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Last week, FOX 9 organized a roundtable, moderated by anchor Randy Meier live from the Saint Paul Hotel, for a candid discussion about the challenges and opportunities in downtown St. Paul. This discussion featured; B Kyle, St. Paul Chamber of Commerce, Chris Hilger, CEO of Securian Financial Group, Chris Sherman, Sherman Associates President, Joe Spencer, Downtown Alliance President, Matt Majka, Minnesota Wild CEO, St. Paul Mayor Melvin Cater, St. Paul City Council President Rebecca Noecker, Richard Dobransky, Morrissey Hospitality President, Sen. Sandra Pappas, and Tom Whaley, St. Paul Saints Executive VP.
As your elected State Representative, I was not invited to be a part of this conversation. I am deeply disappointed by the blatant exclusion. This is a matter of principle and representation. My absence essentially silences and deprives the voices of hundreds small business owners in our district; the very people struggling every day to keep the lights on and keep our downtown full of vibrancy, culture, and entertainment.
Instead, we saw the rich and powerful gather to talk about how they can gamble to 'reinvent' downtown—a narrative centered on corporate development and bandage quick fixes. Our small business owners and residents deserve a seat at the table. Their lived experience is invaluable, and their perspective is essential for sustainable growth.
Every conversation and decision-making must include our voices- that is what will ensure downtown has the vitality to not only serve our residents but also attract and serve tourists and other visitors for the long term. True revitalization comes from the ground up; supporting our entrepreneurs and small business owners, improving livability, and prioritizing safety for everyone.
That’s why as the Chair of the Minnesota House St. Paul Delegation, I am hosting a community discussion with downtown business leaders and owners to address pressing concerns regarding the economic vitality, public policy, and local accountability of St. Paul on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 5:30 PM. Downtown business owners will have the opportunity to directly engage with state lawmakers on key legislative needs and to identify specific actions the Delegation can take to better support downtown commerce.
Due to limited seating, this meeting in intended for small business owners while the public can watch the livestream on my elected Facebook page.
Registration will be open until Friday, October 10 at 3PM. Click here.
It is an honor to represent downtown St. Paul and to fight for the countless residents and hardworking small business owners who are the true heart of our community. My office is always open. If you are a small business owner or a resident who feels unheard, I want to hear from you directly.
Please email me or call my office to share your perspective. I look forward to the conversation and continuing build a St. Paul that uplifts all our communities for generations to come.
Please continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at [email protected] or 651-296-9714. You can also follow my official Facebook page.
Rep. María Isa Pérez-Vega
Minnesota House of Representatives
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