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This newsletter was originally meant to focus on legislative updates - especially the progress we made in fending off several cost shifts at the state level that would have placed an even heavier burden on county taxpayers. Those were important wins for counties and for the residents we serve. There’s still work to be done - especially as we see early warning signs of similar cost shifts coming from the federal level. I’ll be sharing more about those federal threats in next month’s newsletter. But this month, I want to start somewhere else.
The shooting that took the lives of Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and left Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, recovering from their injuries, has shaken so many of us. Melissa was a powerful advocate and principled leader. Mark, though more often behind the scenes, was a steady presence and loving partner. John is a friend and a dedicated public servant, and I’m grateful that both he and Yvette are on the road to recovery.
In the wake of this tragedy, Melissa and Mark’s children, Sophie and Colin, shared a statement that spoke with striking clarity and grace. They asked that people honor their parents not just with words, but with action - by doing something, big or small, to make our communities better. Whether that means planting a tree, visiting a park or trail, petting a dog, baking bread, telling a dad joke, or standing up for justice and peace - those everyday acts of care and joy reflect the lives Melissa and Mark lived.
These values are at the heart of what we strive for in Hennepin County. From protecting green space and expanding our trail network, to supporting pet adoption and public health, to investing in housing and justice, our work is rooted in the same belief: that community is built through care, connection, and courage.
Even as we process this tragedy, life in our communities continues - and with it, the work of building and sustaining the kind of place where people feel connected, safe, and valued. In this month’s newsletter, I want to share some of what we’ve been working on locally: from progress on the new Sheriff Patrol facility in Plymouth, to highlights from the Hennepin County Fair, to opportunities for landowners to explore conservation easements that help preserve the beauty and character of our region. These efforts may seem small in the face of such loss, but they are the very things that tie us together - and they reflect the kind of steady, community-minded work that Melissa, Mark, and so many public servants have dedicated their lives to.
 Thanks to the Three Rivers Park District for hosting Turtle Fest 2025 at French Park in Plymouth!
 I had a blast joining Minnetrista residents on the Minnetrista Bus Tour. It was great to reconnect with Mayor Whalen, Three Rivers Park District Associate Superintendent Luke Skinner, and Minnetrista Councilmember Brian Govern. Special shout out to Macenthuns Meats and Deli for providing an excellent dinner.
 Christopher Anderson, Executive Director of WeCAN, joined me at the Blackwater Cafe in Maple Plain.
We wrapped up another great Coffee & Conversation series last week. Thanks to everyone who took the time to meet with me and share what's on your mind.
 Commissioner Angela Conley and I joined Gale Woods Farm staff for a tour of the park. Did you know that over 30,000 people participate in their educational programs each year? What an incredible resource located right here in Hennepin County.
 One of the best parts of my job is when I hear from constituents about a problem, and I get to see it resolved in real time. The new Dakota Rail Trail Pedestrian Crossing across Shoreline Drive in Mound now provides an even safer crossing experience for those enjoying one of our many incredible trails in Hennepin County. Thanks to everyone who made this possible.
I am so proud to share that my former Policy Director and current Hennepin County Veterans Engagement Coordinator Kristy Janigo has been named the Steven A. Pihlaja Justice Partner Award recipient for 2024!
The Executive Committee of the Fourth Judicial District established the Steven A. Pihlaja Award to recognize a justice partner who serves the community or advances the cause of justice. The award is presented annually to a justice partner who exemplifies the highest level of judicial excellence, integrity, fairness, and professional ethics.
Kristy was recognized this week for representing the Hennepin County Veterans Services Office in Veterans Court, where she has proven herself to be an indispensable leader and advocate, bringing an unwavering dedication to helping veterans navigate the complexities of securing service-related benefits.
We're all so proud of you, and thankful for your work, Kristy!
On May 29, my fellow commissioners and I gathered with county leaders and community partners to celebrate the grand opening of the new Public Safety Services Headquarters in Plymouth.
 The new building will serve as the central operating hub for the Sheriff’s Office Enforcement Services Division and replaces an aging facility in Brooklyn Park.
The new facility, which sits adjacent to the 911 Communications Center on the same campus as the Adult Corrections Facility, is the result of years of planning and allows for the continued growth of Sheriff’s Office needs and operations.
 The state-of-the-art building and its central location allow for a more efficient and speedy response from law enforcement and will provide improved public safety for residents for years to come.
This month, we wrapped up another great Hennepin County Fair! Although the weather affected the schedule quite a bit, we still enjoyed some incredible foods, vendors, and crafts. Thank you so much to everyone who participated, and I look forward to seeing you again next year.
 Thanks Hennepin County Sheriff's Office for your strong presence at the fair!
 It was great to connect with Brian Olson, Hennepin County's Senior Human Services Representative and CROSS Services Executive Director Chad Lanners.
 Have you dropped by Iron Exchange Tavern & Brewery in Maple Plain yet? I love supporting local businesses, and this is no exception. Their menu looked fantastic - I can't wait to get out there and try it!
 Congratulations to everyone who entered a craft, photos, and project into the fair! I was so impressed with everyone's creativity and passion.
 There are few things I love more than the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District - it's hard not to love the folks who treat our community for mosquitos and other harmful pests. Thanks for being out there, MMCD staff!
Permanently protect your land with a conservation easement! Conservation easements ensure that landowners now, and in the future, can protect what they value about their land, such as the open space, views, rural character, wildlife habitat, mature forest, and more.
Apply for funding and assistance at https://www.hennepin.us/land-protection
It's the season of road construction here in Minnesota, and Hennepin County is working to make sure our county roads are as safe as possible. Stay up to date on what our public works crews are up to by bookmarking this website:
Road maintenance projects | Hennepin County
Q: When does a joke become a dad joke?
A: When it becomes apparent!
The 7th District serves the cities of
Champlin, Corcoran, Dayton, Greenfield, Independence, Loretto, Maple Grove, Maple Plain, Medina, Minnetrista, Southern Mound, Rogers,
St. Bonifacius, Hanover, Northwest Plymouth, and Rockford.
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Contact us
Kevin Anderson
Commissioner, 7th District
Ketki Varsha
Policy Director
612-559-4221
Clara Severson
District Director
612-596-9040
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