Cook County commissioners approve letter supporting Cook County Higher Education's state funding

The Cook County Board of Commissioners voted Feb. 25 to send a letter of support to Minnesota lawmakers on behalf of Cook County Higher Education, a program that county and higher-education officials say receives $300,000 a year from the state and represents roughly 60–70% of the program’s budget.

Cook County Higher Education representative Karen (last name not specified) told the board the state’s higher-ed budget line “supports Cook County Higher Education with $300,000 a year,” and that the program was asked by the House Higher Education Policy Committee to document finances including three years of financials and personnel costs. Karen said board members do not receive remuneration and that the program provides training, event support and scholarships for county residents.

The request for a letter came after program staff were asked by a House committee for supporting documentation; the county letter was intended to strengthen the program’s case in testimony. Commissioner Sullivan moved to approve sending the letter of support; another commissioner seconded and the motion passed unanimously.

Cook County Higher Education officials said the program provides local workforce and credential training, co-hosts events with county public health and human services, provided free commercial driver license (CDL) training that led to hires in the county highway department, and offers space and registration support for county coalitions. Kelsey Kennedy and student Rob Wells were listed by staff as attendees who would join the program’s legislative testimony.

The board’s vote was recorded as unanimous. Karen and program representatives said they plan to testify next week before the committee and to present the county’s support in person.

The board did not attach further conditions to the letter. Board members urged staff to finalize the letter so the program can deliver it to lawmakers before scheduled testimony.