 Dear Neighbors,
Next week, the Board of Commissioners will receive departmental budget presentations for the 2026–2027 biennial budget. Specifically, we will hear from the Strategic Service Team, Information and Public Records Service Team, Economic Growth and Community Development Service Team, and the Health and Wellness Service Team.
These hearings are where each county department presents its proposed budget to the Board and the public. They are a critical part of the process that allows us to dig into the details, ask questions, and weigh decisions that directly affect services across Ramsey County.
I know this budget comes at a time when residents are feeling stretched. Federal cuts, unfunded state mandates, and rising service demands mean we must make thoughtful decisions together. I encourage you to stay engaged in this process by tuning into board meetings, reviewing the budget book, or sharing your priorities with me directly.
If you missed it, here are the results from our event registration survey in which we asked District 6 residents' to rank their top three county programs and services. The results say a lot about who we are: we care about our neighbors and about each other.
The rankings are not a tell-all, but rather, this graph is a snapshot of urgency and a reminder of the many services the county funds, delivers, or partners to provide every day. As we shape the budget, we will work to sustain the full portfolio residents rely on while focusing resources where the need is greatest.
I remain committed to lifting up District 6 values in every conversation. Together, we can ensure the budget reflects not only fiscal responsibility but also the care we have for one another as neighbors.
Thank you for your continued partnership.
Sincerely,
Mai Chong Xiong
 This week, I attended the Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) General Government & Economic Development, Workforce & Housing Policy Committee Meeting, where county leaders from across the state gathered to discuss policies and pressing issues that affect all of us. Much of the conversation centered on tax administration, cannabis management, housing, and the workforce.
The conversations at AMC reinforced that the challenges we face in Ramsey County. Budget pressures, housing affordability, and the stability of essential programs are echoed statewide. By learning from our peers and bringing our community’s perspective to the table, we ensure Ramsey County remains a leader in equity, transparency, and responsible governance.
Winthrop Street N will be closed between Hoyt Avenue E and Arlington Avenue E starting the week of September 2 and continuing through late fall, weather dependent.
For properties on Winthrop Street N within the closure area: Local access will be maintained when possible. Access may be impacted during underground utility work, but crews will open access to local properties by the end of each workday. (See map below.)
Purple Line Community Discussion
Critical Corridors Development + Infrastructure: Applications Now Open
 Ramsey County’s Critical Corridors Development & Infrastructure program is opening a new funding round to support inclusive redevelopment and public infrastructure in our transit, economic, and cultural corridors. Projects should use land efficiently, create compact and walkable places, and connect residents to housing, jobs, retail, and services.
Application window: Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025 through 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025 (CT)
Downtown Saint Paul is now eligible for Critical Corridors funding.
How to apply: We are moving to a new application portal: Neighborly. ZoomGrants will no longer be used.
Who can apply
- Developers (for-profit and nonprofit)
- Government agencies and related development authorities
Available funding
- Up to $500,000 per project
- Project completion within two years of award
- Depending on the project, funding may be offered as a loan rather than a grant.
Emerging and Diverse Developers (EDD) Solicitation Now Open
 Ramsey County will begin accepting applications for the 2025 Emerging and Diverse Developers (EDD) Solicitation on Sept. 8, 2025, for the acquisition, rehabilitation and the construction of affordable housing units. This exclusive solicitation is for developers with less than 25 units of housing and/or 15,000 sq. ft of commercial space.
Responses are due by 5 p.m. Oct. 31, 2025.
Applications must be submitted via Neighborly and have all required components to be eligible for review. All proposed housing developments must include units at/or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) and the overall average of rental limits must be at or below 80%. Technical assistance will be offered through NEOO Partners LLC starting Sept. 8, 2025.
Join us for an in-person informational session for the 2025 Emerging Diverse Developers solicitation. This is for individuals interested in housing and community development with less than 25 units of housing or 15,000 sq. ft of commercial space.
Session 2: Sept. 18 4-6 p.m. Rondo Community Library 461 N. Dale Street Saint Paul, MN
Environmental Response Fund: Applications open Sept. 15
 Redevelopment in Ramsey County often means addressing legacy environmental issues or “brownfields." An Environmental Response Fund (ERF) grant program provides resources to offset the cost of environmental assessment and cleanup of contaminated sites.
Who can apply?
Local governmental organizations, developers, for-profit and not‐for‐profit organizations are eligible for ERF grants. ERF grants are not available to non-local government responsible parties.
How to apply: Applicants who are requesting funds for building demolition/deconstruction must submit a detailed waste management plan (PDF). Applicants must also provide a letter or resolution of support from the relevant local unit of government.
Before applying, please contact Community & Economic Development to discuss your project and application requirements.
September information sessions
Learn about county, regional, and state brownfield grant options at one of these in-person sessions:
Session 1 Time: 2–3 p.m. Date: Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025 Location: Plymouth City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Blvd., Plymouth, MN 55447
Session 2 Time: 9–10 a.m. Date: Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025 Location: Inver Grove Heights City Hall, Council Chambers, 8150 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077
Minnesota Humanities Center Grant Opportunities
The Minnesota Humanities Center (MHC), by virtue of funding provided by the Minnesota Legislature, will be making several humanities grant opportunities available in the next two weeks.
The following grant opportunities will be available:
- $3,000,000 to support cultural festivals and events for organizations and local governments,
- $600,000 to organizations responding to crisis and emergencies,
- $1,500,000 to Children’s Museums, and
- $1,500,000 to organizations to support Museums, Exhibits, and Collections.
Learn more here: Grants - Minnesota Humanities Center
M Health Fairview: Accelerator Fellowship now open
The M Health Fairview Center for Community Health Equity is launching its inaugural Accelerator Fellowship — a year-long program to support eight community leaders working on community health equity projects. Fellows will receive:
- A $3,000 personal stipend
- Up to $10,000 in project funding
- Monthly training, mentorship, and network-building opportunities
This is an incredible opportunity for community-based leaders looking to grow their impact, deepen their skills, and connect with others doing similar work. The fellowship runs from January–December 2026.
You are invited to attend an upcoming informational webinar to learn more:
Applications are open now through October 24th. Visit the Fellowship webpage to apply and for more information, including application process, deadlines, and project guidelines. For questions, contact cche@fairview.org.
Accessing Arcade Street during Construction
Yes, Arcade Street is currently under construction, but businesses remain open and accessible!
We recognize that road work can make travel more difficult, and we appreciate your patience and continued support. Local businesses and services are still here for you, and your efforts to visit and support them during this time mean a great deal.
Here’s how you can stay connected and plan your visit:
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Call the location for assistance or personalized directions
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Check current road closures at 511mn.org
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Sign up for project updates at MnDOT’s webpage: mndot.gov/metro/projects/e7th-arcade
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Use nearby side streets for parking and access in closure areas
Thank you for showing up for our local businesses and neighbors. Your commitment helps keep our community strong through every phase of improvement.
Earl Street Reconstruction
The City of Saint Paul will reconstruct Earl Street between Maryland Avenue and Burns Avenue in 2026 and 2027. Phase 1 - Earl Street from Maryland Avenue to Minnehaha Avenue will be constructed in 2026 and Phase 2 - Minnehaha Avenue to Burns Avenue will be constructed in 2027.
This is a full reconstruction, meaning it will completely rebuild the road. It will include work on water and sewer, land grading, adding curbs and gutters, improving drainage, paving the street, installing signs and lights, landscaping, and improving the sidewalks and bikeway connections.
Learn more here.
Saint Paul PHA Waitlists Now Open
The St. Paul Public Housing Agency (St. Paul PHA) is now accepting online applications for Multifamily Housing apartments with 0-5 bedrooms and for scattered site homes and duplexes with 5-bedrooms beginning on July 21, 2025 and continuing until further notice.
The Public Housing Program provides homes with reduced rent (based on income) to households with low incomes.
Learn more here. |
