|
Happy New Year!
As I reflect on our inaugural year as your Councilmember, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to represent Ward 1. Together, we’ve made significant progress—investing in affordable housing, strengthening our economy, improving infrastructure, and prioritizing public safety. I am incredibly proud that City Council voted to approve the 2025 proposed budget, increasing the tax levy by 5.9 percent, 2 percent less than the mayor’s proposed 7.9 percent increase. While challenges remain, this year was a testament to what we can accomplish as a community when we work together. Below are highlights of our shared achievements in 2024.
|
|
Affordable housing is the cornerstone of a thriving community. This year, we made bold investments to expand opportunities and support renters:
-
Allocated $100,000 for a comprehensive housing policy evaluation, paving the way for evidence-based updates to Saint Paul’s housing policies.
-
Secured $1.1 Million dollars for the Inspiring Communities Program to invest in emerging developers to build affordable housing on HRA-owned land.
-
Voted for $2M to promote cooperative development and cooperative businesses.
-
Strengthened relationships with housing leaders while serving on the MN Family Housing Fund Board and co-hosted two community conversations on safety and housing with Commissioner Rena Moran.
|
|
Economic vitality is essential for a strong Ward 1. This year, we championed local businesses, cultural events, and economic development:
- Approved more than $3.7 million in grant funding for 59 local capital improvement projects and 68 arts and cultural projects thanks to the city’s Sales Tax Revitalization (STAR) grant program.
-
Supported the grand opening of Life Juices, a business bringing fresh, healthy food to the community.
-
Invested $22,000 to support the opening of The Donut Trap, a Black-owned business in the Lex-Ham neighborhood.
-
Voted for $1.4M in grant funding to boost commercial corridor development.
-
Advocated for $250K in additional funding for cultural arts and events.
-
Wrote a letter of support to help bring back the Oromo Sports Federation North America Soccer Tournament.
-
Passed a wage theft policy to protect workers and ensure fair treatment.
- Awarded Shaunie Grigsby, owner and operator of Flava Cafe with the Alice O'Brien award.
-
Helped secure funding to bring back the Rondo Days Festival and celebrated local artists during Black Music Month.
|
|
Our approach to public safety prioritizes equity, community engagement, and resource allocation:
-
Added seven firefighters to enhance response capabilities in East Side Fire Stations and added an Electric Vehicle.
-
Allocated an additional $8M to fulfill commitments to SPPD officers’ salaries, benefits, and training.
-
Restored $175K for library materials and allocated $500K for the Transforming Libraries Project.
-
Secured $250K to continue free swimming programs and youth sports in our parks.
-
Proposed the creation of a Public Safety Committee to address systemic issues and improve the budget process.
|
|
Strong infrastructure enhances quality of life and ensures accessibility for everyone. Key achievements this year include:
-
Opened PK Park, a new all-abilities park designed for inclusive play.
-
Testified in support of Reconnect Rondo at the State Capitol and convened a community meeting on Rondo Avenue repaving and bike lanes.
-
Funded Rice Street improvements and supported state legislation to revitalize small business corridors.
-
Worked with Public Works to save homeowners thousands by updating assessment costs for the Rondo/Concordia resurfacing and bike lane project.
|
|
Engaging with Ward 1 residents is central to my work. This year, we focused on listening and acting on your concerns:
-
Hosted over 20 public events in collaboration with district councils.
-
Connected thousands of residents with city services, state funding, and job opportunities.
-
Led outreach on illegal dumping, public safety, and safe housing while engaging in multiple budget discussions with residents.
-
Celebrated community leaders and organizations through recognition resolutions at City Hall.
-
Secured $250K for the Saint Paul Reparations Commission to focus on a harm study of slavery descendants and deepen community engagement.
In 2024, we laid the groundwork for a more equitable, inclusive, and vibrant Ward 1. In 2025, I look forward to tackling pressing issues like expanding housing options, addressing vacant buildings, enhancing public safety, and protecting the livelihoods of our workers.
Thank you for your partnership, trust, and engagement. Together, we will rise to meet the challenges ahead and continue to build a stronger community. Be sure to look out for our quarterly newsletters and join us for the annual Vision Board Community Meeting.
The next City Council Meeting will be held on January 8th.
|
|
|
|
310-A City Hall 15 Kellogg Blvd. W. Saint Paul, MN 55102
Phone: 651-266-8610 Fax: 651-266-8574 Email: ward1@ci.stpaul.mn.us
|
|
|
|
|
|