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Dear neighbors,
I’m writing with serious concern about the federal decision to halt funding for essential nutrition programs — including SNAP, MFIP, and WIC — beginning in November. It’s a direct decision at the federal level that will pause the flow of funds that families across Minnesota, roughly 440,000 Minnesotans, depend on to put food on the table.
If no action is taken in Washington, November benefits for SNAP will not be issued, and the food portion of MFIP will also pause. WIC benefits will continue temporarily, but only until existing reserve funds run out, likely by mid-November. The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families is monitoring the situation closely and will post updates as they become available.
I want to be clear: this is not the result of county or state inaction. These programs are federally funded and administered at the local level, and we have no control over the decision to stop them. That said, our Human Services team is already preparing to help residents navigate what may come next. We’re working with food shelves, community partners, and state agencies to identify short-term options if the interruption continues.
If you currently receive benefits, please use your existing balance as usual and make sure your contact information is current with the county. You can find local updates and assistance through Hennepin County Human Services or by calling 612-348-3000. I also encourage those who are able to support our local food shelves and community pantries — demand will increase quickly if this funding pause extends.
This situation is deeply troubling. Families with young children, seniors on fixed incomes, and individuals already struggling to make ends meet will feel this immediately. Food should never be a partisan issue, yet here we are — facing a preventable crisis caused by a political decision.
I will continue advocating for clarity and immediate action at the federal level, and I’ll keep you informed as this evolves. If you or someone you know needs urgent help accessing food, please reach out. Our community is strong because we take care of one another, especially in moments like this.
With deep gratitude,
Commissioner Debbie Goettel
What's happening at Hennepin County, and across the district:
Make sure to follow me on X! @HennepinDebbie
As we approach the upcoming election (November 4), I want to make sure every resident has the information they need to make a plan to vote. Our elections team at Hennepin County works year-round to ensure that voting is secure, accessible, and easy to understand.
You can vote early by mail or in person up to 46 days before Election Day. If you choose to vote by mail, be sure to return your ballot early enough for it to be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day. You can also track your ballot online through the Secretary of State’s website to confirm it was accepted.
On Election Day, polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. across Minnesota. You can find your polling place and view a sample ballot ahead of time to see which local, state, and federal offices are on your ballot. Hennepin County also provides a helpful overview of offices on the ballot to help you learn more about the races and questions that may appear in your precinct.
All voters have the right to cast their ballot free from intimidation or interference. If you need help at the polls — such as language support, curbside voting, or assistance marking your ballot — you can find details on voting accessibility and assistance options on the county website.
If you have any questions, contact Hennepin County Elections at 612-348-5151 or hc.vote@hennepin.us. You can also visit beheardhennepin.org to learn more about how your vote shapes our shared future.
Thank you for taking the time to stay informed and engaged. Your vote is your voice — and it matters deeply.
The board has completed its series of budget briefings and hearings, including the adoption of a maximum property tax levy of $1.13 billion—a 7.79% increase over last year.
Now comes the next critical step: the county’s public Truth in Taxation meeting, where residents can weigh in on the proposed budget and property‐tax levy. Mark your calendar: Tuesday, December 2 at 6 p.m., at the Government Center (300 South 6th Street, Minneapolis) for the meeting.
You can attend in person or provide input in advance by voicemail (612-688-3545 on December 1) or by emailing budgetcomments@hennepin.us.
Your input matters — the budget intimately affects county services (libraries, public safety, human services), and the levy increase reflects growing pressures from state/federal funding changes.
 As families across our community face growing food insecurity, our local food shelves need your help more than ever. Please consider donating or volunteering with organizations like VEAP, NorthPoint Health & Wellness Center, Second Harvest Heartland, and PROP Food Shelf. Every contribution—whether time, food, or funds—helps ensure our neighbors have access to healthy meals this season.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). This national observance, which began in 1987, aims to raise awareness of this issue and its devastating impacts, and to honor survivors.
The Hennepin County Board of Commissioners declared October 2025 as DVAM in Hennepin County at the October 14 board meeting. The resolution reaffirms the county’s commitment to supporting survivors, preventing abuse, and strengthening community partnerships to address domestic violence.
In addition to the board recognition, Lowry Bridge was lit purple on Oct. 20 to honor DVAM.
It's estimated that one in four women and one in nine men are victims of domestic violence in their lifetime. Last year alone, nearly 7,200 domestic violence incidents were reported in
Hennepin County is offering special drop off for yard signs after the 2025 election season wrap ups. Check with the campaign or organizations first to see if they are collecting yard signs for reuse.
If the yard sign can’t be reused, drop off for recycling yard signs will be available at five locations from November 12-26, 2025. The signs will then be brought to Choice Plastics, where they will be turned into pellets and then recycled into new material.
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Hennepin County drop-off facilities in Bloomington (1400 West 96th Street) and Brooklyn Park (8100 Jefferson Highway), open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill, required
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Minneapolis North Transfer Station (2710 Pacific Street North) Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, collection container will be outside of the gate
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Minnetonka/Hopkins Recycling Center (11522 Minnetonka Blvd.), open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
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St. Louis Park Recreation Outdoor Center (3700 Monterey Drive), open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., collection container will be inside the front entrance by the service counter
 As the holidays approach, it’s the perfect time to support local artisans, makers, and small businesses right here in our community. Shopping local keeps your dollars close to home, strengthens our regional economy, and gives you the chance to find one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts that carry a personal touch. Below are some great upcoming craft markets and boutiques across Richfield, Bloomington, Eden Prairie, and South Minneapolis — all featuring local talent and creativity.
Upcoming Local Craft Events
Richfield’s Annual Fall Boutique
November 1–2, 2025 (9 a.m.–2 p.m.)
Richfield Community Center, 7000 Nicollet Ave, Richfield
A beloved community event with handmade gifts, holiday décor, and treats from local crafters.
Learn more
Holiday Craft and Gift Show – Eden Prairie Center
November 14–16, 2025
Eden Prairie Center, 8251 Flying Cloud Dr, Eden Prairie
A large, festive event with a mix of regional vendors, handmade goods, and holiday gifts.
View event details
Bloomington Holiday Bazaar
November 14–15, 2025
Portland Avenue United Methodist Church, Bloomington
A cozy neighborhood bazaar featuring local artisans, baked goods, and seasonal crafts.
See listing
Northwoods Fall Boutique – Eden Prairie Center
November 28–December 23, 2025
Eden Prairie Center, 8251 Flying Cloud Dr, Eden Prairie
An extended seasonal boutique running through the holidays — perfect for unique gifts and home décor.
Event information
Eden Prairie Lioness Lions Club Art & Craft Fair
December 6, 2025
Grace Church, 9301 Eden Prairie Road, Eden Prairie
A long-standing local favorite with dozens of vendors supporting community causes.
More details
Minneapolis Craft Market
Multiple Dates
Minneapolis Craft Market is a community social hub, and an incubator for the arts. They provide a regular venue for both emerging and established makers to sell their work.
Event information
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Discover all the free resources your library offers—from books and digital titles to homework help, community programs, and tech training. And don’t miss the upcoming event: Mitch Albom will appear in the “Talk of the Stacks With Mitch Albom” lecture series at the Minneapolis Central Library on Mon, Nov 3 at 6:30 pm (in‐person and virtual options).
Check the library’s events page to register and see what’s coming up next!
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 Discover the rich history of Minneapolis at the Hennepin History Museum. From rotating exhibits and community events to rare artifacts and local stories, there’s something for everyone. Coming up on Friday, November 21 @ 7 pm, don’t miss Foshay! A New Musical Reading — a one-hour musical reading that takes a creative look back at Foshay Tower-builder Wilbur Foshay’s story, followed by a talk-back and artifact display.
Check out the full events page for ticket details, upcoming programs, and more ways to engage.
Current and upcoming lane and ramp closures on I-494
2025 Transportation Activities Webmap
Check out what’s happening across the county or zoom into your district to see what’s happening closer to you. To learn more about each project, just click on the line or dot on the map.
Transportation Capital Projects Webmap
Other resources:
Metropolitan Council weekly construction update
MnDOT- Metro Area State highway and bridge projects
Whether it's a housing crisis, energy assistance question, or child protection concern, we are here to help you navigate these and other issues.
Please call our office at 612-348-7885 or contact us to seek assistance or ask a question.
Contact
Commissioner Debbie Goettel
Hennepin County District 5
Bloomington | Eden Prairie | Richfield | SW Minneapolis
612-348-7885
Graham Faulkner
Policy Director
612-596-7078
Kate Nelson
District Director
612-348-7885
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