Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ramsey County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
16 issues with low priority
Manufacturing Month and County Economy
Commissioners highlighted Ramsey County's manufacturing sector — the county's third-largest industry, with 248 establishments and a median wage of $120,000. Workforce Solutions ran employer tours and job connections throughout October.
Low suburban participation in county grant programs
Commissioners McGuire and Moran flagged that cities often don't know when county grants land in their communities and asked staff to notify city administrators and board members directly.
Settlement of Wilson v. Ramsey County
The county settled a federal lawsuit for $150,000 plus non-monetary terms.
Courthouse security grant application
The county will apply for a $350,000 state grant to bolster courthouse security.
Transit Impacts Research Program Funding
The county's $30,000 share keeps the regional transit research program running. Commissioner Xiong wants future studies to examine ten years of Green Line outcomes — home values, traffic diversion and crash data — not just transit benefits.
Parks and Recreation Commission expansion
The Parks and Recreation Commission is growing from seven to nine at-large members with three-year staggered terms, creating two new volunteer seats for residents.
Sale of 97 Moore Street property
The board met in closed session to discuss offers on county-owned property at 97 Moore Street in St. Paul and authorized staff to proceed as discussed.
Pedestrian and bike lane policy workshop
Chair Ortega announced he'll request a separate workshop on how pedestrian and bike lanes are decided across county projects, citing conflicts with motorized bikes and safety issues.
Public Health and Sheriff Fee Changes
The board approved new and changed Public Health fees for telehealth services and a vaccine, plus updated Sheriff's Office fees for security and civil process services.
2027 Commissioner Salaries
The board adopted its own salary ordinance for 2027, setting what commissioners will be paid next year.
City notification of county grant awards
Commissioners McGuire and Moran flagged that cities often don't know when county grants land in their communities and asked staff to notify city administrators and board members directly.
North St. Paul remains outside the HRA
North St. Paul declined again to join the county HRA, so its residents and businesses can't tap the EDA's new programming. Staff will keep highlighting the benefits and can serve the city through other community development programs.
Police Week recognition and law enforcement partnership
The board honored officers who died in the line of duty. The sheriff touted falling crime rates and thanked the board for what he called the strongest board-law enforcement relationship in his tenure.
ESRI GIS enterprise license renewal
The county extended its mapping software agreement with ESRI through 2030. The system supports assessments, sheriff's operations, fire pre-planning, and free public access to county geographic data.
Future of East Metro Strong
Commissioner McMurtrey reported that the East Metro Strong board discussed possibly sunsetting the decade-old regional partnership, and may not invoice partners for next year while sorting out next steps.
B Line corridor updates and possible Earl Street stop
Vice Chair Xiong reported the Dayton's Bluff Community Council approved a resolution to explore an additional B Line stop on Earl Street, which staff will vet for viability. She also shared East Metro Strong's continued support for bus rapid transit projects and the Hour Car program for last-mile trips.