Ramsey County, MN Board Meeting

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Excused. Moran take a I come stand for the a states of America for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with and justice for all. And commission and Thank you, Mr. Share. Ever cmmunity owes its existence and vitality to generations from around the world to contribute their hopes, dreams and energy to making the history that led to this moment. Some were brought here against their will. Some were drawn to leave to some homes in hope of a better life. And some have lived on this land since time immemorial truth and acknowledgement are critical to building mutual respect and connection across all the areas of heritage and difference. We are standing on the lands of the call to people. We want to acknowledge village of way the whole and the other nations people who also called this place home. We py respects to their elders past and present. Please take a moment to consider the treaties treat is made by the tribal nations that entitle non native people to live and work on traditional native lands. Consider the many legacies of violence displacement, migration and settlement that bring us together here today. And please join us in uncovering troops at any and all public events. Thank you. Allegiant. motion on the agenda May 5th 2026. A move.

Seeing n discussion roll. McMurtry. I members excused from Iran. strong guy. Kevin, thank I McGuire. And take I. Lieutenant motion on the minutes of April. 26 20. 26. Seeing no discussion. Local McMurtry. I. You are and John, I been saying I McGuire. take out. We now have a proclamation for American Indian Commission that love treat.

Thank you, Mr. Chair today's proclamation, Ramsey County recognizes May at as American Indian Mott. Time. Time to reflect, celebrate and acknowledge. With the American Indian community. We serve. It is a time to remember where we've been and where we are committed to going. And the shared worked to required to get there. Over the past year. county has partnered with American Indian community for such as the Second Judicial District Tribal flag installation Community-centered employee learning opportunities and increased participation in community events. These actions reflect our commitment to being a consistent ally. Using the tools of government to support the well-being of American Indian families. Ramsey County remains dedicated to strengthen partnerships with community, recognizing that that this work is ongoing and essential to supporting the health prosperity and future of America in community. And I was I want to give a quick shout out. She's she's not here today, but our colleague, our trailblazing colleague, Commissioner Miller, want to so that's in her best regards.

You wish you could be here as well. But she is taking much needed time away with her family. So I know that she was she could be here. I will go ahead and leave the proclamation and then hand it over to whoever wants give remarks. And then we'll do Pickens and introductions. American Indian Month is celebrated every year in the month of May to recognize as as an important time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions, the American Indian people and whereas throughout may American Indian organizations and tribal urban offices open their doors to community and community and allies offering meaningful opportunities to highlight the strength, resilience and contributions American Indian families. While fostering connection across generations. And whereas it is also opportune time to educate the general public about its vibrant urban communities and tribes raised a general awareness about the unique challenges American dian people have face both historically and in the present and the ways in which tribal nations and citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.

And whereas Ramsey County continues unwavering support and commitment to reducing barriers, experience bar American Indian families responsibilities associated with this work through the permanent placement of a dedicated staff. Please on the American Indian Relations administrator. And whereas the name Ramsey County uncovers the truth and long-standing impact harmed genocide and racism at the direction of Governor Ramsey to forcefully remove the areas various American Indian residents from their homelands, including the declaration Indians of Minnesota must be exterminated or driven for ever beyond the borders of the state which led to the lynching 38 Dakota man and make a bow on December. 26th 18? 62. And whereas leaders from our American Indian community and Ramsey County will participate in a collaborative learning cohort in 2026 to focus on sharing warming or shared learning strategy, development and goal alignment to strengthen our collective impact and further our work as partners for the betterment of American Indian families and children.

And whereas the land present day known as deep as Ramsey County is located on the assessed role and contemporary Lancel Dakota and has been home to the American Indian people of Turtle Island since since tme immemorial and without home, the building of this county would not have been possible and holds great historical spiritual and personal significance for its original Stuart. And whereas we recognize and honor the treat is made over a century ago by tribal nations and United States government. That entitle non native people to live and work on traditional native lands. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed the Ramsey County Board o Commissioners declares May 2026. as American Indian Month in Ramsey County. In order to promote appreciation, reconciliation, understanding friendship and continued partnership with the American Indian community and be further proclaimed the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners encourages all residents in the community to honor and celebrate the many American Indian Minnesotans and Ramsey County residents to remind us daily of our rich American Indian history. Good morning. Commissioners, County manager

And community. My name is Dakota. A black native young person. I'm also to spirit and I want to thank you and not for the invitation, but for making space for this conversation. Because for me, this isn't just about recognition. It is my responsibility right now being native, especially as a young person means carrying a lot. We're living in a time where identity or identities are histories and even our right to exist can feel politicize, debated and dismiss. And as the 2 spirit person, I feel that pressure even more. There's a constant way of knowing that I have to protect my community, protect culture, protect. We are. Not just and big visible ways but an everyday moments and how we show up and how we speak and how we refuse disappear. Because the truth is, our communities have always had to fight to be seen to be heard and to survive the systems that were never built for us.

But survival is not the goal and it should be the expectation we place on our youth. Our native youth deserve more than survival mode. deserve to build their lives solid ground where they can dream create lead and exist only as himself without carrying the cost and burden of proving their worth or defending their identity. And that's where I want to speak directly to this room. We have a share obligation not just to recognize native communities during this month, but the actively create the conditions where young people can thrive. And that starts with listening to our use, not a future leaders, but as leaders right now, things we already are not getting the systems we are already seeing where they fall short and we are already holding solutions. Solutions rooted in lived, experience culture community. When you voices are missing from decision-making spaces, the policies created often miss the reality on the ground. But when you bring us in not to speak, but the shape you create something stronger.

Something more on something that actually works. Some ask is this make space for native youth voices consistently. Not just today, invest in our communities in ways that on our leadership, or culture and our lived experience ad recognize that protecting native youth is creating a future where they don't have to fight to just exist because my community Kerry's this responsibility with us every single day, but it shouldn't be ours to carry alone. We all have a role in building a world where native youth can stand on solid ground, not survival mode. And I believe that that world is possible usability together. Thank you. Bush, who I mean, good morning. Thank you. Chair. Board of Commissioners and county manager think Packer, I first want to express my thanks to our young person and they're very powerful where it's but I also want to acknowledge who's not here today and that's live on. Love on was scheduled to speak today. So she did some for its imports. A hand and good morning commissioners. My name is live on the one 10

Community member. It is a good date on the relationship between the American Indian community in Ramsey County. our community began celebrating our culture and contributions with American Indian Day that American Indian Week and now American Indian Month. We celebrated humbly across organizations honoring and celebrating our culture. Today we celebrate the relationship between the American Indian community in Ramsey County. Our community is honored. Honor to be recognized in the presentation of official proclamation acknowledging American Indian not in our presence and place in Saint Paul. Today's proclamation affirms the strong and respectful relationship between Ramsey County and the American Indian Community Working in partnership to address the disparities and packed in community. Thank you. And occur due to take advantage of many educational cultural and special events taking place across the Twin Cities. And if I may, I will read mine. First. I want to recognize Saint over here. She's wearing red. So this to this day also rescued, recognizes the national missing and murdered indigenous women and to spirit voice.

So I just want to take a moment to recognize that. And most families are deeply impacted by last us. you relative. Good morning, Nic. Watch for the opportunity to be here today and to stand in space in recognition of American Indian Month. want to begin acknowledging that we are gathered and Dakota Homelands. This place known Ramsey County and the city of Saint Paul holds deep meaning this is not just where we are. It is a part of the Dakota creation story that truth matters. Grant us an understanding responsibility and relationship. American Indian Month. That's a time recognition, but also a reminder, a reminder that our people are still here. reminder that our cultures, languages and traditions were never lost. Only 5 for protected and carry it forward. And a reminder that the work in front of us is not just about acknowledgment that about action. We come from generations of resilience despite policies meant to erase S our communities continue to rise strong rooted in guided by teachings. Today.

Our young people are learning their language is they are reclaiming their ceremony. They are stepping into leadership and yet too often their voices are still missing from the very spaces where decisions are being made about Life's their lives. That is why it is so important that we not only recognize this month, but that we create space for native youth and young adults to be seen to be heard and to lead. Through Saint Paul Indians and action. We are working to build spaces grounded in culture, relationship and healing spaces where young people can thrive in safety and wellness. We are also grateful for the partnership in support Ramsey County leadership. That if county minute manager linebacker and Lai, Lun side community in this work and supporting initiatives that move us forward, better outcomes for people. This moment. This recognition matters. But what matters even more is what comes next. How do we continue to show up how we listen, how we invest in community of lead solutions. How we honor not only our presence that are inherent right to thrive. grants for being here. Make watch for your commitment. And grants for walking with us in this work. if we cn, you know the commissioners had any worse? The sheriff, but we can do a picture and then folks do some just quickly,

Just thank you so much for all of the work you I see faces up up here today who are impacting our community in so many different ways and also informing the work that we do every day at the county. It's important that you're day in and day out. And at that, your voices are heard every to it's been a year and year and a quarter that some of us have been sitting here and the fact that your faces are so familiar as a testament to your a professionalism to be here and show up every day to make sure that you communities basis or center. So thank you so much. I sometimes thank you, Mister Chair. you know, overall just thank you. Thank you for being here. Thank you. especially the leadership that has brought the county and held a county accountable and working so much more deeply with the community. And holding a oath accountability and gace of working together wat really means, especially with the work Saint Paul Indians in action.

I see the work expanding outside of the circle here, too, that it's a living document that's being embedded into the Met Council to I'm on the Transportation Advisory Board and we are actively seeing the work that you are all doing. It's reflected in that and even in the transportation plans overall, how are we working our idigenous community is making sure that active participants in actively shaping their lives. So thank you all for that work. Good morning. It is so good to see all heat this morning and 2. Just take a moment. You know, because this moment is not just about this moment is a moment of history that both laid back and Back way too long of trying to test make indigenous Community Stink. Invincible. But I want to say Dakota, we hear you too. We heard the words account young people that we have to on it young people to be. And to be at the table when making decisions. vision that you have and vision that is needed needs to come directly from do our young people and also being impacted.

Just want to say thank you for your leadership. Thank you for your plants and thank you for just ending. Just thank you for Manatee County to have a partnership with you in the community and do you fund the elders? Yes, keep us connected. People's focus continue to bring the vision that is needed and the way that it needs to be because only you can do that in a way it's going to elevate in the fall. The indigenous community. Now on Ramsey County. But across the state. So we appreciate you. We see you in. Thank you for the partnership. Thank you. I like thank you all for being here. I work with many of in the past. John and I go back to when I was a seal clues. And and live on the give a mighty side. Was he a 6 months when I first met along the we've been friends of innocence. When I was going grad school.

So but I got to say, you know, we've been working with you folks with the community for all good 20 years. I am presently proud to say we now have the Native American County Commission. completing that diversity for So thank you for all you've done and we will continue to fund ship.

All That. I forgot to announce my name on a stick or a member of the White Earth nation of a chip away. Sherry Reimers chair of Saint Paul Indians in

Action. Thank you. Again, my name is Dakota. I'm with them is question for the homeless policy. Fellow and the Berks County, the Pfizer board reading rooms. Is mourning John community member. watched a tear bruning with American Indian family and children services. her with on think any the executive director at the American Indian Family Center in Saint Paul and the vice chair and so. Same sace the American Indian

Relations specialists here, Ramsey County and I also co-lead are wanted to be employee resource group. Fuzhou, I mean, and know, when we're going kuhns envision a crass Melissa and McLennan do them cusk watching may cause undue into bought. the name is Melissa Perez and the space know me as little band from the Clinton Lake band of Ojibwe. I hello my relatives. part of the mall be work. Energy. And I Forget the Ramsey County Correctional Facility as a health education program, assistant.

Because you hi, I'm Tony mugger. with the their faith action of Greater Saint Paul's Department of Indian work program manager for Houston, Richmond and the Economic Mobility of thank you. Would you on the clothing, the Native American relation my gosh, my title, American relations administrator with Ramsey Cunty and then I just want thank everyone for then elder, 2 parts that and - everyone knows who he is. Some. Show that that we get. you, Monica Ross am a community member social work faculty and interesting. But as floor and some of you already know me I am with veterans, least from American Indian liaison. And I'm also a descendant of life some think you have school today. Thank you. have a proclamation from Correctional Officers Week Iran.

We have a few more coming. welcome? This week, we recognize the dedication and professionalism of correctional officers and staff across the country. Including those serving right here in Ramsey County at the Sheriff's Office and community Correction Department. It is a

Time for appreciation awareness and respect for the profession that often works behind the scenes but is essential to the safety and well-being of our community. Correction officers and staff on the frontline of public safety working one of the most challenging and demanding environments in it. Public service effective correctional services, not only issue of safety with facilities, but also reduce recidivism. So we have that Haitian education and programs. Correctional professionals are a vital part of the broader criminal justice system contributing every to this to safer communities, both inside and outside facility's walls. As we observed this week, we recognize that this committee to public safety is foundational. Why justice system so let's take this opportunity to express deep gratitude for the service, professionalism and sacrifice of our correctional officers and employees. I'm going to go on to read proclamation. We have and so. where is since 1984, the United States recognized the first week in May. It's national correctional officers and employees week. And whereas

Ramsey County in Floyd's over 3300. For a for Mitt correction officers, employees who work in the correctional feel serving through both the sheriff's office community Corrections Department. Whereas Ramsey County Correctional officers and employees serve as the central professionals we've made maintain safety security. In order within the adult detention center and the Ramsey County Correctional Facilities. 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, often performing their duties and a challenging and any circumstance. And whereas these dedicated individuals demonstrate integrity, professionalism commitment in

Protecting the public supporting. We have that Haitian and ensure they remain treatment of those in the county cuss Custody. care. And whereas there often seen by the public yet it is vital to effective operation of this justice system and the safety of our community. And whereas it is fitting to recognize it on into contribution of correctional officers and employees medication and service uphold the values of justice safety. And respect. Therefore. for cleaning that the Ramsey County Board Commissioners declare the week of May to deny 2026. It's correctional officers.

Employees week in Ramsey County and be it further proclaimed that the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners. encourage all Ramsey County residents in expressing gratitude and appreciation for their essential it valuable public service. To flock nation's here. To give out too. In the open for 2. Morning. Ashleigh, Bryant Undersheriff the detention services for the adult

Detention center. Mr. Chair Commissioners, County manager backer I also want to extend. Thank you to our ccf 4. They're strong collaboration and their commitment with the project Bridge and Project Bridges. Housing, ATC, inmates. RCS facility. That partnership has been essential to us maintaining stability, safe and safety across our system. Just being able to take some of the high population. Out of our facility. We're also working on for the collaboration to extend that project Bridge

Further in the future. At the adult detention center. We continue to modernize and innovate. We have implemented tablets for those in custody. Introduced no cost telephone. Calling no cost. Video. Visitation is negotiated. New food contracts in commissary contracts. We have continued the installation of the suicide prevention barriers and we are currently working on medical unit upgrades and we are replacing critical infrastructure like elevators. All this work happens in real time alongside constant change where operations do not pass. We integrate these improvements while continuing to run a facility. 24 7. And at the center of all of this, our correctional officers, they implement the new initiatives adapt a constant change and maintain order and professionalism in conditions where no day is truly positive. It is their presence that bring stability, consistency and moments of humanity to individuals experiencing some of the most difficult times with their lives. They are not responsible for the challenges of the environment.

They're the ones who manage stabilize it and move it forward every single day. And unlike many professions today, this is work that cannot be done remotely. It cannot be delayed. It cannot be paused the door still open. The call still come. The responsibility remains every hour of every day in times when demands are high. That often means that fewer up opportunities are available for them to step away and spend more time. With their families and friends. It spent ensuring that the operations continue safely for everyone inside with that highlights is the level of commitment that these professional spring, it reinforces the importance of supporting them in ways that allow them to sustain the work over time so they can be present with their families when it matters recover when needed and return ready to perform at the level. This profession requires because when we support them, they continue to show up at their best for the facility for the community and for each other.

Our correctional officers are essential investing in them is necessary. And today I ask that we keep them front and center recognizing their impact vallow valuing their work in continuing to support the people. Who carried this responsibility every single day. Thank Thank you.

Good morning Take a county manager, backer and members of the board. My name is Jamie Britian. I'm serving as the deputy director of facilities. For Ramsey County Community Corrections. What's written in this proclamation reflects what our staff live every day. Correction officers are responsible not just for security, but for managing individuals facing mental health crises, medical needs and unpredictable situations. All in a high-risk environment. The work they do inside are fit to cilla tease directly impacts the safety of our communities. It's demanding. And at times dangerous work. But our staff continue to show up act professionally and treat people with dignity. We appreciate this recognition and we ask for your continued support for the people doing this critical work. Thank you for your time. We'll take a photo in in the toilet. You can tell was so so sorry. I I just want to say there isn't been a couple remarks that were regarding that.

The difficult a challenge is that you all are facing every day. And I just wanted to say thank you as somebody who is a strong mental health advocate, it has is refreshing to me how each and every one of the officers that I've talked to in the short time that I've been here has put at the forefront the care, the professionalism, the the concern over the care and custody of individuals living with substance use disorder or severe mental health issues that are under your care and custody. That sense of care, responsibility and wanting to make sure you have the tools to be able to handle that, to make sure that we're figuring out systemically how to hve folks moved to the places that they're going to receive care because jail cell is not where folks need to get care and you all carry that burden every day. I also think that leadership is thinking about your health and well-being and the health well-being of your family's until it.

We continue to listen and to learn and how best to resource the places spaces that your that we can best serve community and do that responsibly to make sure that you are supported as well. So just thank you. Thank you for everything that you do every day. Thank so John.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I also just want really echoed those sentiments. Thank you, Commissioner Jeff Unsafe or saying that already. I in addition to that, I want to also thank, you know, all of correctional officers who are working there as well. I kow that it's a really hard job and that you're there with folks who who are. They are at one of lowest times points in times of their lives, too. And so treating them dignity and respect i as goes a long way are ready to even in hard situations. Thank you for doing that. I also want to think of Bulls Undersheriff Brian and director Long deputy director British, you know, for working together. This is what one Ramsey County looks like. We absolutely have to work with each other to challenges that face us as a county and meeting both state and federal mandates. It's not finger pointing about who's doing what, Ron, but it's really come together to solve solutions. And I've just seen that incredible work through the project Bridge. So thank you so much for that leadership. And then also thank you to our correctional officers for working through that as we are making those changes and also helping make that process So thank you and happy correction. Officers recognition. Thank you.

I didn't prepare a speech or anything that name is Makai. Lwis Frost Correction. Officer former mayor candidate ordination of providing here in Saint Paul. At one time I found it a true center to Senate. And I'm just glad to be a part of all the correctional family nw. Thanks so much. Good morning. When the Skyland Southold going to come 9 months now. thank you guys for having us here. Just support. Thank you. My name is Sabrina Scott. I've been a correctional officer for 10 years now. I'm also a member of our honor guard. So you might out about the community. Thank you for having us here.

Name is Michael Kranz. I've been with the county for about 9 years and I'm working in the train you that they D C. Hello my him working with the correction. Ramsey County year 5 months now. Like with the Sheriff's Office for 23 Years. Thank you. Good Morning. Glory Reyes, Derby County manager for the Safety and Justice Service team. And I'm so proud to work alongside these fine correctional behind me. Good morning. My name is like our CF. Been there for 3 years police in Thank you guys. Good morning, Kate. Rocco are ccf been there

Almost here. Good morning. My name is divine Trumbull. Ramsey County for about a year and 5 months. Thanks for him. Morning chair commissioners kind of manager at the different kind of manage your health and wellness service team. Thank you for having us today. Correction officer Jonathan She won 11 9 years. Sanchez Brown been with Rams County Adult Detention Center for about 5 years beginning in store for about 4. Thank you. And you guys doing

Networking? Bradford? Correct? Offer for 6 years? Good morning rep Roach you. You've been renting county for 15 years. Thank you. I'm Michelle Landers are ccf been with the county for 21 years. Well, good morning, everybody. Mainlanders 18 years that Ramsey County Lieutenant F. Good Morning, Steve. Morgan County. 33 assistant superintendent at the Ranch County Correctional Facility. Good Morning, Kyle shoe lieutenant our cfi in there for about 10 years. Morning. Very proud to be here and proud of all of them.

Tim Bass was started as an officer our ccf in 1998. And and currently the superintendent. ready to soar. Ccf correcting things since 2005. Good morning. Monica Long. The director of community Corrections. Want to thank al operation officers and staff for the work that you do, the sacrifices that you make The one thing that stood out to me when heard that a car, what you do and the commitment you have, but no day is really happy. Day. All right. So thank you for sticking in there for doing the work. Thank you for your leadership and we appreciate you all. Thank you. Administrative item Boards Commission Thank you, Mr.

Chair. I move the following items item number 5 3rd Amendment single source of teatment with environmental Systems. Research Institute for Enterprise License Agreement. was number 6. I-5. I. Item number 6, 2026 special Board of a pill and equalization. Item number 7, local option disaster tax abatement. Item number 8 to property tax abatements. here's second. And the Fed of discussion roll call McMurtry. I Miller he's more. wrong? I been saying I McGuire. take a all right.

Item number 5 commission and saying I'd like to move identified the 3rd Amendment to single source agreement with Environmental Systems, Research Institute. And I guess I guess have a question or clarification on that uses. And application of this of this agreement. Just I lt learn a bit a little bit more about that. And then some of the explanation of the contract updates. Yeah, thanks. Mission-driven saying I have our co and someone from I asked her as well. So excellent. Yeah. Thank you. It's like looking getting Yeah. I thought great. I just quickly introduce and then passed Thank you for the question. been a little time learning more about this and I think it's a pretty interesting contract of how we do our work for starting with partnering with the state and then moving on to do work and hw we've expanded kind of how we use this contract to do different things than off and it over.

That total and price. But for manager and I asked for Ramsey County. So thanks for the question. Commissioner Commissioner specifically you're asking about the can you Sure. Sure. Just just the uses and applications of of the data that's in this agreement. Not everybody is this isn't enlighten us as to what it is that we're discussing today. So GFS geographic information systems. What we're looking here today is the infrastructure that manages urge our mapping software. So and the spatial analysis now aerial imagery, assessors using it's here for another reason, it's it's the tools to bring together. Map make burial imagery Geographic's geospatial data so we can do things like analyze where to put the next health care facility to server residents where there may be Jaime, maybe farther distance for them to travel. So we can kind of do some networking Elsa's streets, things like that. The road, day disease wildfire sensors to look at changes structures that we can see from aerial imagery.

Allowing them to stay in the office instead of going out and do remote work. So it's much more efficient way of doing that type of work. It's used by We are chefs looking ahead to see we're going site. Let's pull it up as we're moving there and see all entrances and exits, kind of get an idea of where also using it to partner with our Our fire chiefs are using it throughout the county to assemble Prix fire planning options so they can look at buildings no, where are dangerous chemicals where the electrical accesses? Where is hydrants? Things like? That's what gets. What we're getting here today is the infrastructure to support all those various uses throughout the county. Thank you for that explanation. I have a sense of some of the to raise replying it, but that is a much more robust understanding and also highlights the number of partners and other groups that may be participating in this.

And so my my follow-up question it to that is just some of the contract updates. You know, whenever we as a board are are doing our piece of the puzzle is moving forward with the business and some of that is this contract approval. We have to look at things like, you know, data security, the NBA's the AI using some of the sharing tools, just highlighting some of the changes. And I'm sure they're just updates as time has moved on and the contracts have to reflect the new realities of of data data sharing a data security. And I'm just wondering if you can maybe give us a sense of what some of those updates are. And if there's any policy considerations we should be considering at the board level on that.

The software itself certainly allows us to maintain appropriate data security. It's a we take great care. I'd say ensuring and we work with partners. I think your mind right now, I don't believe we have any truly nonpublic data. We have swearson sensitive data and we do a lot of things just ripping that for the data comes to Things like the safe at home that so today than ever comes to the GIs side. But there are technically we certainly keep on top. I'd say of our of our security. I don't know GIs itself has specific. I'm trying think of specific security concerns that are more general. It concerns and we maintain those to our security areas and that way, I'd say it's make sure databases are secure our infrastructure, secure that way. And the bulk of the data tracking what is public So it's even though it's extensively. years, effect. Several years ago, we went ahead with the GIS initiative that the board approved for free and open data.

I'm a strong proponents of saying all public data, beef really open and available. so we we practice that. And m last thing is, is there any additional benefits to that free and open data to the business community school groups, anything like that is they're preparing for future development in the area or other kind of considerations how people access that if that's something would be helpful for them. We have multiple ways make that available. The most common is that Minnesota Commons, which is statewide repository were different organization submit data on a free the home interchangeable format. And so we we first reported by putting most. Almost all our data into that system to allow people to access it and we also have several online portals where you can go on. 2 are open data portal and access to that way. We have some weather maps people to directly download aerial imagery that we capture. So it's we have many different ways that we show and we hear from people all the time saying, hey, I need a time doing some sort of an analysis.

Can you give me X, Y Z? And so we point those resources with great reggae. We also have a great partner with County GIs user group, which is a non. County group, made up all municipalities, watershed districts, number of other organizations that we meet with the well-being of Thursday where we to look to do common work. Thank you. And thank you for the board for humoring that sometimes I just like to be able to show the back of the house, the things that are going on every day that we say we're that a driven-in we trying to do the best work that we can with the tools at our disposal. Sometimes that this is an opportunity to show some of that work that is otherwise invisible. So thank you for that. Thank you. Do I have a scond second? And if discussion roll call McMurtry, I there's excused from Iran. Kevin I McGuire. And take a legislative okay.

Thank you. Mister Chair. I'm happy to give the legislative update it with with my colleague commissioner and we weekly with I'd like to say that he measure to Chile, wooden and others on that team. So we're getting into the final weeks of session. The Senate continues to work through its on the bills. The Finance Committee is compliant compiling several omnibus bills into one large appropriations bill except for health and Human services will

Be separate the House by contrast is just a few on the this bills that they're working through the ways that means Committee. So it remains to be seen with how they're going to reconcile the ways that bodies are doing their work. So we're we're hopeful that some of some of the things that we care about will continue be included in those bills. regarding bonding bill, where it's always is We never know if it's for sure going to happen until the very end when it actually happens. And leadership is being asked to work on the body feels. So there's hope that there's going to be oe. Our issues are continuing to be advocated for. Forget River's with all of our legislative colleagues are continuing to talk to legislative leadership and the bonding committee members too, make sure that priorities are included in the bonding bill. so, we hope that there will be a bonding bill. and So we we are are just continuing to make sure that our issues are continuing to be in in these bills. And so with that Mister Chair, I wrap up my report. Thank you, Commissioner. why. County connections. Thank you, Mister Chair. I have a few things for you Ramsey County was honored with a certificate of appreciation

Last that the county manager Reyes and I were able to go to the Metro Transit. ward over in Golden Valley where they were honoring him various community partners as well as their staff. We were recognized for our strong partnership in advancing the Safe and Strong Partnership which brings law enforcement and public health responders to provide harm reduction, connect riders to resources and the people where they're at with compassionate on the ground support. I want to especially thank our county attorney's office or public health Department, social services for all of their work. In addition, the Metro Transit Police Department also recognize County Attorney John Choi with the Chiefs award for his leadership and commitment to our community safety commissioner or take and I going to be over at Union Some of you know that later on this summer. We're also going to be celebrating 100th aniversary of the historic transit have that on Thursday. We're going to be celebrating that grand opening of the G pilot.

It's a premier travel lifestyles style store and commissioner Cagle be offering some remarks. I wanted to put this in my update because I had a chance to talk to Dani Gardner who civically engaged, entrepreneur. He's a pilot as well as a business owner. And he serves on the board of that same poll, downtown alliance as well. But he expressed to me his gratitude for working with county staff as well as jail, which is our partner, managing things over at Union Depot. And he expressed how much gratitude he had for Arp has of support for him as a small business owner as well as that he's experience significant since relocating to Union Depot. He moved from the hand building over to you, in depot and said his foot traffic has increased to 5 times since doing that. I just want to call out. He sell some very unique themed items. He eyes a leader in Minnesota as well as travel and aviation goods.

And so if folks want to go over there and check that out, it's a it's a great business in Saint Paul. And then lastly, I want to call it that next Tuesday, May 12, many of you back to Cody. He's big part of a lead and working with are heading Home Ramsey advisory board and they're going to be hosting an event that they've done annually. I think this might be the second one now flipping tables. It's called it a youth led event at the Fairview Community. Health and Wellness have in downtown the event creates a place for those young people, especially those experiencing housing instability to share their experiences in the workforce, peak openly about what they need. What makes this really meaningful? It's really led by the youth themselves through our housing stability Department and rather than just being about programs, it's a chance for others to listen, learn and build better Last year.

They held it at landmark Center is able to go. I would really recommend people to stop by if you can. So thanks to housing, stability, work for solutions, other community organizations for helping to really listen to young people and to connect them to really people who can help them leverage. You know, all that they can offer. So thank you. want to begin. I'm sure yes. Thank you, Mr. Chair just wanted to announce and share about the rematch Nation Resource Center. Grant. It is 2 million-dollars of federal funds that the county had received and direct appropriations a few years ago and see, it just went through a process of of identifying those organizations those are grants to help organizations in Hance their service and expand their capacity for up to 2 years. those include women venture Latino Economic Development American Partnership, Asian Economic Development Association, the Minnesota Consortium of Community developers, African-American Development Solutions and Neighborhood Development Center.

So I'm just glad that these dollars went out into the community to help support the community-based organizations that serve and support small businesses. next of energy watching at the fancy Washington, recycling and energy center just provided their 2025 annual report. I was able to attend the board meeting last week where got the high-level overview of the 2025 annual report. And we saw big reduction in the number of mattresses that were being thrown into the landfill. And I I also believe that that's, you know, contributed to so much of the

Partnerships that we have with our city partners, too, make sure that we're diverting mattresses out of the landfill so that that's a really big one for us this year. Next, I joined Bedrock Southeast corridor for meeting. This is bedrock. Was a plan to consider connecting Saint Paul downtown Saint Paul down along. 61 there to that, the southern portion and so since then, I Washington County and Ramsey County has been working on this along with some of our city partners along the corridor. There. We we've decided that will just need about just next year. Just a few times because the original plan was to have arterial was to have BRT, but it has changed now more to just bus service regular service. The act. So that work has slowed down us quite a bit. And then finally, I just want to mention about some events are coming up so that folks are aware next week Tuesday, the Pain Phalen District Council will hosting it having a conversation with mayor hr about northern iron and machine as well as Eastside issues that they're concerned with insult that available to the public who'll want to discuss issues related to the east side at the end of 2 Hills community center on it's not next week, but just announcing it for May.

26 sold out later this month. 06:00PM to 08:00PM. Thank you. Thank you. Thank yu. But let me get a few. So yeah, thank you, Mister Chair I want thank my colleagues, for being at same thing. And if you forward meeting and I'll just continue on with some of the things that we learned at that meeting is and thank you for highlighting the annual report. We also heard an update on the feasibility study on the grid outside, which is the metal, reclamation site. That's right. Next door. Are we starting in energy center and where then we're pulling together stakeholders to discuss interest in any future development of that site. So just one more step forward in and exploring options for for that site in for the ways that we have in our communities. Also, just want to get on your radar, the recycling energy center, holler and staff Appreciation Picnic is held on park will be held in August.

27th. Just be aware. This is coming up. Everyone's welcome. All, of course, the commissions ae I welcome are invited to attend. Also on their grant. You know, they're they're doing a great job applying for grants and getting and getting a number of those. And they're working down with the legislature on some of their front, 4 priorities. You've been hearing about the infectious waste that we're receiving in our plant. Some hospitals and medical facilities. And so we're really trying to work hard to that reduce that And I know that Legislature has instead of passing a law that that puts more teeth into the existing law. They're going to do a study on how it's going. We already know that it's not going very well that they're going do a study that's cheaper to do a study. So we're disappointed, but we're grateful that at least. The issue is still alive at the Legislature. And we hope that that, we'll get past.

So it at least will have it in documented form. They infectious waste that's being put into the main way street when it's supposed to be singled out in that supposed to be handled in a different manner. Not just put it with it. We think So we're grateful for all the a workaround doing there then. last week. The Environmental Center in Mosul continues to host a number of Ramsey county and community events. So we're just so excited that. That so many things are happening to play to garden event. was there. And then on Monday they hosted and take community event, creating more equitable future for climate action Roseville. So it's just a great to see that space being used. there was a garden tool swap next thing I want to just highlight for all of us is that this Friday, the Ramsey County, local government is doing session on inside Minnesota's elections. So are joining doing Minnesota secretary of state Steve Simon and Ramsey County elections manager David Triplett.

I mean is that look at Minnesota elections. I don't know if see me or hear that's so that's the Ramsey o - County Lake this Friday at morning. So I would hope that everybody can do Thank you. Thanks. Thanks. Chair. Commissioner yes, just a reminder that May is mental health Awareness Month in Minnesota and just some basic statistics to ground us in this work is that in the U. S. one in 5 adults experience is mental illness in any given year and more than one in 20 U. S. adults experience a serious mental illness each year and to put that in perspective, that's over a

Million individuals in Minnesota who have a mental health condition. That's twice the population of Ramsey County. And I say that because we are still living with a sense of stigma and discrimination. And in a time when we don't openly talk about mntal health in the same way we do about physical health and that it is so important that we invent this and all of the work that we do. And I just want to remind folks, when we talk about this, this is us. Tis is our families. This is our co-workers. These are the the kids who go to school with our kids. they are neighbors. And it is an important thing for us to always keep in the front forefront. It impacts the work that we do all of the work that we do. And I just want to throw out a couple of resources. Ramsey County has their own adult and children's health crisis line.

The children's mental health crisis line, a 651-266-7878, in the adult mental health crisis line is 6, 5, 1, 2, 6, 6, 7, 9, 0, 0, And there are a number of resources along the continuum of cre on our website. I also want to encourage folks to engage with NAMI, Minnesota and to nt Ramsey County, who is our local chapter who provide ongoing education and support on all of the time along with our Ramsey County Children's Mental Health, Collaborative who has a lot online supports to get people connected to services every day. Along with some of the work last week Wednesday, I was able to attend the Shoreview business social. Lovely to see businesses interacting and getting the state to support that they need from each other and building our communities. The Ramsey County recipe comments JTA met last week. We reviewed our initial working budget for the year and our project roadmap, we're able to, again reiterate the platinum LEED certification that the program, but the the project as well as highlighting it is.

It's important in the county's building stronger together initiative. With the plan, stick invest our dollars into the infrastructure into rights, people of art, which will be the spine road. That will be one of the first pieces and getting that project up and running in full throttle. And then also that Arden Hills will be celebrating their 75th anniversary. So lifting that up as exciting time for that project.

This coming week on Tis the season for fundraisers and community events to lift up our nonprofit partners on Wednesday. There is solid grounds breakfast. The every family needs a home event. excited to hear more about site that they are opening in Venice Heights, the Northeast Youth and Family Services lunch is also on Wednesday. And then the International Institute has their big gala event on Wednesday night and so important with the work they do to make sure that new arrivals who are coming into our communities are supported as they are such a rich part of the tapestry of our communities. And then on Friday, I'll be happy to attend the Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Island. Cultural celebration at at our ccf. It'll be a good day to be there. And also I believe the plant sale still going on. So I'm hoping to do a little double duty there. That's all I have. Thank Thank you.

Mister Chair. One to get quick update. So I sit on the AMC's County and State Medicaid subcommittee just as we start thinking about the implications of HR one as it's fully put into effect, specifically the Medicaid portion come January of next year. This group of folks from counties from DHS from DC Why I've come together on a on a weekly basis to discuss how we as counties can prepare. One of the things I think that's that's pretty telling that's coming out of this legislative session is there seems to be a lot of bipartisan support around tech modernization. And so hopefully that is an important piece that we can get across the finish line before the end of the session. The other piece they can that came out of one of the discussions that we had as a group how can counties now start preparing for what's to come and one of the things couple of things they mentioned is just count.

The county is taking the steps staying current on on renewals, preparing for increased phone calls, understanding upcoming changes to non-citizeguidelines. And of course, that the work reporting requirements, all these things that we know. Are going to have significant implications on some of our most vulnerable residents. And so figuring out how we as a county can prepare and mitigate of those those challenges as much we can before. HR one is fully implemented next year. So more the comments we will start to close out this ledge legislative session. And as this working group continues to to provide recommendations to the to the state on how we can work together and alleviate some of the pressure from from counties. All keep of the board, of course, update the commissioners on sits on the snap version of this committee as well. Yesterday also had a chance to attend the Generation. That's Leadership Council meeting. It was great opportunity to meet with a lot of the folks do the work around closing the achievement gap and opportunity gap for so many students in our in our community.

We had a chance to welcome mayor her, who's the newest member of the board and recap their annual meeting. And I think one thing that really stood out to me from the meeting, was theme of connection and community. I think of especially with what all so many of our kids of men experience experiencing over the last few months post Operation Metro Surge to see our school districts, our cities. Really come together and showcase the importance of maintaining the connection and building off the momentum. We know that there's still a number of challenges that will come our way, especially as a result of this administration and how our schools are stepping up to make sure our students and their families get get the the resource that they need. So great meeting and looking forward to continue to work with group last night. I also had a chance to speak at the North and Community Council of their annual meeting.

They're one of the defense will councils here in Saint Paul. The mayor was there to provide an update things happening at the city. And I was there to provide updates from the county as well as answer questions from folks in the community and these district councils are just another great opportunity to to not only share about the work that we're doing, but just connect with folks in our neighborhoods. And so for those in Saint Paul home may not be aware, definitely get involved their district councils. A great, great opportunity to neighbors sent him stay connected on on how you can, you know, can do your part. in our community. Mr. Jones, a mention the International Institute and they're gala. That's coming up tomorrow. I also want to put a plug in for the same poll downtown alliance, their annual meeting. Is coming up tomorrow as I know that the county will be will be present and showcasing our.

Our work revitalize downtown Saint Paul. And and the fact that this is going to take. coalition of folks to get that done. So looking forward to that. And then finally, I just want to formally welcome Marie Goff, who is senior at Saint Paul Academy, will be interning with my office for the next month. He is already jump again. So I don't know if I had a chance already to to everyone. So I'll be around. But just wanted to formally welcome Maria to the scene. Thank

Thank you, Mr. Chair I want to open up County Manager, introduction on a guest that we have here Minnesota. got a phone call last Katrina, mom me county, who stated that we Distinguished guests here from Kenya. So I just want I said we can do a proclamation today says a little last minute can do anything for Mo, but I just, you know, wanting to mention that because, you know, the work that we do some time, we see this local work. But you can be, you know, a global partnership that we can happen. Lessons how we can do what we do to mate. The work that we do. even better. So I just want to recognize, I guess I could was great see today. I'm the genre. here today. I mean, it is a political consulting mining sector leader in social impact on with a proven track record in advancing you from palm it sustainable development and responsible resource management across Africa.

He's also senior political advisor to Blue. I who is second in command in the Kenyan government. I also is the adviser to the former prime minister of Kenya. Why do recognize with its ability to mobilize influence youth movement across the continent and mining for us with energy governance, economic opportunity in long-term stability. And just just a little bit through his advisory role, business community institutions and investors ensure inclusive and sustainable development. Just want to mention that because that is really a lot of the work that we do get Ramsey County and how we see the work in the world which we. We have so welcome to Minnesota, looking to Ramsey County and I hear going to be doing something even bigger for you Minneapolis now on Thursday. But this is I day so welcome. Okay. Last week I did a few things. I had a meeting with our housing policy, but somehow housing policy statewide partners Elizabethton Clinton from the minute.

So housing partnership easy down from Odyssey Dcd Heart from Idai Jan Center and Stephanie Lewis, who is from the greater Twin Cities United Way. To all housing community leaders, too review a proposed constitutional amendment that they leading aimed at creating a dedicated long term funding source housing, stability across Minnesota. So they gave me a overview of what they are calling our future stars at home would generate funding through a small state. Why sales tax increase to expand rental assistance, increase access to homeownership and strength in housing, civility, efforts. I was a they would they be to discuss the current legislative process, tougher that is moving to the House in the Senate. also Looking at legislate progress of opposing could potentially. I complement existing tools like the Affordable housing a lot high. continue to support housing outcomes in our community. So this is like really important work for me that we stabilize our community to housing units.

Many of us who believe that. Housing is a human right. And I'm all have it. And so I just want to say out now says group that I met with all who I know very well and I pushed back a little bit because, yes, we should look at home or home ownership opportunities ran to a census that assistance to provide support and rental home. Some more campus safe and stable home looking a household income used ability funds to support people facing instability, homelessness with helping climate, resilient homes. If all of those things are important, but I challenge them to look at this. Just worked too more of a comprehensive approach. Because we have never done a more investment in housing Dan, we did COVID hit our homes. But what we know is homelessness continue to grow. So that's something else that we need to be doing. All right. We want t equip in the future with the tools they need also to stabilizing right? need to also look at their homes and look at the mental health pieces that impacted.

The overall pandemic that we're going through right now. I think it has to be a really comprehensive piece of what we do and how we do it. In addition to looking at home ownership, rent to opportunities. Support for rental housing people are not facing. You know, I'm in front of a judge to be evicted. It. We got to do this better. I want them to know I believe in this work. I believe that we have to do this work, but we have to do something differently, too, because otherwise we are investing millions sometime billions of dollars. What are we doing to stop the crisis that is happening? And so we had to think about that. We got to think about, you know, do we do all of this? We do some of this and have a impact. That's discussion that we have to have. And so but it's a good meeting with some great people leading the way and doing great things.

They also have 80 organizations who are supporting initiative. Nothing will happen this year and the legislature, but they would be coming back next year. S think about challenge and to think at this work to a more comprehensive way in bringing in other parties sense, not just focus on housing piece of it. I had a great opportunity last week to join the Frog Town community. 4th family Spring celebration hosted at Saint Paul Parks in Recreation Center at the Fall Town Community Center. It was a great place. It was a little chilly out there and everything was outdoors. But it was great evening of communities issue and have and participating. And I walked into space. And who was there of Dan Sheriff's Department cookie? Cooking hot dogs and hamburgers and and given isn't just really great moment of seeing community gathering outside families gathered celebrate the arrival spring connecting with one another and enjoy a welcoming community center environment and also Ramsey County at a table there, too.

So it's great to see Ramsey County there. With a table to me gather with we have to county staff. This celebration reflected to strengthen community in frogtown, bringing people together across generations to come next year in relationship in a safe and supported setting. And I just want in wealth. The recognition one of great leaders here in Saint Paul, who was raised in Saint Paul was a native of Saint Paul. Tony sent in Shannon. Tony, I it's been doing great, great work. Here in Saint does the work on the east side of the Saint Paul? With with the he showed up big time during pandemic to really support in the park to As you can do our educational front workforce development. But Tony sent in

And got it into the national soccer soccer Hall of Fame. Congratulation, Tony. I mean, that is an acknowledgment that we need to recognize it. Given what I kept there. He was inducted to the National Soccer Hall of Fame. I want to and not Tony's contribution too early May's deadly soccer success in his role as a member of the U. S. Meat Men's National team. His induction as part of the 20 6 class reflect both his one feel excellent and his lasting impact on the game also recognizes continuing investment in community to use development internship and wellness initiative demonstrating leadership that extend far beyond the field. I celebrate this now Stone as a reflection of the town the resilient in the leadership wrote it and Ramsey County in a Minnesota. Great for you, Tony. And we appreciate your leadership well beyond soccer field right into our community right here in Saint Paul. And that's it for me and Q.

Begin by saying today, Cinco de Mayo. But we had today celebration on the left side. We get. I was. Fresh lawyer has to be I was sad much with Betty McCollum and that was 7 Betty. And was we were both saying the weather was like perfect. Usually it's raining but it was a perfect day. They will tens of thousands of people out there. It was a huge success. And that's a congratulations to Franco and all the community organizer says after COVID the community there was no celebration. Community took over. So this is not being run by the community. I'm not professional outfit. And it was well, he's successful. Yeah. The the other thing is the Science Museum gala attended that that had a great turnout. of course, you have a long history with the science Museum. I we donated the property that they build the museum on. 30 years ago. So 25 years a great turnout. it's important because we want to make sure the since we seem stays healthy and stays in Saint Paul.

The other thing is regions hospital attended the ribbon cutting for the expansion of the emergency room. It is huge. You know, we see over 100,000 people into the ER every year and 1000 people. given what might happen with HR one that could become even bigger. So the fact is they added 35 3,500 square feet. More to the to

The emergency the facilities, fantastic, more private for people coming in. or you main in my mind be We have people lining up in hallways, but it was a great event fantastic work on behalf of the hospital staff to get this done in pretty short order within a couple of years. So congrats to them. After the following, the county board meeting. We have a workshop. And let me get my cheat sheet here and the standings thing hospital utilize station in rising cause for a commission as saying and then a one, 30 boy

Workshops on state operated services like care and treatment by Commissioner Moore, ensuring. I guess that's will take a five-minute break, go to the election. Thank you where