As we move through the Ramsey County budget process, I want to take a moment to provide updates on the conversations that have been taking place at the budget hearings. In light of the financial pressures we face from unfunded mandates, potential state and federal cuts, and rising service needs, we need a budget that reflects our commitment to protecting essential services and strengthening support for families.
This week, I have brought our constituents’ life experiences and the community conversations with me into these critical discussions. At our District 6 public discussion, many of our neighbors stressed the need to look deeper into federal reimbursements. I’m pleased to share that the Social Services' budget proposal includes new investments in staff and training for the federal Random Moments Time Study. This positions us to draw down federal dollars more effectively, easing the burden on local taxpayers while ensuring that our most vulnerable residents continue to receive the care and support they need. Additionally, next week, we will hear from the Safety and Justice teams, including the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office and the Sheriff’s Office. I look forward to learning more about expanding the use of federal Title IV-E funds, which allows for federal reimbursement for certain CHIPS cases.
After a close review of this budget, I have confirmed that there will be ongoing investments in the design and construction of public infrastructure. I have also been able to secure assurances to establish a disposition policy to address vacant county facilities, such as Boys Totem Town here in District 6. I have explored ideas and offered solutions to mitigate the impacts to employees and residents amidst the closure of the Ramsey County Detox Center. Additionally, I have urged for the continued expansion of our Local Affordable Housing Aid dollars to keep residents in their homes. I look forward to sharing more information with residents in the next few weeks.
Meanwhile, please be reminded that two public hearings take place this month:
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Public Hearing on Proposed 2026-27 County Budget and Tax Levy on September 22, 2025 at 5 p.m. in the Council Chambers, third floor of Saint Paul City Hall – Ramsey County Courthouse (15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN 55102)
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Housing & Redevelopment Authority Public Hearing on September 25, 2025, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Roseville Library (2180 Hamline Ave N, Roseville, MN 55113.) in the Community Program Room
At these hearings, you may make public comments about the budget for the record. If you are unable to attend, please submit an official comment online at Speaker Registration & Comment Submission | Ramsey County.
Here are some quick links for your convenience:
- Ramsey County Biennial Budget Book - 2026-2027 Proposed Web Version_web optimized.pdf
- 2026-2027 Proposed Budget Major Changes_0.pdf
- Public Hearings & Notices | Ramsey County
Thank you for staying engaged and for continuing to share your perspectives. Together, we can ensure that Ramsey County remains a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I will continue to fight for a budget that safeguards our goals and shared values.
Sincerely,
Mai Chong Xiong
Ramsey County Board accepted more than $2.5 million in state and federal grants to support important community services. These funds will help:
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Youth Programs: Partner with community groups to guide young people away from trouble and toward positive opportunities.
- Support for Survivors: Provide 24/7 help, counseling, and education for survivors of sexual violence and their families.
- Emergency Services: Prevent family homelessness and open warming centers for people in need during the 2025–2026 winter.
- Housing Support: Strengthen partnerships to help youth and single adults experiencing homelessness find stable housing.
These grants come at a key time, helping the county continue vital services without putting more strain on local taxpayers.
We thank our Safety and Justice, Public Health, and Housing Stability teams for their leadership and hard work in securing these funds. Together, we are building a stronger, safer community where everyone has the support they need to thrive.
 As Chair of the HRA, I am thrilled to share that the Juniper Apartments are now open. Although Commissioner Miller (District 7) and I were unable to attend due to budget hearings, we join JB Vang and all the government and non-profit partners in the celebration of over 60+ affordable housing units for families.
Ramsey County is proud to have invested more than $3.7 million—$3,766,396 in total—to make the Juniper Apartments a reality. Funding came from the Environmental Response Fund, Critical Corridors, HOME Funds, and the American Rescue Plan Act, reflecting our strong commitment to expanding deeply affordable housing options.
The Juniper also shows what’s possible when redevelopment is rooted in community goals. Located in Maplewood, it not only provides safe, stable, and affordable homes, but also strengthens the surrounding neighborhood. Families will benefit from nearby public transit, outdoor recreation at the Bruce Vento Trail and Gladstone Savanna Park, and the vitality that comes from thoughtful planning. Congratulations!
 Last Saturday, I had the honor of sharing my story and perspective on civic leadership with our community. I spoke about my journey as the first Asian-, Hmong-American, and youngest commissioner elected to serve on the Ramsey County Board, and how my background in community organizing and advocacy continues to shape my work today.
I reflected on what it means to build power together: challenging systems, changing narratives, and making sure the voices of those most impacted are at the center of decision-making. For me, civic leadership isn’t just about holding office, it’s about transforming our communities through working together, winning policies that matter, and sustaining movements that create lasting change.
I also connected this to the work of Ramsey County, sharing our vision of a vibrant community where all are valued and thrive. That means making thoughtful budget decisions, asking tough questions about equity and impact, and ensuring residents have a voice in shaping our future.
Most of all, I wanted to leave people with the reminder that progress comes when we struggle together. Our collective leadership is what drives transformation.
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.)
 Absentee voting is now open ahead of the Nov. 4 General and Special Elections. Vote by mail or in person at the Plato Building (90 Plato. Blvd. West)
Purple Line Community Discussion
Payne-Phalen Community Event
Greater East Side Community Picnic
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.
Environmental Response Fund
 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.
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. |
