| Greetings District 1,
Throughout the month of May, I have remained focused on strengthening health and human services at the county, particularly in the areas of mental health support and mental health continuum of care. In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever that residents can access reliable, coordinated services when they need them most.
I continue to engage with community stakeholders to better understand gaps in care and explore strategies for more effective service delivery. As we look ahead to June, I remain committed to fostering responsive, resilient systems that supports the well-being of all members of our community.
Sincerely,
Tara Jebens-Singh
Meetings of the Ramsey County Board, Regional Railroad Authority, Housing and Redevelopment Authority and Committees are held on Tuesdays in the Chambers of Saint Paul City Hall - Ramsey County Courthouse. Meeting proceedings are video recorded and archived. Minutes, agendas and related documents are available online.
May Board Meetings
In May, several critical topics were addressed during the Ramsey County Board meetings, underscoring the county’s dedication to workforce development, equity, and community well-being.
The Board received a presentation on Aligning Talent Attraction, Retention, and Promotion within Ramsey County, outlining strategic initiatives to strengthen the county’s workforce. Further emphasizing leadership growth, the Board engaged in a Gallup StrengthsFinder review as part of ongoing County Board leadership development. Additionally, the approval of collective bargaining agreements with both the Ramsey County Deputy Sheriff’s Federation and Law Enforcement Labor Services Local 184, reaffirmed strong partnerships with law enforcement personnel.
Highlighting the county’s commitment to fostering more equitable systems and inclusive community engagement, a comprehensive presentation was given on Advancing Racial and Health Equity and Shared Community Power. The Board was also able to authorize the Transit and Transportation Investment Plan, a vital step toward enhancing infrastructure to improve mobility and accessibility for residents. Lastly, aimed at aligning justice system practices with community health and safety priorities, the board was presented with information to help put Well-Being and Community at the Center of Justice System Transformation, which provided details on the Appropriate Response Initiative.
County Board Retreat
 Commissioner Jebens-Singh appreciated the opportunity to take part in the Ramsey County Board Retreat, where the board viewed a presentation from the State Demographer, engaged in a deep dive into the realities of poverty in Ramsey County, and participated in partner exercises that allowed the board to reflect on how these trends impact their policy work and service delivery.
Overall, the retreat reinforced the county's commitment to data-driven, collaborative-focused leadership.
Rice Creek Commons Joint Development Authority
On May 5th, Commissioner Jebens-Singh chaired the Rice Creek Commons/TCAPP Joint Development Authority (JDA) meeting, overseeing 3 key agenda items. The meeting included a review of the latest Communications Report, approval of the 2025 Budget Amendment, and a comprehensive review of the development Road Map.
As progress continues to be made on the TCAPP site, the JDA remains focused on advancing strategic initiatives aimed at fostering regional development and collaboration.
To view the full meeting, agenda, and minutes click here.
Outside Boards, Committees, & Workgroups
At the May 2025 meeting of the National Association of Counties (NACo) Health Steering Committee, members gathered to discuss the White House’s proposed federal budget and its potential impact on county-level health services across the country. A central concern was the proposed funding cuts to several critical public health programs. These include significant reductions to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additionally, proposed reductions to Medicaid could dramatically affect access to care for millions of residents. The committee also noted substantial cuts to the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program and to Maternal and Child Health Programs.
The discussion underscored the importance of unified county engagement in federal policy debates, as well as the need to ensure that federal decisions consider the real-world impact on local governments and the residents they serve.
This month, Commissioner Jebens-Singh has attended another Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) Behavioral Health Workgroup meeting. As a participating member of the group, she reviewed recent survey results where members identified barriers to accessing behavioral health services, and advancing transformational efforts in the behavioral health space.
The group engaged in thoughtful discussions about the challenges individuals face and Commissioner Jebens-Singh emphasized the importance of collaborative strategies that improve access, coordination, and outcomes for those in need.
 Commissioner Jebens-Singh attended the Suburban Ramsey Family Collaborative's 2nd Quarterly Board Meeting, participating in discussions on upcoming initiatives aimed at enhancing community well-being.
Key agenda items included the collaborative's plan to become its own fiscal agent, approval on LCTS funding for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, a strategic planning presentation, and approval on a job posting for a new executive director.
Minnesota State Legislature Advocacy Efforts
 Ramsey County has been actively advocating to ensure vital services and programs can continue to meet the needs of community, particularly the county's most vulnerable residents.
As the county plays a central role in providing services and supporting existing systems, Commissioner Jebens-Singh spent her time connecting with legislators to prevent critical funding cuts from impacting the county. As the legislature continue to work to advance a state budget, it is crucial that counties receive the necessary funding to fulfill their mandates.
Press Conferences
 Commissioner Jebens-Singh, alongside Commissioner Ortega, County Attorney John Choi, and the Ramsey County police chiefs, reaffirmed the county's commitment to supporting victims of sexual violence.
The event highlighted the county's ongoing efforts to improve its response to sexual assault, emphasizing the progress made since becoming a "Start by Believing" community in 2016. It also acknowledged areas where continued growth and enhancement are needed in providing support for survivors and victims.
 In recognition of the urgent need to prevent firearm-related suicides and accidental shootings involving children, Commissioner Jebens-Singh, along with County Attorney Choi, Ramsey County leaders, public safety officials, and mental health advocates gathered to highlight the importance of using gun locks and practicing safe firearm storage. In her remarks, she highlighted the critical role that safe firearm storage plays in saving lives. She also emphasized that, much like seatbelts and car seats, gun locks are a simple but powerful safety measure that can create the crucial time and distance needed to prevent tragic outcomes.
Ramsey County is offering free gun locks, no questions asked, at several locations including local libraries. A few seconds taken to lock a firearm could mean decades more life for children at play or someone in crisis. Your actions can be the difference between tragedy and hope.
City Council Connections & Presentations
 Attending and presenting at the Shoreview City Council meeting, Commissioner Jebens-Singh and County Manager Becker engaged in a productive dialogue that gave updates on key county initiatives, including public safety, infrastructure improvements, and community health programs.
An overview of the county budget highlighted both current priorities and challenges, particularly in light of shifting federal funding and policy uncertainties. Local updates were also provided on developments specifically impacting the Shoreview community, fostering transparency and ensuring residents and city leaders remain informed and engaged in shaping shared goals.
Suburban Ramsey County Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony
 To honor the brave officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, Commissioner Jebens-Singh attended the Suburban Ramsey County Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony.
The event was a powerful reminder of their selfless service and deep commitment to protecting and serving our communities with unwavering dedication.
Lake Johanna Fire Groundbreaking Ceremony
 Joining community leaders and firefighters in Arden Hills, Commissioner Jebens-Singh celebrated the groundbreaking of the new fire station.
The opening of this brand new facility marks a significant step forward in enhancing public safety and emergency response capabilities.
St. Paul Ramsey County Public Health’s Birth Equity Community Council - 'AFTERSHOCK' Documentary Screening
 With a commitment to addressing maternal health disparities and supporting efforts to promote equity and safety in childbirth, Commissioner Jebens-Singh attended a documentary screening and panel discussion hosted by the St. Paul Ramsey County Public Health’s Birth Equity Community Council.
The film highlighted the urgent maternal health crisis in the United States by following two families who, after experiencing preventable childbirth complications, unite activists, birth-workers, and physicians to confront systemic challenges.
Ramsey County Public Works Open Houses
 This month, Commissioner Jebens-Singh had the opportunity to attend open houses for two Ramsey County road construction project, the County Road J/I-35E Interchange project, and the Hamline Avenue Project.
There she was able to visit with public works staff to stay informed on infrastructure developments impacting the district.
Taste of Shoreview Fundraiser
 Commissioner Jebens-Singh had the pleasure of attending the Taste of Shoreview Fundraiser. There, she had a wonderful evening filled with great food, meaningful conversations, and a strong sense of community spirit.
Events like this highlight the importance of coming together to support the organizations and volunteers who help make Shoreview such a vibrant and welcoming place to live.
Solid Ground - 'Every Family Needs a Home' Breakfast
 In support of the amazing working being done by Solid Ground, Commissioner Jebens-Singh attended the ‘Every Family Needs a Home Breakfast’ Fundraiser.
By being there, she was able to show her support for a comprehensive approach that empowers families to establish the necessary foundations to move from homelessness toward a brighter future.
Lake Links Association - Tour of White Bear Lake Link
 Commissioner Jebens-Singh had the opportunity to join the Lake Links Association for an informative tour focused on regional connectivity and trail access around White Bear Lake. Throughout the tour, it was made evident that completing the loop requires immense collaboration with the cities, the township, Ramsey and Washington counties, state agencies like MnDOT, and private landowners.
As a former marathon runner, Commissioner Jebens-Singh understand the need to ensure safe, continuous access for pedestrians and cyclists while promoting regional connectivity, public health, and community engagement around the lake.
Ramsey County Sheriff's - Touch a Truck Event
 At the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Touch a Truck event in Arden Hills, Commissioner Jebens-Singh joined families as they enjoyed up-close encounters with emergency vehicles, and construction equipment that created unforgettable moments for the community's youth.
Vail Communities - Donor Recognition Breakfast
 At the 2025 Vail Communities Donor Recognition Breakfast, Commissioner Jebens-Singh joined in a heartfelt celebration honoring the profound impact of Vail’s donors. Vail Clubhouse’s peer support services exemplify the importance of providing a diverse array of support options, recognizing that mental health needs are unique and require tailored approaches.
During a time characterized with budget uncertainties and increasing demand for mental health services, fostering strong collaborations between government agencies, nonprofits, community organizations, and residents, can ensure that mental health services remain both effective and sustainable. The support by donors to Vail Communities guarantees that these critical services can continue to be offered to individuals experiencing sever mental illnesses.
Small Sums - 'Restoring Hope' Breakfast
 During the Small Sums 'Restoring Hope' Breakfast, Commissioner Jebens-Singh connected with local residents and stakeholders dedicated to equipping thousands of workers with the necessary gear, tools, training, and transportation to thrive as essential members of our workforce.
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