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As we welcome the month of March, I am reminded that this is a time of transition—a season of renewal, growth, and fresh possibilities. Just as the days grow longer and signs of spring begin to emerge, I remain committed to fostering growth and opportunity in our community. From strengthening public safety to expanding economic opportunities and ensuring access to essential resources, I will continue to work alongside you to build a stronger, more vibrant District 4.
Thank you for your ongoing engagement and dedication to our shared future.
In Partnership,
Rena
County Board Workshops
Most weeks, our County Board meets to discuss specific policy issues and receive updates from County Departments and Service Teams in our Board Workshops.
Workshops and discussions are held on Tuesdays and are open to the public. These take place at the Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse in Suite 220 (2nd floor). You can find the schedule for all upcoming board meetings, workshops, and discussions sessions below.
Look up all workshops and place here:
You can access video recordings of the meetings as well as the materials shared by clicking here.
You can watch upcoming workshops live by clicking here.
  My office coordinated a visit of Ramsey County departments that interact with Brittany’s Place to tour of their new location, and we are excited about the opportunities it presents. We discovered numerous ways to collaborate, share knowledge, and utilize the space to serve girls between the ages of 10 to 19. This reinforced the importance of supporting community-based organizations which are often closer to the people and trusted by the community while keeping youth connected to community and support services.
Brittany’s Place is a safe shelter for female-identifying youth who have experienced sexual exploitation, trafficking, or are at high risk, as well as those facing homelessness. The shelter primarily serves individuals between the ages of 10 and 19. In addition to emergency shelter services, Brittany’s Place offers a Transitional Living Program (TLP) for female and female-identifying clients aged 16 to 20 seeking safe, stable housing.
Brittany’s Place’s new location is an incredible space, and we look forward to working together in meaningful ways.
  I was honored to be the guest speaker at Family Wise 2nd Annual Parent Leadership Conference, where I emphasized the powerful message "Parent Voices Matter". Family Wise, a St. Paul-based nonprofit, is dedicated to strengthening families by providing support, education, and resources that promote stability and success. Speaking directly to parents and community members, I highlighted the importance of advocacy, engagement, and ensuring that families have a voice in shaping policies that impact their lives. I encouraged parents to stay active, share their experiences while continuing to strengthen families. Working together building a stronger, more supportive community and state.
As always, I am grateful for the opportunity to connect with community based organizations who are committed to uplifting families.
 On behalf of my office, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our Black Excellence (ERG) team for sponsoring the African Americans in Labor Proclamation. Your support and recognition of former County Commissioner Toni Carter, myself and the contributions of African Americans in the workforce reflect a deep commitment to equity and inclusion. This was a thoughtful and meaningful gesture, and I truly appreciate your leadership in fostering a more inclusive workplace.
The 2025 theme, “African Americans in Labor”, recognizes the essential role Black workers have played in shaping the U.S. economy, labor movements, and workplace protections while overcoming systemic discrimination and barriers. From building the nation’s economy under enslavement to leading labor strikes, forming unions, and shaping policies that promote worker rights, African Americans have long been at the forefront of labor justice. This proclamation celebrates and acknowledges these efforts.
Former Ramsey County Commissioner Toni Carter made history in 2005 as the first African American county commissioner in Minnesota, championing workforce equity, economic development, and juvenile justice reform through initiatives such as the Ramsey County Workforce Innovation Board and the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative, ensuring that Black youth had access to opportunities rather than incarceration.
My work as a former State Representative and current Ramsey County Commissioner, the second African American to serve on the board, continues this legacy by advocating for racial and economic equity, affordable housing, fair wages, and labor rights, ensuring that Black workers and families have access to opportunities and economic security.
The contributions of Black workers, labor leaders, and policymakers have been pivotal in advancing labor rights and securing economic justice while making workplaces more equitable for future generations.
  Honoring Black Labor History and Advancing Equity
I was honored to participate in the Empowering Progress: African Americans in the Labor Movement Career Fair, where individuals could find careers in public service, meet with equitable employers that were hiring, explore vocational training & technical education and learn about paid youth internships. Thank you to the 2025 Ramsey County and City of Saint Paul Black History Month Committee for this event.
Mayor Carter and I shared the floor at the Empowering Progress Career Fair, highlighting the importance of equity through jobs and economic opportunity. As we look ahead, ensuring access to good jobs and career pathways remains critical. This event reinforced the need to invest in a workforce that uplifts everyone, and I’m grateful to be part of the ongoing conversation.
Career fairs like this one are vital, not just for job opportunities but for building connections and fostering leadership. I encourage all of us to honor those who came before us by pushing for inclusive hiring, mentorship, and economic justice, ensuring no one is left behind.
 Commissioners...Rena Moran, Ramsey County D4, Garrison McMurtrey, Ramsey County D3, Heather Edelson, Hennepin County D6, Mary Jo McGuire, Ramsey County D2
I attended the Association of Minnesota Counties’ (AMC) Annual Conference, an essential gathering that brings together county leaders from across the state to collaborate, share ideas, and address key issues affecting our communities. This conference is a vital opportunity for Ramsey County to engage with other counties, learn best practices, and advocate for policies that strengthen our region. By participating, we ensure that our county remains at the forefront of innovation, equity, and effective governance.
These discussions help shape the future of our communities, ensuring we continue to provide the best possible services and opportunities for our residents. I’m grateful for the chance to represent Ramsey County and work alongside colleagues committed to making a difference.
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Over 500 first-time conference attendees explore NACo's advocacy resources and learn about making the most of the conference experience during an orientation breakfast. |
 https://www.facebook.com/share/r/19AveM4aJm/?mibextid=wwXIfr
The National Association of Counties (NACo) represents the interests of America's counties, serving as a powerful voice in federal policymaking.
Attending the NACo Annual Conference was an invaluable opportunity to connect with county leaders from across the country and discuss the challenges and opportunities we face in serving our communities. It was especially meaningful to spend time with Congresswoman Betty McCollum and to conversate with Congressional leaders who are deeply engaged in advocating for our residents at the federal level. Focusing on advocating for Medicaid, SNAP, and HUD grants. Federal changes to these programs would significantly harm our community. Medicaid provides health coverage to almost 80 million low-income Americans. Ramsey County (2023): $2.9B in total Medicaid funding, $5,162 per capita Medicaid is the number one funding source for mental health services in our state.
These discussions reinforced the importance of collaboration and proactive leadership in shaping the future of our communities and the importance of maintaining first-class services for all.
County leaders have the power and responsibility to move with purpose, ensuring that the voices of our communities are heard at every level of government. We must continue to advocate at the state and federal levels, making sure our priorities are seen, known, and addressed—especially in preventing unfunded mandates that strain local resources. Now more than ever, we need to come together, raise our voices, and push for policies that truly reflect the needs of the people we serve. I urge everyone to reach out to our congressional leaders, share the realities of everyday challenges, and demand the support our communities deserve. Change happens when we stand united—let’s act now.
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Every deputy has a call they'll remember forever.
For Deputy Giles, it involved a distraught student who had lost any sense of hope, was despondent and was threatening to hurt herself. Deputy Giles was there, working as a school resource officer. She knew the student. She got involved. And she helped her find support, resources ... and hope.
Deputy Giles grew up in St. Paul with a desire to make a positive difference in her community. She holds a degree in alcohol and drug counseling. She was inspired to pursue a career in law enforcement because she wanted to be part of creating a trusting and safe relationship between the community and law enforcement.
She also wanted other girls from Ramsey County to see people who look like them keeping them safe.
And she's good at it, too -- because she's talented and fun. In 2020, she was Deputy of the Year for her work in the schools, and every summer she plays second base with the Rondo Kickball team.
Deputy Andrea Giles is just one of the outstanding law enforcement professionals working every day to keep Ramsey County safe.
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 DEED Competitive Grant Announcement
The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) released the Youth at Work competitive grant Request for Proposals. This competitive grant is intended to support organizations that provide young people (ages 14-24) with job training, employment preparation, internships, job assistance to parents, financial literacy education, academic and behavioral interventions for low-performing students, and/or youth intervention activities. Important program distinctions are as follows:
- The maximum amount of funding that can be requested by any single applicant for the SFY 2025-26 Youth at Work Competitive Grants is $850,000 per year.
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Proposals must be received via email by no later than 11:59 p.m. CST on Friday, March 21, 2025.
- If a program is not operated by a local unit of government or a workforce development board, the grant recipient must coordinate the program with the local workforce development board.
Contact Bradley.Mahr@co.ramsey.mn.us for more information.
  Join a Learn and Earn program
Many of Ramsey County’s Learn & Earn partners are beginning recruitment for their spring 2025 cohorts:
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Merrick Community Services Food Entrepreneur Program: Learn how to start and grow your own food business.
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Center for Energy & Environment Construction Program: Gain hands-on training in construction and energy efficiency.
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MN Training Partnership Clinical Assistant Program: Prepare for a career in healthcare as a certified Clinical Assistant.
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Twin Cities Rise - Diesel Technician Training: Train for a high-demand career in diesel mechanics.
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Youth Lens 360: Develop creative and entrepreneurial skills in multimedia production.
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Tree Trust Branches Program: Explore careers in environmental restoration and green industries.
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Goodwill Easter Seals Green Construction: Build skills in sustainable construction practices.
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Bridgemakers: A youth-led program focused on leadership development and social impact.
Learn & Earn programs are for residents ages 18-30 years old. Please visit the website to learn more about these different programs and email Learn&Earn@ramseycounty.us with questions!
Advisory Board Vacancies/Openings
We have opened Advisory Board and Committee applications and will start recruiting for applicants. This communication is to notify you that we are recruiting for the following advisory boards:
Community Health Services Advisory Board – 13 vacancies
Parks and Recreation Commission – 5 vacancies
Personnel Review Board – 1 vacancy
Ramsey County Charter Commission – 1 vacancy for reach of the following districts: District 2, District 4, District 6, and District 7.
Current advisory board members who are eligible to reapply have been notified.
We encourage you to join us in recruiting to fill the vacancies listed above. Use the following link: https://ramseycountymn.granicus.com/boards/w/abdc5506d23de199 to redirect candidates to the Advisory Board page.
- Candidates click on “Apply” at the top right to access applications for the available vacancies.
- Paper applications are available upon request.
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Ramsey County's Environmental Service Center opens April 1. This new facility will collect household hazardous waste (HHW), electronics, food scraps, cardboard, scrap metal and other recyclables. There will be no mobile HHW collection sites in 2025. The HHW facility at Bay West in Saint Paul will remain open until services transition to the ESC. Learn more at ramseycounty.us/ESC. |
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Minnesota HIV cases are on the rise. PrEP can help reduce the risk of HIV. Many appointments available. Call Clinic 555 to learn more today: ramseycounty.us/PrEP |
....For Fathers
 
 Ramsey County's Winter Warming Spaces provide safety and relief during the coldest months. Open nightly from 9 p.m.-7 a.m. through March 31, these spaces welcome everyone. Transportation is available. Learn more at ramsey.us/WarmingSpaces or call 651-266-1035.
 CareerForce in Saint Paul is opening in a new downtown location on March 10. More exciting details about the new location will be coming soon!
For assistance call 651-539-4100 or email CareerForce.SaintPaul@state.mn.us.
Residents can also access in person services using these alternative methods
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Saint Paul – Downtown, 121 7th Place E, Suite 2500. (Career Services available: Mondays & Wednesdays 10 a.m.-4 p.m.).
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Maplewood – Service Center, 2001 White Bear Avenue N, Suite 1034 (Career Services available: Tuesdays & Thursdays 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.).
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Roseville – Ramsey County Library, 2180 Hamline Avenue N. (Career Services available: Tuesdays & Thursdays 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.)
Visit the CareerForce in Saint Paul webpage for more information.
 Build Your Own Future provides construction related employment and training information to job seekers, workforce professionals and construction employers in the metro area. The resources found there assist the construction industry by increasing the diversity of the workforce through its community, business and government networks.
Learn more about Build Your Own Future.
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The Minnesota Office of Higher Education is launching a new round of the Dual Training Grant and Legal Cannabis Dual Training Grant. Grant writing workshops are scheduled to help prepare employers and organizations of employers to apply for the Dual Training Grant. Workshop registration information is below.
Dual Training Grant recipients can use the funds to help cover costs related to instruction toward attaining an industry-recognized degree, certificate or credential for their employees through a dual-training program.
Learn more about this grant opportunity.
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 Green Ramsey Expo & Career Fair March 19,10 a.m.-1 p.m. West Minnehaha Recreation Center, 685 W Minnehaha Ave, Saint Paul
Come meet organizations with missions that include recycling, creating green space, environmental clean-up and more! Learn about and apply for green collar careers in emerging industries, as well as conventional businesses and trades that have shifted to more sustainable practices.
Green resources and activities happening in the community will be highlighted as well. If you are interested in a green career or learning more about environmental activities in the county, this event is for you.
Employers and resource providers include:
- Bay West
- City of Saint Paul Parks and Rec, Regional Water Services and Human Resources
- Metropolitan Council
- Metropolitan Mosquito Control District
- Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (PCA) and Management and Budget (MMB)
- Ramsey County Parks and Recreation and Human Resources
- Ramsey Washington Recycling & Energy Center
- Tree Trust
- Walters Recycling & Refuse
- Center for Energy and Environment
- Energy Smart and Waste Wise with the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce
- Finishing Trades Institute of the Upper Midwest
- Goodwill Easter Seals of MN
- Metro Clean Energy Resource Team (Metro CERT)
- M State Energy Careers Academy
- Ramsey County Climate & Health Team
- Ramsey County Recycling Ambassadors
- Saint Paul Port Authority and MinnPace
- And more!
Learn more.
 Employer Reasonable Accommodation Funding available
Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund Information Session March 19, 2-3 p.m. via Teams
The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund (ERAF) creates a central fund where small to mid-sized Minnesota employers can request reimbursement for expenses related to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants and employees with disabilities. The ERAF's purpose is to encourage employment of people with disabilities by reducing any perceived or real financial barriers.
Join DEED for an informative and engaging session that will cover:
- The benefits of workplace inclusivity for your business.
- How ERAF simplifies providing accommodations and supports your bottom line.
- Real-world examples of accommodations that enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.
Learn how this innovative program can position your business as a leader in inclusivity while meeting your workforce needs. Don't miss this chance to gain actionable insights and make your workplace more accessible.
Register for the Event
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