County Commissioner, Ramsey County, Minnesota

Jan Parker Weissner

There is really no typical day for a county commissioner. Some days start very early and others go very late. Our board meets every Tuesday to set policy and give direction to the County Manager and department heads. The Board considers a wide range of issues that could include public works, transportation, human services, corrections, libraries, parks and recreation, property management, human resources, public health and workforce development.

On other days of the week, I attend meetings as a representative of the board that relate to libraries, solid waste to energy, aging, and workforce development. I am the county’s representative on the State Association of Minnesota Counties. I also meet with constituents and work closely with the officers and administrators of the cities I represent as well as legislators that represent our county. 

To get a more detailed picture of what I do, and how Ramsey County operates, go to www.co.ramsey.mn.us. There you will find my photo and bio by clicking on Board of Commissioners and then clicking on my name. Another excellent resource is the website www.mn.counties.org to get an overview of how the 87 county governments operate in Minnesota. 

I enjoy being a commissioner because of the challenges and opportunities that running a county government presents. We are in a period of difficult budget decisions. Many of our decisions are the result of trying to balance what must be done and not having resources to do it. 

I hope that this has been helpful for your new voter and student educational feature. You will find the websites very helpful. Best of luck.

Sincerely,

Jan Wiessner

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