Purpose: Explain the county system in plain language and why it matters now.
Core elements:

  • What the County actually does

  • Why it is so powerful, even though it feels invisible.

  • Why Irene’s work inside this system matters for daily life

  • Soft link to Impact

Counties are the Caregivers of Government

How does the County serve me?

It is Hennepin County’s mission to ensure the health, safety, and quality of life of our residents while envisioning a future that is vibrant and successful. Residents see this work through the County programs we interact with every day.

What is a County Commissioner?

County Commissioners are important leaders in our community who make decisions that impact our everyday lives. More specifically, they work with County staff to oversee a 2.4 billion dollar budget to provide services and address our most pressing issues.

The work of a County Commissioner affects:

  • Public transit

  • Affordable housing & homelessness

  • Environment & natural resources

  • Transportation infrastructure

  • Jobs & economic development

  • Healthcare

  • Child welfare

  • Criminal justice