What We’re Building for Future Generations

Our county’s strategy around economic development shouldn’t just be about the here and now, it has to also be about building a thriving economy for future generations. The investments we make and partnerships we foster now will position our neighborhoods to build sustained wealth. Make no mistake, this development must be done with equity at the forefront. We need a deliberate strategy to ensure that economic opportunities are distributed fairly, closing the gaps that have left communities of color behind. Only then can we build a prosperous Ramsey County for all.

As County Commissioner, I will:

• Advocate for investment in cultural corridors to help spur economic growth.

• Establish a Small Business Advisory Council to better understand how the county can be a better partner to small business owners, especially owners of color.

• Ensure the Open to Business program through the county is properly staffed and small businesses are aware of the services the program offers.

• Redevelop neglected/underutilized sites, without displacement of residents.

• Ensure strong implementation of our robust community-centered frameworks for development projects.

• Address the short- and long-term impacts of food insecurity by convening internal and external partners. As well as ensuring the implementation of the county’s Food Security Strategic Plan.

Ramsey County is working hard to build a strong workforce through programs that connect residents with training and job opportunities. But simply having jobs isn't enough. We need a variety of options, with good wages and strong union protections, to create a path towards financial security for all. This is especially important when addressing racial disparities in our community. By ensuring residents have access to well-paying jobs, we can help bridge the gap and create a more equitable economy. The focus shouldn't just be on today's needs, but on the jobs of tomorrow, such as manufacturing, healthcare and tech. We must prepare our workers for the in-demand careers that will fuel our future success.

As County Commissioner, I will:

• Champion investment in workforce training for jobs with a livable wage, especially through pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs.

• Advocate for the investment in young people accessing job opportunities and understanding their options as early as middle school.

• Ensure workers are protected and able to organize.

• Recruit key growth industries to the county (manufacturing, healthcare and tech) to revitalize the region and build out our workforce.

• Improve access to childcare and ensure that residents are aware of the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program.

As we look towards building for future generations, addressing the climate crisis is at the center of that work. The efforts by the county to combat climate change head on with its Climate Equity Action Plan is a step in the right direction. We know that as we experience the impacts of climate change, communities of color are often hit the hardest. We must ensure we are prioritizing addressing these unequal impacts. Investments that will drastically reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and increase clean energy sources. Taking these bold steps now, not only lessen our greenhouse gas emissions but also helps residents save money on their energy bills, creating a more equitable and environmentally conscious county for generations to come.

As County Commissioner, I will:

• Champion investment in energy efficiency and clean energy programs for residents and businesses

• Leverage federal dollars, such as through the Inflation Reduction Act to create a grant program for lower income residents to electrify and decarbonize their homes.

• Expand investments in multi-modal transportation, including bus rapid transit, light rail, walking and biking paths.

As first-time homeowners, my wife and I were thrilled about the opportunity to build wealth and stability for our family. Homeownership is a cornerstone of the American dream, but it's a dream that's been out of reach for far too many families due to systemic barriers like redlining and discriminatory lending practices. Residents must have the resources they need to achieve housing stability on their own terms, whether through homeownership or renting.  We must deepen investments in closing the racial wealth gap through down payment assistance and first-time homeowner programs. Furthermore, we must  strengthen protections for our renters and  significantly increase our supply of deeply affordable housing options. Ramsey county is currently in need of 15,000 deeply affordable units and this should be a priority in our housing development efforts. We also can’t forget about the holistic approaches needed to support our unhoused residents. Home is the foundation for thriving students, workers, and engaged community members. At the end of the day, everyone in Ramsey County should have a safe and secure place to call home.

As County Commissioner, I will:

• Prioritize investment and development in deeply affordable housing across the county for families at 0-30% Area Median Income (AMI).

• Partner with the city to update zoning and allow more homes to meet the county needs.

• Work to close the homeownership gap for communities of color.

• Partner with city and state leaders to improve renter protections.

• Work with community partners to establish shelters for our unhoused neighbors and ensure they are on a path to housing security.

• Invest in county programs like the Emerging and Diverse Developers Program to create a pipeline of BIPOC developers interested in building affordable housing.

True public safety can’t be determined in a vacuum. It must center the community. This means working hand-in-hand with residents to identify their needs and develop solutions that truly keep everyone safe. It's crucial that safety efforts are informed by the voices of the community, especially those who have historically been over-policed and underserved. We can’t operate within a system where public safety comes at the cost of further trauma, particularly for communities of color.

As County Commissioner, I will:

• Champion Gun Control measures.

• Expand proactive programs and resources for young folks.

• Prioritize preventative strategies and non-police interventions.

• Ensure our response tools and law enforcement strategies are community focused.

The county provides crucial services to all of our residents. Whether it’s elder protection, foster care, mental health and chemical dependency programs, these services are vital to many in our community. As the county it’s important that our neighbors not only know about these services, but can trust that they are fair, welcoming, and accessible.