North St. Paul approves street projects, debates future of city property
The North St. Paul City Council unanimously approved several infrastructure projects and property transactions at its July 22 meeting, while tabling a contentious discussion about whether a city-owned lot should become a park or student housing.
The council voted 5-0 to accept the completed 2024 Pavement Management Project, which improved city streets and came in about 3% under its $1.5 million budget. The council also approved a $36,000 amendment to the professional services contract for the 2025 Street Utility Improvement Project. That project ultimately saved money—over $100,000—by switching from sewer lining to open trench construction, keeping the overall project well under budget.
Looking ahead, the council authorized engineering firm WSB to begin final design work on the 2027 Street Utility Improvement Project, which will upgrade utilities on Chisum, Msabi, and Gerald Avenues in the Casey Lake neighborhood. The project is planned for 2027 bonding and aims to secure competitive construction bids for early 2027.
The council also unanimously reinstated the liquor license for Hung Hung House Restaurant and Banquet Hall. The license had expired due to a misunderstanding about renewal procedures by new management. Once notified, the business immediately stopped serving alcohol and complied with city requirements. Council members expressed support for the local business, noting no malicious intent or prior violations.
A heated discussion emerged over a 1.07-acre city-owned property on Third Street North. Staff sought direction on whether to develop it as a park or student-built housing. The property was previously studied for park use, but the city is now considering housing due to a lack of available sites. Council members and residents raised concerns about the land's steep slope, proximity to industrial areas, accessibility for park development, and lack of communication with the Parks and Recreation Committee. The council tabled the discussion for further review and encouraged members to attend an upcoming Parks and Recreation meeting at Howy Park to address the concerns.
During public comment, residents raised separate concerns about police response delays, traffic problems at 7th and McNight, transparency about Flock camera installations, and the city's decision to stop mowing a resident's boulevard for safety reasons.
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Other Topics from This Document
Police Response and Report Delays
Veterans Park Maintenance Agreement
Boulevard Mowing Policy and Safety
Future Use of Third Street North City-Owned Property (Parks vs. Student Housing)
City-Owned Property Sales and Acquisitions
Hung Hung House Restaurant Liquor License Reinstatement
2024 Pavement Management Project Closeout
2025 Street Utility Improvement Project Professional Services Amendment
2027 Street Utility Improvement Project Design Authorization
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