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FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Carolyn
Marinan, Communications, 612-348-5969
Proposed changes to tobacco sales ordinance
The board scheduled a public hearing to hear feedback on proposed changes to the county's tobacco sales ordinance. Proposals aim to protect residents from the health effects associated with tobacco use.
Proposed changes include
- Raising the minimum legal sales age for tobacco products from 18 to 21
- Requiring that employees must be 18 years old to sell licensed tobacco products
- Restricting the sale of flavored tobacco products to adult-only tobacco stores
- Prohibiting the sale of cigars that cost less than $3 each
Changes would affect Greenfield, Mound, Rockford, Rogers, St. Bonifacius, and the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport.
Share your feedback
- Attend a public hearing: Tuesday, June 11, 1:30 p.m. at the Hennepin County Government Center
- View other options for providing feedback: hennepin.us/proposed-ordinance-21
Forestry grants
Hennepin County formally established the Healthy Tree Canopy Grants program to assist cities, multifamily affordable housing providers, land trusts, schools and non-profits to enhance the county’s tree canopy.
These grants will help to combat threats to trees from invasive insects and diseases, including the devastating Emerald Ash Borer.
The program will also improve livability for residents by planting trees in neighborhoods throughout the county experiencing economic, environmental and health disparities.
Earlier this year, the board awarded the first round of grant funding, totaling more than $250,000.
Housing for young families experiencing homelessness
The county is contributing funding to assist pregnant and parenting youth experiencing homelessness. On Tuesday, the board designated $60,000 to help operate the Bridge for Youth's new housing service, named Marlene's Place.
Housing and community development action plan
Hennepin County is submitting an action plan to the federal government showing how the county and suburban cities plan to use federal funds for housing and development projects in the coming year. The board gave its final approval of the plan on Tuesday.
Current and archival board meetings, agendas and minutes are available at hennepin.us/boardmeetings.
Look for more news on the Hennepin County website at hennepin.us/news.
Discover how we're making a difference in our communities at hennepin.us/stories.
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