Agenda - Council - 03/10/2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City of #,,k RAMSEY March 10, 2026 Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Justice Programs State of Minnesota 7550 Sunwood Drive NW • Ramsey, MN 55303 City Hall: 763.427.1410 • Fax: 763.427.5543 vvww. cityoframs ey. c om RE: City Council Support — Ramsey Police Department Crisis Response Grant Application Dear Grant Review Committee, On behalf of the City Council of the City of Ramsey, we write to express our strong support for the Ramsey Police Department's application to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Justice Programs, for funding through the 2026-2028 Crisis Response Grant Program. The City of Ramsey recognizes the growing complexity of calls for service involving individuals experiencing mental health crises, substance use challenges, housing instability, and other behavioral health needs. Law enforcement officers are frequently called to respond to situations that require specialized clinical intervention and sustained service coordination beyond the traditional scope of policing. While our officers approach these situations with professionalism, empathy, and care, the City Council acknowledges that improved outcomes depend on strengthening partnerships with behavioral health and social service professionals. The proposed Embedded Social Worker/crisis response model represents a proactive, collaborative, and evidence -informed approach that aligns directly with the goals of the Crisis Response Grant Program. By integrating a licensed social worker into police operations, the Ramsey Police Department will enhance its ability to provide timely crisis intervention, reduce unnecessary involvement with the justice system, support diversion to appropriate services, and improve follow-up with individuals who frequently interact with emergency services. This initiative reflects the City's commitment to improving safety for residents, first responders, and individuals in crisis by ensuring that the right professional responds to the right situation. The model emphasizes trauma -informed practices, coordination with community and county partners, and long-term stabilization through connection to behavioral health care, housing resources, and supportive services. The City Council views this approach as both compassionate and fiscally responsible, reducing the need for repeated emergency responses while improving outcomes for vulnerable community members. The City of Ramsey fully supports the Ramsey Police Department's efforts to implement and sustain this crisis response model. It is committed to the collaboration and coordination necessary It is our mission to work together to responsibly grow our community, and to provide quality, cost-effective and efficient government services.