Ramsey County, MN Board Meeting

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And Jason, just testing. Can you all hear me? Okay. Roll. Call, please. Second thing here. McGuire here. McMurtry here. Mueller here, Moran here, John, is can I'm here. All. commissioners online. Yes. That's the least. We welcome. We stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. to the United States of America. And holiday for which it One nation under God,

Indivisible, with and justice for all. Land acknowledgement Iran good morning Every community owes assistance in vitality. 2 generations from around the world who contribute their hopes, dreams energy to making history. That to this moment. Some were brought here against their will. Some are drawn to leave that to some homes in hopes of a life. And some have we have on this man since time immemorial, too fun announcement are critical to building me to respect connections across all the areas of Herat is indifference. We are standing on a sister, a man of the Dakota people we want to and now it's still just wait to hold shop in the other nations of people also called place home. We pay respect to the elders past and present. So please take a moment to consider trees made by the tribal nations that and title 9 native people to and work on traditional native lands. Consider the many legacies of Alice Displacement and migration and settlement that bring us here tgether here today and please join us and uncovering such truth and any and all public events. Thank you. Well, it wasn't an emotional news. Gender of 5/19/2026 summit. Second. Seeing no discussion. Local. I here, Jevon seeing

Eye McGuire. I McMurtry I Miller. I to take motion on the minutes from May 12, 2026. second. Seeing no discussion roll call.? Kevin thing. I McGuire. McMurtry I Mueller. I minutes straight of items. Commissioner Moore and okay. This is your ministry item number 3. an agreement to Micah Williams and and versus Ramsey County. Quote, found in 6, 2 dash

CV dash 2, 5, Dash, 4, 4, 6, 6, I like to move administrative item. Number 4,000 rescheduling, great for new classified position. practices officer. I like to move administrative item. Number 5, the repurchase of a tax forfeited property located at 6, Oh, my and Apple is Street East. Saint Paul, Minnesota, 5, 5, 1, 1, 8, And this is. A few seconds. And the discussion. Roll call, please. I Stephanie, thank I McGuire. McMurtry I. High and take a I. We now have the

Presentation and detoxification and withdrawal management facility of fate. Good morning. The Chair, ga County board County manager. Thank you for having us this morning to provide an update on the closure. Vardy talks with trauma management program. I'm Sofia Thompson, the social services director. And I'm here with my colleague. Jo Ling. Engine gonna get us started this morning with our

Presentation. Mourning a chair or taken commissioners and county manager Bcker. My name is Jim Langer and I serve as a human services run the social services department. For just over a year. I was the program administrator for the detox program. Today, Sophia and I will be provided an update on the closure of Ramsey counties detox. strong management services. We'll walk through the history. The transition process, continued support for the residents clients and community providers. Here's a road map for this morning's First will review the history of the detox. A strong management program. They will walk through the closure itself. Highly goals and successes from the transition outline next steps and finally share information, resources and support available in the community. This presentation reflects a collaborative process across multiple departments and community partners. Here's a road map for this morning's briefing. Sorry. So I want get begin by acknowledging the hard working staff of the Tis picture here was the last picture we took. actually of all the staff at the talks many, many years of experience and withdraw management substance use disorders treatment.

A lot of hard work. A lot of history. Some of these folks had been with the talks since the early 90's. So they've been with the program for a very long time. Here's a brief history of the detox management program. The program's first license in 1989. Those it was open actually for several years before them in the 90's. The state of Minnesota mandated that every county provide detox services as a safe alternative, certain cars that incarcerating intoxicated individuals in 2015, the state expanded detox programs to include clinically managed medically monitored, withdraw management, reflecting the growing need for structured medical oversight. Our pogram continue to evolve and came license for a strong management 2022 allowing us to provide enhance clinical and medical care. Although the program received approval. And 22 2022 to Bill for services. It took us a couple years to be able to actually do the process. We weren't able to start that until June of 2024.

The programs continue to struggle in the area billing the state statute still requires counties to ensure the talks vacation services are available. allows us to meet that obligation by partnering with community providers, which is what drives transition. We're talking about today. So as you all are familiar, we officially cfo's our program. And at the end last year, December 31st. 2025, it was a really difficult decision and a lot of planning went into it. This decision aligned with best practices to reflect the

County's broader strategy to shift its specialized services to community based providers. Who have the infrastructure. And some would say expertise to deliver medical withdraw from management care. This change supported right sizing of the county's operational services. Wow. Still ensuring access for residents. Extensive communication efforts so place to message this change. It's truly been a team effort. I'd like for you all to remember. We did not do this alone. As Jim. Thank the team. I also want to

Acknowledge that there was interdisciplinary team who met frequently to manage this transition. Not only did social services, our public health partners are housing, stability, partners, safety and justice, our racial and health equity administrators liaisons compliance, communications, our health and wellness, broader teen, the sheriff's office evaluation purchasing contracting and legal. And I can't forget the and are planning manager Chris, the Dillon who kelp to for. Our goals were clear. We have to do something tough, but we want to do it right. Communicating with clients, staff and our partners to ensure that clients were able to receive continued. In other

Facilities and be served. To wind down operations at the building and to create agreements for a new provider to come online and supporting community providers through capacity building grants. So to ensure the smooth transition, we used a multi pronged cmmunication approach. Gov delivery, which you may be familiar with. People can sign up and get e-mails automatically generated to them. Our website was updated. Our signage was updated and ongoing partner communications under what we call our bridge plan. Phase one. We really wanted to focus on ensuring continuity for those with the most critical needs. Navigating support. never geisha null support was offered on site at the current location. on on the first floor. We were able to coordinate transportation with the sheriff's office. We appreciate our share of partners for that. And we created streamlined work procedures. This multi-layered approach was able was able to help us create a holistic clients centered model. While providing those who still needed service, the best service available and to ensure safety, particularly during the winter months. On

The operational side, we managed contract terminations licensing notifications. Donation of our medical supplies and the initial leasing process for a future provider. From January through April. Around April, 5th. Withdraw management assistance had their employment date extended to provide onsite navigational supports. So these were staff who are familiar with the work. We were able to extend the time in which they were going to no longer be with us several months so they can print continue to provide care, particularly during the overnight and weekend hours.

We used our Recovery Corporation Corp staff, prices, staff supported again. The sheriff's office. Providers share the providers in the community. sharing daily bed availability with us so we can help clients quickly access care. This ensured that despite the program so sure clients continued to receive timely support. Excuse me, Sophia thank you, Mr. One Quick question and I appreciate you walking through. The goals and the entire process and everything from what just shared. Looks like it was pretty famous, but I want to kind of take a quick step back and get quick. Takeaways from you all on the process, the whole were there.

Any specific hiccups are challenges like any aspect the roll out whether on the client and or on the staffing and that you found to be challenging or that you would. Implement a different approach. So just want to get a sense any key takeaways that you all had on. Maybe some of things that didn't work and that you had to quickly pivot and throughout this entire process. Yes, thank you. Commissioner McMurtry for your question. Yes, always and hindsight is always 2020. There's always things that we could have done to improve the process and the experience I think. Hiccups,

Ask challenges. Communication, even though we try our best to make sure that everyone is included in the process. And we were thoughtful about the rollout approach of how we communicate. There's always a way to improve. I think our communication. Doing hard things is hard. And no matter how attempted to approach individuals about the decision and informing them of the steps there are things we could have done differently. And so. I would say absolutely. I the staffing challenges we found way to collaboratively work through. We have 24 hour coverage. I think that was a major concern

And we were able to accomplish that. And that's because of that team effort. So hindsight, yes, there's always things we could do differently. I think I would say that because of the partnerships of everyone involved, we did something really hard and I I would. Propose that we did it where they're in documents or any processes in place to to come document that feedback, whether it exit surveys from staff or from from clients that we capture any of those specifically wasn't more. So just anecdotal of what you may have been hearing directly from staff. Commissioner Mark Tree. We were not able we did not take exit surveys for All that were laid off in this process or even those that had their layoffs extended. We did not do that. And I would have connect with my HR partners explore how we may have done that differently. I will I will add that I offered the opportunity to talk with everyone individually.

Jim, get a lot of connecting with people individually. There was a lot of emotion around this. As there should be. And for those who were able to extend their time with us for a few more additional months. I did have individual conversations with them and they were very grateful and did express some more of that challenge. But the opportunity and a few were able during that short time able to at least one was able to transition to another job during that time. And so those individuals who stay on after we were able to maybe get a little bit more information from. Now as we look at the clients served this slide is showing January through April. We served 91 individuals. In January February. 66 March, 27 and April. 34. Most of the contacts were handled by phone with a similar number requiring face to face navigation course. Sheriff's office transport. You can see that was very minimal. These numbers demonstrate ongoing

Demand for the importance of maintaining strong navigation referral process during the transition and continual connections to care to ensure a smooth transition. As of April. 30th on site navigation support ended and staff agreements concluded. Going forward. Individuals who walk up during building Ahlers will receive referral information. And can contact. 6, 5, 1, 2, 6, 6, 4, 9, 0, 0, 4 assistance. That's the original in traditional the talks number that has not changed. We just have different people managing and operating that line. Embedded social workers from are appropriate response initiative. We'll continue to answer that detox line. Check messages and receive daily bed availability updates. Transportation has now ended, as you can see. Those numbers are really low. So. Operationally, we ended that at this time. But during the process, we learned that many of the current detox providers while in other parts of the metro area provide transportation. You can simply call. And as we are as we were helping to arrange that those detox beds with our partners, they would send their cab or

Form of transportation to pick people up. That great learning during this process. Moving here I just have a quick question, which is given the number of folks who involved in this interdisciplinary team for the bridging and now we're at this point. I'm just wondering how continued education, communication interdisciplinary work is being done to continue to allow community to know different ways to access the talks or housing or any of the other services that we're all wanting our communities to have no wrong door, so to speak. I think of the capital comments hub. I'm wondering, do we have any public health or mental health or other kinds of connections to that as it grows and becomes recognized as as as a place for community to get help. I'm just I'm just wanting to make sure that we continue this momentum and all different directions. Yeah. Let me first address the capital comments have been just want to make sure that we're all aligned here.

It is one opportunity, but we need to take a broader systems. around how where doing outreach and supporting our residents, both like the quality of life issues just on the streets as well as a need like this as well as you guys have heard of the safe and strong initiative as well as using our different mobile vehicle side. Just I just want to caution, you know, certainly so if you can can answer in terms of opportunities to make sure we're doing good bridging. I just I think it's premature for us to maybe use talk too much about the capital comments until we get a broader organizational strategy. Okay. And I think you're indicating what I was trying to get out, which is that with so many people who are part of this, how do we make sure they're still connected to community exact so they have access to the information to get to the services.

Thank you for the committee for the question. Commissioner Jeff Dunn saying and your comments, county manager Becker. I'll let you finish. I have another OK commission and one But you can trust so primary vehicle at this, what we have several strategies around communication. We are continuing to update the Web sites or communication partners and and funneling people to that website has been vital. It has. We've updated it to point where it has a lot of information. Where people can access other detox during gap period, which talk a little bit about a minute in terms of communication. We are using our various meeting venues and so through our going to have to think of the that the organization, but we have several community partners where vendors and folks get together to talk about updates. Te specific meeting names are not coming to me and in the East Metro, provider alliance. And so that is one avenue where providers are coming together to share updates.

There's aso the east, another east Metro, group that meets. And so we use those vehicles to share this information. Despite that, we still know that people will call and that is why that phone line is available. 24 by 7 internally in terms of collaboration, we have. We have some said it. The formal meetings that were to plan for the bridging. But for those who are part of what we call face to bridging, we are still meeting and having those court nations and we continue make ourselves available. Should there be any questions and missed opportunities? We take those reflect and see how we might pivot. So really quick question. One back to the clients served graph that you provide. seems to be a steady decrease those that are being served. I'm just wondering from your perspective, heading into phase 2, is there in anticipated increases. We hit the spring and summer months are due anticipating continuing to the clot.

Commissioner Emrich McMurtry County board County manager Becker. I anticipate that as enter the summer months, those who are in need of services will continue to rise while we saw decrease specifically in the total individuals served our phone calls and are face to me. That is the indication that we were helping people. We were communicating well with where people can go to get the actual service and that are particular support really became phone, triage and navigational supporting because we weren't able to serve people on the campus on the site. And so I imagine that this is not a reflection of the we know that there is going to be continued We know that we will continue to get phone calls and through helping through this process. I think many have ben educated where else can we received this service or a similarly situated service in the metro area? So that has been a success. Will we see these numbers go up?

It's hard to say our primarily now our phone calls are still coming from our hospital partners. So we're going to do some education, continuing education and conversation with them around where folks can go but the true essence of community. Members sowing up or wanting the service has really do. down at this time. No, appreciate that. am glad to hear that the educational pieces coming into effect as well because I would imagine there's going to be continue community who may not even know that the detox and clothes and wool. We'll continue to reach out. I'm also thinking aout, you know, ensuring the capacity of our and then a social workers as part of right to ensure that. thought if there is an increase of they still have their capacity to do. You know that job on top of continuing to answer detox on number. So just something to think through, if we potentially see, you know, increase heading into the summer months of maintaining that balance and that capacity for the social workers too, to do that work.

Thank you for that Commissioner McMurtry. I will just take a moment to plug are appropriate response initiative and the great staff who are really pivoting to do just that. What is the appropriate response? How can I support? How can I lean? so those embedded social workers at the 9-1-1 call center who are now taking these calls. This is really up teir alley. I would say that it hasn't. And my understanding of communicating with the leads that it falls well in line with what they think what they feel their work should be. And for a part of appropriate response team that are going out or the public health folks, they are all vote into what's happening. And so it really is natural pivot, if you will, in terms of the work they were doing and continuing to educate link Lake community members to the right service that they need in a different location. So then all of this information the transition is on the website.

Commissioner Ortega, the details of the transition. Some of that is on the website. Yes, not all of it. The website primarily leading people to where they can access services. Now. Thank you. I I will wrap us up here briefly with just a few more slights. through a competitive solicitation. Through competitive solicitation process. A local provider is currently in negotiations, meaning we're not able to talk about who the individual is and being selected as a community provider to operate at or floral to space. So the space in which we as a county owned and operated these talks have vacated. We put out a request for proposal for individuals t apply. Someone was selected. We are at the end of that process and you all will be hearing more about who was selected in the upcoming weeks. used to feed be guarding the facilities. So what are type of services that have applied and R B? Commissioner Ortega, the RFP was provide detox, withdraw management services only.

What we know is that this is continuum of care detox withdraw mnagement services is one aspect of of detoxing. And after that, folks want to go to another level and another level there. We learn throughout this process. There was an appetite to do more. And with consideration of the location of the facility

Parking having a tenant and that collaboration. We were very clear that at this particular time we are looking for a provider who would be in that space. It would be able to provide the tax and withdraw management services only at this time recognizing there's a continuum of care that we support, but not at that site. Not at this time. thank you as chair through the RFP process that we also make clear just you just know some of the things that we offered when we have that space. To ensure that whoever the new tenant is that they also offer those same services like, you know, that the building for walk-ins to come. I'm like, are there aspects of what we did that we know that were beneficial for the community, that we are also expecting this new tenant to also provide thanks for the question commission McMurtry. Yes, Jim Langer here is also known as excel extraordinaire.

And how knows how to pull all the numbers and the data and in connection with Carissa Dylan, we were able to really look at are we serving? So we structured the RFP to ensure that the demographics language. the substance Usage that we see commonly use the respondents needed to respond to how they would serve our unique Ramsey County population. And then the team, which I was not a part of who did, you know, did this selection process chose best defender for that? And I will say for that, that's applicant, if you will. One thing about. able to use the facility is we did. We had it tiered. The RFP was tiered. the first tier was really about someone who either has a current license and another part of the state so that we knew that they could have had the ability to get licensed quickly. I'm going a little far my head of myself. But that being said, the process at the state is that until your lease is signed?

And you are secure in your facility. You can't even apply so during from that from the closure until now of selecting the vendor, the capacity builder opportunity for on tier one really was about a vendor who could come in and really get up and rnning quickly. And we think we have a vendor who is able to do that and once the lease assigned shortly here after that point is then and only then are they ale to apply for a license to the state and that process can take approximately 6 months less or So to be clear, we are still looking at a vendor coming. Providing the service through the capacity building opportunity and probably late December January of 2027. Thank I have commission is saying then commissioned the shot. Yeah. So a cuple questions. One is it sounds as if this is a typical process and we assume that all will go well, given hearing that you did.

But if for some some reason they would be issue with the licensure, you know, will the will is it? Is it going to be the six-month kind Lisa licensure, the salacious or so that's what's delaying it is is the first the process for licensure. Commissioner Kevin saying yes, the delay at this point is really just you're a frantic process right? At this point. Now that we've selected someone the next steps, yes, it will be the licensure process and how fast we can work through because the vendor. Unlicensed before we are strongly confident. I would like to be clear that the relationship that Ramsey County has with the vendor will be a leasing relationship. Supporting the vendor with the facility use of the facility Pretty much at no cost. That is our capacity building. And then they were they will be awarded $50,000 for start-up Funds and Soul. That really is the relationship. We we don't manage the license or monitor the license.

It will be the state's responsibility to do that. Our obligation will really b to the the lease which are partners in property management at the appropriate time will come and discuss the finance of the And during that time of licensure, are we able to allow the tenant basically to come in and do whatever to come on to modifications to the building so that it's not. Yet another 6 months of of whatever you know, every every everybody who comes in makes us their own. So can we use that time wisely? Yes, commissioner Jeff and saying. At the point signing the lease, the tenant has full access to the building to do the things that are appropriate within the least. We do believe that modifications will be minimal, given that it structures specifically modified already for detox withdraw management. But we want to support them with getting him to the building the grant dollars are structured in a way to support that.

So that once the license is approved, we are ready to go. Are they that they'll be ready to go to start serving residents? And then one last question is I know that at this time the RFP was specifically to for detox and and and withdraw management. But knowing that there is step down and kind of a continuum of some buddies, healing. Is there a future option the either within this space or or in surrounding space for that? That's a grower with a have to happen in a different location. Commissioner Jeff saying I think to answer that question. I would need to really lean my deputy county managers and some of their vision for all of the needs that we have here in Ramsey County. This is one aspect and it definitely intersects with the other departments and other needs. Whether or not that location is appropriate to be used for Matters. Beyond the trick detox withdraw management, which which we've used it for.

Really is a conversation that I think needs to be had with the CMO, office. I appreciate I appreciate that. One Ramsey County and also a complex response knowing that we're balancing a lot of different goals that one time. So thank you. Thank you. Just under not only was going to crank, that just sets up on information. If that facility was appropriate full, whatever the potential of expanding and that space is there. building was built. So you can add another floor. that I have tiong. And then morning thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you, Mr.

Thank you so much. know the commissioners here for asking so many of the good questions that I had to my my first question is in our lease language with And the relationship is will they be able to provide similar services? as we had where it's almost like low barrier access. Commissioner John, yes, as part of the RFP and the capacity-building grant, the expectation is that low barrier access and a sliding scale fee. That started at 0. Citing scale fee that starts at 0 was part of the expectation of the provider given the capacity-building grant. Regarding the least I want to leave that to property management who will be in front of you in just a few weeks. I believe to talk about the least. don't want to overstep and speak to the lease agreement. I can speak to the grant capacity-building grant agreement. And It sounds like they will also be needing a few months to get license and to get start start up to what ae we doing in the interim between that between now and then finally getting partner off the ground? Commissioner John, can you clarify for me when you say what are we doing now? Do you mean for residents or with the provider? Yes, yes, but residents right now. So

As we as we are moving forward. With Commissioner Strong as we are moving forward. The I think best way to answer your question, what we are doing for residents. We move to phase 2 of the bridge plan which which means that we are not opening the doors. We don't have someone sitting on site nights and weekends. So during phase one, we actually have staff who are sitting at the building nights and weekends waiting for people to walk in. As you saw, those numbers were really, really minimal of people walking in. So then we transition to just phone support. And so that is the same support that was already being provided. So I would argue that the only thing that's being removed in this phase is someone being physically on site. After 08:00PM. Till 07:00AM. And then on the weekends as a reminder, the floral to University Avenue urgent care still operational. And that is where staff were supporting out of.

And so if someone were to come to the building during regular operations, we do have staff that are able to support and help navigate. But the service is really won't be any different. Then that would be providing other than physical person there answer that phone or excuse me, answer the door after 08:00PM and on weekends. Does that answer your question? Yes, it does. Thank you. And then Mr. Chen just one last question. director Thompson, since you had mentioned that the relationship essentially going forward leasing tpe relationship where they're using our facility for basically rent free. Are we imagining then in our contract work or at least with them and I know that you're you're not in charge of the leasing agreement, but maybe county manager, you can chime in to us needed. The question is are we expecting some sort of a relationship similar to the one that we have Regions Hospital they are required to do like charity care.

We're if folks are uninsured or underinsured, that they will still be able to access the services. Commissioner Jean, I can answer that. That's actually part of the grant agreement. So with the RFP as we put it out, part of the requirement was that they're able to do just that. And so, yes, that's actually part of the grant agreement, not the lease agreement. So the way we structured the grant is that it is for the length of time that the leases so they work, they run concurrently. And in addition to the building, there are some dollars. And as those dollars are being released, there still be holding to the expectations in the grant. So that is a part of the grant. That was. The capacity-building grant that was issues. And last, last question here, I know that that that was the last one. just like response for and for the number of beds. Are we making a requirement that the cannot limit or decrease the level of service or to to the number clients or patients that may may need the service.

Because, you know, I can adjust and anticipate that there may be some operation challenges later that. It's a possibility where, you know, the staffing level where they're down staffing and they cannot meet the requirements of their license, right. And they would have to make those changes. But we also have a certain number of that. How can we ensure you know, Ramsey County residents are prioritized some of those decision-making that happens. Commissioner Jean, it's it's a great question. Part of agreement and the way that this relationship is set up is that we are not going to tell the leasing party the grantee awardee how to operation allies. We know that when we ran our own detox withdraw management facility, there were times where we had to lower our census. There were times where you don't get to choose, whether i's Ramsey County residents or someone from Wisconsin who's coming to receive the service. And those are.

Substance use disorder standards within the community within the licensure. And so our request is that they are. That Minding or that they are a responsible holding the licensure expectations. But we carefully were towing the line of can we tell them how to do operations aside from stipulating in the Grand tenure, Lee's that it is for withdrawal management and detox services. Only we are not going we have at this point are not in. Intending to dictate their operations. That is their business right to do and we know that we are going to be working on how clients. Transition from maybe someone comes to the urgent care on the lower level first floor and needs to go to the test. We know we'll have to have a relationship. So and thus far, the partnership has been great. So I anticipate that if those challenges are we have some concerns. We have an ability to have that communication and understand their barriers.

While expressing things that we need to make sure happen as well. But it is it is a dance with how we're able to tell them how to operationalize. Their services. I don't know if that answers your question. It did. Thank you. Director Thompson, thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you. Thank you. Mister one. I just like to say I appreciate government getting out the way in that the community based organization do the work that way. What they experienced expertise and do it the way they feel needs to be done a population that they are serving. And so I just want to one 0st. And now it's the hard work to come from Ramsey County staff and work if over the years. And at insight to partner with community to have services provide it right in that process does take time. But also want us to bring us back to the conversation we last year about why was closing the detox and that was the fact that was losing a million dollars a year because we could not feel to be That was reason why.

Right? We didn't have people who are struggling with fentanyl in other stuff. The use coming into. To get the help that they need and mainly what we've seen, more people who are dealing with alcoholism and, you know, issues like that who were coming in for support. And that was like 5, 6, That would be infield. I believe a very low number that would be feel from the 50 bands that were available. So just want to bring us back to that piece about why close and what we felt that we can continue to take up and I lost every year. And so I as I say that and I think about where we are right now with leasing to a community-based organization, a community partner. So where do the last fall when? they may be a lot. We still may not need to feel So do that last fall, what looked like to have fall on the community providers providing services are doing a little bit more that it was different from what Ramsey County vision and purpose You know, how do we maintain that building?

Seel and I know from. However, many clients come in they can now get reimbursed and those dollars maybe can't recoup something. Look at you kind like plane. Give some clarity on that that piece of what we're doing here. Thank you, commissioner I will do my with your with your layered question and tell me if I'm that hitting the answer. Where Ramsey County struggle. That's they were.

There are multiple reasons of why we closed. Definitely decreasing bed capacity or excuse me. That utilization was one of them, right? So while the facility maybe have to phone a friend here while the facility held up to 50 we were only using, I think 2022 at any given time and rare occasion when we get that high. Will likely be no different. Then the new provider. Bt again, they're experts. This is their businesses. What they do and where we struggled. In addition to that, that usage in how pople were utilizing the facility. We also struggle with our billing operations with a provider with this. Is there a line of business? This is what they do. We truly believe that they've mastered what we baby struggle get on board. And we talked about those challenges of just the county environment. We were the last of 2 who still owned and operated. A county ran detox facility. And as that, infrastructure and the responsibilities and the expectations were swiftly changing under the licensure aspect as a county provider, we weren't able to change fast enough.

And so I think I being able to feel the 50 beds. I don't anticipate. I don't. I. The hope is that the provider coming on will be able to maximize and not turn anyone away. And so if there is a need for 30 or 40 beds to be used, if we would have seen that need, we would have been able to also. You know, increase, they use utilization. I don't know that. I answered question. thank you. That at the Thompson. That was that was helpful, expecting. You know, I'm trying to get a picture of what we doing here and why we're doing it. And what would be the difference? Because we don't want a community-based organization to come and feel also right. And so the hope is that I love the idea of the capacity grants like to help. You can often get things moving. We want this to be sustainability. You know, if people are still call me nor stopping by, tell us at the minimum that there's still a need for it to be there and just wanted to get really clear vision.

The difference, right. And what I heard you say is that Ramsey County struggled with the building operation, been able to Beal. We recoup those dollars tonight. And the hope is the community organization would have this ability is what they do and there will be able to do this efficiently and effectively bringing the dollars that they need to to some sustainability at that location, correct? Correct. And and commissioner also just say our leadership. While Jim was able to step in after the last administrator transition having tis is a line of service where being really and vetted and understanding SV community needs that male you what's happening? Our structure of how we? Offer. Jobs or how we fill gaps when we have them isn't always the most effective. And so again, I think there are things that our that our county structure. That we do really, really well and work for a lot of service lines. This is one where it just didn't work as well. the providers coming in again, they this is their this is what they do. They understand they know and they can pivot quicker. Then we as a as a large organization can.

So I appreciate that. The wisdom knowing where on our skills are, what we lacked skill to do the work and the services and open enough to partner with a community-based organization. The has the expertise is connected to the community to continue to provide the services we just have send 6 months delay for them to go to all that. The process is that they need to go to so although the building itself is not open pathways for people to get the that they need when they need. asked phone calls or been redirected 2 other providers That's correct. Commissioner. And there are still path where you ways and that's not to say that people don't want facility in Rains County. We know that having detox withdraw management facility in Ramsey County is important and we will get there and the hope is with Tier 2, 3, of the RFP, which we'll talk about a minute. We're going to be released.

We weren't able to release the funds for a provider who did not want the building but still wanted to bild a detox withdraw management facility. And since the selection and the negotiations for that initial opportunity did not. conclude we are reissuing the 2nd half of te RFP to encourage and to say that we have some stake in this. We know that we have some responsibility while detest withdraw management, I would argue is not a core county responsible service, which is why we considered. Could this be done elsewhere because this work is being done by community providers in the Rest of the state and sell pivoting and doing that. We we are now able to continue to focus on the core responsibilities while letting those experts. And that's not to say I want to clarify its not say that our staff are not or didn't have expertise. However. Our enterprise and how we are set up made it challenging to be the most effective all the time.

Thank you. Thank you for sharing it. Commissions seeing just a quick comment on that. I am just thrilled to hear that there will some seed money to encourage diverse community based approach outside of the facility. As as as those of us who are engaged in in the ceiling and caring services, it's not a one size fits all it may be the 3rd 4th provider therapist program facility, neighborhood cohort that you walk in the door with that is that that flips the switch that allows you to get the care that you need and we need to make sure we have multiple options for folks in our community. So thought think you All right. I'm gonna around out here. We've talked a little bit about some of this for me to see where I'm at here. So we continue to update our signage, our website and all of our communication tools. To let folks know where we are at.

I mentioned that we are continuing to get calls from hospital partners and we continue to talk with them and educate them. We know they have a large staff as well. And with when in doubt, just call. And that's what the message we want to send. We are not physically open for folks to come to us. But when in doubt just call and we are okay to help navigate those services. Let's see here. As we transition to this community based detox service, several county initiatives continue to support individuals with substance use and related needs. As was mentioned earlier, the safe and Strong University Avenue initiative integrates law enforcement service providers and prosecutors to connect people with services. Our syringe service program. Out of public health area offers. reduction tools, wound care, naloxone, training and testing strips, adult and mobile crisis. Teams continue to provide stabilization and prices support. And our core program. And 1919, University offers co occurring mental health and substance use services throughout a multidisciplinary team.

So while the tax will draw management services is one aspect along the continuum of care that is needed. We are still providing multiple supports as Rmsey County. And we while remain connected with our partners. And so at this time, we would like to thank you for your time and attention today. an interest in this and I we will stand. for any additional questions. Any questions? Well, so if say you and your team have done a very good job. It's been a smooth you will transition is I know just from my phone, that rain that you've been doing a good So share that with team. thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you. Chair take or take a commissioners and county manager year. We have a legislative update. Thank Thank you, Mister Chair. Well, the legislature did. And the night and Sunday. A fair amount of work. We we disappointed they can get all

The big issues that we have maybe wanted some gun violence prevention legislation and that that's a metro surge compensation didn't pass, but they did pass a bonding bill. Unfortunately, we were not a part of that, although there were other, there was a significant part 4 at Saint Paul, which is included in Manatee County basic infrastructure in 13 million for sure. Infrastructure repair along West 7th. 40 million for a broken jaw to Tory medications and 10 million for the thank. You see no arena. So there was investment in. Parts Ramsey County, just not ones we were looking for, we will give will. I'll give will have government relations here before in in a couple of within a week and we'll get the more details of all the things that happened. But I will say that there was some statewide efforts with AMC are association, Minnesota counties. And as that really helped with some of the big issues that we're facing in, those include the Health and Human Services. bill, which did include funding to help counties with SNAP administrative costs and to support implementation of the Minnesota African-American part family partnership, Family Preservation Act.

Sorry. And so we are going to get some help with that. Also, the human services, it modernization. Got created, a new human services systems, modernization Fund with it grants for counties so that we can begin to do that work. Not enough money in that, but at least some a start. And there was also a new funding for a family homeless prevention assistance program and funding for supportive housing for the continuum of care. Panties that this is all because of unstable federal funding. We've had that the state has had to step up and provide more funding. So how we I keep working. We are legislative team is going meet and in the in the next week and just talk about plans for next year. Already. And how we're going to, you know, work with our legislative delegation in a productive way to get the things that we really need. And we will be doing a board workshop on our legislative outcomes for this for this year. with that, Mister Chair will I end this report.

If anyone else has anything, they'd they'd like to add that more a much more detailed the port follow. I will say that AMC did a great job. highlighting some of the outcomes yesterday in a meeting that they had. And I encourage that you all to, you know, listen in on the meetings, me. zoom calls that AMC has that gives all the Things that happened statewide for the issues that we care about. So with that, I will in my report and thanks to Julie Wood legislative it. my colleague Commissioner Brent Commish county manager back are a lot of people worked really hard at the end of session to get the things that did happen. And just thanks to everyone who works hard. Thank Commissioner Jean. Thank you, Mr. Chair, I just had a question our delegation team, legislative team. quick for the it modernization is that for just the state's it general modernization orders that for Martha wants that the uses to verify and applications for social services and financial

Assistance services. Thank you, Commissioner Jean, it's a great clarifying question and I'm we will get more details on this. But it's my understanding that we did get 10 million for it grants to counties as we know, many of us could use way over 10 million for our own county. So that's why I said it's not it's it's some money, 4 counties, but it is it grants to counties that's there's money that goes into the state Human Services Modernization Fund. And then in addition to that, some money goes to it. Grants for counties. We've been fighting for that, you know, for to get some money dedicated specifically to counties and they're starting with But 10 million dollar grant. So it's at least a start. But that weaken in our workshop where we get all the details. We get even more specific for you on that. But my understanding is that. That it statewide money and specifically for counties. acquired Vice Chair Moran, thank you so much for all your time. Spent at the legislature this I know that it's you know, especially challenging, Lynn it and share share part of powers between that the House just some of Some thank you. I would add. Thank you, Commissioner Shine that it was it was it is it's a difficult times that we're in because

They're assured powered the legislature so can move forward on as many things as we might like. And also the federal government's lack of of providing resources for the things that we really need has really put a strain on the state budget. And of course, on all of our county budgets. And s we continue to feel that impact of the lack of federal, federal resources into the things that we that require us to do and into the things that they originally, you know, said that they would do. And now they're not doing it. And so we've just had to pick up some of those pieces and and the state has had to try to do that. And as we so we will continue to work on that. But it's a it's unfortunate that we have to be in position. Thank you. We know

County Conventions. Yeah. Thank you, Mister Chair. Ramsey County last week hosted the convening of several community Collaboratives. Are we back together? Leadership staff, 4 participants primarily the executive committees of the Collaborative's. That includes the Saint Paul Children's Mental Health, Collaborative the suburban Ramsey family, clever and the Saint Paul Children's Collaborative the Collaborative's just as a reminder for everyone, their joint powers organizations that bring together County government school community organizations and service providers to coordinate efforts to improve outcomes for children, youth and families. And Ramsey County. And so by working collaboratively systems and sectors, these organizations and online resources, strengthen partnerships and address the community's complex needs in a more connected, an effective way. And so I'm thankful for county staff and also commissioners who participate on these joint powers boards of these organizations. The commuting created an opportunity to strengthen relationships and share some updates and better understand each other's work. One of the greatest benefits of the gathering was simply just having some dedicated time.

Each collaborative was able to share some similar things about how they work and sort of what their priorities community with their the - resources. And so looking forward to additional conversations they can meanings to meeting certainly reinforce value o partnership. And so I want to planning manager Dillon whose serving as in our community relations manager role in the county manager's office helping to support both stronger, internal and external coordination when it comes to our collaborative work. that wasn't a good event. Last week. In addition, I'm sure we're going to share more about this in the next coming days. By know, people's calendars get busy so I thought the earlier the better. So I'm going to show us a little early that we are just on the brink of train Union Depot. So it is Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7th and it is free. It's a family celebration celebrating trains, transportation and downtown Saint Paul community.

But it also is the 100th anniversary of Union Depot. Also, think it's an extra special train days since the opening in 1926. people are served as a gateway to say Paul and our region connecting generations of travelers, workers, immigrants and families through rail transportation at its peak. Hundreds of trains move through the station every day, making it one of the most important transportation hubs in the Midwest. And today it is a beautifully historically restored depot serves as a gathering place. It's also some low, great local businesses and has a lot of great events and so trained days will feature tours. Both modern and historic locomotive interactive exhibit. there's so many things will wait for another week 2 to share more about all that. But there's a music festival as well. But everything is free and charges that people might want to get that first weekend in June on your calendars. Thank Sideboard

Committee reports. Want to be in check. Start thank you, Mr. Chair. lot of stuff going on in the Rams kind of like a local government, collective Action Workgroup which is focusing salting chloride reduction. I had heard from them pollution control agency are and what their what their methods are and this is one of those topics that I've been talking about in that really grateful that our collective action team has has brought forward. And of course, now we're not winter anymore with the salt, but just to get that education out, there always a good thing also goodness say that my colleague may talk about the Ramsay, Washington, recycling Energy Facility and Finance Committee met and I can commissioner Miller will be talking about that also asked our couple of my colleagues here, but the race, our punter alliance had their community in Bloom event. This is such fun work they meet at there's an intersection where 3 3 districts from the from these 3 cities.

And 3 commissioner districts meet at Maplewood Saint Paul and Roosevelt and they continue to have great events that really highlight that area bring really positive activities there. And it was really a great, great event. Lots of community support there. And that's a committee members that that that are present there and in celebration of mental Health awareness month and partnerships with Ramsey County, right side printer. They included a lot activities there yet that really help without those with that issue. just kudos to them. Also. A new Brighton had their spring clean up days. kudos to the communities for all there. All the great work. Also mention that AMC had their legislative update yesterday and just encouraged and people to listen to that. It was really interesting to hear all the different topic areas that reported back on what what happened and didn't happen at the legislative session this year as I said, our legislative team is going to continue to meet.

We're starting right up with a debrief of the session and also how we're going to move forward in the coming years. So looking forward to that. I also attended our National Association of counties Board of directors where we. Talked about our federal policy agenda. You know, so much of what our National Association does lobby at the federal level for the things that we need and we really appreciate their work and issues such as snap Medicaid. so they were we got updates on that We talked about membership and the benefits of of the National Association to membership. And they haven't. We are counties campaign. So I encourage all of you to go on the website and maybe at one important thing. We can show some of the videos that they're putting about putting out about what counties do because we all know that that we do a lot and the public doesn't always understand you know, know that.

And so we can help get that word out in there. Helping put out a lot of information. And with news letters, videos and things didn't really help us all. Tell our story. And what we really do for the community. There's also a lot of focus disasters with our fires, floods and of course, it was it was a lot of similarities with what we've dealt with in their metro surge. So just learning things such as how oftentimes wants to move faster than our counties can move want to do things. And so it just interesting to find those similarities in my and colleagues around the country that as they're dealing with fires, floods and other disasters. But the community wanting work done much faster. It was it bringing back all the issues that we have with our communities wanted to move faster and how we really navigate all that. And I think it was just a great, great learning experience to share information about about that.

And so with that Mr Chair, I just overall that we're going to talk about this. But Memorial Day is coming up this week. And so just want to acknowledge all the you know, all the great work that all of our people have done and and and memoriam for them for the and then celebrating Memorial Day this Monday. Thank you. Commission is saying. Yes, I just want to see eye and county manager back and we're honored enough to go to the Ramsey County Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony last week for Anti County Sheriff's Office and our local public safety and police departments and their families. And just 2, always remember the folks who have given the alters ultimate sacrifice in service, a safety of our communities and those public safety and law enforcement officers sheriff's department who do that every day and their families to stand behind them. So and so a good reminder of that work that's being done every day.

Also May is mental Health Awareness Month. Those activities continue. I and my colleague commission report you are able to tour the Ritz Wellness Center in Saint Paul. And in truly a community based and community response meeting people where they're at. And so when we talked earlier about how there's there's, there's no one size fits all and being able to realize what we can do as a county with community do can do and how we can partner in those activities. I was able to go to the NAMI screening Minneapolis last night at a packed 350 plus sold out screening of the film. The documentary No One cares about crazy people. And that evocative title intentionally. It came from the Twitter exchange between Scott Walker and a colleague in talking about closing a facility with an offhand comment. Well, nobody cares about crazy people. What we know a lot of people who care about people who are living with mental illness and it was a packed hall last night and I was honored.

The was hosted co-hosted by NAMI, Minnesota in on the Ramsey County. I will say that as a parent the advocates individuals living with mental illness and people who are advocating alongside them as family members are some fierce advocates and it was wonderful to see them be able to do this educational piece in community last night. also to bring that home Chance to to touch base with a constituent and elder Eileen, who lives in my district, who has been? Standing strong by her through the trauma when his mental illness was not being treated, but also in his recovery and decades of recovery in and out of our different direct care and treatment facilities and and and wonderful. She rminds us when when somebody in your family has cancer, you send a hot dish. But when somebody has a mental illness, you walk away and to make sure that we continue to break that cycle to surround anybody who has having a health crisis and any shape or form.

So I also want to say that while being in community listening and learning and all those things and standing with our constituents is important. They sent us here to do some systems transformation, work. And so just to say that I am very encouraged, county Sheriffs Association by folks who are in county attorneys attorneys associations and also within different county commissioners, all who have been doing work in and around the The rule 20's, the 48 hour rule. Some of that fire priority admissions work and the direct care and treatment who continue to say we're not going to just look admired the problem. What can we be doing to to truly meet the moment and the needs of our community? So that work continues. It's a big part of what I'm doing and we're not here. I also want to say that I've had a chance Esco Saint Paul goes Ramsey County, the as we know and are building stronger together that making sure that we have vibrant downtown is truly important to have the chance to.

He was some organizations this last week with the Saint Paul tourism celebration. The landmark center's annual meeting and then the ORD ways Acerca thanks to constituent invited me to go and and I will just it's wonderful to see that there are ways for people to visit Saint Paul for all ages and all different price points in all different ways. And I hope people will enjoy the summer down downtown. I was able to the with colleagues and constituents on the Capitol Lawn on her story, driving for a quality tour in support of the R a I cannot believe we are still having this conversation but now important as ever. And then just a shout out to all of our Ramsey County outreach staff, whether that's in parks and record public health or mental health, environmental outreach, all the different things. I was at the serving water Safety day at Arden Hills, Touch a truck and at the race, the race Allar punter Alliance Bloom and Man, are they out there with smiles on engaging with community and explaining what it is that the county does every day.

So thank you all for it for doing that. I just want to say even though the wrestler up under alliance was at McCarren Park, not my current district, where right around the corner from where I raised my kids so I could not resist being on my old stomping grounds again. Thank you. I song. Thank you, Mr. you know, similar the collaborative update. I'm County manager backer, thank you so much for convening the 3 collaborative. My biggest takeaway you there's just a lot notes, shared interest and desire best serve the needs of the families who are in Ramsey County. And I'm just so proud of the work they collaborative has done. Also, we actually met just before that convening and we we took action to set aside about $50,000 to be able to best serve family's needs and moments of crisis where systems had not support them. And this is you know, as a result of Oeration Metro Surge is it has just really force us to be more responsive because the current way of how we are doing things granting out every 2 years, you know where we're still trying to families, current and also know you know, Operation Metro Surge has had those compound. effects on and children.

Who need the most support. So I the committee we established that's committee too continue to discuss review guidelines on how that funding they become available to our current partners. Thank you. Mission in my Thank you, Mr. Chair. couple of things I wanted to know the Commissioner Ponce mentioned our visit to routes wellness last week, a great opportunity to tour their

Facility and learn more about not only the services that they offer above what they hope to do with that specific space and providing services to folks in the community specifically around mental. Well, I also had a chance to speak at the Arbor month. Tree planning Pierce Butler, tree Canopy Improvement Poject at Park this past A great collaboration between Ramsey County, the city of Paul's parking parks, rec as well as a number of community organizations, including Human Nature Fall Town, Green and the B line. And it was just amazing opportunity to get with community and to showcase the importance of environmental In what we're doing here is identifying some of our more climate vulnerable communities and addressing the environmental when honestly that the public health impact of not having the level of Saved from from trees that we know that other neighborhoods and our community has done so great to be a part of that event.

Also this week and I had blitz of community events that were happening, front avenue community called the Rice longer Alliance Community in Bloom, the Mighty Midway Festival and the Falcon Heights spring together events. I went to all 4 Saturday. it blast. then yesterday we had a chance to meet with the snow and University lines. The working group as they prepare for the next phase of what group will become senator out economic development of 4 that corridor. One interesting thing that we learned in that meeting kind turnout as we think through next steps is one of them treating a business improvement district for Snelling Avenue to really spur economic growth around that. That really key corridor. And so it was great to meet with so many different partners to hear their perspectives and to really see like momentum growing for the Hammond Mdway neighborhood and how this group can be a part of that. And then last night I had a chance to attend the interfaith action annual Assembly with Commissioner Miller to learn more about just transformational work day in the fray.

Factions do across the community and the different programs that that they leave up. And so really great. Great evening to celebrate their work and then all in with this. You know, it is it's graduation season. And we have a graduate on this So huge congratulations to Commissioner Miller for I think folks don't realize that, you know, on top of having this very full time job and raising family was going to get her degree, which kudos to you. Congratulations remain an inspiration to all of us on on the stars. And so just want on the for you. So.

Appreciate And I was she has to continue. You know, when commission Ryan Hunt came on the board. She didn't have be Yeah. And I was teaching to say she has. We actually gave are. I was at the cremony and I gave ahead diploma she went on to get a Ph D. I've got some time and there will be a a it's they still plan I was quite not as busy as you guys are on Saturday. It says at the softball field all day. Yeah. But last week we attended the Metropolitan

Emergency Services Board fairly routine board meeting. We did approve a few important items related to emergency communications and regional coordination. One was that the full board accepted the 2025 financial audit. There was no issues with that. We also approved some updates. Armor participation plans for life link 3 in Sherburne County. And so does really impact us but impacts the region. And we also approved some funding to support the regional blood program. I brought this up date back when we had our executive committee now we just approved it as a full board. So I know that they'll be some for blood in Maplewood, which is grace that's in our East Metro. And then continuing on and the West Metro and then amendments to related to the school, mapping grandson, emergency response coordination. We also received some legislation updates excited to hear more after everything pass from them on Thursday, 5.14, we had the Washington Ramsey County, Recycling Finance and Facilities Committee.

This was really routine as well. The main item discussed and approved was the proposed 2027 budget recommendations for the R and the board. The committee. We review the facilities budget, the program's budget, and then the equipment and maintenance and replacement fund are all Em and our budget. We like to call it. And at this time, there are no major changes from what was previously approved. So passed. But I do want to say one notable update was that the projected tipping fee is going to be updated in a set for $159 per ton. And that is what our partners pay when they bring the trash to the facility. So it all kind of comes down some way

And then we also, you know, really facilities. Updating continued our conversations long-term planning and maintenance and then also operations at the recycling and Energy Center. We have an old facility. We want to make sure and they do a great job keeping up and tip top shape and ten on Thursday, that same day also have the opportunity to present on food, insecurity and Ramsey counties work that we're doing with food security at the way for Lake Area Food shelf, their volunteer recognition program. So it really was a great opportunity to, you know, like community members know our role and how the county's connected into that work. And then I want to thank and recognize our list and for his incredible 25 years of service volunteering at the White Bear Lake Food Shelf. He's 87 years old. And now finally retiring from volunteering So I just want to say, you know, violent, here's like him. They their commitment to serving others really truly Last night I was at interfaith Action's annual Assembly place right use higher previously.

So it's, you know, deep holds a special place in my heart. But grateful for the work that they continue to do with that. I'm me. Thank you. Yeah, Thank you. Mister So I don't know if I mentioned this and that I've been away a couple of conference, but I just want to elevate the the grand opening of our new van to county government where we had our grand opening. previously call Metro Square. And I just think Ramsey County Government Center identifies what is happening in that building. Now. But that the space transformation of space The project came together very well. And it was encouraging to see the investment. In creating a more welcome me and functional environment. 4 residents come for support and help also for the staff. So for those who do not know the Ramsey County Government Center is located at one. 21, the 7 place ease. So if you need some support, please come. There is beautiful, warm welcome space that really

Shows individuals when they come into space that we are here to help you respect you and your value. And I think that is important when people are showing up in their words, moment lives, you have a place that feels like that's going to have to enhanced lie. So very happy to see space. Really beautiful Good job county. The just echo that. I will anything 90. He was trying to get some people done for m 97 year-old mom, And he was impressed and he's not. He's a hard guy to But to your point, he just something Very one Wade decision from what he's used to can see him. He sort of fun. the heavy lifting with my mom in terms of the medical on on that. So actually cut. ages 7 through May 11. It ended the the national Organization of Black Cunty Officials, Economic Development Conference call not Call the conference, provides important discussion and collaboration around. I'm not be to resolve. It cannot make development workforce, innovation and county level solution that supports strong and resilient community. And there's still a need organizations like this right. And I can say that being like one 3 African-Americans. a county commissioner where we have 447 county commissioners

And things are impacting our lives in our community are. Sometime this need to be elevated and talked about in a different way in a different perspective that we can bring it into these conversations in spaces. So but it was just really good to be at a national organization to hear, you know, really some common themes that is happening no matter where you are. That is happening. You know, I know we have a government that wants to be color blind don't want to see color. But what is happening in the self is horrendous. And what they are doing at tis moment elections. And I mean, there was some 7 states that may have one like to elected official. And they don't even want to see that one. But that, you know, so for Supreme Court to bring for us a ruling that says that you can not 8, a space where you being more inclusive of diverse communities.

But you can gerrymandering have just felt right? just mind bowing. Set. We are seeing myself back in the struggles from the 60's. representation did not matter. Representation does matter. It absolutely matter. And we are seeing it playing out in big numbers. And I know I love the fact that we're partisan, but this is life. This is real life. This is not about politics. This is about life and representation in been a bit to have opportunity. 2. Be considered. The slight have just the equal may find So just to be equally seen into to be seen that way. Well, you what's happening south is just horrendous. You know, we are definitely back into this whole fight over in around. your voice and your vote would go into next. Take the weight from from women and say when matter no more. I will go on any more about figure out like that. On May 14, my office was able to attend the foundation. dedication ceremony at McAllister College for the College New resident Hall and Welcome Center project.

They even had lied at McAllister continue investment and sustainability student housing in community center campus improvement, including the innovative geothermal energy system with office has been supporting. It is great to see that they with a view to get some support for that college. Long time to calm the goals. So cool to McAllister college worked this league and moving us forward. Just yesterday I able to 18 a lunch and learn hosted by the YWCA Saint Paul that focus on their new velocity program. Te session provide insight into how the program is working to support individual 2 more technology. so they'll bring some 21st century technology into that space where, you know, you But so many individuals who cannot afford to do something to simply take a driving test because it causes a cost associated with that. providing this service free where they don't have actual simulations, a simulator there. Well, yu can sit and take the test and prepare for that.

Just some all some forward thinking work happening under the leadership Ashley Booker, who's executive director the YWCA. S they to learn more about the organization, vision in the community impact. And it's just really looking for partners in the work that they do. And I think that's going to be really important as we move forward into 2027 in the lack of support that we're going that's going to be coming down from the federal government that's going impact the state is going to impact that county government that we're going to really have to look at how we do our work and be a very innovative and creative what that looks like with other partners, whether that is, you know, our state partners, our community, based organization partner the philanthropic community. The business sector. It's going to be like all hands on deck and we all need to trying to figure out how we're going to do what we need to do with less funds in higher demands they would be higher demand.

And s I do want to speak of this, but I feel like ISIS have to. Why have this moment to talk about legislative for work? You know, AMC has And Ramsey County did some really good work advocating fr things that we need to move our county and our state forward. You know, it's unfortunate we were not able to get the support that And it's for around the park with it. But, yu kow, is only on the amount of dollars stands on. High demand is coming from everywhere. And I think it's a really time for us to just sit back and reflect and think about how we prepare and going in 27 in do the work that we need to do around African-American Family Preservation Act. AMC, Ramsey County. Some also words to really do some acts. And I think we pretty much get much of what acts to happen. You know what? The one thing that did not happen at the legislature, that was was too move the case reviews from the counties to the state.

And let me just say this. No one gets everything they want that they didn't want. But I think this is also opportunity for the counties to duties. Case reviews and reflect what worked. What didn't work. How can we better support the family? And I would not want to see AMC say that case reviews don't matter and we're not going to do it. Because group of families and community members who've been hurt. That is our face system. They have been families who have been removed kids with endured traumas and families who have endured trauma disproportionately. And what this law is for those individual, we're just pointing out it would have been put into a system disproportionately. You need to figure out a new system to get some active efforts and work with. The parents work with the relatives with the families to create better. Outcomes. And maybe we can look at a system prevention. Also so we can stop the work that we can do here.

But counties needs to do a self reflection on himself across the state. In a number of families African American families who have been disproportionately put into a child where if a system and the trauma that has been endured because of that, we do not take this lightly. And so my hope is that have to re imagine just system too. We have to re. Imagine what that looks like. We need more resource centers in there. feel that traffic community right now that is investing. And counties to give them dollars to create so resource centers across the state. And we know that 87 counties do business 87 different ways and there's no one fix for all. And this is the opportunity for counties to reflects. what they need to be doing, how they need to do their work, too ensure that we are at. Putting out active efforts for We get the dollars that we request it.

That not unlimited. It. And so we have to make the best of what we have with the dollars that has been given. Based on the formula that is currently the news. If the legislation channel where system. So I wanted to test its rest that because I'm hearing some rumblings about the case reviews, peas. And the fact we need to do the case reviews. Anything needs to be done that. And so I look forward to working AMC. There's a lot of work groups that is going on to have going on for the last 2 years and people, individuals and families in those been impacted and in county were case invested in this and have been very invested in this and the work continues As we move forward. So I went in with that that is it for me. Thank you, Commissioner. I just looking to make a comment. Minnesota landmark annual meeting. very well attended. It's usually community members and go Was so very supportive of a landmark.

They will be a luncheon for the border Of the victims land mines and the Board commissioners to come together and so to a new review. Wolverine forward right after this meeting will have the the regional railroad that already we will pause just for a minute 2 because says doing some technical love. Phase II name new system. And then right after regional have a close meeting. Chaired by myself on the Benjamin Hill versus Thomas. Let make. And then at one, 30 Commissioner Mike Moultrie.

We'll do a wheelchair. The workshop and the Association of Minnesota counties and state. We are a journey