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A yCounty messaga from Ramse Board Chair <br /> Ramsey County is deeply committed to advancing racial equity by reducing racial and ethnic-based disparities. We understand <br /> that a vibrant,competitive county economy is built on adequate, high-quality housing options, paths to entrepreneurship, <br /> an innovative business sector,thriving commercial corridors, and ample opportunities for workforce development.These <br /> outcomes are only possible by ensuring that all of our county residents and workers have equitable and inclusive access to all <br /> of these opportunities.Too many of our fellow neighbors are hurting from the lack of access to quality housing,the barriers <br /> to starting a small business, and the inability to accumulate household wealth.These disparities are particularly acute for our <br /> Black, Indigenous, and People of Color neighbors.And the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated those challenges. <br /> While we cannot totally erase the harm caused to past generations by racial discrimination in housing and employment, <br /> the county commits to our role in forging a better path forward.The county recognizes and acknowledges this requires <br /> deconstructing barriers and changing systems, structures, policies,and outcomes. <br /> This Economic Competitiveness and Inclusion Vision Plan serves as an important step toward achieving two longstanding <br /> county goals: 1) Cultivating economic prosperity and investing in neighborhoods with concentrated financial poverty through <br /> proactive leadership and inclusive initiatives; and 2) Enhancing access to opportunity and mobility for all residents and <br /> businesses through connections to education, employment and economic development throughout our region.You'll read in <br /> the pages that follow about the eight strategies and related actions that will guide this work as part of our economic recovery. <br /> However,there is a limit to what the county can accomplish alone. We will use the Vision Plan strategies to clarify and align <br /> our work with all Ramsey County residents,communities, and other interested partners to chart a course for a more equitable <br /> and competitive Ramsey County economy for years to come. <br /> Toni Carter <br /> Ramsey County Board Chair <br /> 4 RAMSEY COUNTY <br />