Development News for White Bear Lake, Minnesota
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White Bear Lake City Council 05/26/2026
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
First Reading of Rezoning Ordinance for Serenity Senior Care Parking Lot Expansion at 1900 Weber Street
The city council held the first reading of an ordinance to amend the zoning code regarding the zoning designation at 1900 Weber Street and a planned unit development (PUD) amendment. The request from Serenity Senior Care is to expand their parking lot. The site was originally developed in 1956 and received a PUD in 2012 for transitional care and assisted living, which included offsite parking. Serenity purchased adjacent properties in 2024 and now seeks to expand the parking lot, requiring a PUD amendment and rezoning to the PUD designation. The proposed expansion will add a net of 35 stalls. The project requires deviations from zoning standards for zero-foot setbacks and landscape island requirements. Discussions included concerns about tree preservation, with the applicant's landscape architect stating the trees slated for removal are in fair condition and some are impacted by a required bio-infiltration basin. Council members emphasized the importance of transparency regarding tree health and the value of the city's tree canopy. The first reading of the rezoning ordinance was conducted, with the second reading and action on the PUD amendment scheduled for the next meeting.
White Bear Lake Extends Refuse, Recycling Contracts with Republic Services and Eureka Recycling
The city council discussed and approved a 5-year contract extension with Republic Services for residential refuse and recycling collection. The current contract expires at the end of August. Republic Services has been the city's hauler since 2017. The extension includes a 3% annual rate increase for collection, bulky item pickup, and yard waste, which is expected to keep the city below market rates. Republic Services provided an update on their industry evolution, including advancements in plastic recycling, adoption of electric vehicles, emergency response services, and participation in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiatives. They also highlighted technology enhancements like online services and a 'Track My Truck' feature. Separately, the city also approved a 5-year contract extension with Eureka Recycling for processing their recycling. Eureka Recycling is a local nonprofit that processes approximately 100,000 tons of material annually with a low residual rate. They have recently upgraded their facility and focus on keeping materials within the region. The contract terms include a 2% annual increase or CPI, whichever is greater. Eureka Recycling presented information on recycling markets, the impact of EPR legislation, and their operations, including employee welfare and facility upgrades. Discussions also touched on contamination rates, the effectiveness of human sorters versus AI, and the challenges in the recycling industry.
Eric Johnston Sworn In as New Chief of Police for White Bear Lake
The city council meeting commenced with a roll call, followed by the presentation of colors and the pledge of allegiance. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to welcoming and swearing in the new Chief of Police, Eric Johnston. His background, career highlights, and personal interests were shared, followed by his oath of office and the pinning of his badge by his wife, Stephanie. Chief Johnston then addressed the council and attendees, expressing his commitment to community engagement and serving the city. The meeting also included approvals of minutes and the agenda, as well as the adoption of the consent agenda.
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