In what appears to be a response to rising tensions in the Payne-Phalen neighborhood, Saint Paul officials are urging residents to step forward with any grievances against police conduct by filing official complaints with the Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission (PCIARC). As noted in the HREEO Monthly Brief for December 2025, the community is encouraged to document their issues online or through a scheduled appointment with PCIARC Coordinator Sierra Cumberland.
Mark your calendars folks because it's time for those paychecks to see some growth starting January 1, 2026, with the minimum wage in Saint Paul poised for an increase that especially favors employees in Macro and Large businesses, these businesses will now offer a $16.37 hourly rate, while Small and Micro businesses keep their rates at $15.00 and $13.25 respectively, details about this were disclosed in the same HREEO Monthly Brief. The ordinance underlines the different scales of operations, stipulating that business size includes full-time, part-time, temporary, or jointly employed individuals, a crucial consideration for those monitoring their pay scales.
Prospective vendors should also be aware that Saint Paul is hosting its 2026 Supplier Fair on January 15, an event dedicated to presenting contracting opportunities within the city and fostering connections. The fair will take place at the Saint Paul Public Library in Highland Park, with registration required by January 13th, which should give enough time for the interested parties to sign up, a gentle reminder courtesy of the HREEO's announcement.
Turning the spotlight onto the city's own, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter has honored Andrea Ledger with an official City Proclamation for her notable effectiveness and service as Interim Director of the Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity Department (HREEO), proclaiming December 15, 2025, as Andrea Ledger Day in admiration for her passion, equity-focused direction, and valuable impact on the community and city at large as detailed in the monthly release.
Engagement with HREEO doesn't end there – the office is actively involved in the community with various upcoming events, including "Know Your Rights: HREEO Library Sessions" and meetings for both the PCIARC and the Labor Standards Advisory Committee (LSAC). These events extend an open invitation to those in Saint Paul who are looking to stay informed or actively participate in matters of civil and labor rights in their community.
