At the State of the County address Thursday morning, Hennepin County Board Chair Irene Fernando shared the county’s commitment to serving residents and highlighted its ongoing work to reduce disparities in seven key areas: connectivity, education, employment, health, housing, income, and justice.  

Fernando also reaffirmed that Hennepin County is dedicated to progress and committed to implementing programs that foster stability, opportunity, and growth for all county residents despite uncertainties and challenges the county may face ahead.

“Hennepin County is more than government. We are a community of listeners, problem-solvers, and changemakers,” Fernando stated. “We’ve weathered storms with focus and resolve. And we always remain clear about who we are and what we stand for. Whatever the road ahead brings, Hennepin County has your back.” 

This year, the event was hosted at the 625 Building Auditorium in downtown Minneapolis and livestreamed.   

Watch a recording of the address.

Read a transcript of the prepared remarks.