| This month’s newsletter is different. It begins with a heartfelt dedication to two of my former colleagues—one we mourn, and one we continue to uplift—as we reflect on the recent tragedy that has shaken our hearts and deepened our commitment to public service and community care.
~Rena
 Holding Space for Two Public Servants: A Time to Reflect and Uplift
Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, the words I’m struggling to share are hard. The tears, the broken heartedness are unreal. As a leader, Madam Speaker, you were strong, diplomatic, insightful, and courageous. Melissa also loved to see other people who were courageous, capable of moving the state forward, so she led the way early in her tenure to make changes in processes and protocol within our caucus that made opportunities fairer and just.
She fought hard for ordinary, everyday people and families—all families. This was clearly a big part of who she was, what she believed, and it made Minnesota better. The leadership you saw in me—I thank you. You were not only my Speaker but my friend.
I know heaven has opened its doors and allowed you to walk in. Rest in peace, Melissa. 🙏🏽 I will miss you. ❤️
At the same time, I hold Senator John Hoffman in my prayers as he recovers from his surgeries. John was another colleague and partner of mine in the Legislature. He was a champion for the disability community and worked hard to stabilize children and families in out-of-home placement, where we both served on the Legislative Task Force for Child Protection. He was always smiling—a kind and gentle soul who approached his work with humility and heart. I send prayers for strength, healing, and full restoration as he recovers. Your voice is still needed, John!
I also want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Hortman family on the tragic loss of Mark Hortman. Losing both parents—two pillars of strength and love—is an unimaginable pain. My prayers are with their children and extended family as they navigate this deep grief and begin the journey toward healing.
I continue to hold the Hoffman family in my thoughts as Yvette Hoffman recovers from her injuries. I pray for her full and speedy healing, and for ongoing strength and comfort for their daughter during this difficult time.
May both families feel surrounded by love, community, and grace in the days ahead.
In moments like this, I want to remind everyone that beyond the policy and politics are people—people who give so much of themselves in service to others. I hold space today for both the grief and the hope.
~Rena
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June offers us space to reflect on where we’ve been and recommit to where we’re going. Whether it’s continuing the work of equity and justice, honoring Juneteenth and Pride, or simply sharing a moment with neighbors at local events — this month is about building connection and fostering hope.
In District 4, we remain focused on listening deeply, showing up fully, and doing the work that ensures all voices are heard and valued. Thank you for being part of that vision — and for standing with me as we move forward together.
~Rena
Juneteenth Proclamation
 
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.
 I know that many residents along the green line have concerns about safety and cleanliness, of the green lines and communities that align the green line with an emphasis on Snelling, Hamline and Dale Street stops.
A coalition of partners—including Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, Ramsey County Public Health, Metro Transit, the County Attorney’s Office, and the City of Saint Paul’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Development—gathered outside Allianz Field at the corner of University and Snelling to address growing concerns along the Green Line. Rather than defaulting to traditional policing, leaders emphasized a transformative approach grounded in community support and holistic care. The conversation focused on addressing the ripple effects of mental health struggles and substance use through compassion, not punishment.
The shared vision was clear: to create a transit experience that is safe, welcoming, and equitable for all. By investing in people and not just enforcement, the coalition aims to uplift those in need while improving safety for everyone. The event marked an important step toward reclaiming public space with unity, dignity, and hope.
I want you to know I have heard your valid concerns and my office is working diligently to bring resources, support services and respond to your concerns.
 Guns Down, Love Up, Executive Director Raiesha Williams and Rosemary Williams
I was honored to speak at the Guns Down, Love Up: Rise Up Youth Summit on Gun Violence Prevention, held at Metro State University. This inaugural summit brought together over 200 high school students for a powerful day of education, empowerment, and advocacy. More than just an event, the summit served as the beginning of a youth-led movement focused on violence prevention, leadership development, and restorative justice. Students were challenged to see themselves as agents of change within their schools and communities.
My message emphasized the importance of youth voice in creating safe, thriving neighborhoods. The summit sparked inspiration and gave young leaders the tools they need to rise up and make a difference.
 I recently met with the leadership team at Face to Face, a trusted community-based organization that serves youth ages 14 to 24. Our conversation was both honest and forward-looking, focused on how we can deepen our partnership and continue building on the impactful work we’ve done together in the past. In light of current and upcoming budget constraints, we discussed creative ways to maximize funding and ensure resources are used in ways that benefit the community most.
Together, we explored strategies for creating win-win relationships between Ramsey County and organizations like Face to Face—grounded in transparency, trust, and shared commitment. These kinds of conversations are essential to ensuring that young people continue to have access to the support and services they need to succeed.
Face to Face Information:
SafeZone
Drop-in day shelter for youth ages 14-24.
130 E. 7th St., St. Paul, MN 55101 651-224-9644 Open Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
 I applaud community for beginning conversations on this issue that impact the future of our children. As a Ramsey County Commissioner, I continue to hear firsthand the growing alarm from families and providers about the state of childcare in our community. Most recently, I was saddened to learn of the closure of two long-standing childcare programs right here in Saint Paul—Sandcastle Child Care Center and the Children’s Montessori Center. Together, these centers were licensed to serve over 250 children and had been supporting families for decades. Their loss brings the total to five known childcare programs in Saint Paul that have shut their doors within the past year. Without sustainable and immediate investment, more centers will close, families will struggle to find safe and affordable care, and our workforce—especially women—will bear the brunt of the consequences.
Through the lens of Ramsey County, we see the ripple effects: fewer children served, more parents forced to leave jobs, and dedicated childcare workers pushed to the edge. I stand with our childcare providers and fully support the essential role they play in shaping the future of our children and communities. This issue is urgent, and I remain committed to advocating for long-term solutions.
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Transit and transportation investments support our county goals, and a message of support
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From the County Manager
Before I launch into our regularly scheduled column, I want to acknowledge this has been a difficult few days for our community.
Continue reading this week's column
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"From updates to opportunities - your Ramsey County connection starts here."
See below...
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NOTIFICATION OF BRIDGE CLOSURE * It is the bridge over the railroad on Jackson Street. Our maintenance folks are posting barriers to close the bridge to all traffic – motor vehicle, bicycle and pedestrians – on Empire and Acker.
We anticipate the closure will last approximately 3 months to shore up the structure to the point that we can reopen to traffic. The bridge does not appear to be in imminent danger – but we are closing it in an abundance of caution for all users until there is a structural solution put in place.
Here is the county’s communication effort that has been activated.
SPCC Grants Now Available
The Saint Paul Children's Collaborative plans to award approximately $2 million to community organizations targeting services to young people experiencing gaps in opportunities and outcomes included in our Youth Outcomes Plan.
The average grant amount in previous years was approximately $115,000 total over a two-year grant period, but SPCC does not have a minimum or maximum grant amount. Grant funds may only be used to support direct services to young people and families living in Saint Paul.
Deadline is 5:00 p.m. CST on Friday, July 11, 2025.
Our Work: Grant-Making - Saint Paul Children's Collaborative
Seeking Volunteers for Ramsey County Advisory Boards and Committees
The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners is currently seeking individuals to serve on various advisory boards and committees.
Details about these opportunities are listed below. Interested applicants may apply online. View more information and access online application.
We have opened Advisory Board and Committee applications and will start recruiting for applicants.
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Capital Improvement Program Advisory Committee (CIPAC) - 6 vacancies
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Capital Region Watershed District - 2 vacancies
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Corrections Advisory Board - 7 vacancies Parks and
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Recreation Commission - 1 vacancy (rollover from round 1)
For questions about the Ramsey County Charter Commission, please contact Chief Clerk.
Click here to apply today!
  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!
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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 |
 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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 Ramsey County
Sprucing up your lawn and garden? Follow these simple tips for bringing your plant waste to our collection sites. Learn more and find a yard waste collection site near you at RamseyRecycles.com/YardWaste.
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Juneteenth at Progressive Baptist Church
Connect with a diverse group of believers as we honor the history of Juneteenth and the ongoing journey toward racial justice. Discover the promise and vision for what we can do together as Christians when we are equipped and mobilized to continue building a community of healing and reconciliation!
Address: 1505 Burns Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55106
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