North St. Paul City Council — Transcript
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Proclamation Honoring Gene Burwald
Variance Request for Student-Built Twin Home Subdivision
City Departmental Updates and Infrastructure Projects
Public Feedback and Community Events
Votes (2)
Proclamation for Gene Burwald Day
Dissent: N/A
Moved by Mayor Mongy [0:55] (implied by leading the proclamation) · Seconded by N/A
The council recognized Gene Burwald's profound impact on the North St. Paul and White Bear Lake communities through his family business, Burwald Roofing and Sheet Metal, and his significant charitable and civic contributions. His legacy was highlighted for fostering community growth, employment, and embodying generosity and integrity. His son and grandson were present to accept the honor.
Variance Request for 2357 7th Avenue East
Dissent: Council member Norby and Council member Schwar voted against the approval, citing lack of proven hardship and poor planning, respectively.
Moved by Council member Woods [6:55] · Seconded by Council member McKenzie [6:55]
Community Development Director Ken Roberts presented the request for a lot width variance of 9.07 ft and a driveway setback variance of 1.5 ft for a twin home. The city, as owner and applicant, sought to subdivide the property into two lots for separate sale, but a post-framing survey revealed the property did not meet R2 zoning minimums due to its unusual corner shape and necessary setbacks. Staff recommended approval, citing special conditions and consistency with the comprehensive plan. Council members Norby and Schwar voiced opposition, arguing that a 'hardship' beyond financial means was not sufficiently proven and that the situation arose from 'poor planning' during the initial project conception.
Notable Quotes (4)
It's a lot with variance of 9.07 ft for the proposed eastern lot and driveway setback variance of 1.5 ft from the side lot line for both the western and eastern lots.
This structure couldn't shift any farther to the south and west because we have to maintain the 15t set back off the side street. And we kept it right at the sixoot setback which is the minimum on this side.
I don't feel in my opinion that they have proven hardship beyond financial means and financial means are not allowed to create a variance on its own.
This was a piece of land that was spotted for parks. It then was decided that we're going to use it as because the city owns it, we're going to use it and build a student home there... Why didn't we know what the setback was going to be on top of that? So, I say that it is poor planning as a whole and therefore I will not vote on this.
Ordinances & Resolutions (6)
Official document recognizing Gene Burwald's contributions.
Proposed resolution to adopt findings of fact and approve the variance.
City zoning code specifying minimum lot width and driveway setbacks.
City's long-term plan, mentioned as consistent with the variance proposal.
Agreement for summer hours, approved on consent agenda.
Audited financial reports accepted on consent agenda.