. The motion of intent is to grant the appeal. Item number. 23 is resolution public hearing. 26 dash for public hearing on grievances about federal immigration operations. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak on this item? Seeing none. I will take a motion from his yang to continue the public hearing to MARCH 18th.

And I look to ms and for some comments. Thank you, council PRESIDENT, I'm at first want to thank you to everybody who's been coming week after week. 2 come and testify. And when the first to the public hearing here, we had a massive people come in week after week really sure to was such a vulnerable stories about what they were experiencing during Operation Metro Surge. I want to say thank you to my me your support for extending the public hearing week after week as well has meant a lot to me personally, when when had this vision around tapping the public hearing during a council meetings, it was really around making sure that our residents felt heard. And when I'm at the table here as a council member, ground myself and into the experiences that I had coming here to city Hall being the person that sent on the bench is like many of you are coming up to the podium and testify about something that I care deeply about.

And at that, is really important for me continues continues entering inmate leadership here because it's also what guides me in high need to show up. As a council member. And so the public hearings here have been very, very valuable to me. And I believe very valuable to the city council to because it has provided key input to understand what exactly are residents needed during Operation Metro Surge so that we can deliver in through the form of action that the former policy and we've done that outdo passing near the ordinance us around the meeting, the use of masks law enforcement officers across all bodies of government around requiring for identification of law enforcement officers this fall. And we're still we still have more work to do. I want a name that I want have a motion to me today, which is that I would like for to move we continue the public hearing. But that next Wednesday, but the last public hearing, we still have a lot of ideas and initiatives that came from the committee members to work on so that we can bring it into fruition.

Get to the finish line. And I know that this is the council where we are very committed doing that. I know a couple of a few of us here at the table are even going to be in in meetings with the mayor staff to have direct conversations about that, too. So there's still a lot of work ahead of us. And I want to meaning that just because are not going to be having public hearings in the council after MARCH 18th is no indication at all that Operation. Metro Surge is over. And I want to be really clear about that because, you know, we had public hearing about that prediction finally notice and wanting to amend the date for that to having a 60 day. Notice it's because we know there many families still living in fear who can't afford their rent because of many reasons. One of them being that they have a family member wo is the teens MAY be that person was an income earner.

We have children who are still afraid of going to school and people who are afraid of going to work as well. And, you know, people who are still in detention centers in county jails, a small waiting to be returned home. That is is really personal to me. Many of, you know, that my uncle, my dad's and her brother, he was detained earlier in FEBRUARY. You're able to get him released 5 days after detainment and and he's the first person that I know who was able to get released in such a short amount of time. And it really was because of partnership and support from the Twin Cities, happiest collective. Now my my uncle, even though he was living in his lowest time of his life detained, he when he right before he got released, though, so many of the people who ws at the county jail with him, they heard about him getting really studies the asked Can you help us to him?

He took the time to take down all of their contact information so that we can get help for them and it connected with the pro. Bono attorneys are at the 10 cities. He this collective and they shared with me that 10 more people who were detained on Sunday. I'm Cole got released. I mean, today's my birthday. So you know that at the table here, one of the best gifts that I received today was getting a text during tree board meeting that another person who be connected to the 10 cities collective. It's getting released this Friday. There are still many people out there who are waiting to be reunited with their families.

That is, you know, I want us to remember and I want us to remember that just because, again, we're not going to be having the public hearing. We wrapped-up people can still be child residents and anybody can still reach out to each of the council members here to the mayor's office as well to express grievances to let them know to us know what type of support you need or maybe your loved ones need your neighbors need and that the work it can is not I keep saying this over and over. I know we will prevail. We will prevail. So again, thank you, everybody for your support come back join us next month. Stay for this public hearing. Thank you so much. Saying, I support the motion and I want to thank you for your leadership in bringing this to us. I think having standing public hearing was to your point, just one of the ways that this council has responded and change the way that we do business in response to this unprecedented time and this emergency.

So thank you for your bravery and leadership in bringing it up. And I also want to echo what you said about not only are there lots of ways to contact us separately outside of public hearings, but there will also be public hearings in this body. We have a public hearing every time we consider legislation and we will be considering additional pieces of legislation. As you mentioned, related to defending our community, continuing the response. So look forward to continuing to have folks come for public hearings that will be tied to those items as well. Any further discussion of the motion? Seeing none. All in favor say Aye. I'll post. Opposed to public hearings continue to MARCH 18th. That Legislative hearing consent agenda items. 24 through. 26 and before you for your consideration. We need to figure out who does that first. I want get. This is there's okay my understanding is that there is not anyone here for legislative hearings.

So what were going to just hold a public hearing o all of our legislative hearing item. So if you're here for item, 24 25 or 26. This is your public hearing is coming up. Seeing none. I will take a motion from is Joe's to close the public hearing and adopt the items with the conditions and recommendations of legislative hearing. Officer all in favor say Aye. Aye, all toaster oven and favoring and opposing legislative hearing. Consent agenda is adopted. This brings us to the end of our agenda. Normally we would go straight to good news from the words, but we have some very special guests in the House today. We have 4th grade Girl Scouts from entry who are here with us councilmember, just use your councilmember made a special point of letting me know that you are here. And I was wondering if you might. Oh, I'm so sorry. Counselor cast member Quam and his your councilmember also made a point of telling anyway, we're all your council members we were wondering if you wanted to come up and stand out in between the 2 golden columns and tell us your name and your favorite thing about Saint and your favorite cookie obvious night. That's last. Your favorite cookie. And if you have any cookies here, just getting yet. But if you did, we would like to accept.

Do you take that now? And we do fully to pay for this way. If anybody asks you if you were here and if you deserve your government that you can point them to the live recording of this that is happening right now. And all the 5 cameras that are pointing right at you'll be able to show that you were here. So I welcome up. And anyone like to start with your name and your favorite thing about same pollen, your favorite cookie, you're all going to have to go. So you might as well get it over people. And going to be anything come right on up and stand in between the 2 microphones and they'll pick you up stand. There you go yet. I welcome. Things that same cars like Friends and family that I have here. I think my favorite cookies either lemonade peanut butter can't decide she Thank you. Well, come up. they MISS It likes him, Paul, because of all the fans I have in this place and all the that I had that and the friends I've made in my favorite cookie. I eat there mints peanut butter Favorite thing about see fog.

Because we have so many favorite things. Least a mom. Any other state. Peanut butter patties case. Haven't or any caramel delights yet. Not to put anything in anybody's minds. Go ahead see. Every year itch to get in to support each other. And my favorite cookie is lemonades. All right. My name is Elaine and my favorite thing about Saint Paul as all the nice people

And make it cook is peanut butter packed up got to my name is JUNE. My favorite thing about Saint Paul. But my favorite cookies are thin mints and peanut butter. It 08:00am. I hitting about Saint Cause my school and make it took us a comment that's what But Saint Paul is how strong community is. Someone else. In our cmmunity hurt or at least there to help them. Favorite cookies creme of the like and do not say you don't like him because they're Carmel them Not coconut because you can't taste the percent could not agree. More saying liar. thing about him call. Is a community and my favorite guests can cookies. He did the peanut butter patties or venture for us? Thank you. My name is more in my in my 5th West Saint Paul as the community, my favorite Girl Scout Cookie is that people can in sully my favorite thing about Saint Paul as the community and my favorite cookie is the. The peanut butter patty and could crowd favorite? I like because the community and that really kind to ech other and ten took

His camera to In his car. And my favorite thing about Saint pause, the community and my favorite cookies, peanut butter playing The we want to thank you all so much for coming out today and being part of our meeting. And if you stick around for just a little bt longer, we're going to wrap this up. We might be able to take a picture with you as a COUNCILMAN Love to do that. World girls, So can be Thank you all so much. And I'm so sorry we have some discussion. No, we don't need do I am sorry that I had to keep my hand up because as a focal scout, I would love know any of the girls on the call. Scott Thomas. Chancellor Johnson. I just wanted to know that. Yes, on my I will try to serve GOD and my country. And help as many people as possible and to law. And we We have our 3 fingers.

And this is the former way of being a girl Scout of and that is like ironed out in your memory as a focal scout and someone who grew up in Girl Scouts. I just want to say it's so awesome that you guys are coming out to city Council cause. I didn't do that as a Girl Scout. I never got my government I will just say that. I think it awesome that you guys are here. I I love I just genuinely wanted to be able 2. To just say welcome to the city Council chambers. It's really, really rare. 4 cities to have an all-women city council sigh. Want you to take a look around the room and they're on the space and if no one else ever just know that one day. You can be anything that you want to be and do it ever, really, truly. They want to do and a lot of what you're learning now and the friends you talk about in the community that you talk about that we all experience here in Saint Paul right?

It's something that you get to cherish as long as possible. And so just keep each other in mind for part of being a Girl Scout a sisterhood that you build with one another, too, and the cookies that you But that's okay, too. Thanks Johnson. All Thank you. Don't don't go too far. We'll be right back to you. But feel free to say see. Alright, is there any good news from the words that can? Yeah. And bill, seal a few people's one, I think. But I just want to give folks in the team with us a warm welcome back to what I'm going to call our Chair Square Johnson. Our hr, a chair and our budgetary Johnson's first day back from maternity leave. Please give warm welcome back to the team or is. And it's also so I think this is where we can enlist your which I think of Haven't you need help from up?

So it's across U. S. And help us of. It's also our vice PRESIDENT Yang's per state today and folks can help us sing happy birthday to a council vice PRESIDENT. All right. Ready 1, 2, 3, happy. Idea. 30 Also see, appreciate you all. Thanks, Ken. Other good news from around the words that things come PRESIDENT. I encourage folks look at the Greater East Side Community

Council's website. They do have events happening every month all the way up until MAY. So the one who want to highlight is that on Thursday March, 26 from 05:30pm, to 07:00pm they have a starting workshop and that will be at the claim or community room. Thanks present other news from around the warrants. I can just share one what I think mentioned briefly earlier. This was something that I know many of us have heard from small businesses in from residents and our words during Operation Metro Surge and beyond. About the need for property tax relief deferrals, if possible. I heard from a small business owner, my word both with the request. Could property taxes be deferred? I reached out to Ramsey County and I'm sure many others did as well. And good news yesterday. The Ramsey County boarded approved 2 months of property tax deferral for eligible households and small businesses. So property taxes can be paid up to 2 months late with no late fees or any kind of any kind of problems at all.

And this is something that I think will hopefully help along with all the other measures that we've been taking at this body just to give some relief, give some breathing room to folks who have been suffering. So want to make sure people know about that. And it is very clearly on the Ramsey County Help folks can help promote that to constituents as well. And I just wanted to add. Not only is MARCH International Women's Month. I just want to make sure to shout out toward Fort. I actually returned today wearing her, protect the pressure. A lot of the efforts that are happening in our community are around not only support for some of our independent journalists. But also some of the proceeds are also being donated to organizations that defend press bnions. And so those really intentional to about coming back and coming back in my full power and come back in my full self and part of that also defense is ensure that I'm fighting alongside such powerful woman.

Better really shaping a multiple across multiple industries, including journalism. And so it's going to shot up to Georgia for it. And who is a fierce, the center and sonar and and up in a journalist woman of the time and also just to share with folks like the shirt. She couldn't support press and defending the press. Thanks Johnson. It's just this isn't exactly news from the words, but I just wanted to recognize that the Saturday's Pi Day. It's MARCH 14 and and a customer come tie today. I think it's probably all gone by now. But I just wanted to when I'm not here, I'm an engineer and it's a big deal in community. And so I wanted to share that with everyone. And I'm looking forward to find pies encourage everyone to go out and buy pie your local bakery in your order in Saint Paul. There's a few and there's hot hands. Pine Biscuit in Ward 3. There's also help make re. I know there's there's wonderful pie places all throughout the city. So encourage people to buy pie or pizza. Works too.

Thank you. I'm glad that we did a shout-out to and thank you for also supporting a simple Business award winner this comment. 2 things first on that note, also be very nice to the people who you by your pie from because this is their second busiest day of the no to the price this morning after Thanksgiving. And apparently there's a lot going on at your local pie shop and so be nice to folks and dipped them. When you pick up your price. This is the good news that keeps giving. Last week. I talked cbs was coming down this Monday and back again to talk about how the cbs is going to come down sometime next It's going to be so fun when it finally happened. That's a home. Killing a any other good news. Otherwise will close their meeting and welcome our got up to hear if they'd like to take a picture. All right. Thanks much for giving. We are adjourned.