Steve O'Neil, St. Louis County District 2 Commissioner, announced his bid for re-election on Sunday, June 1.
Over 100 supporters gathered at Chester Creek Cafe to support O'Neil in his re-election bid. O'Neil noted several areas in which the St. Louis County Board has made strides during the last three and a half years:
- The ten-year plan to end homelessness in the county was developed by a group of agencies and citizens. Its reach is broad and homelessness has decreased as sections of the plan have been put into action.
- The county's work on meth issues, including support for the 211 helpline, resulted in reduced drug-related law enforcement calls and had a positive impact in family social service areas.
- The recently passed code of conduct is important in helping the board become more accountable to county employees.
O'Neil applauded the county on steps taken to increase its environmental sustainability. The county recently installed wind turbines on the Duluth courthouse. At O'Neil's suggestion, the county purchased two hybrid automobiles for its fleet. Other energy- and cost-savings measures include reductions in paper use and increased recycling programs within county offices.
In the next four years, O'Neil will continue working to improve social services to families throughout the county; to encourage county-based health insurance; to support further "green county" measures with regard to buildings and environmental issues; and to demonstrate and support efforts to increase respect among commissioners, employees, and county residents.
O'Neil has served as District 2 commissioner since 2005.
--Press release
