Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Saint Paul public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in development
Problem property enforcement (remove/repair orders)
The council ordered rehabilitation or razing of the structures at 633 Capitol Boulevard, with the matter referred back to an October 27, 2026 legislative hearing.
Sale of HRA-owned 515 Lafond to the Church of St. Agnes
The HRA owns property at 515 Lafond and will hear a presentation on selling it to the Church of St. Agnes. The sale could return a publicly held parcel to active use in Ward 1.
Barndominium alternative housing
New Ulm's city manager presented on barndominiums — a low-cost alternative housing model — covering zoning barriers, financing, and whether it can scale. Saint Paul is evaluating whether such models fit its housing needs.
Preserving affordable housing at Afton View Apartments
The board got a first look at the Afton View Apartments affordable housing project, with developer Tareen Development Partners answering questions. A formal request will likely come later.
The Aragon Development affordable housing
The Aragon at 470 White Bear Avenue just got its 2027 low-income housing tax credits reserved — a make-or-break funding source for affordable housing projects. This moves the East Side project forward.
State housing funding applications for Saint Paul projects
The HRA reserved city funds to back Saint Paul projects applying to the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency. Matching local dollars can strengthen those applications and bring more affordable housing resources to the city.
HOME housing budget amendments
The city's federal HOME housing dollars were updated to reflect $1.29 million in program income and about $2.65 million in 2026 spending.
2027 Low Income Housing Tax Credit Reservation
The city is figuring out how to reserve its 2027 federal tax credits that help finance affordable housing projects. How they're allocated shapes which affordable developments get built.