Improving Saint Paul’s business climate

by Chad Kulas, Midway Chamber of Commerce

It’s one of the oldest conflicts in the world – business owner vs. the government. It’s just one example of a person not wanting to be told what to do by someone else – think parent vs. child, cop vs. suspect, teacher vs. student. Usually, a business owner is expecting (hoping) different licenses, taxes and other fees will cost less than they ultimately do. This story is seen around the world. But is it different in Saint Paul?

Many business owners suggest it is harder to do business in Saint Paul than other cities. It can be hard to make a comparison of an older, built-out city like Saint Paul with a newer suburb- one which has more developable land and aspires to attract more residents and businesses. But often Saint Paul is also seen as more difficult than its bigger twin to the west – Minneapolis.

When a city gets that reputation it can mean a business: a) Won’t consider locating within its boundaries; b) Will choose to expand elsewhere; or c) Will look at moving to a different city, despite all the hardships associated with making a move.

Employees at the city of Saint Paul have heard the concerns and want to make improvements. They too want to see the city run more efficiently and to have fewer business owners annoyed at what they believe to be longer waits and difficult regulations to understand.

In January, the Midway Chamber hosted a meeting where most City Council offices as well as other city staff were present. The meeting was an opportunity for businesses to think about what works, what doesn’t and what could make life easier for a business owner in Saint Paul. The Midway Chamber has taken information from that meeting and is creating a vision going forward. One part of that vision is to form a committee where we aim to make Saint Paul more business-friendly. We will begin meeting this summer and will have involvement from key city of Saint Paul staff.

We are also partnering with the city’s Department of Safety & Inspections (DSI) on a meeting regarding Class N licenses. These licenses include liquor, automobile and health/sports clubs, and require a 45-day period for the public to make comments. Could this process be more efficient? A brainstorming meeting will be held Thursday, July 25 at Urban Growler Brewing Company, 3-4:30 p.m. Please consider attending if this issue interests you.

Another old conflict is a new business moving into a neighborhood vs. the residents. Most district councils review new license applications and offer residents the opportunity to comment. Many residents feel an ownership of their neighborhood (as they should) and ask the hard questions to an outsider moving in to their community. We always stress to businesses the importance of meeting with as many neighbors as possible and building a relationship with the area district council. Usually, a solid relationship with the community means any initial concerns can get ironed out and the residents are more likely to support the new business.

So, will Saint Paul’s reputation change? A major change like this can’t occur overnight, but we hope gradual changes can happen short term and eventually lead to bigger change. Perhaps technology can lead to more efficient services (example: more permits available online) and a cultural shift can occur, as well. A more business-friendly city will help all – including city staff and residents who can benefit from a more thriving community.