The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on February 17, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in Council Chambers, Courthouse Room 300. All seven commissioners were present (Commissioners Jebens-Singh, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Ortega, and Chair Ortega; Commissioner McGuire arrived at 9:01 a.m.; Commissioner Xiong arrived at 9:03 a.m.). Also present were County Manager Ling Becker and Assistant County Attorney Stacey D'Andrea. The meeting included a proclamation for Black History Month, approval of several administrative items (some with extensive discussion), legislative and federal updates, and reports from commissioners. The meeting adjourned at 10:41 a.m.
Here. Miller. Here. Moran. Zhang will be a little bit late and Ortega. I will stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. And to the Republic for which it stands. One nation. Under God. Liberty and Justice. Commissioner Singh. Every community owes its existence and vitality to generations from around the world who contributed their hopes, dreams, and energy to making the history that led to this moment. Some were brought here against their will. Truth and acknowledgement are critical to building mutual respect and connection across all barriers of heritage and difference. Please take a moment to consider the treaties made by the tribal nations that entitle non-native people to live and work on traditional native lands. Good morning. We're just getting all set up this beautiful rainbow of melanin behind that. Um good good morning, uh, everyone. Today uh we gather uh to not only recognize Black History Month, uh, but to also honor a century of Black history commemorations, 100 years uplifting the innovation, creativity, resilience, and historic contributions of black communities. Since the observance first observances in 1926, these commemorations have ensured black history is recognized, preserved and celebrated, highlighting both pivotal moments and everyday leadership that continues to shape our nation. We acknowledge the trailblazers who opened doors, the artists and innovators who reimagined possibility, and the communities whose strength and perseverance have carried us today. And I want to pause for a second because I want to hand it over to Commissioner Moran to highlight uh one of those trailblazers uh who we lost uh this morning. Good morning, everyone. Um, good morning, Chair, my colleagues. Um I would like to take a moment to recognize the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson, a leader whose life and legacy have shaped the moral and civil direction of our nation. Reverend Jackson stood at the intersection of fate, justice, and public life. From his work alongside Dr. Martin Luther King to founding of the Rainbow Push Coalition. He dedicated his life to expanding opportunity, challenging injustice, and giving voice to those who too often were unheard. He also ran for president of the United States of America twice. 1984 and 1988. He believed deeply in the power of collective action and in the idea that our nation is strongest when everyone is included. His advocacy helped open doors in edge in education, employment, and politics for generations of people across this country. Reverend Jackson also understood that progress is not about policy, but about people, about dignity, visibility, and the belief that everyone deserved a fair chance to succeed. His work reminded us that justice requires persistence, courage, and a willingness to stand up even when it's difficult. As public servants, we carry it for part of that responsibility. We are called not only to govern, but to ensure that our decision reflect fairness, equity, and an opportunity for all members of our community. Today we honor Reverend Jesse Jackson not only for what he accomplished, but for the path he helped laid for others. His legacy challenged us to continue the work, to listen, to lead with compassion, and to act with purpose. My thoughts, and I hope our thoughts are with his family, his loved ones, and for all who were inspired by his life. And I did a quick little quote uh from Jesse Jackson, who said that, especially in this moment and time that we find ourselves in, that America will get better and better. Keep hope alive. Keep hope alive. So and that, thank you, Commissioner Man, and that legacy of leadership, creativity, and community uh is beautifully reflected also today with our community guest, Walker West Music Academy. Yeah. Walker West creates a music, uh creates a music learning community rooted in the African-American cultural experience, welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds to explore, perform, and grow through music. Founded in 1988 in St. Paul's historic Rondo neighborhood by Reverend Carl Walker and Grant West, Walker West began with a simple yet powerful vision to provide piano lessons and a safe haven for neighborhood children. Since then, the Academy has touched the lives of thousands with lessons and experiences that continue to resonate across all walks of life.