Proposed 2026-27 budget to be presented at Sept. 2 board of commissioners meeting

Ramsey County

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September 2025

Monthly Newsletter

Proposed 2026-27 budget to be presented at Sept. 2 board of commissioners meeting

County Manager Ling Becker will present Ramsey County's proposed 2026-27 budget to the board of commissioners Tuesday, Sept. 2. Ramsey County uses its two-year (biennial) operating budget to monitor revenue and expenses and to improve financial management and strategic planning. Ramsey County’s 2026-27 budget process advances the vision, mission and goals established by the board of commissioners and the strategic priorities outlined in the County's strategic plan.

Budget proposals from service teams will include and focus on the following:

  • Prioritizing county-responsible services.
  • Operating as one Ramsey County.
  • Investing in organizational excellence.
  • Advancing partnerships.
  • Supporting long-term fiscal health.

Share your thoughts

Residents are encouraged to share their feedback on the proposed 2026-27 budget. There are several options to provide feedback, including attending one of two public hearings, contacting your commissioner, and/or sending written comments.

The first public meeting will be held at 5 p.m. on Sept. 22 at Saint Paul City Hall — Ramsey County Courthouse, in the council chambers on the third floor.

People who intend to testify are encouraged to sign up online or to contact the Chief Clerk prior to Monday, Sept. 22, 2025. Sign-up will also be available on-site the night of the hearing. If in-person testimony isn't possible, comments may be provided via webform submission or email.


Working together to improve access to services

At Ramsey County, resident feedback is a key part of how we improve our services. When we see areas where processes could be faster, clearer or easier, we bring the right people together to make changes that matter.

Over the past few months, we’ve taken focused steps to address delays, improve communication and make it easier for residents to get the support they need. Here are some recent examples:

  • Faster application processing.
  • Timely returned calls.
  • Better technology and communication tools.
  • Improved service center experience.
  • Stronger collaboration.

These improvements are part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring Ramsey County residents can easily access the services they need, quickly, equitably and in a way that honors their needs.


Back to school resources in Ramsey County

Color pencils, a pair of scissors and ABC magnets

It’s back-to-school season. Ramsey County offers a variety of resources to help families succeed this school year.

Homework Help

Ramsey County Libary offers HelpNow, an online, one-to-one live homework help service provided by professional tutors. It’s available for students in grades K–12.

Programs and events

The library offers storytimes and clubs for kids and teens. The Tamarack Nature Center offers programs for many age groups covering a wide variety of nature topics. Parks & Recreation also provides guided and self-guided programs for everyone to enjoy.

Two toddlers plays with blocks

Child care

Additional funds are available for families who may qualify on a sliding scale, including those with higher incomes, so all families are encouraged to apply. Funds are available for children up to age 12, and for children with special needs up to age 15. Apply online at mnbenefits.mn.gov.

Vaccinations

Back to school means catching up on vaccinations before children can attend child care, school or after-school programs in Minnesota. Residents should visit their doctor or contact the Saint Paul - Ramsey County Public Health Immunization Clinic to get caught up on immunizations including Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR).


Join us for the grand re-opening of the Tuj Lub courts

The Tuj Lub courts at Keller Regional Park are reopening after a major $2.5 million makeover. To celebrate, we’re hosting a public event on Saturday, Sept. 20, 10 a.m. to noon at Keller Regional Park (2098 Maplewood Drive, Maplewood, MN). Come for the ribbon-cutting, hear from some special guests and catch Tuj Lub demonstrations.

Thanks to funding from the Metropolitan Council Equity Grant, the Legacy Amendment’s Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund, and the Legacy Parks & Trails Fund, this project helps create a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy both recreation and community connection. This initiative represents the county's continued effort to invest in inclusive, culturally meaningful public spaces that support both recreation and community engagement.


September funding opportunities available for Ramsey County development projects

A hard hat and blue prints of a house

Three Community & Economic Development programs will open their application periods in September. These programs support redevelopment, preservation and new development projects across Ramsey County.

Together, these three programs provide opportunities to advance projects that strengthen neighborhoods, expand economic opportunity and support a more resilient, inclusive and equitable Ramsey County. Find details about each of the funding opportunities at ramseycounty.us/CED.


Property tax payments due Oct. 15

The second half of 2025 property tax payments are due Wednesday, Oct. 15. Payments can be made online, by mail, in person or by drop box. To avoid penalties, payments must be submitted or postmarked by the due date. Learn more and pay online: ramseycounty.us/PayPropertyTax

Health and Wellness

What impacts your health and well-being?

Public Health wants to hear from you. Your voice matters!

Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health wants your input on the most important health concerns in our community. This short, private survey will guide how Public Health works with community partners to take action on issues that matter most.

Take the survey, available in multiple languages, including Español, Soomaali and Hmoob.

Environmental Center

Ramsey County Environmental Center – Fall Open House

Community members of all ages are invited to attend the Ramsey County Environmental Center Fall Open House.

Join us on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 6 to 8 p.m. at 1700 Kent St., Roseville, to explore the new Environmental Center and connect with neighbors, county leaders and community influencers. Guests will hear updates from Ramsey County Commissioner Mary Jo McGuire, tour the center with staff experts, and take part in hands-on art activities.

Four Minnesota social media influencers will also be on-site for meet-and-greets and photos: Fernanda Almeida, Giiwedin Indizhinikaaz, Idil Mohamed and Pagnia Xiong.

This event is a follow-up to the center’s spring grand opening and offers another opportunity to learn more about recycling, reuse and environmental programs available in Ramsey County.

Youth Violence Prevention Network kick-off meeting

Professionals serving youth in the Twin Cities area, including service providers, organizers, mentors, clinicians and educators, are invited to attend this kick-off meeting and join the Youth Violence Prevention Network.

Join us on Sept. 24, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Ramsey County Library-Roseville for a valuable opportunity to learn and share with peers, enhance your practice and collectively build new knowledge. RSVP by Wednesday, Sept. 17.

Proclamation Upcoming Events