Resolution No. 26-1536: Authorization for Zero Jackson Street Development Partners

Dissent: null

Moved by Council Member Kim [00:01:29] · Seconded by null

This item authorized DC Commercial and JB Vang, or their affiliates, as initial developers for the Zero Jackson Street project in District 6, Ward 5. It was noted that staff reports had covered this matter in previous weeks, leading to a quick motion and vote.

Resolution No. RES 26-1604: HRA Maximum Property Tax Levy for 2027

Dissent: null

Moved by Vice President Joe [00:02:59] · Seconded by null

Director McMahon provided an explanation regarding the proposed 2027 property tax levy. He stated that Minnesota state law permits a maximum levy of 0.0185% of the total estimated market value. The HRA's 2026 levy was already at this maximum, and the current resolution for 2027 would increase the HRA levy by 1.2%, translating to an additional $77,031.

Resolution No. 26-1606: Endicott Commercial Arcade Restoration and Activation

Dissent: null

Moved by Commissioner Naker [00:06:48] · Seconded by null

This resolution approved a $2 million investment from downtown economic development funds for the restoration and ground-floor activation of the Endicott Commercial Arcade. Council President Naker emphasized this project as a crucial part of the downtown revitalization momentum, aligning with other concurrent commercial, residential, and public investments. The discussion highlighted the importance of focused programs and funding to meet community needs and foster vitality.

Public Hearing Resolution No. RESPH 26-270: Hamline Building Multi-Family Housing Revenue Bonds

Dissent: null

Moved by Commissioner Naker [00:10:04] · Seconded by null

A public hearing was held for the issuance and sale of multi-family housing revenue bonds for the Hamline building at 408 St. Peter Street. Joe Spencer, President of the Downtown St. Paul Alliance, expressed strong support, noting the project's long-awaited progress and its significance for downtown's population, housing goals, and overall vibrancy. Commissioner Naker echoed these sentiments, highlighting the project's role in integrating residential life into a previously segmented downtown area, fostering a more dynamic environment.

Public Hearing Resolution No. 26-271: Dayton's Bluff Property Transfer and Rivoli Village Amendment

Dissent: null

Moved by Commissioner Kreeger [00:13:46] · Seconded by null

This resolution authorized the sale and transfer of property to Dayton's Bluff Neighborhood Housing Services and amended the development agreement for the Rivoli Village project. A public hearing was conducted, but no testimony was presented. Commissioner Naker acknowledged the significant work of Mr. Ertl/Erdreich and Dayton's Bluff Neighborhood Housing Services on this project.

Staff Report No. SR 26-202: HRA Funds Transfer to Human Rights and Economic Opportunity (HERO) Department

Dissent: null

Moved by null · Seconded by null

Director Ledger presented on the ongoing transfer of $539,000 in HRA funds to the HERO Department to support small business contracting and compliance programs. The funds cover staff salaries (3.25 FTE), CERT program fees, and lead agency expenses. Commissioner Johnson questioned the rationale for this long-standing operational transfer from HRA funds to the City's General Fund without absorption by the City. Director Ledger highlighted the importance of HERO's role in connecting small and diverse businesses with city contracts, citing a 61% rate of city contract funds going to small businesses over seven years and a 40% increase in CERT-certified businesses in 2025. Discussion also covered challenges in tracking local businesses due to state law limitations and the need for improved transparency in reporting transferred fund expenditures. Deputy Director Green clarified that most funding comes from the HRA General Fund.