Mayor Carter and Legislative Delegation Celebrate Historic Investment in Saint Paul

Mayor Melvin Carter | City of Saint Paul Official website

By North Ramsey News Report

Jun 7, 2023

SAINT PAUL, MN - On May 31, Mayor Carter celebrated the historic investments in Saint Paul approved by the Minnesota Legislature. As a result of dedicated engagement and advocacy by the Saint Paul Legislative Delegation and city leadership, the state has allocated millions of dollars in funding to support public safety, housing, community centers, and public infrastructure that will greatly benefit Saint Paul and the region. Lawmakers also authorized the introduction of a ballot measure pertaining to the city’s sales tax proposal, aimed at generating crucial funding for generational investments in streets and parks.

“This historic legislative session goes to show the positive impact that the government can have on people’s lives when we work together toward a shared vision,” said Mayor Carter. “ I am incredibly grateful to our delegation for their work to secure significant investments that enable us to address urgent needs in our community, provide opportunities for the growth and development of our city, and invest directly in the well-being of our residents.”

TAX BILL FUNDING

Public safety - To further support the city’s Community-First Public Safety framework, the legislature has allocated $13.6 million in one-time funding to enhance the safety and security of our neighborhoods, including community violence prevention and intervention programs; community engagement; mental health crisis responses; victim services; training programs; first responder wellness; equipment related to fire, rescue, and emergency services; or to pay other personnel or equipment costs.

Sales tax - The city has been authorized by the legislature to bring its one-percent sales tax proposal to Saint Paul voters. Before the proposal can be put on a ballot, the City Council must pass an amended resolution to the state auditor no later than August 31.

Downtown TIF Extension - The Downtown TIF district will now be extended by 10 years, ending on December 31, 2033.

CIB extension and bond limit increase - The CIB extension has been extended from 2024 to 2035, and the City of Saint Paul is authorized to issue bonds in the aggregate principal amount from $20 million to $30 million for each year.

BONDING BILL FUNDING

Housing and unsheltered support - The funding secured in the Bonding Bill will expand access to affordable housing options and promote housing stability while providing additional support for our unsheltered residents:

Hillcrest Site - $11 million
Listening House Shelter - $2.95 million
Keystone Community Services food bank - $2.6 million
Ain Dah Yung Center emergency shelter and youth lodge - $2.2 million
Accessible Space Inc. accessible housing units - $1.15 million

Community engagement - The funding received during this legislative session will also revitalize our community centers, making them vibrant hubs for engagement, education, and recreation. This investment will empower our residents, especially our youth, to realize their full potential and contribute to the overall well-being of our community:

Mississippi River Learning Center - $8 million
Parks at River’s Edge - $6.22 million
North End Community Center - $6 million
PROCEED Community Center - $5 million
Walker West Music Academy - $4.1 million
Playwrights’ Center renovation - $4 million
Latino Economic Development Center renovation - $3.548 million
30K Black Arts and Tech Center - $3.5 million
Hmong 18 Council Inc. Hmong MN Community Center - $3 million
Conway Recreation Center - $2.5 million
Inclusive playground - $2.5 million
Wakan Tipi Center - $2.5 million
YWCA - $2.317 million
Wellstone Center - $2.15 million
Special Guerilla Unit Hmong Veterans Museum - $2 million
Irreducible Grace Foundation Black Youth Healing Arts Center - $1.5 million
Sanneh Foundation renovation - $1 million
Urban Tennis - $750,000
Open Arms Kitchen and Counseling Center - $500,000

Infrastructure - The significant funding for public infrastructure projects will improve our city's connectivity and enhance the quality of life for all residents and visitors. From the revitalization of public spaces to the enhancement of transportation networks, these infrastructure investments will lay the foundation for a sustainable and thriving future.

Third Street Bridge - $25 million
Ford building demolition - $4.542 million

Development - With the secured funding, we will embark on ambitious development projects that will shape the future of our city. These projects will focus on revitalizing underutilized areas, fostering economic growth, and creating vibrant spaces that promote commerce, culture, and community engagement: