87-1364 WMITE - CITV CLERK
PINK ..FINANCE GITY OF SAINT PAiTL Council �+�_���
CANARV - DEPARTMENT �
B4.UE � - h1AVOR , FIIC NO•
�
� ^ Cou 'l Resolution
Presented By
Re erre To Committee:_ Date
Out of Committee By Date
WHEREAS , the St. Paul Urban League for Southeast Hall-Whitney
Young Housing Corporation, 401 Selby Avenue, Saint Paul , Minnesota
applied to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a variance from
the strict application of the provisions of Sections 61 .101 ,
61 . 101 (e) , 62. 103.6(lb) , and 62. 104(11) of the 5aint Paul Legis-
lative Code pertaining to the number of dwelling units , off-street
parking and side yard setbacks in the RM-2 Zoning District
for property located a� 415-429 Selby Avenue , being on Selby Rvenue
between Western and Arundel , for the purpose of constructing
a senior citizen apartment building with 45 one-bedroom dwelling
units ; and
WHEREAS , following a public hearing with notice to affected
property owners , the Board of Zoning Appeals by its Resolution
No. 10154, adopted July 28 , 1987 , approved the variances from
the strict interpretation of the provisions of the Zoning Code
to allow construction of the 45 unit senior citizen apartment
building with 90 zoning rooms , 19 off-street parking spaces
and a setback of 7 feet for the parking lot from the east property
line on property located at 415-429 Selby Avenue and legally
described as Lot 17 , except the west 6 inches thereof, and
all of Lots 18 , 19 , 20, 21 , 22 and 23, Block 2, Kern' s Addition
to St. Paul in accordance with the application for variance
and the site plan on file with the St. Paul Planning Division,
subject to the condition that if any units are ever used for
non-senior citizen housing, one off-street parking space per
unit must be provided for these units within 300 feet of the
building measured from the nearest point of the building to
the nearest point of the off-street parking lot , based upon
the following findings made by the Board of Zoning Appeals :
(1 ) The applicant proposes to construct a three-story
building with 45 one-bedroom apartments for low income senior
citizens . -
COUNCILMEN
Yeas Nays Requested by Department of:
[n Favor
Against BY
Form Approved b C y Attorney
Adopted by Council: Date
Certified Yassed by Council Secretary BY
gy,
A►pproved by 1Aavor: Date Approved by Ma o for Submission to Council
By BY
� ������
(2) The project is being built with the help of funding
from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Forty-five
units are needed to make the project feasible under HUD regu-
lations.
( 3) This project cannot be built on this property under
the strict provisions of the Code due to the size of the lot.
(4) The project provides enough parking to meet the require-
ments set by the Zoning Code for senior citizen housing: it
provides 19 spaces compared to 15 required. However, the Zoning
Code also requires that there be room on the site to meet parking
requirements for multiple housing in case the building is open
to non-senior citizen use. Under the agreement with HUD, this
building must be used for at least 40 years as senior citizen
housing. In addition to this agreement , a condition should
be added to the variance to prevent any future parking problems
( 5) The proposed variance is in keeping with the spirit
and intent of the Code. It will not impair an adequate supply
of light and air to adjacent property, nor will it alter the
essential character of the surrounding area or unreasonably
diminish established property values within the surrounding
area. The District 8 Chapter of the City' s Comprehensive Plan
states that the District Council should encourage the location
of subsidized housing sites for the elderly near major bus
lines and shopping areas . (Recommendation 30)
(6) The variance, if granted, would not permit any use
that is not permitted in the zoning district where the property
is located.
(7) The request for variance is based primarily on a desire
to fully utilize the site rather than for economic gain.
and;
WHEREAS , Charles William Girsch, 294 Summit Avenue , Saint
Paul , Minnesota, 55102 , duly filed an appeal to the City Council
from this decision of the Board of Zoning Appeals requesting
that a hearing be held before the City Council for the purpose
of considering the actions taken by the said Board; and,
2.
WH17E - CITV CLERK .
PINK � FINANCE GITY OF SAINT PAUL Council �
CANARV - DEPARTMENT F�/��� �
BI�JE - MAVOR File NO. V
�
Council Resolution
Presented By
Referred To Committee: Date
Out of Committee By Date
WHEREAS , acting pursuant to Sections 64.205 through 64.208
and upon notice to appellant, applicant, and other affected
property owners , a public hearing was duly conducted by the
City Council wherein all interested parties were given an oppor-
tunity to be heard; and
WHEREAS , the Council having heard the statements made
and having considered the variance application, the report
of staff, the minutes , findings and resolution of the Board
of Zoning Appeals , does hereby
RESOLVE, that the Counc.-il of the City of Saint Paul does
hereby affirm the decision of the Board of Zoning Appeals in
this matter and does hereby concur in the findings made and
determined by said Board; and, be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the appeal of Charles William Girsch
be and is hereby denied; and, be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Clerk shall mail a copy
of this resolution to the St. Paul Urban League , Charles William
Girsch, the Zoning Administrator, the Planning Commission and
the Board of Zoning Appeals.
3.
COUNCILMEN Requested by Department of:
Yeas Drew Nays �
�'� In Favor
Rettman d
Scheibel _ Against BY
Sonnen
Weida
W].1SOn SEP 16 1987 Form Approved by ity Attorney
Adopted by Council: Date
Certified Pas e unci Se a y BY
By
A►pprov by 1Vlavor: D
� S�p I 7 �8� Approved b ayor for Submission to Council
B BY
�U�tS�D s t P 2 6 1987
°��'�k _/_�. ,;.��.
. 4R4``1�= O+ �� .
CITY OF SAINT PAUL
a ����,,, ; DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
4, __� �� �Q DIVISION OF PLANNING
,�s•
25 West fourth Sheet,Saint Paul,Minnesota 55102
612-22&3270
GEORGE LATtMER
MAYOR
August 31, 1987
Albert Olson, City Clerk
Room 386, City Hall
Saint Paul, MN 55102
RE: Zoning File #10187 - Charles W. Girsch
City Council Hearing: September 10,1987
PURPOSE: Appeal of decision by Board of Zoning Appeals to grant variances for
construction of a 45-unit senior citizen apartment building.
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS DECISION: Approve (6 - 0)
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approve
SUPPORT: None
OPPOSITION: Two people spoke in opposition
Dear Sir:
On July 14, 1987 the Board of Zoning Appeals held a public hearing on the
variances requested for this project. The applicant testified. Two people
spoke in opposition. At the close of the meeting the BZA voted 6 to 0 to
grant the variances based on staff findings. The specific variances were for:
l. Number of zoning rooms (90 requested, 54 permitted)
2. Off-street parking (Although the project has enough parking to meet
its requirement for senior citizen housing (1 space for every 3
units) it does not have meet the requirement that the site have
enough space to provide the requirement for regular multiple-family
housing (1 1/2 spaces per unit) should the project ever be converted.
The variance was approved on condition that if the building is ever
converted to regular multiple-family housing it must provide 1 space
per unit within 300' of the building. )
3. Sideyard setback for the parking lot (7' requested, 15' required)
On August 3, 1987, the applicant filed an appeal of the BZA's decision. The
applicant asserts that the BZA erred in its decision and that the variance is
not in keeping with the spirit and intent of the code and that it will alter
the essential character of the surrounding area and unreasonably diminish
property values within the surrounding area.
The appeal is scheduled to be heard by the City Council on September 10, 1987.
���-����'
��lease notify me if any member of the City Council wishes to have slides of
the site presented at the public hearing.
Sincerely,
Tom Beach
Zoning Section
� , �r��i��Y-
4
CITY OF SAINT PAUL
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS RESOLUTION
. ZONING FILE NUMBER: ioisa
DATE: Juiy 2s, i98�
WHEREAS, St. Paul Urban League has applied for a variance from the strict application of
thc provisions of Scction 61.101, 61.101(e), 62.103.6(lb) 62.104(ll) of the Saint Paul
Lcgislative Code pertaining to number of units, off-street parking and side yard setbacks
in the RM-2 zoning district; and
WHEREAS, the Saint Paul Board of Zoning Appeals conducted a public hcaring on
]uly 14, 1987, pursuant to said appeal in accordance with the requirements of Section
62.204 of the Legislative Code; and
WHEREAS, the Saint Paul Board of Zoning Appeals based upon evidence presented at the
public hearing, as substantially reflected in the minutes, made the following findings of
fact:
, 1. Thc applicant proposes to construct a three-story building with 45 one-bedroom
, apartments for low-income senior citizens. Variances are required for number of zoning
rooms, parking and sideyard setback.
2. This project is being built with the help of funding from the Department of Housing
and Urban Development. The original site chosen by the Urban League for this project,
at Milton and Concordia was not acceptable to HUD. The Selby site was the only site
acceptable oC six presented to HUD, because of its proximity to shopping �nd public
transportation.
; Forty-five units are needed to make the project feasible under HUD guidelines.
3. This project cannot be built on this property under the strict provisions of the code due
to the size of the lot.
4. The project provides enough parking to meet the requirements set by the Zoning Code
For senior citizen housing: it provides 19 spaces compared to I S required. However, the
Zoning Code also requires that there be room on the site to meet parking requirements
for multi-family housing in case the building is opened to noa-senior citizen use.
Under the agreement with HUD, this building must be used for at least 40 years as
senior citizcn housing.
ln addition to this agreement, however, a condition should be added to the variance to
prevent any future parking problems: Before any units can be used for anyone other
than senior citizens, one off-street parking space per unit must be provided for these
- units within 300 feet of the building, measured from the nearest point of the build;ng to
the nearest point of the off-street parking lot. (This will meet the parking standards
recommended by District 8 in the Comprehensive Plan.)
5. The proposed variance is in keeping with the spirit and intent of the code. It will not
inipair an adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property, nor will it alter the
essential character of the surrounding area or unreasonably diminish established
property values within the surrounding area.
'The District 8 chapter of the Comprehensive Plan states that "the district council should
encourage the location of subsidized housing sites for the elderly near major bus lines
and shopping areas...." (Recommendation 30)
6. The variance, if granted, would not permit any use that is not permitted in the zoning
district where the property is located.
7. The request for variance is based primarily on a desire to fully utilize the site r�ther
than economic gain.
(continued)
��y/3lr�
� �'ilc #]0154
•
` Page Two
� NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Saint Paul Board of Zoning Appcals that
the provisions of Scction 61.101, 61.101(c), 62.103.6(lb) 62.104(11) bc hcreby waivcd to allow
construction of a 45-unit senior citizen apartment building with 90 zoning rooms, 19 oCf-
street parking spaces and a setback of scvcn fcet for thc parking lot from thc cast property
line on property located at 415-429 Selby Avenue and legally described as Lot 17, except
the West six inches thereof; all of Lots 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23, all in Block 2, Kcrn's
Addition to Saint Paul, according to the recorded plat thereof, and situate in Ramsey
County, Minnesota; in accordance with the application for variance and the sitc plan on
file with the Saint Paul Planning Division, subject to the condition that if any units arc
evcr used for non-senior citizen housing, one off-street parking space per unit must bc
provided for these units, within 300 feet of the building, measurcd from thc ncaresr point
of the building to the nearest point of thc off-street parking lot.
MOVED BY: Osborn
SECONDED BY: wooas
IN FAVOR: 6
AGAINST: o
MAILED: July 31, 1987
TIME LIMIT: No order of the Board of Zoning Appeals permitting the erection or
alteration of a building or off-street parking facility shall be v�lid
for a period longer than one year, unless a building permit for such
erection or alteration is obtained within such period and such
erection or alteration is proceeding pursuant to the terms of such
permit. The Board of Zoning Appeals or the City Council may grant
an extension not to exceed one year. In granting such extension, the
Board of Zoning Appeals may decide to hold a public hearing.
APPEAL: Decisions of the Board of Zoning Appeals are final subject to appeal
to the City Council within 15 days by anyone affected by the
decision.
�ERTIFICATION: I, the undersigned Secretary to the 13oard of Zoning Appeals for the
City of Saint Paul, Minnesota, do hereby certify that I I�ave
compared the toregoing copy with the original record in my office;
and find the same to be a true and correct copy of said original and
of the whole thereof, as based on approved minutes of the Saint Paul
Board of Zoning Appeals meeting held on July l4, 1987 and on
record in the Saint Paul Planniug Division Oftice, 25 1Vest Pourth
Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota.
SAINT PAUL BOARD OF ZONINC APPEALS
—.`� �
.-�t��� -------------
✓ �
Secretary to the Board
, ° �,c�7�-i�U�
APPLICATION FOR APPEAL RECEIVED ZONING OFFICE USE ONLY
CITY OF SAINT PAUL
Fi le # � � � �7
AUG 1 � 1987 Q °"°
Application Fee S 1 �
ZONING Tentative Hearing Date p �' ���7
Application is hereby made for an Appeal to the City Council
under the provisions of Chapter 64, Section 20 , Paragraph of the oning Code
to appeal a decision made by the _� Board of oning Appeals
Planning Commission on July 28 , 19 8�
_ Zoning Administrator (date of decision)
_ Planning Administrator
_ Other
A. APPELLANT
Narr�harles Wi 1 � am c� r�ch Daytime phone 2gl-9i 3�
Address 294 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul, MN Zip Code 55102
B. DECISION BEING APPEALED
Zon i ng f i 1 e name Saint Paul Urban Leaque Zon i ng Fi 1 e # � n i 54
Property Address/Location 415-429 Selb� Av n��P
Legal description Unknown
C. GROUNDS FOR APPEAL (Use additional sheets if necessary.)
(txplain why you feel there has been an error in any requirement, permit, decision
or refusal made by an administrative official, or an error in fact, procedure or finding
made by the Board of Zoning Appeals or the Planning Comnission.)
The proposed var .iance is not in keepinq with the spirit an� ; n�Pn+ �f
of the code. It will alter the essential character of the surrounding
area an wi unreasonably diminish established property values v�ithin
�hc c„rr..,,r,.a
�
I
If ou have any questions, please contact: I�IJ����J
Y
Applicant's signature
St. Paul Zoning Office
1100 City Hall Annex 8�3�87
25 West Fourth Street
Saint Paul , Minr,esota 55102 Date City agent
(298-4154) 9/82
� ���-���
' MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS IN
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA, JULY 14, 1987
PRESENT: Mme. Maddox; Messrs. Grais, Kirk, Osborn. Horak, and Zimniewicz of
the Board of Zoning Appeals; Mr. Segal, Assistant City Attorney;
Ms. Lane of the Division of Building Inspection and Design; Mr.
Beach, Ms. Synstegaard and Mr. Soderholm of the Planning Division
Staff.
BA SENT: Messr. Woods.
•The meeting was chaired by Sam Grais, Chairman.
ST. PAUL URBAN LEAGUE (#10154) : Variance to construct a senior citizen
apartment building with 45 one-bedroom units.
The applicant was present. There was opposition present at the hearing.
Mr. Beach showed slides of the site and reviewed the staff report with a
recommendation for approval. District 8 sent letter in support� three letters
were received of concern of the project and three letters were received in
opposition.
Mr. Horak asked if the developer who was involved in the project in 1985 is
out of the picture, Mr. Beach replied yes.
Willie Mae Wilson, 401 Selby Avenue, President of the St. Paul Urban League,
stated�that they have spent a considerable amount of time evaluating an
alternative proposal presented by Ramsey Hill Association and neighborhood
businessmen and found it not be economically feasible nor does it meet with
the deadline they are under. They have worked through the recommendation that
the developers are bringing to your attention. They have spent hours of
meeting time with their board of directors and the developers.
Mr. Grais asked Ms. Wilson if the Urban League has met with their opponents.
Ms. Wilson stated that they have met with them Jim Bellus and Gene Kraut have
set in on the meetings. Numerous people have spent many hours trying to
resolve this. They have a letter that was sent by the Mayor to the developers
stating that the City of St. Paul has met the parking needs of development in
that area when it provided over $200,000 to create two surface parking lots at
the ir.tersections of Selby and Virginia and Selby and Arundal. That met the
needs of the developments at that time. Since that time the developers have
, continued to acquire new liquor licenses. When you require a liquor license
you are required to provide more parking. The parking issue in the area is
driven by the acquisition of new liquor licenses. She has discussed the two
surface parking lots with the city staff and have been informed in their view
that they view the long-term parking solution in the area as being a parking
ramp. However, she has been informed that the developers have refused to
contribute to the construction of the parking ramp which would meet the long-
term parking needs. The developers would like to redesign and relocate the
Urban League's office building. The city fully intends to meet the parking
requirement. ,
. File #10154 `� �� /3��
Page Two
Greg Finzell, Community Organizer for District 8, stated that the District
first reviewed this project in December of 1986. Ninety days ago they
reviewed �it again and will be reviewing it for the final time at the end of
the month. They are in support of this project. The Hill Plaza pro�ect .
across the street from thfs proposal, was granted a variance when it was built
from 1.5 to 1 parking space per unit, and other variances have been granted in
this area. This project meets its parking requirement. There is a parking .
shortage in the area but they are all working towards trying to solve that, a
ramp is an idea that is being talked about.
Sherrie Pugh, consultant for the Urban League, stated that she wanted to
address some of the issues brought up in the opposition letters. One of the
issues was a request that the architects and contractors of the Urban League
must confirm the increase amount of $500,000 to $600,000 if the Urban League
added it's offices. Their contractor and architect met with the developers
and representatives of the community that raised this issue. For the
architects and contractors to confirm a price would mean an additional price
to the Urban League and she doesn't believe that would be a fair request when
no one is helping them fund that. Secondly, they stated that HUD must confirm
the pro3ect deadlines can accommodate the required redesign and that it be
subject to HUD also financing an increase of $100,000 to $150,000. In talking
with their HUD program officer, he stated that short of Samuel Pierce,
Secretary of HUD, making a commitment for an increase, it would be impossible.
If such an increase were granted it would only mean that the cash would have
to come from the Urban League. They are required to,put $b0,000 worth of
equity on the table before they start construction. HUD does not grant
increases because someone wants them to put commercial space into a senior
housing project. The financing commitment that the Urban League has is from
HUD and is a 9 1/4$ interest rate. That interest rate is only guaranteed
until September 30� 1987. As of today they are on schedule and can meet that
deadline. To go into redesign and other issues that they have tried to
address in previous meetings with the developers would only delay that and
jeopardize their interest rate. Another issue was that they asked that PED
must confirm the willingness to acquire the existing Urban League site for
$150,000 to $200�000. They had a meeting in which they invited Jim Bellus,
Port Authority, HUD and those concerned individuals. At that meeting the City
stated they could acquire the Urban League building for only it's market
price. That does not meet the cost requirements for the relocation. Another
issue was that Urban League must conf�irm that the cost for expanding the
existing facility would be in the range of $100,000 to $200,000. The
improvements to the existing Urban League building is a separate issue from
that of the 202. That is something the Urban League is dealing with. Another
• issue required that the Port Authority and PED confirm their willingness to
fund a shortfall. Their understanding from their meeting with those parties
was that a confirmation was that they could not commit to monies that were not
available. She knows that the city is committed to supporting low-income
housing and in development of minority economic development.
. �-����G�
, File, #10154
Page Three
. Sarah Rubenstein, 442 Dayton, stated that she has lived in the area for 10
years and has two children. She is concerned about the density, parking and
traffic. She stated that everytime there is construction in the area there is
another request for a zoning variance. She has seen the density, traffic and
number of cars increase. She stated that she is extremely concern about these
issues.
� Richard Molnar, 165 .N. Western, stated that he is opposed to the variance. He
� produced a petition signed by 36 of the residents of the Blair House in which
he lives in opposition. They do not oppose the Urban League, they have
.concerns about the way the project is going to impact the neighborhood, and
how it will affect the long-term planning of the neighborhood. The people who
live in the Blair House desire a neighborhood which is economically and
racially diverse. They support all developments which make it a viable and
livable neighborhood. He sees two big problems with the project, density and
parking. There is crime in the area which might make it undesirable for older
people. He feels the variance would be unwise as it would not help the
parking problem. He feels that the continuity of development in the area
should be in line with the current city guidelines and zoning laws.
Mr. Grais asked Mr. Molnar how many tenants live in the Blair House. Mr.
Molnar replied that there are 44 units in the building, there are currently 37
occupied. There are 36 signatures on their petition that represents 16 of the
18 resident owners that live in the building and represents 27 of the 37
occupied units. ,
Mr. Soberholm stated that the city tried to work on a commercial parking ramp
to be located near Virginia and Selby but it proved impossible to make it work
financially and so a large surface lot will be built at Virginia and Selby
depending on a zoning case that goes to the Planning Commission in two weeks.
Mr. Zimniewicz asked if the surface parking lot will solve the parking problem
in the area. Mr. Soderholm stated that it will help to some extent but the
commercial development that is being built north of Selby Avenue needs more
parking than is being developed. The city has some commitments to working on
the parking deficiency in the area. This pro�ect is not adding to the parking
deficiency� it is meeting the parking requirement for this property which is
residentially zoned.
� Robert Buntz, 403 Laurel, stated that there was a reason that the lot was full
of cars in the first slide that was shown and that is because there is not
just a parking problem, there is a tremendous parking problem. The 270
� parking spaces are needed for the development as it presently stands, not any
added development. The provisfon that the staff is requiring for spaces to
meet the present requirement for parking, should the building eventually turn
back from elderly housing to normal housing, is one that is not achievable.
You cannot come up with parking spaces tomorrow what you can't find today. He
stated he is opposed to this project and primarily because of the parking
shortage. The density in the neighborhood is high. There isn't a need for
elderly housing in the neighborhood and that is evidenced by the occupancy
rate at the Neil Home. The Neil Home is not fully occupied by elderly
residents. They are renting it to other people because they cannot find
elderly people to occupy it.
� ��1����
• File, #10154
Page Four
Mr. Grais asked Mr. Buntz what the rents were at the Neil Home, Mr. Buntz
replied that he didn't know.
Ms. Wilson stated that the rent at their proposed home will be $515 per month
but the senior citizens will not have to pay that dollar amount. They will be
eligible for government subsidies under the Section 8 Certificate Program.
She stated that what they are proposing to do is not to add to the density in
the area. What they are proposing is fewer than the private developer was
proposing to do prior to the Urban League. At that time they do not recall
any of the current opponents bringing the density issue up. They have proof,
using government data, the need for senior housing in the area. They would
not have been successful in getting favorable reviews from the Metropolitan
Council, HUD or any of the government entities if there was not a need for
senior citizen housing. They have proven their case all the way to
Washington, D.C. They went through the community and collected 1,000
signatures in support of their project. They believed that they have tried to
address all the issues that have been brought to their attention. They have
substantiated what they are trying to do. They have been working in a very
cooperative manner with all of the opponents. The questions they are asking
today they have answered for them. They have gone through other government
entities with these same concerns and they have been addressed. The Section 8
certificates are attached to this development. The Section 202 Housing
Program is one of the most successful housing programs in the U.S.
Historically in St. Paul it has been done by the Wilder Foundation. There is
no history of these projects going in default. Wilder has told them that in
their current projects like this one, they have a 2 year waiting list for
people waiting to get into these buildings. They are signing a 40 year
mortgage commitment as to how they will use this land.
Mr. Zimniewicz asked what the rent is in the Neil Apartments. Ms. Wilson
stated that the Neil Apartments are public housing. Public Housing uses a
sliding fee scale for their tenants based on their income. They will have a
similar type of arrangement but they are private, non-profit and are under a
different section of the government. They will be able� depending upon their
income, to pay 308 of their income towards rent.
Hugh Flowers, resident of Neil Apartments, stated that his rent varies
depending on his income. When he first moved there his rent was $78 per
month, now his rent is $182 per month.
Hearing no further testimony, Mr. Grais closed the public portion of the
meeting.
Mr. Osborn moved to approve the variance based on findings 1 through 7, Mr.
Zimniewicz seconded the motion, which passed on a roll call vote of 6 to 0.
Submitted by: Approved by:
� �
;C�� "�
Tom Beach Sam Grais
✓��,,��
, BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS STAFF REPORT
FILE #10154
l. APFLICANT: St. Paul Urban League DATE OF HEARING: 7/14/87
2. CLASSIFICATION: Major Variance
3. LOCATION: 415-429 Selby Avenue (north side between Western and Arundel)
4. LEGAL DESCRIPTION: See file
5. PLANNING DISTRICT: 8
6. PRESENT ZONING: RM-2 ZONING CODE REFERENCE: 61.101, 61.101(e) , 62.103.6(lb)
62.104(11) .
7. STAFF INVESTIGATION AND REPORT: DATE: July 2, 1987 BY: Tom Beach
A. PURPOSE: To construct a senior citizen apartment building with 45 one-bedroom
units.
B. ACTION REOUESTED; Variances for:
1. Number of zoning rooms. The project calls for 90 zoning rooms; 54 zoning
rooms are permitted 61.101(e) .
2. Off-street parking. The Zoning Code requires that housing for senior
citizens provide one off-street parking place for every 3 units and also
have enough room on the property to meet the parking requirements for
regular multiple family housing (1 1/2 spaces per unit) . The 19 spaces
provided meet the parking requirements for senior citizen housing but a
variance is required because there is not room on the site for the 67 spaces
that would be needed to meet the multiple family requirement.
3. Sideyard setback. The parking lot would be 7 feet from the east property
line. Fifteen feet is required.
C. SITE AND AREA CONDITIONS: This is a rectangular shaped lot with 279 feet
fronting on Selby an a depth of 116 feet. Total lot area is 32,460 square feet.
The lot is level. It is currently vacant and being used as a temporary parking
lot. It is located 1/2 block from the Historic Hill Heritage Preservation
District. �
Surrounding Land Use:
North: Mixed density residential
East: Commercial
South: Commercial and multi-family residential
West: Mixed density residential
D. ZONING HISTORY: In September 1985 the BZA approved variances for density,
building setbacks and lot coverage for construction of a SO unit apartment
building by a private developer. This building would have had 136 zoning rooms,
a setback from Selby of 0 feet, a rear yard setback of 2 feet and lot coverage
of 73$.
In October 1985 a portion of this site was rezoned from B-2 to its present RM-2
for the same project.
E. FIND7NGS:
1. The applicant proposes to construct a 3-story building with 45 1-bedroom
apartments for low-income senior citizens. Variances are required for
number of zoning rooms, parking and sideyard setback.
2. This project is being built with the help of funding from the Department of
Housing and Urban Development. The original site chosen by the Urban League
for this pro�ect, at Milton and Concordia was not acceptable to HUD. The
Selby site was the only site acceptable of 6 presented to HUD, because of
its proximity to shopping and public transportation.
���,��
�;.le #10154
Page Two
Forty-five units are needed to make the project feasible under HUD
guidelines.
3. This project cannot be built on this property under the strict provisions of
the code due to the size of the lot.
4. The project provides enough parking to meet the requirements set by the
Zoning Code for senior citizen housing: it provides 19 spaces compared to
15 required. However, the Zoning Code also requires that there be rcom on
the site to meet parking requirements for multi-family housing in case the
building is opened to non-senior citizen use.
Under the agreement with HUD, this building must be used for at least 40
years as senior citizen housing.
In addition to this agreement, however, a condition should be added to the
variance to prevent any future parking problems: Before any units can be
used for anyone other than senior citizens, 1 off-street parking space per
unit must be provided for these units within 300 feet of the building,
measured from the nearest point of the building to the nearest point of the -
off-street parking lot. (This will meet the parking standards recommended
by District 8 in the Comprehensive PLan. )
5. The proposed variance is in keeping with the spirit and intent of the code.
It will not impair an adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property,
nor will it alter the essential character of the surrounding area or
unreasonably diminish established property values within the surrounding
area.
The District 8 chapter of the Comprehensive Plan states that "the district
council should encourage the location of subsidized housing sites for the
elderly near major bus lines and shopping areas. . . ." (Recommendation 30)
6. The variance, if granted, would not permit any use that is not permitted in
the zoning district where the property is located.
7. The request for variance is based primarily on a desire to fully utilize the
site rather than economic gain.
E. STAFF ANALYSIS: This project is located just outside the boundaries of the
Historic Hill Heritage Preservation District. Representatives of the project
met with the Heritage Preservation Commission to review preliminary concepts for
the design and said they would come back again to meet with the HPC when the
project is further along. Planning staff supports this action.
F. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Based on findings 1 through 7, staff recommends approval
of the variance, based on the condition stated in finding 4.
� �� ��
.
. � �r�-�a.� �� ,C� � �-� ��-�
;a��rn.�- �
w� � ��
i Y � �:��
� ''� � �'oo�Y1b Qitl P I'Y1/h . /1(�%!'YI�
. ,
��� �o ✓�1LCI�° ��P �/'b�ec � 7�cco: . ���l.vh�1��
.
�� ��s �D �'oo r�� ,c�. � �� ��� �
� / � �
c�ft�u 10z �r i� .
��
,
.�. a rdv�� �� s �r �%��-e.-
�� � ���
!' �.�,�e7 f�az�a�x � cSf- ��;�c.� ���.x�
i' . � �
: ,��� ,� /o� ��i �� �
�� .
�, �lz.e u�c ��c � .�so �� ,� �o� ��� a•�
i, �
!' Q �o ro� ,
i
;� / •
, �e�7i�l/ //a-1G0�/�2 ,(,k' /I�QS� ��=� �
'' Ge;v�,l� /� �i.e�. e2 ��%ll� G�!y1'
�; �
�����
,' ll�i S�l� o��ix. ��irrsot, �D��7�'0�
��, � �°S J� .coi��.0 �d GLit�i'c i�DU��
. " ►�- �
�� h�c��. � �d �, y���e�
�r�� ! . 7� � ,� ��.� ��-
� 1 �-� Q � �
� ��
� �i��r�� 6� �
,� �� � - � �
,� / .
��lZ,�, �ec� �D Z. fZDl=�al�fL
�,,``� /� V
ro �� L1a�o a- ,e � � � �
�
�
� � 7�u ,�aa-c.d C���c� Q. Y�t�c� C.S�-r�.� . ��� .
� y
� �.,�� _ � /�
�,r,c� . ������ .n.�, � �
`` u�-u�
t
. �-�y����
�c � l6�.�� �o ��;��� � ��e �1����,
. �� � �f �r�/ �� ��- �����
� / _ .
��;ua,� ��,sls �c, S�� �
_ � � � /� ��Q
�""�G� �/1� �Z�%�,/�.� �'i`C Q�,�p j� /�r.�
. �
�,l� /�ta-�.�,tC` �� Q. viG� ��i�',
V r
i
. � - .. . . � i�'�.
���i
i
i�
�I
. ��
II
` � _
. � � ,1� �
M. �t z �t, �c,+,�
`.`' tiWyn? ��� � {.H1.� �'1t1
�(�y '
� :
� _
� 1 „ -66 ,g ` �
�
. ; �
�
� ,+� .�f i : � �.��
-- . : .t.... . ,
� ��„E
a �� ���° �
;.,: ,
,
. � � ` p . ..-_
`� � � _ o�
; � .. _ � ��p�
i �v .zr z� ��:'n 3 ��,
. �, y .. . � n• n -- "- � �
� �� ��� C A+ ��
_� , �.`: ,� �°�
. ,� ,�, ;� '�� ,zj Y � ���Q
� � . ��
..
J, _ , ,.
c� •'�r. `v �n
— u � ' _� _�
.. '�P I �� I .
��—� : �
, � '
� - ( t.. � � ! D
_ . � . . - . " �. ' . "��
� :: � �°��
,:. ^- ;
Z . -� _ ,, � � �- �
11�M � _ �iW� -
� `�.'. '' ! ��
• .' ;.,
� �� ; �� .
� �� `�'' � ' •-; � `c
�, - _ ' -��-� �
� � � � � � �. �. � �� �
.; -�
' D '9 ; � \?��
"111 .
� �
� �
0 �
11— ,,,; ,
.r ,
�. �
�
, �
- �.0
C:*�
.�
�►.
. i....
, , r '
t •
(• � J( .
' t' f 1
� I)I5'I'IZIC;"1' f3 I'I,Ai�TN1..C; (;(?Li1VClI. ���/��
, Scrving thc Sun�mit-Uni��crsil}' coii�n►u�iity lu crcalc � �•iablc �irb�n cnvirci�ui�cnl
.
December 8, 1986
Janice Ret trnan, Chai rrersoi:
St. PauI llous±ng and R�development J4uthorit�
25 West- 4t1� Str.e�t
St. Pau1, P1N. 5�107.
� !)ear Chairper:,u» Ret.t.m.�n:
. The Sur.unit-Ur.iversity 1'1��1:ui�:y Council , (�►.rPC;, at its Ploveml�er 25,
1986 �oazd meeting rc�vieti=cc1 thc �ropos�,i by th� St. Pau3 Urbor Leag�e
'• for forty fiv� (45) units vt elderly �3»�I ha;:dicap huu�ing fvr L1►c- IIF11
owned parcel of land locaterl at 411 Se1by AveJ�ue (tl�e former PfcQuillan
site J.
A pre:entat.ion i,�as rracle by l,�illir_ p1��� loilsnn, �x�cutive �Di�.•erioz• of th��
St. _PauJ. Urban League. She statn_d tLat in Oct�ber. , 1986, the Urban
League was notified f:l�at tl��ir al���l�.cat_ior, for. 202 1�ousit�q coas a��zoved
by L•he Ilousing and Urban l.�velvpin�»C ll�1���zLmr�t:L in Washin�i�c;n l�.C. 1'he
original site :elected b; Lhe Urban I_eague, locaied at Milton and
Cor.cordia, cras net acce��i.ahle to !lUU. 4'he 5��1hy site was the most
acceptable of si:c :,iLes ri�esentc�d to NUD. She saia tl�at tentatic•e plans
call for a total of foi�ty fiv� (45) vriits, with forty onr_ (41J ane
� hedroom units and four (4J one bedroom l�andicap units. The Cota1 project
' wi11 cost around 1.6 millior� do2lars. Tl�e building would be tl�ree storiE
� � in height, �,�ith the enCrance on Se1by Avenue. Green space would be
� provided for in t1�e rear of site. She also said rents would be I5� of
. elderly tenants year3y income.
� Discussion Iollowed tl�e pt�e��nt.�Lion. 13oard member� telt L1�aC th.is
project could produce affordable hou�ing for tl�e r.eighborl�oocl. I*_ was
• also pointed out Lhat- tederal f��r,ds are Iimited these da�s and we shvul.d
take advantage of these funds,
� After d�scussion, t1:e m�t.ion iaas made, seccnded and Passed to "Pfove tc
support the concept uf tlie St 1'aul Urbar� Lea�ue prvpvsal foz forty
. five (45) units ot elderl y and har�c3ica�� housinq to be locaieo _on i.he
I1RA owned parcel ot la>>c9 at 411 Se3by (fcrmer McQuilIan sit�). 9'l�e
�oard recomrnencis L-enlative develop�r staCus for a period of I)ll:ety (90)
days and urge� the city t� write-do�.n il�e land costs tor tl�e pro�PCt".
T1�e motion passed a�ith 16 yes at�d 1 abster.ticn.
Please be advi�ed il»t thf policics state that tentative dev�lol�er
designaticn sha11 1.�� f-�r � 1�eriod of 1�in�t y l"�) days. SUPC a1�o
requests t7�e o��por!:unif� for revi�►r ar�d reccmmer.�latinn prior. }_o public
hearing on the land r••�1�s and Cor.mal devnloper. �iatus.
.�•---.�..-..i,.t.-.�......,,..�.�,�..�r.�r►-+'*--r,*-•.-sec-� '
� � �.
I'age two ` �_/��0�
�
.
Sl;ould you have ar�y queslior�s, plcas� fccl free t_o cvntact me aL 228-1t355.
Tl�ank �ou.
Sincerely,
� �° �
�
Cr.eg Finzell
Exec�it�ve DirecLoz
cc �✓i11ie Mae �dilson
Gloria Bostrum, PED ✓
� �-�-�.���
� ' -
� . _._...,.caVTA SS10=
(6l2) 296-a3:3
�p:iT 2E , 19fi7
R���f
•"=s . P:ancy S. Lynden
y �Ah'3 ��t'
554 Dayton Avenue OUS/ti(�,�/ 0 �•98)
Ssint Paul, Minnesota 55102 Ljs,
��N
Dear Ms. Lynden:
The Saint Paul Urban League was notified in October, 1986 that their
application for 202 housing for seniors was approved by the Department of
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) . The initial site selected by the Urban
League located at Milton and Concordia was not acceptable due to its location
from bus line and shopping, etc. The Selby site was the only site accepted by
HUB out of six sites presented.
The Uzban League provides extensive services for elderly and has strong
support within their clientele for elderly housing on Selby. District 8,
Co�munity Council has supported the project and just recently at a
neighborhood issues meeting, April 15, well over 100 residents and supporters
attended to show support for the project.
This project will make available low-cost housing units for seniors with
federal financing assis�ance. With the Federal Government continually
reducing financing assistance and eliminating programs, it is essential that
these funds be used to benefit City residents.
Further, this development will move the area in a positive direction in terms
of improving its image� create more residents to support the retail in the
ares, and provide needed affordable housing opportunities for the low-income
elderly residents of the Summit-University neighbozhood. My feeling is that
our elderly residents of this neighborhood and throughout the City have
assisted in nurturing their neighborhoods in an effort to bring renewed
interest to these areas and should share in the prosperity that revitalization
will achieve. I, therefore, hope that you will join me in supporting this
housing development.
Sincerely, , '
'i� � t r
- �-.��--�
, -eor e Latimer
Ma
GL:lk '
bcc: Chron
�arcel 128.A, B � C.
• •�•..
, ...
_ w . �
� . ��-����
� . ii�
�� � �
• � °'�~�`�
��
a
. city of saint paul �
board of zon�ng appeals resolution
� zoning file number 9784
date September 10, 1985
WHEREAS, McQuillan Brothers Plumbing and Heating has applied for a variance
from the strict application of the provisions of Sections 61 .101, 61 .101(a)
and 61 .101 (e) of the Saint Paul Legislative Code pertaining to lot
coverage, minimum setback requirements, and the number of dwelling units
0 (zoning rooms) permitted for a multi-family residence (apartment building)
i` in the R-2 zoning district; and
�
� WHEREAS, the Saint Paul Board of Zoning Appeals conducted a public hearing
';lJ on August 13, 1985, pursuant to said appeal in accordance with the
, � requirements of Section 64.204 of the Legislative Code; and
, WHEREAS, the Saint Paul Board of Zoning Appeals based upon evidence
presented at the public hearing, as substantially reflected in the minutes,
made the following findings of fact:
1 . The request for variance is based primarily on the shape and size of
� the parcel. The shape of the site makes it difficult for the developer
� ' to comply with the strict provisions of the code.
, _
z
"= 2. The location of the site near the Heritage Preservation District
� � presents unique problems in structural massing and design to maintain
op the historic character of the area.
N 3. The proposed variance is generally in keeping with the spirit and
' r— intent of the code.
�
' o
4. The proposed variance, if granted, will not impair the supply of light
and air to adjacent property nor will it alter the essential character
of the surrounding area. The proposed development will improve the
property on Selby Avenue and is consistent with the City's
Comprehensive Plan.
5. A multi-family residence is a permitted use in the RM-2 zoning
district.
6. The variance is based primarily on a desire to fully utilize the .
property and not for economic gain. .
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Saint Paul Board of Zoning Appeals
that the provisions of Sections 61 .101 , 61 .101(a) , and 61 .101(e) be hereby
' waived to allow to allow an increase in the maximum percent of a lot
occupied by a main structure from 30X to 73X, a reduction in the required
front yard setback from 25' to 0' , a reduction in the required side yard
setback from one-half the height of the building or 15' whichever is
greater to a side yard setback of 5' along the west property line and
11.�7' along the east property line, a reduction in the required rear yard
setback from 25' to 2' ; and further to allow 50 units (136 zoning rooms)
for the construction of a multi-family residence located at 415 Selby
Avenue and legally described as Lots 17-23, Block 2, Kerns Addition;
subject to the condition that the design of the multi-family residence
adhere to design standards adopted by the Heritage Preservation Commission
and in accordance with the application for variance and the site plan on
file with the St. Paul Planning Division.
m�Ve(� by Summers
� seconded by pPtPrcnn _
i n favor 5 . .. � -. -: �� � . .
• against � � .� � - � �� � �� �
� ; . � .. , � �A
, � ��,. , �- . � ,
SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR: TIME LIMIT/APPEAL/CERTIFICATION �, . , � •�
Ma i 1 ed --- 9/13/R5 _ 6 6 9 6 ,� � �. � : '— -•
(d,c�'/-i.���{
�
.
..,..,, ti � -
Y� �
� � : i " �`' ; � i
1� �-'� ., � , 2
; . .�.o
= 12. �_ �, ' f . • 6 ; � ;I 5 � f , ..
.i �� � .i = / .+..a .. •►
� fy • • �
I J •�•� �' .� � ' I w r � i L
( � � ' w s
t j R � S [ i �. r R .�v
;�_� 11 = � ., �
. "� � s �� S •
= M 7% ` � « n
i = '� � �
e � 4 ,
: i , " ' , �
\ i ...
= f � � �-~ I�r
� �W1rr. N
\ I I ! � Y.► _ � �I�a M
� �1 i r��4y � � �•
Yr�' � ir ��
� � /� i - '� .� � � S � E
� ^! s ) \ p .0 R
S LY i �YS �� �� ` � L � �' O i f
�
�; 1�4 ...,.,. M • j = ; '. ' a
't.�
g ,�, �w , �, ; ,�- �
..�,. .:: : � ) 1
� _ :, � � . r � = r `` ` i. � �
1 . j � } 2 f i ? r � � .' !
� � � ., � � �, 1�^ � i � ` �`' !
S �� � � 9 .�.,..... �t� �
L i ��� g 1F � M �i
` "'" " s �
�: ` i
�� 17..y � \ , M
; � • / �
♦ � ` �
; f f LL �
�I � .�
..r'�/, � n •\ �
�I \
e m �ar �mc.0�
�W �
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLANNING OISTRICTS
l.SUNR�Y—BATTLECREEK—HIGHlJ00D
2.6REATEk EAST SIDE
3.WEST SIDE
4.OAYTON'S BLUFF
S.PAYNE—PHALEN
6.NORTH END
�Nnr�c,_,�;nai F__
B.SUMMIT—UNTVERSITY �
9.w H
lO.COMO
11.HAMLINE—MIDk'AY
12. ST. ANTHONY
13.MERRIAM PK.-lEX1NGTOfJ HAMLINE
14.GROVEIAt:D-MACALESTER
15.HIGHLAND
16. SUMMIT HJII
17.D01;r;TOIdN
- � v � �
. AQ� t�, + � �.,_����
- � , I F PS
� ;i �. 0 Q i D
►2 ,2 .
� V � 6 v �5�� � i
_ � CHRIST HOUSEHOLD t
r� � � � � V. � � � I �6 � � OF FA17H
I ' � m 1 �
� �`-� m �vL i ; �I j" -_ _ I Ar$ a
�•,l-� � � T , C ; V . ^� 7 � '�- �
.l � -�� � ' V � - .
_-v ` I I _ - � �/ �� �_ O � ' _ _
T , - � � -.- � - - �t-- - -
g �, �
� i � i a O U�� � RM
� i 't-�1 V' � N� � i �4 � � ---- �, � 20 I
� ��p� � � 8 � . i5 10 1 � a ��
, � �0. �r
ii
S� 28 � � 5 O 8 v _ � �_i:;�' �.��� �;^ �.�
, � 1 �
f.� J
��—� �' Nt�•
( �) iV I 1 '' I � .R: O P s�, C , � � f �� �
1�''. � � � ( 2 - � � `; :, �.�`, F�3 �� (n
� �
- � i � .� � . � � (n � �,�;� ; .�ti'>�
�. �
iO 5 I Ne � � � .3��� � ' �7� `'3 �
, �t 6 '� ' _
_ � � e S�lb,
_ � ' v • - P — �
v v V v i � V . -O � v V v
( --P-
� {
V 1 � Q N � 3
\ �. -- -
� ♦ , � � �
I � � '� - �,� `F -- --
�'`� NE/LL APTS
( 'J � j V • - PUBUC .HOUSIM; O
' � o A86 � 24 �2 Z
� � � 2 � � �, �o � � O
Lav �c � F�—^.)
1��� V
� }� I 1 AB 10 10 �/ �/ � m � I
I� � W 6 6 � �I i #' � V �_ _ _ Z
` V - -- + - - - _
� � o b� ! � � � Y' , � O � �, � o � __� �
Ii � i 1 � I I - -- - __� _
L l�_' ' � O -- --- t� � — � Q (
�-- �
; ► '� � � � 9 ` �-. tL
� �i O i `� � I - O ` ---� Q �� _ �.. _ - �-
�"
�, 5 " � ,58 � � y �I 9, 5 '� � A � 5 - - - � Z O
� � ��� � - z �
/�.$� �Qr a • T �- _ (7 -- _ �..
t
. ; � , , , P � . � � �O < � ;�
¢- � �¢ � � o � � � � � �� --�. � �_ ; � ,
, .- -�--� P � r '� �
� � I �' , � `� -�
�
� -� –�---- -�- -L l _I L" ► -- �I� 5 `
� � I�. � `-�T� •'� � ' �!
I I { �
� O� i. �i � � I � _ --�7/ . \� / \\,
AREA MAP
APPLICANT �►�1a� I�S L✓� G i r'SGA LEGEN�
� �— — ZONING DISTRICT BOUNDARY
' � SUBJECT PROPERTY
PURPOSE . � .
+a . .�� /`p�n�l�� O ONE FAMILY PLANNING
C L DJSTRICT
FILE N0. I Or $� ¢ TWO FAMILY Q
�� ��
� � MULTIPLE FAMILY
DATE
• � n COMMERCIAL
SCALE � I"= 200� NORTH � �� �NDUSTRIAL MAP N0.
SAINT PAUL PLANNtNG BOARD V VACANT ��
���
w�y[wry4
U.S.Department oi Housln�and Urban Developnant
`�� �` Minneapolis-St Paul O�ce.Region V
» �
' * ' � 220 Second Street,South
� +`r Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401-2195
'�44 OEyE�
September 16, 1987
Mrs. Willie Mae Wilson
Executive Director
St. Paul Urban League
401 Selby Avenue
St. Paul, NIN 55102
Dear Mrs. Wilson:
This note is in response to your questio� as to our knawledge of
HUD 202 housing projects and whether they have caused problems for
neighborhoods where they are located.
To our knowledge, the 202 housing when placed in a neighborhood
has helped to enhance the area.
If there are other questions, please contact us.
Sinc rely,
•__- °L� ����--�
Thomas T. Feeney
�Ma.nager
, , �4 �-���`/"
. /.��y
�
�
�. •
401 SELaY AVE. ST. P�UI, MN. 551�2 (bt2)224-5771
MEMORANDUM
DOARD T0: Thomas Koon, Multifamily Housing Rperesentative
aF •
DIRECT�RS FROM: Willie Mae Wilson, President and CEO
CHA�RMAN DATE: December 18, 1986
� R�chard M.Manprem
VICE-CHAIRPERSON RE: Rationale for Selection of Selby Site
Ms.Terry Hoitman
SECONO VICE-CHAIpPERSON
WaNer W.FNCks The St. Paul Urban League has i denti fi ed several reasons
SECRETARY why it believes tiiat �che Selby Avenue site, which is lo-
Mrs.JsneBaker cated adjacent to its office building at 401 Selby Avenue,
TREASURER is the best site for the proposed Section 202 housing de-
Russell B.Knighton
Mrs.Jane Bake� Ve�Opment.
Eupene A.Barrinper
Ms.Oeboral+Brown , � . The project would be located in a community in which the
CharlesE.Cox St. Paul Urban League has had 63 years of previous exper-
Mre.Patricte CrutcMield
HerryCrump ience in providing services. This is a community which
EdwardL.Duren has undergone a tremendous amount of upheaval and change
JemesT Garrett since the early 1960's. In 1907 it was invloved in a
Cla�eneeE.Narris large urban renewal program and the Urban League worked
Ms.TerryHoffman to encourage people to remain in the community and to
Or.N.JudQeKinq participate in the community's revital ization. The Urban
fiussell B.Knighton
,,on�e.�e�ary League's Board of Directors decided to set an example for
Pau1B.Lowrey the community by moving its offices from a downtown St.
Richard M.Mangram PdU� 1 ocati on to 401 Sel by and by becomi ng a property
Ms.(iloria O.Morrow
Ms.TheresaNeal owner in the community at a time when many people were
ME.Sher►iePugh simply "packing up" and moving away. The site is already
SammyRobinson cleared and would not cause any further dislocation of
Rudolph Sawyer(Ex-Ofticio)
M11e.AnnM.Seilert people. The Urban League has made an investment. in this
JemeaShelton.Jr. COfTIfflUlllt�/ tlll"OU9Il its dedication to the provision of ser-
Rev.KneelyWitllams vices which will help the people to improve the quality
HONORARY of their lives . The Urban Lea ue is also very committed
BOARD MEMBERS 9
SenetorFrencesFerley t0 th8 ideal Of creating dfld maintaining dCl interracial
Mspr.,F.J.C3iiligen(Founder) commun i ty.
Clan Greenman
K'aNe�J.Rotk
PRESIDENTANDCHIEf It 1S d�SO important to note that the Urban League oper-
EXECUTIVEOFFICER ates programs out of the 401 Selby office which will be
M►s.w����eMeew��so� very supportive of the Section 202 housing development.
� 62 yeara ol aervlce to lhe community—Member Apency,St.Peu�Uniled YVay.Inc. Attiileted with the Natlane!Urbsn leapus
'7�9�`'
� - /�P�
Page 2 -
Selby Site Rationale
(
In particular, the agency has been operating a Seniors in Community
Services Prog�am since 1980 under the terms of a contract with the
U.S. Department of Labor and the National Urban League. Direct em-
ployment services are provided to 78 senior citizens who wish to re-
main active in the labor fo►•ce, and many of them have been placed in
work situntions in which they are providing services to other seniors.
2. The St. Naui Urban League believes that the rental vacancy rate in
"assisted housing for the elderly" shows that there is evidence of a
sustainable demand for elderly housing at the Selby site; there are
unmet needs that currently exist and it can be documented that there
are more eligible applicants for housing than are currently being as-
sisted. At the Selby site, the project would be located in an area
with a rental vacancy rate of 7% or less. At the end of October, 1986,
� all the publicly assisted housing for the elderly in the Summit-Univer-
sity community had a vacancy of 3.73�, which is much lower than the 7�
figure considered by HUD to be che cutoff point. Out of a total of 642
apartments, oniy 24 were vacant and most of these were efficiency units.
R�deemer Arms, a Section 2G2, nad only 1 one-bedroom unit vacant and 3
efficiency units vacant out of 150 units. The Public Housing Agency in-
dicated that it has a waiting list of 18 to 24 months for elderly hous-
ing in the area. The Wilder Foundation, which operates several 202
apartment buildings in thE city reported that it has a two-year waiting
list at 750 No. Milton, and 300 people on the waiting list for 516 Humboldt
Avenue. They also report that it is i:rue in general that that the wait-
ing lists for Section 202 buildings are long.
The St. Paul Urban League does not believe that the development of a
Section 202 housing unit on the Selby site would have an adverse market
impact on other elderly projects in the area because the need is greater
than what can be met by those units. All of the demographic data which
is being generated shows that the elderly population in St. Paul is grow-
ing--just as it is all over the United States. There is a very strong
need or sufficient market demand for fixed-income housing for the elderly,
- particularly minority elderly. As a responsible public policy decision,
it shuuld not be true that in order for the elderly to obtain affordable
housing they have to dislocate themselves from an environment or neighbor-
hood in which they have spent a major part of their lives if they do not
choose to do so. Many of them wish to remain close to their relatives
and friends, and to their churches and social organizations. Because they
have not been able to obtain affordable houisng in "their community" many
of them are still living in private homes or as "empty nesters" at a cost
beyond desirable living cost ranges. Other older people also have rela-
tively low incomes and do not have assets such as a home, but they. still
do not wish to move out of "their community" and into what they consider
"isolation" .
. �. . �d��3��
Page 3
Selby Site
r - _
3. The Selby site meets all of the site and neighborhood requirements
of HUD including minority concentration considerations. As was in-
dicated before, the site is located in an area of Summit-University
community which has underyone urban renewal , neighborhood development,
and most recently, "gentrification" accompanied by the building of
many condominiums and high cost housing. Most of the elderly and min-
ority people who lived in the area prior to the coming of these programs
have been displaced. And a major objective of the Urban League in pro-
posing this site is to try and achieve some racial and socio-economic
mix or balancing.
The project at the Selby site would also be �.onsistent with the orderly
growth and development in the area. HUD has made available several
millions of dollars in UDAG funds to assist with the further redevelop-
' ment of this area, and the Urban League believes that the Section 202
project will support some of the affirmative action goals which are
associated with those federal grants.
The Selby site has all of the desirable amenities; it is located directly on
the Selby-Lake bus line and is very cost effective in terms of travel
time and money cost. It is approximately 5 minutes away from downtown
St. Paul and all of its shopping facilities. It is no more than 10
minutes away from medical facilities at United Hospitals, St. Joseph
Hospital , Betnesda Lutheran Hospital , or Ramsey County Medical Center.
, There are numerous churches of all denominations and a synagogue no more
than 10 minutes away in various directions. Cultural centers such as
the Ordway Theatre, Landmark Center, and the Science Museum are no more
than 5 minutes away by bus. Recreational activities for seniors are held
weekly at the Martin Luther King Center which is 4 blocks away; also bus
transportation is provided to the Center. .
The site is accessible to commercial services; there is a drugstore located
on the same block which also carries small convenience items such as bread
and milk. There is a small neighborhood gr•ocery store, Tillman's market,
located 3 blocks from the site close to Selby and Dale.
4. The extent of cort�munity support for the Urban League's proposed Section 202
housing development at the Selby site is strong. The Summit-University
Planning Council which is the elected citizen participation body of the
community, at a meeting of its Board of Directors on November 25, 1986,
voted 16 in favor to 1 abstention to support an Urban League sponsored
Section 2U2 housing project at the Selby site. The Planning Council
has expressed support for the objective of creating a racial and socio-
economic mix and the housing patterns and trends right now are going in
the opposite direction. The Urban League believes that a Section 202
housing development of quality will have a posil:ive impact on the sur-
rounding phsyical environment.
� .'. � �-r-�����
Pa ge 4
�- - Selby Site Rationale
5. On the issue of crime in the neighborhood, a recent review of
police statistics for the "grid" in the Ramsey Hill area--which
is the section within the larger Summit-University community where
the Section 202 housing would be located--shows that the rate of .
crime has decreased . from 1985 to 1986. The Ramsey Hill Association
operates a neighborhood crime watch and patrol program which is funded
through the City of St. Paul under the Neighborhood Partnership Pro-
gram; it is reputed to be working very well and the statistics tEnd to
support that fact.
In addition, the residential demographics in the area have_changed
, drastically an� it is no lor�ger a low-income community with a high
crime rate as it was during the 60's and early 10's. All of the
"undesirable" elements that contributed to crime have been removed
and the community has been transformed into one of young, upwardly
mobile professionals or "yuppies" . One of the restaurants located
across the street from the Selby sii:e is the favorite eating place
for many of the legislators and staff people at the State Capitol
which is only 5 minutes away.
It should also be noted that the former Chairman and now Interim
Director of the Minnesota World Trade CQnter lives across the street
. from the Selby site. The Chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank is also
reported to be living there in a condominium.
6. In surr�nary, it should be noted that the Selby site is an excellent
one in the Urban League's view; it provides the opportunity to give
the elderly, affordable housing in a very positive social and economic
environment. The Urban League does not believe that the location of
elderly housing on the site will detract from the "gentrification"
that is occuring; the social policy goal of a balanced community can
be accommodated along with the economic interests that have been ex-
pressed. The St. Paul Urban League is willing to make a long-term
comnitment that is reyuired �in order to make.th�is social gual a reality.
� � .S'U�PC U-��- �:�
� su�rtrclT-u�vzv�1•ry rt.ariN�av� cou�ctic
' September 14, 1987
Janice Rettmar. , Chairperson
St . Paul Housinq and Redevelopment Authority
25 West 4th Street
St . Pau1 , MP�. 55102
Dear Ms. Rett.man :
�
As you are aware, the Summit.�Unive.rsity P1ar.ninq Council has reviewed �
the Senior housinq proposal by the St , Pau1 Urban Leaque for finaZ
developer desiynation on Ju1y 28 , 1987.
The pz•oject was first presentzd to the 5unmit-U Board ir December, �•
. 1986 . At the time , the Urban Leaque was granted ter.tative developer
For the site at 411 Se1by Avenue. The Urban Leaque p�e.sented a � �
preqress update report at our Marrh , 1987 Board m.eetinq. The project
was presented to the community at our Commun_ity Issues meetir�q on
ApriZ 15 , .1987 and to the Raard on Apri1 28th. The Bv�rd voted to
exter.d the tentative developer status at tl�at time. (It should be
ncted that 135 resider.ts voted in support of the prv,ject at the
Community Issues meetir�q, there was nv one in opposition to the project
present . )
The cor��munity and Board reviewed the project for the finaZ time at the
JuZy lSth Community meetinq ard the JuZy 2Sth. Boaz•d meeting. A present-
ation was made by Sherry Fugh , consultant for the project . She stated
that the Urban Leaque is proposir�g to develop 45 one-bedroom apartments
under Section 202 of tt�e �ederal bjousing Proqram. The Urban League has
been awarded a $1 ,667. 200 Fund reservativn for t.he project frem H. U.D.
The buiZding would be fear (4 ) stories , with wood frame and brick/vir.y�
siding. The Zivi-rq area for each apartment i�ould be 540 sq. ft. as per �
- H. U.D. guide�ines. The fair market rent will be $S15 per montl� , how-
ever, based� on their incomes , the senicrs wi11 he eligible for Section
8 rentaZ subsidy which has already been assigned te the pr�ject by H. U.D.
She stated they must bE to the H. R.A. Eo�rd and ready to ge b� September
30 , 1987 or they wi11 lose the $1 ,,667, 200 Federal Ccmmitment. She also
stated they had met k�ith the Ramsey Hi21 Association. '„
Afi:er a short discussicr, , the following motion was passed, "Su ori the � -
-P�- ---
recoMmer.dation for finaZ develo�eryd�signation fcr the St . Pau1 Urhan
Leaque_Senior housinc�^develo�mer.t�torbe_located_at`411_Se1b�_Avenue"_
--- -- ------ ------ ------ -__.- __ __ ----- -- -.- ___ _ __ _--____ -
(20 yes , 2 no and 1 abstention.
627 xiby Avenue St. Poul�Minnesota 55104 TelephonP (612) 228-1855 ,
��� �� ' .�
,
� C� �� -����
Page twc
As you can see, the prcject has bEen reviewed b�; the community four ��
times durinq the last eiqht mor�ths. The Summit-U CounciZ supports „
this Aroject and hopes the Cit� Council wi11 continue its support
oF the deveZoz�mer.t .
Should uou have anu questions, please feel free to caZ1 me at
228-1855 . Thank you.
SincerelU ,
l`� ��
G�e� Finzell
Executive Director ,
cc Wi11ie Mae Wilson
� . � �. � .;� '. �����
. �_ . ; �
. �
�,�'� PAUL CITY�COUNCIL �
.- :.�P�1��31:t� HEARING NOTICE
� ._ . - . - . � ZONING -
To: Property owners with 350' ; FIL E N 0. 10187
Representati ves of P1 anni ng Di stri ct 8. PAGE
PURPOSE To consider an appeal of a decision by the Board of
Zoning Appeals to grant a variance to the Saint Paul Urban
Leaugue for construction of a 45-unit senior citizen
apartment building.
L O C A T I 0 N 415-429 Selby Avenue (North side between Western & Arundel )
PETITIONER
CHARLES WILLIAM GIRSCH
H E A R I N G Thursday, September io, i9s� .9:0o a.M.
. Cit Council Chambers, 3rd Floor City Hall - Court House
Q U E S TIO N S Zoning z9s-4154 (Tom Beach)
Contact the Zoning Section of the Planning and Economic
Development Department, Room 1101, City Hall Annex,
25 W. 4th Street, St. Paul, Minnesoia 55102 --
Legal Description: On file.
Notice sent 8_2g_g�