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April is here, bringing with it the fresh energy of spring and a renewed sense of possibility. As the days become brighter, I’m reminded of the resilience and beauty that lives within our District 4 community. This season is a time of growth—a chance to reconnect, refresh, and continue nurturing the bonds that make our neighborhoods strong. Just simply checking in on our neighbors as an opportunity to continue collective growth.
Thank you for your continued care, presence, and commitment to one another. Together, we are moving forward with purpose and heart.
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 celebrated with the 22 newest graduates of the Green Construction Training Program. They deserved recognition for their hard work, and commitment. Completing this program was no small feat—it required discipline, curiosity, and a drive to build a better future.
Proudly I support this initiative alongside the City of Saint Paul, Saint Paul College, and the Center for Energy and Environment. Investing in a cleaner, more sustainable future while strengthening the workforce. Also, creating meaningful, well-paying career pathways in the fast-growing clean energy sector.
The cohort education was in building science, hands-on training in residential insulation and HVAC. Industry-recognized credentials from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) will be very valuable to the careers of these graduates.
The graduates will move onto hands-on training, paid internships, or additional specialized training. Ramsey County and its partners are committed to supporting them as they advance in their careers. Encouraging them to take full advantage of available resources and opportunities.
 Improving the Health and Wellbeing of St. Paul
The Fairview Community Health and Wellness Hub is in the former St. Joseph’s Campus in downtown St. Paul. This first-of-its-kind center opened in August 2022 and addresses health disparities while providing a range of critical healthcare services and community resources alongside trusted local partners. It is designed to have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of the St. Paul community now and long into the future.
More than two years of extensive research and conversations with community partners have led them to reimagine their presence in downtown St. Paul as a community hub focused on the many social, economic, and medical factors that affect a person’s overall health and wellness.
For generations, measurable community health disparities for those living in and around St. Paul’s most racially diverse neighborhoods have increased. Where you live shouldn’t determine how long you live, but it does. In many neighborhoods surrounding downtown St. Paul, your projected life span can be up to 13-years less compared with neighborhoods three miles to the west.
Research also shows that 80 percent of overall health is influenced by factors outside of hospital or clinical care — including education, job status, family and social support, and more. These factors are considered social determinants of health. Fairview Community Health and Wellness Hub is an anchor institution in Minnesota. They are committed to playing a key role in reducing health inequalities and the impact of the social risk factors that produce poor health in our most diverse neighborhoods.
The Fairview Community Health and Wellness Hub represents a bold, new approach to improve health and create health equity in a community by removing barriers to wellness and creating access that helps people support their own health.
 On April 1st, I had the great honor of presenting a proclamation to Hallie Q. Brown Community Center, recognizing the first annual Hallie Q. Brown Day. This celebration was more than just a formal occasion—it was a powerful reminder of the legacy, leadership, and deep community roots that Hallie Q. represents in the heart of Rondo. I was moved by the updated artwork and storytelling on the walls, which now beautifully reflect the rich history and resilience of the people who have shaped this space across generations.
As I walked through the center, I felt the spirit of transformation and growth. Executive Director Benny Roberts shared his powerful vision for Hallie Q. Brown to become an even stronger hub—a place where people in the community can connect, find support, and feel seen. It was truly inspiring to witness the leadership, guidance, and renewed sense of purpose that is now guiding Hallie Q. Brown forward. I left feeling hopeful and energized, knowing this center will continue to be a beacon of strength and unity for years to come.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff and the Rondo community for your dedication, your vision, and the warm sense of belonging you create at Hallie Q. Brown. Your work is seen, valued, and appreciated more than words can say.
 House File 1914- Emergency Service Grant Funding for Innovative Homelessness Response
This month, I had the opportunity to testify at the Capitol in support of House File 1914, a bill that would provide critical funding for community-based organizations across Minnesota that serve youth and families impacted by violence and trauma. HF 1914 would establish the Community Healing Grants Program—a vital step forward in acknowledging and addressing the generational pain caused by systemic disparities. As someone who has worked closely with youth, families, and community organizations, I know firsthand the importance of culturally grounded, community-led healing spaces.
Testifying before the committee, I shared my experience not only as a commissioner but as someone who has seen the deep need for this kind of support. I testified because I believe in investing in solutions that uplift rather than punish—solutions rooted in healing, belonging, and dignity. It was powerful to be part of this moment, and I will continue to advocate for programs like these that strengthen our communities from within. I’m proud to support this bill and will keep fighting for the resources our neighborhoods need.
House File 2349 / Senate File 2521- Ramsey County Economic Development Authority Creation (EDA)
This bill gives Ramsey County the ability to expand eligibility of its existing Housing and Redevelopment Authority or (HRA) levy to better support diversifying industries, communities, and emerging entrepreneurs through Ramsey County can support and deepen impact in the areas of affordable housing, redevelopment, workforce and economic development.
In just the last three years, Ramsey County has successfully established new programing that is expanding the supply of affordable housing units, supporting more families in their path towards homeownership and supporting community led projects and efforts along critical corridors.
Ramsey County has a Strategic Priority that invests in Economic Competitiveness and Inclusion. The intersections and linkages between the areas of affordable housing, redevelopment, workforce development and small business supports are all critical to growing a healthy economy Investments that support the growth of jobs and wages drive our region’s prosperity and economic competitiveness.
Again, this legislation allows for greater flexibility to support the needs of our small business community while also holding us in our commitment towards affordable housing investments as we continue to prioritize the majority of our HRA levy funding towards affordable housing infrastructure.
My testimony on these legislations was a chance to uplift your voices and ensure that our needs and concerns are represented in the policymaking process. It’s important that we continue to advocate for policies that support equity, safety, and opportunity for all residents.
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Benny Roberts, Executive Director, Hallie Q Brown
Before I was born, my mother, grandparents, & extended family (STP Hills, Garretts, Archers) utilized the Hallie Q Brown Center as a community resource that supported, encouraged and brought them community. Fast forward to '97, the first time I ever received recognition for my art was during a city wide MLK art competition. Around that time "Two Trains Running" inspired my artistic awakening in performance art at the Penumbra theater. Sprinkle in a bunch of Rondo Days, drill team competitions, & other community gatherings, my love for community was magnified by HQB. In '99 when I grew into basketball stardom, I lead a team for the first time to a championship season, at the King Center. In this season of life, I started running track for ICAA & went to nationals for hurdles. Here is also where I met Jaralyn, also Rondo- She was a friend & I never imagined, we'd start a family together.
The naked eye reading this would think that I am bragging about something that I accomplished. The discerning eye will see a golden thread- Every moment of my existence was shaped by my community. The reality of this, & my awareness of it at a young age now strikes me as wisdom. I started my journey in leadership as a kid, & started my career in service as an adolescent, when it wasn't popular. I was a byproduct of intentional community & that became my life calling. I sit here in awe thinking about what is to come because I can physically touch the people who told me that one day I'm going to lead them. I also can thank the many people that formed my village, which includes my incredible family. I have mentors, role models, elders, and friends here I do not see this next step in my life as a job, or a notch in my career, not a steppingstone, but my DUTY..
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  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 opened on 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 |
 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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 Celebrate the Opening of Our New Home
Walker|West Music Academy Grand Opening Weekend
Join us for a weekend of music, food, and fun as we celebrate the opening of our new facility and embark on a journey to build a lasting legacy for music education. Planning to join us? Let us know and invite others on our Facebook Event Page
Where: Walker|West Music Academy — 650 Marshall Avenue, Saint Paul, MN When: Friday, April 25 & Saturday, April 26, 2025 Admission: Free and open to all
Level Up Young Adult Job and Resource Fair April 24 Saint Paul Eastside YMCA
Twin Cities Talent Hub is excited to host Level-Up, a young adult career and resource fair. The collaboration between Workforce Solutions, St. Paul Area Chamber and the Minneapolis Regional Chamber is excited to bring together employers, education and training programs from across the ecosystem to provide next step opportunities for graduating high school seniors and young adults.
For questions or how to get involved, visit the TC Talent Hub website.
 MN Construction Crew 11th Annual Hiring Expo April 29, 8-11 a.m. LIUNA Local 563 Office, 620 12th Ave S, Minneapolis
Looking to break into the construction industry? Don’t miss the MN Construction Crew 11th Annual Hiring Expo!
Meet with construction employers and union representatives to learn about apprenticeship programs and available job opportunities. This is a prime opportunity to ask questions, make connections, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in the trades.
- Open to youth and young adults interested in construction careers
- Hands-on demonstrations and networking opportunities
- No registration required — just show up and explore!
 Employer Webinar - Unlocking Inclusivity: How ERAF Can Transform Your Business April 23, 2-3 p.m.
Through the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED’s) Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund (ERAF), small to mid-sized Minnesota businesses can request reimbursements for up to $30,000 in expenses related to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants and employees with disabilities.
This opportunity not only simplifies the process of making your workplace accessible but also connects fantastic businesses with outstanding talent. Don't miss out on learning how your business can thrive through inclusivity and strategic support.
It’s simple, it’s easy, and it connects great workers with great businesses.
Register today.
 Youth Job & Resource Fair May 3,10 a.m.-noon. Maplewood Mall, 3001 White Bear Avenue N, Suite 1022A, Maplewood
Workforce Solutions is excited to again host the Youth Job and Resource Fair at the Ramsey County Service Center in Maplewood Mall.
Youth ages 14-18, as well as their parents, guardians, or chaperones, are invited to attend and explore summer jobs, mentor programs, and volunteer opportunities!
Learn more.
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