News from Ward 5 (July 12, 2024)

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July 12, 2024

Minimum Wage Increases

minimum wage increases


As of July 1, 2024, the minimum wage rate for specific business sizes in Saint Paul has increased:

  • Large business (101-10,000 employees) wage rate has increased to $15.57.
  • Small business (6-100 employees) wage rate has increased to $14.00.
  • Micro (5 or fewer employees) business wage rate has increased to $12.25.
  • The minimum wage rate for Macro businesses remains $15.57 through 2024.

Under the ordinance, business size matters. Employers must count all employees whether employed full-time, part-time, jointly with another employer, or working on temporary basis. 

Read the Rules, FAQs, and Ordinance at stpaul.gov/minimumwage. Contact HREEO at 651-266-8966 with any additional questions. 


Como Neighborhood Cleanup Kits

Como Cleanup Kits 2024


The Como Community Council, in partnership with the Capital Region Watershed District, is now offering Neighborhood Cleanup Kits for community members or organizations to borrow to lead their own cleanup events.

Each Kit Includes: 15 Trash Grabbers, 15 Hi-Vis Vests, Bags and Gloves.

Plan a cleanup in your neighborhood, even if it's just your own household, or add one to your annual block party this summer! Get outside and pitch in to keep your neighborhood beautiful!

To reserve a kit email kits@district10comopark.org. Reserve one kit for any event or two for a larger cleanup!


Saint Paul Business Awards

Saint Paul Business Awards


It's time to nominate your favorite local businesses for the 2024 Saint Paul Business Awards!

The Saint Paul’s Business Awards program was created to uplift local businesses that give back to the community. With five unique categories, your favorite local businesses have an opportunity to receive an award that match the businesses' individual missions, goals, and outreach efforts.

Each year, the Saint Paul City Council recognizes businesses in five award categories:

  • Alice O'Brien Award - Honoring a woman-owned business that is committed to equity and empowerment
  • Good Neighbor Award - Honoring a business that shows a dedication to improving the community
  • Traditions Award - Honoring a business that has been active in Saint Paul for at least 20 years
  • People’s Choice Award - Honoring a business that is recognized for its excellence by Saint Paul residents
  • New Kid on the Block Award - Honoring a business that has opened in Saint Paul within the last five years

Visit www.stpaul.gov/bizawards to learn more about award categories, previous winners and how you can nominate your local spot or apply if you're an eligible business!


2024-2025 Saint Paul Youth Commission Applications Available

Saint Paul Youth Commission


The Saint Paul Youth Commission is a great opportunity to make a difference in the community you live in, meet other students with similar interests, and grow leadership skills.

To be eligible for the Youth Commission, youth must:

  • Live in the City of Saint Paul   
  • Be in 9th-12th grade while serving on the Commission  
  • Commit 6-10 hours a month, Sept - May 
  • Have a desire to make Saint Paul the best city to live and thrive 

This school year commitment meets every other week. Dinner and transportation is provided and a $400 stipend at the end of the year. 

Submit an application by August 18! Contact Stephany.Lopez@ci.stpaul.mn.us with any questions.

Contact Us

CC-Ward5@ci.stpaul.mn.us 

651-266-8650

Schedule a Lake Lap

Ward 5 residents are invited to meet your councilmember while walking a lap around Lake Como. Email or call the Ward 5 office to schedule.


Free Summer Meals

Free Meal Food Truck


Free meals and snacks for youth 18 years of age and under and enrolled in an enrichment program are available throughout the school year and summer. These meals are made possible through a partnership with Youthprise and Saint Paul Public Schools. Meal schedules are available online.


Summer Spark Reading Program!

Summer Spark 2024


It’s not too late to join in on 
Summer Sparkthe Library's summer learning and reading program for kids and teens

To get started, kids and teens can stop in at any Saint Paul Public Library location to pick up their Summer Spark Reading and Activity Log and pick out a free book to keep. Readers can track their reading and discover fun learning activities along the way. 

Suggested book titles and a calendar of events and programs can be found at  sppl.org/summer. For library hours and locations, visit www.sppl.org or call 651-266-7000.


Parks & Rec Programs

Youth on kayak


Youth Kayak League

Twin Cities Paddlesports is offering a beginner kayaking league for youth ages 10-14 at Lake Phalen. Paddling dates offered through August 10, with both practice and racing opportunities. No prior paddle experience is necessary. All boats, paddles, and life vests provided. Registration is required

Roller Skating Events

Looking for ways to get your skate on? Multiple recreation centers are hosting roller skating parties all summer! Plus, Rice Park in downtown Saint Paul hosts Friday Roller Disco nights from 5:30-8:30pm, with family friendly DJ and free roller skate rentals and safety gear.

Ice cream socials

We all scream for ice cream! These ice cream socials hosted at your local recreation center will help curve the heat...and your cravings

Rec In Motion

Recreation in Motion is a free, drop-in youth program offering athletic programs, STEM challenges, arts & crafts, games, and more.

Nature Pop-ups

Learn about pollinators, fossils, weather, animals, plants, and more through science experiments, games, and crafts. These Nature Pop Ups are free with no pre-registration necessary.


Energy Assistance

Energy Assistance


Minnesota's Energy Assistance Program helps to pay those energy and water bills. You may apply online or in person.

You can also apply through the Community Action Partnership of Ramsey & Washington Counties (CAPRW). The CAPRW site lists the St. Paul location, hours, and phone number to call for questions.