|
July arrives with its familiar warmth—long days, bright skies, and the spirit of summer in full bloom. In District 4, this is often a time for community gatherings, family celebrations, and reconnecting with neighbors under the shining sun.
But even in this vibrant season, we recognize that loss does not take a break. For some, July may bring memories of loved ones no longer with us, or fresh grief that quietly lingers beneath the summer brightness. The sun may shine, but it does not always reflect how we feel inside.
This month, we acknowledge that both joy and sorrow can exist at the same time. We hold space for those celebrating, and for those simply holding on. In District 4, we continue to stand together—offering compassion, understanding, and the reminder that healing is not bound by seasons.
Let’s be gentle with one another, whether you’re embracing joy or managing loss, you are not alone.
~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.
 |
|
Amid Unthinkable Tragedy, a Moment of Unbelievable Optimism
After a month of pain, agony, and grief following the targeted assassination of Melissa and Mark Hortman and the attempted assassination of John and Yvette Hoffman, we finally received some good news on Senator John Hoffman. He is out of the hospital and on his way to inpatient physical therapy.
Seeing the picture of Senator Hoffman departing the hospital brought a big smile to my face and I'm sure it brings one to yours as well. Despite unthinkable violence inflicted upon Senator Hoffman and his wife Yvette, both are in the midst of remarkable recoveries. I am so grateful to the medical staff who are caring for them, the community that supported them, and the unity displayed by Minnesotans amid this tragedy.
|
 Community Engagement: Safe Space Shelter Tour
I recently visited the Safe Space Shelter located at 420 Roy Street in Saint Paul. Joined by Executive Director Kizzy Down and dedicated staff, the tour provided an in-depth look at the critical services offered to individuals experiencing homelessness. The Safe Space Shelter remains a vital resource in our community, offering not only emergency shelter but also pathways to stability and support. I thank the team for their tireless work and commitment to dignity and care.
 Community Safety Meeting re University & Dale
I hosted a community meeting focused on safety concerns at University and Dale. Representatives from Saint Paul Police, the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, Public Health, and the Appropriate Response Team were present to engage with residents and discuss collaborative strategies.
Efforts will also be made to coordinate with the St. Albans Church groups that meet on Wednesdays to organize community walks and events. The goal is to strengthen community presence and help deter negative activity through connection, visibility, and collective care.
 Celebrating Promise at the AALC Scholarship Luncheon
I had the pleasure of attending the 2025 African American Leadership Council Scholarship Luncheon, where two deserving students were awarded $1,000 scholarships in honor of Sister Mary Kay Boyd and Brother Kwame McDonald.
2025 AALC Sister Mary K Murray Boyd Scholarship winner is Cecilia Davis who will be attending Viterbo University in La Crosse, WI to play basketball and continue her education.
2025 AALC Brother Kwame McDonald Scholarship winner is Devionte Evans who will be attending Itasca Community College in Grand Rapids, MN to play football and continue his education.
I was grateful for the opportunity to share a few words at the event and to witness a community so deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders. It was a powerful reminder of how collective support, encouragement, and opportunity can help shape a young person’s path forward.
Moments like these inspire me and reaffirm the importance of staying engaged, connected, and hopeful about what lies ahead for our youth.
 |
|
Ramsey County Steps Up for Habitat for Humanity
I had a wonderful time joining fellow Ramsey and Hennepin County Commissioners for a special Habitat for Humanity volunteer event. We rolled up our sleeves, picked up some tools, and spent the day working alongside staff and volunteers to help build homes for ownership and spark meaningful conversations about housing and community.
I’m proud to share that Ramsey County had the most commissioners participate — winning the friendly challenge between counties! It was a great day of teamwork, service, and connection, all in support of creating home ownership opportunities for families.
|
 What makes The Heights unique?
The Heights will be one of the most energy efficient developments in the state of Minnesota by using the latest in sustainable building practices. This includes innovative uses of clean energy. Homes are all electric and include solar shingles and air source heat pumps. Through these sustainable practices, The Heights prioritizes the health of the environment for present and future generations.
The Heights will be a diverse, welcoming, family friendly community connected to the rich diversity of cultures that surround it. From its Native American heritage to present-day communities, The Heights will be a place where everyone feels at home. It will include walking trails, wetlands, a five-acre park, and walkable retail shopping. It will feature 1,000 housing units and 1,000 jobs in its industrial spaces.
The Heights is the largest modern-day investment in St. Paul’s Greater East Side with the community shaping the development’s bold vision, connecting it with the history and strength of the surrounding neighborhood.
What is The Heights? Where is it?
The Heights is a largescale development taking shape on St. Paul's Greater East Side at the intersection of Larpenteur Avenue and McKnight Road. It is a redevelopment of the former Hillcrest golf course.
The development will feature mixed-use affordable housing (both rental and homeownership), as well as employment opportunities, and public amenities, including a five-acre park, trails, and wetlands. The Heights has the potential to be one of the most energy efficient developments ever created in Minnesota.
Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is building 147 homeownership units at The Heights, including twin homes, 3-plex townhomes, 4-plex townhomes, and some single-family homes.
Learn more about homeownership at The Heights at: home.tchabitat.org/the-heights
The 147 homes will be available to low- and moderate-income first-time homebuyers who meet our program and income guidelines. Potential buyers currently living on the East Side are particularly encouraged to apply.
 |
|
"From updates to opportunities - your Ramsey County connection starts here."
See below...
|
***************************************************************
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.
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.
-
Capital Improvement Program Advisory Committee (CIPAC) - 6 vacancies
-
Capital Region Watershed District - 2 vacancies
-
Corrections Advisory Board - 7 vacancies Parks and
-
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!
 Click below link for details;
Uplift & Unwind In The Garden
Join Urban Roots for a peaceful evening of relaxation and renewal. Set in our thriving Rivoli Bluff Farm and Restoration Site with views of downtown Saint Paul, this event offers a chance to refresh your body and spirit.
 Ramsey County
Applications are officially open for the Emerging and Diverse Developers Program. This program is designed to support and connect diverse developers who are ready to grow and make an impact. Apply now at ramseycounty.us/EDD
 |
|
Ramsey County
CareerForce in Saint Paul has moved to the Metro Square Building in downtown Saint Paul and is now open to serve you. All services are provided free of charge to all residents, including Minnesota businesses. Some specific services provided at this location include: - Job search assistance, including resume revisions and interview prep. - Career exploration and planning services. - Connections to education and training resources. To learn more about services, parking or hours, visit careerforce.mn.gov/saintpaul.
|
 Ramsey County Parks and Recreation
Looking for free programs to enjoy this summer? Parks and Rec plan a robust number of free activities to enjoy all summer long. Bring your friends and family to explore what the parks at Ramsey County has to offer! More details: ramseycounty.us/SummerFun
  Join a Learn and Earn program
Many of Ramsey County’s Learn & Earn partners are beginning recruitment for their spring 2025 cohorts:
-
Merrick Community Services Food Entrepreneur Program: Learn how to start and grow your own food business.
-
Center for Energy & Environment Construction Program: Gain hands-on training in construction and energy efficiency.
-
MN Training Partnership Clinical Assistant Program: Prepare for a career in healthcare as a certified Clinical Assistant.
-
Twin Cities Rise - Diesel Technician Training: Train for a high-demand career in diesel mechanics.
-
Youth Lens 360: Develop creative and entrepreneurial skills in multimedia production.
-
Tree Trust Branches Program: Explore careers in environmental restoration and green industries.
-
Goodwill Easter Seals Green Construction: Build skills in sustainable construction practices.
-
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!
 |
|
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.
 |
|
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.
|
 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.
 Dr. Camille M. Davidson, President & Dean of Mitchell Hamline School of Law, Dr. Stacie L. Stanley, Superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools, Dr. Marcheta P. Evans, President of St. Catherine University
Celebrating Women Leading the Future of Education
We are proud to celebrate three dynamic leaders who are ushering in a new era of educational excellence in Minnesota: Dr. Marcheta P. Evans, President of St. Catherine University; Dr. Camille M. Davidson, President and Dean of Mitchell Hamline School of Law; and Dr. Stacie L. Stanley, Superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools.
Each of these distinguished women brings vision, passion, and a deep commitment to equity and access in education. Their appointments represent a powerful and historic moment — three Black women stepping into top leadership roles around the same time, each poised to influence generations of learners and communities across our region.
We honor their achievements and leadership, and we look forward to the transformative impact they will continue to make. Their success is a success for us all — a clear sign that the future of education in Minnesota is in brilliant and capable hands.
|
