10 reasons to be thankful in Dakota County

10 reasons to be thankful in Dakota County
By Joe Atkins | Dakota County Commissioner | November 2025

• Minnesota’s Best library system (again). For the second year in a row, our Dakota County Library system has been voted Minnesota’s Best Public Library. Our 10 branches offer more than books and magazines. You’ll find e-books, tech access, study spaces, meeting rooms and programs for all ages. This year marked the first full year for Dakota County’s new Kaposia Library in South St. Paul, and we look forward to the fully renovated Wentworth Library reopening in West St. Paul in 2026.
• 12,000 acres of protected nature. We now have more than 12,000 acres of permanently preserved natural areas across Dakota County, from woodlands to wetlands, including in West St. Paul, South St. Paul and Inver Grove Heights. Thanks to a grant program, bison have returned to Spring Lake Park Reserve for the first time since 1840, helping native grasses thrive while providing a living link to Minnesota’s history.
• A national model for mental health care. Dakota County’s Crisis & Recovery Center in West St. Paul won a 2025 National Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties. Since opening in February, more than 80 residents have received vital care with a 98% success rate of preventing costly hospital stays and ensuring help is available when it’s needed most. This award reflects the dedication of a community working together to care for one another.
• Strengthening our housing safety net. Fighting homelessness requires community effort. Dakota County partners with state, federal, nonprofit and faith-based organizations to support teens, families and seniors. Our award-winning Housing Clinic helps prevent evictions and strengthens the safety net, and we’re working to improve these programs even further.
• Excellence in our schools. Every Dakota County high school ranks in the top 20% nationally, with Two Rivers High School now among the top 5%. Our schools aren’t resting on their laurels: South St. Paul schools continue to post year-over-year gains in reading, math and attendance – a testament to the dedication of students, teachers, administrators and families.
• Residents feel they get value. Our 2025 residential survey shows that county services continue to earn high marks statewide and nationally. Parks and libraries received special praise, and taxpayers overwhelmingly felt they were getting good value for their tax dollars. Knowing that our services meet community expectations is something I’m grateful for every day.
• Fiscal responsibility and low debt. For nearly a decade, Dakota County remained debt-free, saving taxpayers millions in interest while maintaining outstanding services – a rare achievement in government today. This fiscal discipline helps ensure that we can continue providing high-quality programs for our residents.
• The nation’s most awarded county employees. Dakota County has the lowest number of employees per capita in the metro area yet their work consistently earns national recognition. We’re the only county in the nation to receive top awards in Public Safety, Public Health, Transportation and Sustainability since 2018 – demonstrating the excellence, innovation and dedication of our team.
• Strong and effective partnerships. From 911 operations to our Dakota County Drug Task Force to coordinating mental health services, Dakota County collaborates closely with cities, state agencies and federal partners. These partnerships make public services, especially safety and health programs, more effective for everyone.
• Our compassionate nonprofit and faith networks. Organizations like DARTS, Guild and Neighbors, Inc. provide food, transportation, mental health support and emergency assistance. Their compassion strengthens our community and embodies the true spirit of giving.

Thank You. Looking back at these 10 reasons, I’m reminded that what makes northern Dakota County special isn’t just awards or statistics, it’s the people behind them. I’m grateful every day for the chance to serve communities that value creativity, compassion and looking out for one another. I hope your Thanksgiving is filled with family, laughter and plenty of reasons to give thanks. And if you can’t think of one right away, I’ve always found that a second slice of pie and a nap usually does the trick.

Joe Atkins represents District 2 on the Dakota County Board, which includes South St. Paul, West St. Paul and Inver Grove Heights. He welcomes feedback. To share comments, concerns, or questions, contact him at Joe.Atkins@co.dakota.mn.us or 651-438-4430.

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