The 1960s

Neighbors organize

In the 1960s, the St. Anthony Park Association became aware of concerning trends in the north side of St. Anthony Park: large numbers of homes in failing condition, and large numbers of cars driven by St. Paul campus university students and parked on neighborhood streets. Those two concerns proved important in the direction of the Association. At the same time, declining education levels and median incomes suggested changing demographics, particularly in the south side of St. Anthony Park, and residents grappled with greater industrial expansion in the neighborhood.

The Housing Redevelopment Authority (HRA) helped city planners identify major points of concern, beginning the relationship that continues today between the Community Council and city government. Toward the end of 1969, another group, the South St. Anthony Project Area Committee (PAC), formed to challenge the work of the HRA on citizen involvement and representation in the south side of the park. Although many of the south side group’s demands never came to fruition, it found success in developing programming for youth in the neighborhood, a commitment our Community Council continues to carry forward today.

The 1970s

More voices at the table

In 1972, the St. Anthony Park Association made a significant change in representation by voting to admit women as members. They had not previously been allowed to participate. The League of Women Voters led this change, pressuring officials to implement measures dedicated to equality.

During this period, neighbors took over publication of the local newspaper, the Park Bugle. The paper began as a way to educate the community, offer advocacy on local issues, and create and maintain a sense of place in the neighborhood. Our Community Council continues to have a relationship with the Park Bugle today.

The Block Nurse Program, which eventually became St. Anthony Park Area Seniors, began as a way to provide nursing, companionship and other services to seniors who might otherwise not be able to stay in their homes. Today, this program has expanded and continues to thrive.

Mid-1970s to today

District Council 12

By the mid-1970s, the City of Saint Paul developed district councils. Our Community Council, number 12 of 17 district councils, grew from the roots planted during that time. The Community Council’s first iteration combined North and South St. Anthony Park for the first time in an official capacity, and began investing in infrastructure and community outreach.

Over the years, the Community Council has served as an umbrella organization, sponsoring community groups who advocate on various issues in the neighborhood. We have served as an incubator for ideas and creativity, and we have gained a reputation for our support of the arts. We continue to look ahead, creating innovation in our community on issues like renewable energy, support for local businesses, and equity.