The Saint Paul Planning Commission's Zoning Committee has released its agenda for their upcoming meeting, detailing items that promise to shape the city's urban landscape. The December 8th session is set to review several rezoning and permit applications that could see local business territories give way to residential spaces and dance floors find formal footing. The official agenda, made available on Saint Paul's government website, lists the items but does not confirm their sequence for discussion.
In the realm of new business, the committee is to consider a proposal to transform 25 George St E, a slice of land sandwiched between Humboldt and Gorman Avenues, from a B1 local business district into an H1 residential district, a move that Tia Anderson of the committee, is prepared to review. The application is represented by Christina Hong, reachable at 651-266-6572 for further details. The change could potentially increase residential space in the district, Council 3, Ward 2. In another bid to permanently establish a place for rhythm and dance, the Cinema Ballroom located at 1560 St Clair Ave seeks a Conditional Use Permit to operate as a rental and dance hall, a case that is to be reviewed by Stefan Hankerson, who can be reached at 651-266-6646.
Other highlighted proposals on the agenda include two separate items involving 642 Selby Ave, where rezoning from B2 community business to T3 traditional neighborhood is requested, along with a variance to permit a no-yard setback along the property's west line. These adjustments, which are currently under the scrutiny of Chris Hong, could significantly reshape the Selby Avenue corridor between St. Albans and Dale Streets, promoting a more walkable, neighborhood-oriented environment. The contact for inquiries about these cases is the same Chris Hong, available at 651-266-6572.
An additional rezoning discussion will focus on 841-857 Grand Ave, a stretch targeted to transition from B2 community business and BC community business (converted) to T3 traditional neighborhood. This initiative, as represented by Spencer Johnson (651-266-6093), contemplates a new vision for the Grand Avenue stretch between Victoria and Avon Streets. It is part of the evolving narrative for District Council 16, Ward 2, which continues to explore the dynamic between commercial spacings and the neighborhood's residential authenticity.
Members of the public who wish to express their opinions on these proposals can submit written testimony to [email protected] before 2:30 p.m. on the day of the public hearing, ensuring that their full name and location information are included, although street addresses can be withheld if privacy is a concern. For the committee members who cannot attend, advisory notifications are to be sent to [email protected]. The applicants or their designated representatives are reminded of the crucial need to be present during the meeting to address any questions that may arise.
