Resident proposes downsized single‑story community center, suggests farmers market to meet deed obligations

Resident Jason Arby presented a proposal to the North St. Paul City Council workshop on Feb. 4 for a smaller, single‑story community center he described as “basic, simple, and efficient.” He asked council members to choose one of four next steps: schedule further discussion, have staff communicate with Deed, issue a request for proposals, or conclude there is not enough information to proceed.

Arby told the council the concept would “demolish about 85% of the building and keep just a small portion” while replacing it with a roughly 170‑by‑118‑foot single‑level structure. He said the design would include two separate entrances for controlled access, large garage doors to open the space in summer, and a hard‑surface floor to support vendors and rentals.

Arby said he organized…