In a recent State of the County address, Hennepin County Board Chair Irene Fernando highlighted the local government's dedication to addressing community needs and reducing disparities. Focusing on seven key areas – connectivity, education, employment, health, housing, income, and justice – Fernando emphasized the county's efforts to create a framework for stability, opportunity, and growth for every resident, as reported by Hennepin County News.
During her address, which took place at the 625 Building Auditorium and was also available via livestream, Fernando expressed a firm stance on community engagement and the importance she attributed to being changemakers listeners, and problem solvers, underscores the local government's hands-on approach to governance, she said, "Hennepin County is more than government. We are a community of listeners, problem-solvers, and changemakers," and adding, “We’ve weathered storms with focus and resolve. And we always remain clear about who we are and what we stand for. Whatever the road ahead brings, Hennepin County has your back.” The assurance came in times of uncertainty, signaling a forward-looking perspective.
As part of the broader effort to serve the population effectively, programs aimed at fostering progress despite challenges were also reaffirmed by the Board Chair. Fernando's promise to back the county residents was a pivotal moment of the address and one that reflects the local leadership's commitment to its people.
The event's hosting at the downtown Minneapolis venue and subsequent online broadcasting allowed for a wider audience to engage with the county's strategic direction and its leaders’ vision for the future, “Hennepin County is more than government. We are a community of listeners, problem-solvers, and changemakers," Fernando reiterated her message of solidarity and support for the county residents facing the ongoing challenge of disparity and looking for clear, actionable solutions from their elected officials.
Details of the State of the County address, including a recording and a full transcript of Chair Irene Fernando's prepared remarks, are available on the Hennepin County website for those who were unable to attend or stream the live event. Interested individuals can view these resources by visiting hennepin.us/news.
