Ramsey County Board Meeting - October 23, 2025

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met on October 23, 2025, at 9:15 AM. The meeting included a proclamation honoring retiring public health leader Mao Hu Tao, discussion of several administrative agenda items, introduction of new county leaders, and a critical update on the federal government shutdown's impact on SNAP benefits. Commissioners also delivered community reports highlighting local events and ongoing challenges.

Proclamation: Mao Hu Tao Retirement

• The board celebrated the retirement of Mao Hu Tao after 39 years of service with St. Paul-Ramsey County Public Health (beginning in 1986) and over 46 years dedicated to public health. Commissioners and community leaders highlighted her pioneering work as the first Hmong refugee to return to a Thai refugee camp on behalf of the UN, founding the Hmong Healthcare Professionals Coalition, creating culturally responsive health education via TV/radio, and championing domestic violence prevention and scholarships for Hmong women. Mao Hu Tao accepted the proclamation on behalf of all who supported her, thanking the board, county staff, and the Hmong community.

Discussion Items

Item 4: Revenue Agreement with Monarch Healthcare Management

• The board discussed a one-year pilot agreement to assign two county eligibility specialists (FTEs) to seven Monarch long-term care facilities in Ramsey County. Staff explained that Monarch would cover the 50% of salary costs not reimbursed by the random moment time study, with no levy impact. The pilot mirrors a similar long-standing agreement with Regions Hospital. Commissioners questioned selection process, quality control, and potential impacts on other clients. Staff noted the pilot aims to reduce turnover in medical assistance cases and faster service, with an evaluation after one year. Commissioners expressed support for the innovative approach but urged careful evaluation to avoid gaps for residents.

Item 5: Grant Agreement with State of Minnesota for Maplewood Library Expansion

• Commissioner McGuire highlighted that the grant will expand public and community areas at the Maplewood Library, creating inclusive spaces for learning and connection. The item was approved unanimously.

Item 7: Amendment to Single Source Agreement with Youthprise

• The Office of Safety and Justice presented an amendment to expand eligibility for youth services from youth already on probation to more upstream, preventative supports. Youthprise served over 200 youth and families in 2024, spending about $150,000 on rental assistance, therapy, school supplies, and other needs. The amendment allows use of state grant dollars (with a June 30, 2027 deadline) for broader prevention. Commissioners praised the partnership and sought details on community organizations involved (e.g., JK Movement, 30,000 Feet, YMCA). Staff also noted a forthcoming solicitation for respite shelter beds for youth experiencing interfamilial conflict, aiming to divert them from the juvenile detention center.

Federal Shutdown Update (SNAP and MFIP)

• Deputy Chief of Staff Andrew Greenley reported that the federal government shutdown, now in its fourth week, is affecting SNAP benefits. The USDA notified the state that SNAP funding is running out; starting November 1, no November SNAP benefits will be issued for new or existing recipients unless the shutdown ends. The state is required to issue a 10-day notice to recipients. MFIP cash benefits may not be impacted, but MFIP food benefits will be. Staff are working daily with state partners and coordinating internally. Commissioners expressed deep concern about the impact on families, noting that food shelves and other nonprofits are also strained. Commissioner Singh highlighted the interconnectedness of government and community food security systems. County Manager Becker noted that administrative cost impacts on payroll are being analyzed.

Key Outcomes

• Item 4 (Monarch Healthcare): Approved unanimously (6-0, with Moran excused) after discussion, as a one-year pilot with evaluation.
• Item 5 (Maplewood Library Grant): Approved unanimously.
• Item 7 (Youthprise Amendment): Approved unanimously with praise for the expanded prevention focus.
• Federal Shutdown: Commissioners directed staff to continue monitoring and communicating with state and federal partners, and to keep the board updated on administrative cost implications. Community reports included plans for virtual office hours on the budget, and calls for residents to support local food security organizations.

Community Reports and Announcements

• Commissioners shared updates from district events, including the Burns Institute trip to Montgomery/Selma, lead testing at Battle Creek Rec Center, and ongoing budget discussions. Commissioner Miller reported on a successful CLUES gala raising funds for the food bank, and stressed the need for private philanthropy to bridge gaps during government paralysis. The meeting concluded with a schedule for the rest of the day including a rail authority meeting, a workshop on the abortion issue (led by Commissioner McGuire), a BOMA lunch, and a board workshop on continuum of care.