By Anne Holzman

Here’s a roundup of recent actions, discussions and decisions from the Falcon Heights City Council:

Clarifying public land rules

As redevelopment of the Les Bolstad golf course is considered, the Falcon Heights City Council moved in May to clarify ownership of parkland within developments.

Under the city’s existing code, the council can require developers either to set aside parkland for public use or pay a fee to replace it elsewhere in the city (to build a new playground, for example). This requirement applies in residential and some business areas.

At its May 13 meeting, the council discussed code changes specifying that set-aside parkland is city-owned.

Council members asked whether land could be privately owned but publicly accessible, as when a trail passing a property owned by a homeowners’ association (HOA) is open to the public. City Administrator Jack Linehan noted there’s an advantage to the city when an HOA maintains the trail.

Council members sought clearer language ensuring public access.

Construction coming at Hamline and Hoyt

Travelers near Chelsea Heights Elementary School may notice construction this summer at the intersection of Hamline and Hoyt avenues, where pedestrian safety improvements are underway.

As part of Safe Routes to School efforts, the cities of St. Paul and Falcon Heights are improving the intersection for pedestrians.

A 2022 joint powers agreement between the cities secured federal funding to launch the project. The Falcon Heights City Council reviewed the plan in May and approved funding estimated at $19,000 to cover 25% of the remaining cost.

Parking enforcement during State Fair may change

Parking on Falcon Heights streets near the Minnesota State Fairgrounds will be subject to a daily fee again this year. The city council is considering shifting parking violations from criminal to civil citations.

Instead of receiving a county court summons, a violator would appear for a hearing with a judge hired by the city.

Linehan said the city paid police overtime for police parking enforcement last summer. Between overtime savings and not being charged by the county for court, “the revenue gain would pay for the staffing” needed to run the program, Linehan said.

The council agreed to hold a public hearing on the question, likely at its June 10 meeting.

Anne Holzman is a Twin Cities freelance writer who covers local government for the Bugle.