 As we step into February, I want to take a moment to recognize the significance of this month. February is Black History Month, a time to honor the rich contributions of Black leaders, activists, and everyday citizens who have shaped our history and continue to inspire us today. It is also a time to reflect on the work that still lies ahead in our pursuit of equity, justice, and opportunity for all.
In Ramsey County, we remain committed to fostering inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. Whether through housing initiatives, economic development, or public safety efforts, we are working to create lasting change that benefits all residents. This month, I look forward to engaging with community members, continuing important conversations, and advancing initiatives that uplift and empower our district.
As always, I encourage you to stay connected, share your thoughts, and join us in making a difference. Together, we can build a stronger, more united community.
With gratitude,
~Rena
County Board Workshops
Most weeks, our County Board meets to discuss specific policy issues and receive updates from County Departments and Service Teams in our Board Workshops.
Workshops and discussions are held on Tuesdays and are open to the public. These take place at the Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse in Suite 220 (2nd floor). You can find the schedule for all upcoming board meetings, workshops, and discussions sessions below.
Look up all workshops and place here:
You can access video recordings of the meetings as well as the materials shared by clicking here.
You can watch upcoming workshops live by clicking here.
 In honor of Black History Month, I am proud to highlight several organizations making significant contributions to our community:
Missing and Murdered Black Women and Girls Office (MMBWG): Minnesota made history by establishing the nation’s first Missing and Murdered Black Women and Girls Office, led by Director Kaleena Burkes. The office is dedicated to addressing systemic neglect and violence faced by Black women and girls.
Irreducible Grace Foundation (IGF): Founded in 2012 by Dr. Darlene Fry, IGF addresses racial disparities in education. In partnership with my office, they have worked to combat period poverty by providing personal hygiene items to women in need.
Brittany’s Place: Located at 1301 East 7th Street, Saint Paul, Brittany’s Place is a 24/7 shelter for girls aged 10 to 24 who are victims of commercial sex trafficking or at risk of sexual exploitation. DeBria Chambers serves as one of the lead managers, overseeing their mission to provide safety and support to vulnerable youth. They have recently opened another location on 1092 Ashland Ave, St Paul.
In Black Ink: In Black Ink is a publishing arts initiative that provides opportunities for communities of color to tell their stories through various media. In partnership with the Network for the Development of Children of African Descent (NdCAD), they hosted a private reception featuring Dr. Haki Madhubuti, a renowned poet, educator, and founder of Third World Press. The event focused on self-determination in Black writing, publishing, and distribution.
Network for the Development of Children of African Descent (NdCAD): Led by Founder and Executive Director Gevonee Ford, NdCAD focuses on education and community revitalization, drawing on African heritage to boost student performance and parental engagement.
African American Leadership Council (AALC): Under the leadership of President Tyrone Terrell, AALC represents over 30 African American organizations, focusing on community advocacy and addressing issues impacting African Americans in Saint Paul.
ReConnect Rondo: Led by Executive Director Keith Baker, ReConnect Rondo has been awarded a significant federal grant to fund an environmental assessment process and community outreach work, marking a monumental step toward rebuilding Saint Paul’s historic Rondo neighborhood.
These organizations exemplify dedication to justice, education, and community empowerment, reflecting the rich legacy of Black leadership in Minnesota.
  I had the pleasure of attending the second annual Minnesota Hmong Chamber of Commerce Gala, joined by my Ramsey County colleagues and staff as we came together to support this wonderful event. We purchased a table to show our commitment to the Hmong business community and enjoyed an evening of fellowship, celebration, and connection. It was a powerful reminder of how coming together across communities strengthens relationships and creates opportunities for future collaboration. I look forward to continuing to support and uplift the diverse businesses and entrepreneurs that make our region thrive.
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Dr. MayKao Y. Hang, Vice President, Strategic Initiatives and Founding Dean of the Morrison Family College of Health at the University of St. Thomas |
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Representative Samantha Vang |
....I enjoyed the celebration of community.
 I am grateful to see Irreducible Grace receive resources from Period Poverty, a vital program addressing menstrual equity. Through my work with the National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL), I am proud to support initiatives that ensure individuals have access to essential hygiene products.
Period poverty is a real issue, and it’s inspiring to see organizations like Irreducible Grace making a difference in our community. I appreciate the collaboration that makes this support possible and look forward to continuing efforts to uplift and empower those in need.
 I had a wonderful time attending the 106th Annual Midway Chamber Celebration, where Ramsey County was proud to host a table. It was inspiring to be among so many dedicated individuals, organizations, and businesses that contribute to the strength and success of our Midway community.
Recognizing the outstanding leaders who help keep Midway thriving every day was a true highlight of the evening. I appreciate the Midway Chamber for bringing us together to celebrate and honor those making a difference. I look forward to continuing our shared work in building a vibrant and prosperous community.
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Dr. Haki Madhubuti, poet, educator, and founder of Third World Press. |
I had the honor of attending a private reception hosted by the Network for the Development of Children of African Descent (NdCAD) in partnership with In Black Ink, featuring the esteemed Dr. Haki Madhubuti. As a poet, educator, and founder of Third World Press, Dr. Madhubuti has been a powerful force in amplifying Black voices and preserving our cultural history.
I deeply appreciated the opportunity to celebrate Black culture, storytelling, and self-determination while reflecting on the importance of reconnecting with our history and roots. Being part of this gathering was truly inspiring, and I am grateful for the work being done to uplift and preserve our rich heritage.
 ReConnect Rondo has been awarded its second Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program grant, a major milestone in its mission to restore and revitalize the historic Rondo neighborhood. This funding underscores the importance of the organization’s community-led efforts and the dedication of local and federal advocates.
The grant will fund an Environmental Analysis & Assessment of Impacts, ensuring that the project prioritizes the long-term health, environmental, and social well-being of the Rondo community.
With this grant, ReConnect Rondo moves one step closer to establishing a vibrant, connected African American Cultural Enterprise District through a community land bridge. The organization extends its gratitude to the U.S. Department of Transportation, community members, and elected officials who continue to champion this vision. This funding represents a significant step toward repairing past injustices and creating a brighter, more equitable future for the Rondo community.
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"Reimagining Rondo" |
 Don't give recycling the cold shoulder. In Minnesota, recycling supports approximately 78,000 jobs. These jobs pay almost $7.96 billion in wages and add nearly $23.9 billion to Minnesota's economy. Learn more at RecyclingExists.com
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Ramsey County's Environmental Service Center opens April 1. This new facility will collect household hazardous waste (HHW), electronics, food scraps, cardboard, scrap metal and other recyclables. There will be no mobile HHW collection sites in 2025. The HHW facility at Bay West in Saint Paul will remain open until services transition to the ESC. Learn more at ramseycounty.us/ESC. |
 Measles is in our community; don't wait, vaccinate your kids! Visit your doctor or contact the Saint Paul - Ramsey County Public Health Immunization Clinic to get caught up on immunizations. Learn more at ramseycounty.us/Measles.
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Minnesota HIV cases are on the rise. PrEP can help reduce the risk of HIV. Many appointments available. Call Clinic 555 to learn more today: ramseycounty.us/PrEP |
 Ramsey County's Winter Warming Spaces provide safety and relief during the coldest months. Open nightly from 9 p.m.-7 a.m. through March 31, these spaces welcome everyone. Transportation is available. Learn more at ramsey.us/WarmingSpaces or call 651-266-1035.
 The workplace has changed a lot in recent years due to economic uncertainties, talent shortages, workforce challenges and fast-changing technology. These changes make it hard to predict future job needs and trends. Despite the challenges, key trends are emerging, pointing to progress in creating inclusive workplaces, hiring based on skills and embracing digital tools. Join us on Feb.19 to learn about upcoming trends in the workforce for 2025 and beyond from RealTime Talent's Senior Director of Strategic Research, Erin Olson. Register at ramseycounty.us/Top10Trends
 Apply today to be part of Ramsey County's Inclusive Workplaces Cohort and accelerate your organization's ability to advance racial equity and inclusion. Participation is free. Applications due February 21. Apply today: ramseycountymeansbusiness.com/workforce/initiatives-and-resources/inclusive-workplaces-cohort
 Ramsey County District Court Judges will offer free weddings for couples who wish to get married on Valentine's Day. Weddings will take place from noon to 1:15 p.m. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3Dkrflj
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 Elder Mentors: George Thompson, Vanne Owens Hayes, Nieeta Presley, Tom Ellis, Rick Cunningham, Nancey Riley, Mary K. Boyd
I want to take a moment to recognize and appreciate the incredible efforts of our Elder Mentors who stepped in to support the Financial Assistance Services department during a challenging backlog. Their dedication and hard work ensured that our constituents continued to receive the assistance they needed, even in difficult circumstances. By stepping up to serve with compassion and urgency, they reminded our community that their concerns matter and that we are here to support them. Their commitment to excellence and service makes a real difference in people’s lives, and I am grateful for their efforts. That’s why I am proud to name them Community Spotlight Heroes for the month of February!
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