RCLLG June Newsletter

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Newsletter Content:

1. July Program Invitation

2. Legislative Discussion Program Recap

3. Member Resources

4. 2023 Program Recaps

Climate Action Collaboration

Friday, July 14th | 7:30 - 9:00 AM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

Climate change is a “hot” topic. A changing climate impacts our air quality, water resources, electricity delivery, and food systems. As a result, communities in Ramsey County have begun crafting their own climate action plans, many in early stages of planning and many partnering with firms or other third parties to do so.

RCLLG understands that climate change is a serious threat that knows no jurisdictional bounds. How can our communities in Ramsey County share resources, expertise and take on climate change together in a collaborative, collective way? Our July program will focus on opportunities to work together to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach to this shared threat. Join us for the first of several planned programs to hear from experts about what resources are available and to discuss your communities’ initiatives, ideas, and challenges.

Attendance is FREE! All RCLLG member communities and organizations are invited – please share this invitation with your elected officials and staff!

There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.

Legislative Session Discussion

Program Summary

It was a “banner year” at the Legislature this year. Last Friday, June 9th, we were fortunate to hear from three experts regarding legislation passed relating to Ramsey County, as well as legislation in Education. Our presenters included Jennifer O’ Rourke, Director of Government Relations; Melissa Finnegan, Government Relations Specialist; and Kirk Schneidawind, Executive Director of Minnesota School Board Association.

Jennifer O' Rourke let us know that ten new legislators were involved in the 2023 Session, mostly House members. She explained the Ramsey County Platform Priorities: 1) Family and Community Stabilization, 2) Systems Transformation, and 3) Economic Competitiveness and Inclusion. Key wins for the County include additional county program aid, homelessness funding, youth treatment homes, and bonding projects, bonding projects including Park at RiversEdge, Bruce Vento Trail, and the Rice Street Revitalization project.

Jennifer spoke on a variety of legislation passed, including legislation involving tax updates, transportation, and housing. Check out the notes, below, for detailed info.

Melissa Finnegan then spoke on legislation regarding health & human services, public safety, the environment, elections, and the recreational cannabis bill. The cannabis bill allows for those 21 years and older to possess and use recreational marijuana in private residences, as well as in businesses and events specifically permitted for cannabis consumption. Licensed businesses will not be up and running for over a year.

Kirk Schneidawind explained to members what Education legislation passed this year, including:

• Major Spending Categories
• Unemployment Insurance
• Referendum Renewal
• Read Act
• Teacher Pipeline
• Early Learning
• Paid Family and Medical Leave

Download the presenters' slide decks, read more about the legislation passed, and watch the recording by clicking the links below. Thank you!

Download Ramsey County's Slide Deck

Download the MSBA Slide Deck

Resources from RCLLG Members

First-Ever Mental Health Clubhouse

Mental Health Clubhouse: Filling a Gap in Ramsey County for People Living with Serious Mental Illness



With a diverse partnership and in collaboration with Vail Place, NAMI Ramsey County is excited to lay the groundwork to launch our county's first-ever mental health clubhouse. The clubhouse model is an evidence-based program that promotes purpose, employment and social engagement among people living with serious mental illnesses. To learn more about this successful approach and efforts underway to start a local clubhouse, you are invited to access the following 90 minute recording of their webinar offered on March 7th. Click the button below to access.

For more info and to get involved, please contact Co-Chair Mindy Greiling. 

Check out the 2023 RCLLG directory

Find contact information for members and state legislators, read handy information about RCLLG, and more! Visit our website to view this directory at any time.

2023 Program Recaps

As we look towards our next program, we want to provide you with a lookback on our 2023 programs.

January: No program held in January.

February: On February 10th, we held our annual Legislative Priorities & Updates program. It was a busy time due to the legislative session, and we were fortunate to hear updates from Rep. Hemmingsen-Jaeger, Senator Sandra Pappas, Representative Liz Lee, and Senator John Marty.

March: On March 8th, we heard presentations discussing the shortage of students/youth pursuing the skilled trades and its impact on our workforce and communities. We heard from Scott Stallman, Provost at Dunwoody; Don Mullin, Saint Paul Building Trades Council Executive; Jill Stewart-Kellar, Northeast Metro 916 School District, and Ling Becker, Ramsey County’s Director of Workforce Solutions.

April: On April 14^th, a few "trash talkers" spoke to our members. We learned how our communities in Ramsey County can more effectively manage waste and be more environmentally friendly, and were fortunate to hear from representatives from Ramsey County, Maplewood, and White Bear Lake Area Schools.

May: On Thursday, May 4th, RCLLG members attended a 'May the 4th Be With You" social event at El Sombrero Restaurant in Little Canada.