Title
Approving the application of Saint Paul Public Schools for a conditional use permit for an outdoor trade school in an I2 zoning district at 0 Empire Drive.
Body
WHEREAS, Saint Paul Public Schools, File # PEDCUP-000033-2025, have applied for a conditional use permit for an outdoor trade school in an I2 zoning district under the provisions of § 61.501 and § 66.500 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code on property located at 0 Empire Drive, Parcel Identification Number (PIN) 31.29.22.22.0123, legally described as Lot 1, Block 3, Empire Builder Industrial Park No. 2; and
WHEREAS, the City Council, on October 8, 2025, held a public hearing at which all persons present were given an opportunity to be heard pursuant to said application; and
WHEREAS, the City Council, based on the evidence presented at the public hearing, made the following findings of fact:
The zoning application requests a conditional use permit for an outdoor trade school in an I2 general industrial district. Section 66.520 indicates that trade schools are a conditional use requiring a conditional use permit in the I2 zoning district. Saint Paul Public Schools is leasing the subject parcel from the Port Authority of the City of Saint Paul to construct the proposed “heavy machinery sandbox” training facility and provide heavy equipment training offered in partnership with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49. Classes will be offered on-site 2 - 3 days per week.
Conditional Use Permit Standards:
Zoning Code § 61.501 lists five standards that all conditional uses must meet.
(a) The extent, location and intensity of the use will be in substantial compliance with the Saint Paul Comprehensive Plan and any applicable subarea plans which were approved by the City Council.
The condition is met. The subject parcel is identified as Industrial in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. This land use designation typically supports uses that create employment ...
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