Title
Approving the City of Saint Paul Audit Committee’s next study related to the data practices process and authorizing Wilder Research to conduct the study.
Body
WHEREAS, the City of Saint Paul is committed to transparency, accountability, and equitable access to public information as required under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA); and
WHEREAS, in response to growing public interest in government data access, privacy protections, and process efficiency, the city initiated a review of internal data practices processes in 2024; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to RES 25-781 and RES 25-780, the Human Resources Department conducted job audits for the classifications of Data Practices Supervisor and Data Practices Specialist to enhance coordination and support for the City’s compliance with data practices requests; and
WHEREAS, at its meeting on June 25th, the City Council’s Organizational Committee reviewed two study topics: Data Practices Process and Revisiting the Housing Development Process, which had been forwarded by the Audit Committee from its June 17th meeting, and voted to advance the Data Practices Process study for further evaluation, specifically to identify opportunities to improve the consistency, timeliness, and clarity of the City’s response to data requests across all departments, excluding Fire, Police, and Emergency Management; and
WHEREAS, community stakeholders and staff have expressed support to examine and identify actionable policy, technology, and procedural changes to improve the City’s data practices framework; and
WHEREAS, a study would include further analysis of:
- Internal workflows and interdepartmental coordination;
- Public-facing communication and response protocols;
- Legal compliance with MGDPA and best practices from peer cities;
- Resource needs and staff training; and
- Opportunities to reduce response times and increase public trust; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council hereby authorizes and directs the City Council City Clerk’s Office, the City Attorney’s Office, the Office of Technology and Communications, and other relevant departments to participate in and support the Audit Committee’s next study of the Data Practices Process.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council requests a comprehensive report summarizing the study’s findings and recommendations to be presented at the conclusion of the study period, including any proposed policy changes or budgetary actions necessary for implementation.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the study shall include meaningful engagement with community stakeholders, subject matter experts, advocates, and City staff to ensure a transparent, inclusive, and equity-informed process.