White Bear Lake City Council 08/12/2026

The City of White Bear Lake held a City Council meeting on August 12, 2026, which included detailed discussions on financial operations, license bureau activities, and regulatory updates. The finance department reported that revenues and expenditures are generally on track with the 2026 budget, noting receipt of significant settlement funds related to PFAS contamination. The license bureau highlighted a decrease in revenues due to fewer electronic vehicle title transactions and driver's license renewals, with ongoing efforts to encourage in-person transactions to maintain revenue. A key procurement-related discussion involved a public hearing and first reading of an ordinance amending the municipal code to regulate proper salt storage at commercial and institutional facilities to comply with updated MS4 stormwater permits, aiming to reduce chloride pollution. Additionally, the council considered and ultimately denied a variance request for an accessory building at 921 Wildwood Road due to fire safety and code compliance concerns, emphasizing the need for the property owner to either remove the non-compliant structure or bring it into compliance. The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss real estate negotiations for property at 1890 Whitaker Street.