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Irene Fernando

@hennepind2.com
143 followers 10 following 238 posts

She/her. Learner. Listener. Solutions creator. @hennepin.bsky.social Board Chair. Commissioner for District 2.

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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 29/09/2026
Hennepin's levy increase means the median-value Hennepin home would pay $139 more a year in 2027, about $11.50 a month. That will be combined with other jurisdictions' increases on the property tax bill you receive. The Board votes on the final budget on December 15.
Purple graphic labeled Statement, dated September 29, 2026. Headline: "Residents receive one property tax bill," with "one property tax bill" highlighted in green. Below: for the County's share, the median-value Hennepin home would pay $139 more a year in 2027 at the 8.15% maximum levy, about $11.50 a month. Two alphabetical columns titled "2027 increase for the median-value home, County share": Golden Valley plus $166, Medicine Lake plus $303, Minneapolis plus $136, Plymouth plus $186, St. Anthony plus $116. At the bottom: December 15, the Board votes on the final budget. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full statement, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 29/09/2026
This is the first time in my time on the Board that the overall budget has decreased, and to be honest I felt saddened when I first saw it. We will not shrink our way to the future our kids deserve and our elders have earned.
Purple graphic with a photo of Board Chair Irene Fernando speaking, labeled Statement, dated September 29, 2026. Quote: "We will not shrink our way to the future our kids deserve and our elders have earned," with "We will not shrink" highlighted in green. Attributed to Board Chair Dr. Irene Fernando, PhD. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full statement, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 29/09/2026
When that funding is cut, the need does not go away. It lands on the County, and on our neighbors. Local government is the last line of defense. We are making up for some of it this year with property tax, and we know that is not sustainable.
Purple graphic labeled Statement, dated September 29, 2026. Quote: "The scale of disinvestment in services our residents rely on is truly unprecedented," with "truly unprecedented" highlighted in green. A bar chart titled "Federal and state cost shifts onto County property taxpayers" compares two years: $27.7 million in 2027 and $51 million in 2028, each bar split into four parts. A key lists each cost shift from 2027 to 2028: SNAP administration and benefit share, $11 million rising to $27.5 million. Medicaid administration, $9.8 million both years. Long-term supports and services, $4.6 million rising to $9.2 million. MnChoices, $2.3 million rising to $4.5 million. Closing line: that is why the budget is smaller and the levy is larger. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full statement, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 29/09/2026
The budget is smaller and the levy is higher because federal and state funding for mandated human services drops by nearly $28 million next year. We’re looking at losing $51 million in 2028. The scale of disinvestment in services our residents rely on is truly unprecedented.
Purple graphic labeled Statement, dated September 29, 2026. Quote: "The scale of disinvestment in services our residents rely on is truly unprecedented," with "truly unprecedented" highlighted in green. A bar chart titled "Federal and state cost shifts onto County property taxpayers" compares two years: $27.7 million in 2027 and $51 million in 2028, each bar split into four parts. A key lists each cost shift from 2027 to 2028: SNAP administration and benefit share, $11 million rising to $27.5 million. Medicaid administration, $9.8 million both years. Long-term supports and services, $4.6 million rising to $9.2 million. MnChoices, $2.3 million rising to $4.5 million. Closing line: that is why the budget is smaller and the levy is larger. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full statement, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 29/09/2026
We faced an 18.5% increase in employee health insurance costs and reached an agreement with 16 unions to share it in a predictable and sustainable way. These are all meaningful at a time when service cuts and layoffs are being proposed at local governments across Minnesota.
Purple graphic labeled Statement, dated September 29, 2026. Eyebrow: Because we started early and in public. Headline: "We solved problems before they reached the proposed budget," with "solved problems" highlighted in green. Four tiles: Library hours, preserved. County workforce, no mass layoffs. Health insurance, an agreement with 16 unions: the County absorbs most of an 18.5% cost increase. The levy, came in lower than the 8.5% that was projected. Closing line: these are all meaningful at a time when service cuts and layoffs are being proposed at local governments across Minnesota. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full statement, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 29/09/2026
Because Commissioners and County staff started this process early and in public, we solved problems before they reached the proposed budget. We preserved library hours. We avoided mass County layoffs. Our proposed levy came in lower than the 8.5% that was projected.
Purple graphic labeled Statement, dated September 29, 2026. Eyebrow: Because we started early and in public. Headline: "We solved problems before they reached the proposed budget," with "solved problems" highlighted in green. Four tiles: Library hours, preserved. County workforce, no mass layoffs. Health insurance, an agreement with 16 unions: the County absorbs most of an 18.5% cost increase. The levy, came in lower than the 8.5% that was projected. Closing line: these are all meaningful at a time when service cuts and layoffs are being proposed at local governments across Minnesota. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full statement, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 29/09/2026
Today, the @hennepin.bsky.social County Board set the 2027 maximum levy at 8.15%. I was proud to vote for it. All year, this Board set clear direction to protect democracy, public services, and our most vulnerable neighbors. This budget meets that direction. www.hennepind2.com/statements/2...
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 28/09/2026
Thank you to everyone who's dedicated their time, their energy, and maybe a little bit of their sanity to get this project done. I'll see you on June 12 to cut some ribbon.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 28/09/2026
The good news is we're not stopping here. The Green Line Extension benefits will of course be extended to the Blue Line Extension, where I live. I am proud to represent that corridor and residents who certainly will not quit.
Purple graphic with a photo of Chair Irene Fernando speaking, labeled Remarks, Green Line Extension opening date announcement, dated September 26, 2026. Quote: "The good news is we're not stopping here," with "we're not stopping here" highlighted in green. Two more quotes: "The Green Line Extension benefits will of course be extended to the Blue Line Extension, where I live." "Light rail will change the trajectory of the Blue Line corridor." Attributed to Chair Irene Fernando. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Green Line Extension opens June 12, 2027, hennepinD2.com."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 28/09/2026
Light rail drives development like nothing else. In 2026 alone, this new development is generating $35.7 million in property tax revenue that isn't falling to existing property owners, including $7.7 million for the City of Minneapolis and $4 million for Minneapolis Public Schools.
Purple graphic labeled Remarks, Green Line Extension opening date announcement, dated September 26, 2026. Quote: "It changes our math equation," with "math equation" highlighted in green. Below: in 2026 alone, new development along the line is generating $35.7 million in property tax revenue that isn't falling to existing property owners. Two lists. Cities: Minneapolis $7.7M, St. Louis Park $2M, Hopkins $1.8M, Minnetonka $1.6M, Eden Prairie $1.6M. School districts: Minneapolis Public Schools $4M, Hopkins $3M, Eden Prairie $1.8M, St. Louis Park $1.6M. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Green Line Extension opens June 12, 2027, hennepinD2.com."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 28/09/2026
Almost 6,000 people in 72 of our 87 Minnesota counties have brought home a paycheck by working on this project: 2,200 skilled and general laborers, 1,400 equipment operators, 370 carpenters, 336 electricians, 317 ironworkers. Btw, Metro Transit is hiring! Spread the word.
Purple graphic labeled Remarks, Green Line Extension opening date announcement, dated September 26, 2026. Quote: "Light rail projects also create more jobs across our state," with "more jobs" highlighted in green. Large text: Almost 6,000. Below: people in 72 of our 87 Minnesota counties have brought home a paycheck by working on this project. A list: 2,200 skilled and general laborers, 1,400 equipment operators, 370 carpenters, 336 electricians, 317 ironworkers. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Green Line Extension opens June 12, 2027, hennepinD2.com."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 28/09/2026
Green Line riders will be able to access thousands more jobs by transit. For people living in this corridor, a third of all jobs in the entire region will be within reach with no more than one transfer.
Purple graphic labeled Remarks, Green Line Extension opening date announcement, dated September 26, 2026. Eyebrow: Opening day. Large text: June 12, 2027. Quote: "I certainly cannot wait to ride this train with you in nine months," with "ride this train with you" highlighted in green. Three tiles: 1/3 of all the jobs in the entire region within reach for people in this corridor, with no more than one transfer; $3.1B in development along this line, per the Met Council; $700M more planned. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Green Line Extension opens June 12, 2027, hennepinD2.com."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 28/09/2026
The Green Line Extension opens June 12, 2027. I follow a long line of @hennepin.bsky.social County Chairs who pushed this project forward. I’m a lifelong transit user. When my family was new to the country, they relied on transit to get everywhere we needed to go. Transit was our lifeline.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 24/09/2026
This Workforce Development Month, I am reaffirming my commitment to advancing this work, and to reducing and eliminating income and employment disparities in Hennepin County. Thank you to our partners and our staff. hennepincounty.gov
hennepincounty.gov
Home | Hennepin County
The official website for Hennepin County, Minnesota.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 24/09/2026
Coming up: an "Investing in People" panel on Tuesday, September 29, and the Hennepin GO Expo on Thursday, November 19 — plus ongoing career fairs and events across the county. CareerForce.MN.Gov
Purple graphic labeled Commissioner Communication, Hennepin County Board, dated September 15, 2026. Headline: the county is committed to reducing and eliminating income and employment disparities. Under "Upcoming events," three tiles: Tuesday, September 29, "Investing in People" panel, on what it takes to build a thriving community by leveraging workforce development strategies. Thursday, November 19, Hennepin GO Expo, public-sector careers for young people, in-demand roles, green careers, and gateway jobs that offer a livable wage. Ongoing, career fairs and events, career, training, and resource fairs hosted across the county throughout the year. A green banner reads: Resources, CareerForce.MN.Gov, Minnesota's official career exploration and job search resource. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Workforce Development, hennepincounty.gov.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 24/09/2026
849 residents were placed in employment in high-demand industries, at a median wage of $21.43 an hour. For those who were already working when they started, wages rose by an average of $9.64 an hour.
Purple graphic labeled Commissioner Communication, Hennepin County Board, dated September 15, 2026. Eyebrow: for the 849 residents placed in employment. Large text reads "$21.43" above "median hourly wage." Below: for residents who were already working when they started, wages rose by an average of $9.64 an hour, highlighted in green, by the time they finished the program. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Workforce Development, hennepincounty.gov.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 24/09/2026
Our Department of Workforce Development works through a Develop, Support, Employ framework. From July 2025 to June 2026: 12,234 residents served, up 16.5% over the year before. $22.6M in contract spending with 77 community providers.
Purple graphic labeled Commissioner Communication, Hennepin County Board, dated September 15, 2026. Eyebrow: Department of Workforce Development, July 2025 to June 2026. Headline: "Develop. Support. Employ." Three tiles: Develop, 12,234 residents served across state, federal, and county funded programs, up 16.5% over the year before. Support, $22.6M in total contract spending in our communities, with 77 community providers. Employ, 849 residents placed in employment in high-demand industries. Below: employment coaching, one-on-one mentoring, job training, education, and wraparound supports. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Workforce Development, hennepincounty.gov.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 24/09/2026
Workforce development connects people to meaningful careers, cultivates a diverse talent ecosystem, and accelerates economic prosperity. It is essential to all of our county work: our programs need workers, and residents need pathways to economic stability.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 24/09/2026
September is National Workforce Development Month. At our September 15 @hennepin.bsky.social Board Meeting, I recognized the county programs doing this work and the people behind them. When we invest in the workforce, we invest in people.
Purple graphic labeled Commissioner Communication, Hennepin County Board, dated September 15, 2026. Eyebrow: September is National Workforce Development Month. Headline: "When we invest in the workforce," with "we invest in people." highlighted in green. Below: creating lasting impact that endures beyond any single program or budget cycle. Then: meaningful careers, a vibrant and diverse talent ecosystem, statewide opportunity and economic prosperity. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Workforce Development, hennepincounty.gov.Purple graphic labeled Commissioner Communication, Hennepin County Board, dated September 15, 2026. Eyebrow: Department of Workforce Development, July 2025 to June 2026. Headline: "Develop. Support. Employ." Three tiles: Develop, 12,234 residents served across state, federal, and county funded programs, up 16.5% over the year before. Support, $22.6M in total contract spending in our communities, with 77 community providers. Employ, 849 residents placed in employment in high-demand industries. Below: employment coaching, one-on-one mentoring, job training, education, and wraparound supports. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Workforce Development, hennepincounty.gov.Purple graphic labeled Commissioner Communication, Hennepin County Board, dated September 15, 2026. Eyebrow: for the 849 residents placed in employment. Large text reads "$21.43" above "median hourly wage." Below: for residents who were already working when they started, wages rose by an average of $9.64 an hour, highlighted in green, by the time they finished the program. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Workforce Development, hennepincounty.gov.Purple graphic labeled Commissioner Communication, Hennepin County Board, dated September 15, 2026. Headline: the county is committed to reducing and eliminating income and employment disparities. Under "Upcoming events," three tiles: Tuesday, September 29, "Investing in People" panel, on what it takes to build a thriving community by leveraging workforce development strategies. Thursday, November 19, Hennepin GO Expo, public-sector careers for young people, in-demand roles, green careers, and gateway jobs that offer a livable wage. Ongoing, career fairs and events, career, training, and resource fairs hosted across the county throughout the year. A green banner reads: Resources, CareerForce.MN.Gov, Minnesota's official career exploration and job search resource. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Workforce Development, hennepincounty.gov.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 23/09/2026
Taxes are the government word for revenue, and a levy is not just a number on a spreadsheet. Levies fund teachers, snowplow drivers, social workers, libraries, and emergency response. 7/7
Purple graphic with a photo of Commissioner Irene Fernando speaking, labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Quote: "Taxes are the government word for revenue, and a levy is not just a number on a spreadsheet," with the second half highlighted in green, attributed to Commissioner Irene Fernando, PhD. Under "Levies fund," a list: teachers, snowplow drivers, social workers, libraries, emergency response, and more. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 23/09/2026
MPD Overtime: Study and manage law enforcement overtime costs, don't just budget for them. MPD overspent its 2025 budget by $20 million. I ask that MPD present its overtime review on September 28, and the Mayor file an overtime management plan before markup on December 10. 6/7
Purple graphic labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Headline: "My four specific asks," with "four" highlighted in green. Four white rows, each with a date and topic. September 23, Parks: set the Park Board's maximum levy at its full 5.86% request; 40-plus residents testified for parks at the BET's hearing, and the $3.1 million gap from the 2.5% placeholder equals 26 positions and full recreation center hours. October 14, TIF: present numerical analysis on how Minneapolis TIF decisions affect all local levies; captured value is subtracted from the taxable base that Minneapolis Public Schools, the City, and Hennepin County all levy against, so every dollar captured raises the rate paid by everyone else. October, Shelter: prioritize a larger, ongoing contribution from the City levy toward shelter and homelessness response; in 2025, City property taxes provided $400,000 for street outreach and $0 in ongoing funding for shelter operations, and County property taxes provided $14.4 million for the homeless crisis response system. September 28 and December 10, Overtime: study and manage law enforcement overtime costs, don't just budget for them; I ask that MPD present its overtime review on September 28, and that the Mayor file an overtime management plan before markup on December 10. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 23/09/2026
Shelter: I ask the Council to prioritize an ongoing contribution from the City levy toward shelter and homelessness response. In 2025, City property taxes provided $400,000 for street outreach and no ongoing shelter funding. County property taxes provided nearly $14.4 million. 5/7
Purple graphic labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Headline: "My four specific asks," with "four" highlighted in green. Four white rows, each with a date and topic. September 23, Parks: set the Park Board's maximum levy at its full 5.86% request; 40-plus residents testified for parks at the BET's hearing, and the $3.1 million gap from the 2.5% placeholder equals 26 positions and full recreation center hours. October 14, TIF: present numerical analysis on how Minneapolis TIF decisions affect all local levies; captured value is subtracted from the taxable base that Minneapolis Public Schools, the City, and Hennepin County all levy against, so every dollar captured raises the rate paid by everyone else. October, Shelter: prioritize a larger, ongoing contribution from the City levy toward shelter and homelessness response; in 2025, City property taxes provided $400,000 for street outreach and $0 in ongoing funding for shelter operations, and County property taxes provided $14.4 million for the homeless crisis response system. September 28 and December 10, Overtime: study and manage law enforcement overtime costs, don't just budget for them; I ask that MPD present its overtime review on September 28, and that the Mayor file an overtime management plan before markup on December 10. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 23/09/2026
TIF: On October 14, I ask the City to present a numerical analysis on how Minneapolis TIF decisions affect all local levies — Minneapolis Public Schools, the City, and the County. Every dollar captured through TIF raises the rate paid by everyone else. 4/7
Purple graphic labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Headline: "My four specific asks," with "four" highlighted in green. Four white rows, each with a date and topic. September 23, Parks: set the Park Board's maximum levy at its full 5.86% request; 40-plus residents testified for parks at the BET's hearing, and the $3.1 million gap from the 2.5% placeholder equals 26 positions and full recreation center hours. October 14, TIF: present numerical analysis on how Minneapolis TIF decisions affect all local levies; captured value is subtracted from the taxable base that Minneapolis Public Schools, the City, and Hennepin County all levy against, so every dollar captured raises the rate paid by everyone else. October, Shelter: prioritize a larger, ongoing contribution from the City levy toward shelter and homelessness response; in 2025, City property taxes provided $400,000 for street outreach and $0 in ongoing funding for shelter operations, and County property taxes provided $14.4 million for the homeless crisis response system. September 28 and December 10, Overtime: study and manage law enforcement overtime costs, don't just budget for them; I ask that MPD present its overtime review on September 28, and that the Mayor file an overtime management plan before markup on December 10. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 23/09/2026
I made four specific asks. Parks: On September 23, set the Park Board's maximum levy at its full 5.86% request. The gap from the Mayor's 2.5% is $3.1 million: 26 positions, maintained parks, and full recreation center hours. 3/7
Purple graphic labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Headline: "My four specific asks," with "four" highlighted in green. Four white rows, each with a date and topic. September 23, Parks: set the Park Board's maximum levy at its full 5.86% request; 40-plus residents testified for parks at the BET's hearing, and the $3.1 million gap from the 2.5% placeholder equals 26 positions and full recreation center hours. October 14, TIF: present numerical analysis on how Minneapolis TIF decisions affect all local levies; captured value is subtracted from the taxable base that Minneapolis Public Schools, the City, and Hennepin County all levy against, so every dollar captured raises the rate paid by everyone else. October, Shelter: prioritize a larger, ongoing contribution from the City levy toward shelter and homelessness response; in 2025, City property taxes provided $400,000 for street outreach and $0 in ongoing funding for shelter operations, and County property taxes provided $14.4 million for the homeless crisis response system. September 28 and December 10, Overtime: study and manage law enforcement overtime costs, don't just budget for them; I ask that MPD present its overtime review on September 28, and that the Mayor file an overtime management plan before markup on December 10. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 23/09/2026
The median-value Minneapolis home would pay over $540 more in 2027. Over 75% comes from the City, even as it proposes reduced services and layoffs. I am concerned about asking residents for so much more while cutting the very services they are asking us to protect. 2/7
Purple graphic labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Headline: "Your household gets one tax bill," with "one tax bill" highlighted in green. Below: in 2027, Minneapolis homeowners would pay over $540 more in property taxes on the median-value home under the proposed City and County levies. A bar labeled "Where the increase comes from" shows over 75% from the City of Minneapolis in orange and under 25% from Hennepin County in white. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."Purple graphic labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Headline: "I am concerned about asking residents for so much more while cutting the very services they are asking us to protect," with "cutting the very services" highlighted in green. Under "Residents are demanding we protect," eight tiles: libraries, elections, HCMC, health services, transit, climate, human services, and parks. Closing line: the City's proposal includes reduced services and layoffs, affecting neighbors who may then need additional County services. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 23/09/2026
I sent a letter to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation on the 2027 property tax levies. About 100,000 of my constituents live in Minneapolis. They get one tax bill based on all of our decisions. Read the letter: www.hennepind2.com/statements/2... 1/7
Purple graphic labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Headline: "My four specific asks," with "four" highlighted in green. Four white rows, each with a date and topic. September 23, Parks: set the Park Board's maximum levy at its full 5.86% request; 40-plus residents testified for parks at the BET's hearing, and the $3.1 million gap from the 2.5% placeholder equals 26 positions and full recreation center hours. October 14, TIF: present numerical analysis on how Minneapolis TIF decisions affect all local levies; captured value is subtracted from the taxable base that Minneapolis Public Schools, the City, and Hennepin County all levy against, so every dollar captured raises the rate paid by everyone else. October, Shelter: prioritize a larger, ongoing contribution from the City levy toward shelter and homelessness response; in 2025, City property taxes provided $400,000 for street outreach and $0 in ongoing funding for shelter operations, and County property taxes provided $14.4 million for the homeless crisis response system. September 28 and December 10, Overtime: study and manage law enforcement overtime costs, don't just budget for them; I ask that MPD present its overtime review on September 28, and that the Mayor file an overtime management plan before markup on December 10. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."Purple graphic labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Headline: "Your household gets one tax bill," with "one tax bill" highlighted in green. Below: in 2027, Minneapolis homeowners would pay over $540 more in property taxes on the median-value home under the proposed City and County levies. A bar labeled "Where the increase comes from" shows over 75% from the City of Minneapolis in orange and under 25% from Hennepin County in white. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."Purple graphic labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Headline: "I am concerned about asking residents for so much more while cutting the very services they are asking us to protect," with "cutting the very services" highlighted in green. Under "Residents are demanding we protect," eight tiles: libraries, elections, HCMC, health services, transit, climate, human services, and parks. Closing line: the City's proposal includes reduced services and layoffs, affecting neighbors who may then need additional County services. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."Purple graphic with a photo of Commissioner Irene Fernando speaking, labeled Letter, to the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, dated September 22, 2026. Quote: "Taxes are the government word for revenue, and a levy is not just a number on a spreadsheet," with the second half highlighted in green, attributed to Commissioner Irene Fernando, PhD. Under "Levies fund," a list: teachers, snowplow drivers, social workers, libraries, emergency response, and more. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full letter, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 26/08/2026
By statute, Hennepin County administers fair, accurate, and impartial elections. By choice, we go further. Election judges and officials must be able to do their lawful work without threats, intimidation, or interference. Read Board Action 26-0316: hennepinmn.legistar.com/LegislationD... 6/6
hennepinmn.legistar.com
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 26/08/2026
Then right before the Primary Election, the Department of Justice asked to monitor inside our polling places. We did not approve access. Minnesota law keeps monitors 100 feet back. On primary day, federal monitors still had to be asked, several times, to move away. 5/6
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 26/08/2026
On August 2: Hennepin joined other local governments and election officials in an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court. We asked the Court to keep blocking Executive Order 14399, which directs federal agencies to build and enforce an eligible voter list for every state. 4/6
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 26/08/2026
On July 2: Hennepin filed comments opposing a proposed federal rule that would give the Postal Service a role in deciding whether ballots are delivered. We said plainly that the rule exceeds the Postal Service's legal authority. 3/6
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 26/08/2026
This is not an abstract commitment. The federal government has reached into and attempted to interfere with how states run elections from three directions: the mail, the courts, and the polling place. Here is what each one looked like, and what we did. 2/6
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 26/08/2026
Yesterday, meeting as the Resident Services Committee, the Hennepin County Board unanimously affirmed our commitment to free and fair elections. We reaffirmed our oaths, and directed county leadership to oppose unlawful requests for elections data. 🧵
Purple graphic labeled Board Action, Resident Services Committee, top left; Passed Unanimously, August 25, 2026, top right. Eyebrow: The Mail · The Courts · The Polling Place. Headline: "The attacks on democracy have not stopped." Below, highlighted in green: "We haven't stopped defending democracy." Body text: the Hennepin County Board affirmed our commitment to ensuring free and fair elections — reaffirming our oaths and directing county leadership to oppose any unlawful requests for elections data. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Board Action Request 26-0316, hennepinD2.com.Purple graphic labeled Board Action, Resident Services Committee, top left; Passed Unanimously, August 25, 2026, top right. Eyebrow: At the Polls · August 11, 2026. Large text: "100 feet." Below: "That's Minnesota law." and, highlighted in green, "Hennepin County upheld it." Body text: the federal government asked to monitor inside our polling places; the county did not approve access, and on primary day federal monitors were asked to move away, several times, until they complied. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Board Action Request 26-0316, hennepinD2.com.Purple graphic labeled Board Action, Resident Services Committee, top left; Passed Unanimously, August 25, 2026, top right, headed "In the Mail and in the Courts." July 2: Hennepin County opposed a federal rule that would let the Postal Service decide whether mail ballots are delivered. August 2: Hennepin County asked the U.S. Supreme Court to keep blocking the federal order creating a national voter list. Closing line: two federal attempts to control how states run elections, with "Hennepin County opposed both" highlighted in green. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Board Action Request 26-0316, hennepinD2.com.Purple graphic with a photo of Commissioner Irene Fernando speaking, labeled Board Action, Resident Services Committee, top left; Passed Unanimously, August 25, 2026, top right. Quote: "By statute, Hennepin County administers fair, accurate, and impartial elections. By choice, we go further—strengthening access, education, and confidence so every voter can participate with trust in the process," with the closing phrase highlighted in green. Attributed to Commissioner Irene Fernando, 2026 State of the County. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, Board Action Request 26-0316, hennepinD2.com.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 14/08/2026
Local government is a last line of defense for our residents, and I will not surrender that line. We will not stop until the full truth is told — for Renee, for Alex, for Julio, for Lorenzo, for Joan, and for every family still waiting for answers. Find courage. Don't waver. 7/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 14/08/2026
We have spent six months forcing evidence into the light, and the federal government has spent half a billion of our tax dollars building a place designed so that there is no evidence to force. 6/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 14/08/2026
Minnesota is facing permanent consequences as the Homeland Security Department purchased a prison in Appleton for $495.6 million. After sixteen years empty, it will reopen as the first dedicated immigrant detention facility in our state's history — one with 1,600 beds. 5/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 14/08/2026
The violence present in Minnesota has not stopped — it has spread across our nation. ICE agents murdered Lorenzo Salgado Araujo of Texas and Joan Sebastain Guerrero of Maine, leaving families broken and communities without answers. 4/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 14/08/2026
In July, the Hennepin County Attorney, MN Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and MN Attorney General obtained evidence that had been withheld for more than half a year, including hard drives and Renee Good’s car. This is not closure. It is the beginning of accountability. 3/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 14/08/2026
In June, a federal judge quashed subpoenas that attempted to block Hennepin’s ability to represent our neighbors. The court upheld the rule of law and the principles of fairness, accountability, and constitutional process that protect our institutions and enable public trust. 2/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 14/08/2026
For months, the federal government withheld evidence about what happened to Renee Good, Julio Sosa-Celis, and Alex Pretti — from state investigators, from their families, and from a community that refused to look away. We kept demanding answers. 🧵 Read: www.hennepind2.com/statements/2...
Statement graphic titled "On the Evidence the Federal Government Could No Longer Hide," dated August 13, 2026. Under "What We Know": May 18, the Hennepin County Attorney charged the ICE agent who shot Julio Sosa-Celis with four counts of assault and falsely reporting a crime; June 22, a federal judge quashed the DOJ subpoenas issued to Hennepin County and others during Operation Metro Surge; July 13, the County Attorney, BCA, and MN AG obtained the evidence withheld since January, including hard drives and Renee Good's car. Highlighted: "We will not stop until the full truth is told." Under "What Has Not Changed": August 4, DHS purchased the Appleton prison for $495.6 million, the first dedicated immigrant detention facility in Minnesota's history. Closing, partly highlighted: "We will not accept a detention economy in our state, and we will not let this administration strip us of our empathy or our shared humanity." Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full statement, hennepinD2.com/statements."Statement graphic on purple background, dated August 13, 2026. Eyebrow text: "The first dedicated immigrant detention facility in Minnesota's history." Headline: "We will not accept a detention economy in our state." Large text reads "1,600 beds. In a town of 1,400 people." Three stats below: $495.6M, paid by DHS on August 4 for the Appleton prison, empty for 16 years; 3 hours, from the Twin Cities, far from families, counsel, and oversight; $75M/yr, expected by the private operator, at full capacity by mid-2027. Closing text: "A federal administration that dehumanizes and weaponizes immigrants is capitalizing on kidnapping our neighbors and separating our families, and it has now built a business model that requires a steady supply of human beings to fill those beds." Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full statement, hennepinD2.com/statements."Statement graphic on purple background with a photo of Commissioner Irene Fernando speaking, dated August 13, 2026. Quote reads: "Each new killing, each new facility, is designed to exhaust us into looking away. But it is through the collective wisdom in our bodies and ancestral storylines that we will stay awake to this harm and carry one another through to the other side." Attributed to Commissioner Irene Fernando. Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full statement, hennepinD2.com/statements."Statement graphic on purple background, dated August 13, 2026. Headline: "Local government is a last line of defense for our residents." Below: "If you are concerned for your safety, help is available," with "concerned for your safety" highlighted in green. A tile reads "Adult Representation Services, for Hennepin County residents in fear of their safety and needing legal representation," with the phone number 612-348-7012 highlighted in green. Below that: "Community organizations and more resources in the full statement." Footer: Irene Fernando logo, "Read the full statement, hennepinD2.com/statements."
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 11/08/2026
Hennepin County Elections can answer questions: hc.vote@hennepin.us or 612-348-5151. Running free, fair, and accessible elections is one of the most important things this county does. Full voter information at hennepincounty.gov/elections. 6/6
hennepin.us
Home | Hennepin County
The official website for Hennepin County, Minnesota.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 11/08/2026
Intimidation of or interference with the voting process is illegal. There are criminal and civil penalties in place to stop it. Action can be brought by the Attorney General, a County Attorney, or anyone personally impacted. 5/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 11/08/2026
Help is available at the polls. You can bring someone to help you, ask election staff, use a machine to help mark your ballot, or vote from your car. Just ask an election judge when you arrive. Details on accessibility: hennepincounty.gov/elections. 4/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 11/08/2026
If you still have an absentee ballot, return it to the office that sent it by 5 p.m. today. It cannot be dropped off at a polling place. You can drop off your ballot and the ballots for up to 3 voters. Check your ballot status at mnvotes.gov/track. 3/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 11/08/2026
If you are eligible but not registered, you can register or update your registration at your polling place today. Bring proof of residence: a Minnesota ID with your current address, or a photo ID plus a document showing your address. Full list at mnvotes.gov. 2/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 11/08/2026
Today is the Primary Election. Polling places are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Here is what you need to know to vote. Find your polling place and see a sample ballot for your precinct at pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us. 🧵
Voter information graphic from Commissioner Irene Fernando, Hennepin County District 2, on navy blue background with green accents. Text reads "Polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m." for the Primary Election, Tuesday, August 11, 2026. A highlighted box reads "Find where you vote: pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us." Three cards below answer: "Not registered?" — you can register at your polling place today with proof of residence, a Minnesota ID with current address or a photo ID plus an address document; "Have an absentee ballot you haven't turned in?" — return it to the office that sent it, during their office hours, by 5 p.m. today, not at a polling place; "Need assistance?" — help is available at the polls, including bringing someone to help, asking election staff, using a marking machine, or voting from your car. Footer: Hennepin County Elections, 612-348-5151, hennepincounty.gov/elections.
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 10/08/2026
There's so much more our communities need, and I'll keep fighting for it. Because that's the whole idea: strong public goods create strong communities. Thank you for following these eight years — see the full record, and everything still ahead, at hennepinD2.com/results. 5/5
hennepind2.com
Eight Years of Results — Hennepin County District 2
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 10/08/2026
In 2025 alone, I spent over 160 hours and attended 93+ events across District 2 and Hennepin County — showing up in person, not just at the Government Center. I voted on 600+ resolutions. Every vote a record of what this office stands for. 4/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 10/08/2026
In 2025, I secured Metro Transit's commitment to expand bus service to Marshall St NE. The Lowry Ave NE reconstruction broke ground that same year — safer streets, better access, for the key corridor in our District. 3/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 10/08/2026
$87M went to the NorthPoint expansion, opened in 2024. $3M built the Community Asset Transition Fund in 2021. $600K renovated Shiloh Cares food access in 2024. A $75K study in 2022 documented our food deserts and produced real recommendations. 2/
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Irene Fernando @hennepind2.com · 10/08/2026
Community is the heartbeat of Hennepin County's purpose and mission. It steadies us in hardship and inspires us toward possibility. For me, investing in my own community has always been personal. 🧵
: Eight Years of Results graphic on direct investment in District 2. Text lists a $3M Community Asset Transition Fund, a $75K food desert study, $600K for Shiloh Cares food access, an $87M NorthPoint expansion, Marshall Street NE transit expansion, and the Lowry Avenue NE reconstruction.Eight Years of Results graphic on presence and engagement. Text notes the commissioner spent 160-plus hours in District 2 and across the county in 2025, attended 93-plus community events, and voted on 600-plus resolutions — showing up in person, not just at the Government Center.
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