What is a District Council?

St. Paul, MN, is divided into 17 District Councils, each serving as a bridge between residents and the city government. These councils empower neighborhoods by providing a platform for community voices, fostering engagement, and shaping local initiatives.

Each District Council represents a specific area of the city, promoting collaboration and addressing unique community needs:

1️⃣ District 1: Eastview, Conway, Battle Creek, Highwood Hills
2️⃣ District 2: Greater East Side
3️⃣ District 3: West Side
4️⃣ District 4: Dayton's Bluff
5️⃣ District 5: Payne-Phalen
6️⃣ District 6: North End
7️⃣ District 7: Frogtown (Thomas-Dale)
8️⃣ District 8: Summit-University
9️⃣ District 9: West 7th (Fort Road)
🔟 District 10: Como Park
1️⃣1️⃣ District 11: Hamline-Midway
1️⃣2️⃣ District 12: Saint Anthony Park
1️⃣3️⃣ District 13: Union Park
1️⃣4️⃣ District 14: Macalester-Groveland
1️⃣5️⃣ District 15: Highland Park
1️⃣6️⃣ District 16: Summit Hill
1️⃣7️⃣ District 17: CapitolRiver (Downtown Saint Paul)

District Councils are vital to fostering strong, vibrant neighborhoods across St. Paul, ensuring everyone has a voice in shaping their community. Whether you’re looking to get involved, share feedback, or connect with neighbors, your District Council is here to help!

Commitment to Equity

A commitment to equity is foundational to successful community engagement. In 2017, the district councils proposed a change to the Community Engagement Program's Innovation Fund that was adopted in 2018. The fund is now divided equally among the 17 district councils to promote equitable practices and neighborhood outcomes. The goals of this program are:

  • District council staff and volunteers more accurately reflect the communities they serve.

  • District councils review and adopt policies and practices that intentionally create space for residents who are currently under-represented.

  • District councils pursue systemic work that reflects the needs and priorities of residents who have been historically under-represented.

Additionally, district council staff are required to participate in a peer support/best practices network composed of district councils or similar grassroots, place-based organizations in the region.