From the Mayor's Desk

The Future of a Familiar Place

Hello, WSP! For those who may be new to our community, my name is Dave Napier, and I’ve had the honor of serving as your mayor for the past seven years. I’m also a lifelong resident, and like many of you, my connection to this community goes back decades.

Some of you might remember Ralph’s Grocery Store, which once stood where the Marathon station now sits at Wentworth Ave. and Charlton St. It was one of my favorite places to visit. Ralph knew us all by name and knew our parents well. His son John, who ran the store for many years after Ralph retired, and his daughter Mary Beth still live in West St. Paul today. Hi John and Mary Beth!

As soon as I could ride a bike, my siblings and friends and I rode freely all over the city (maybe I had my mom’s permission). I remember biking to the Doddway Center, where Applebaum’s was the grocery store on the site that now holds the vacant Oxendale’s storefront. Next door was Mueller’s Rexall Drug, famous for its great candy selection. Those simple trips weren’t just about candy; they were part of growing up here and remind me how much these places have meant to families for generations.

That’s why the recent loss of Oxendale’s hits close to home. For as long as I’ve lived in West St. Paul, that location has been home to a neighborhood grocery store, much like Ralph’s was on the south end. It has been more than a place to shop; it has been a community hub where neighbors meet, stories are shared, and everyone knows your name. Employees were friends who felt like family as they brought groceries out to your car. Losing it leaves a hole in the heart of the north end, and I know many residents feel the same.

While we will all miss Oxendale’s, I want you to know the city is working hard to bring something new and special to the site. We don’t yet know exactly what that will be, but we are committed to attracting a business that serves the community and honors the history of this location. When I say “attracting” I mean it, because that is within our control: creating an area that is appealing to developers and business owners. With recent street improvements, a plan for a new plaza, and the Officer Scott Patrick Memorial site right across the street, the area will soon have everything a business could hope for.

The city is optimistic that these projects will help attract new business and development, and that when the right opportunity comes, it will begin a new chapter at a place that has been part of West St. Paul’s story for generations. My hope is that this area continues to reflect its history while evolving to meet today’s needs. Together, we can honor our past and build a bright future for the north end of our city.

Albert Plaza Concept Drawing

To all our new residents, welcome! West St. Paul is a city that values its neighborhoods, local businesses, parks, and community events. I encourage you to explore your new home, meet your neighbors, and experience the many ways this city comes together. From small local shops to community celebrations, there is a lot to see and do here.

Thank you for being part of our community.

- Dave Napier
Mayor, City of West St. Paul

Parks and Recreation

Spring & Summer Programs

Registration opens Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 9am.

Early Bird Registration: February 24 - March 7
Every time you see me in this brochure is a chance to save by registering early! I'll let you know how much you save next to each early bird program!

Register online at wspmn.gov/rec

Program availability may differ from the time of this online publication.

Need Assistance with Recreation Registration? Call or visit our office in-person.

Ways to Register

Online: www.wspmn.gov/rec
Phone: 651-552-4150
In-Person: 1616 Humboldt Ave

Office Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 8am-4:30pm
Fridays: 8am-Noon

Now Hiring!

Work in our parks this summer! Seasonal positions available.
Coaching / Day Camps / Special Events / Municipal Pool / Park Maintenance
Learn more and apply