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SHOWING 111–120 ENTRIES
111
OCT 29, 2025 · MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA · CITY COUNCIL
Public Health and Safety Committee Meeting: October 29, 2025

Date: October 29, 2025 Chair: Jason Chavez Members Present: Councilmember Payne, Rainville, Vice Chair Wandsley, Chair Travis (quorum achieved) The meeting began with a motion to amend the agenda to add a legislative directive titled "Charter Compliance and Enforcement" as item five, and to swap the order of items three and four (Canopy Roots BCR presentation moved before other discussion). The motion passed by voice vote. Consent Calendar - Item 1: Accepting a training reimbursement for firefighter training and education and approving the related appropriation resolution. Approved unanimously. - Item 2: Receiving and filing an appointment to the Public Health Advisory Committee. Approved unanimously. Discussion Items Legislative Directive: Charter Compliance and Enforcement - Vice Chair Wandsley introduced the walk-on item, explaining that Mayor Fry and MPD failed to fulfill a previous directive to present an internal investigation report on the shooting of Davis Matory. She detailed that the council's October 9th directive requested MPD present on October 29th, but no presentation was scheduled. Commissioner Barnett emailed late on October 28th claiming releasing the report would impede an ongoing audit. Wandsley argued this was not supported by the city auditor and that MPD has done both internal and external reviews before (e.g., ShotSpotter). She framed the motion as exploring enforcement options when the executive branch violates the charter. - Councilmember Palmasano opposed, calling the walk-on inappropriate (not an emergency) and political. He argued Commissioner Barnett's letter provided an update per the directive and that releasing the internal review could compromise the audit. - Councilmember Rainbow supported Palmasano, noting Barnett was formerly chief judge and took his statement at face value. - Vice Chair Wandsley rebutted, noting that MPD has complied with similar requests in the past (ShotSpotter) and that the mayor signed the directive without veto. - Chair Chavez emphasized that the mayor signed the directive and should have ensured it was on the agenda; failing to do so is a charter violation. - Council President Payne clarified that the underlying motion is about understanding consequences for charter violations, not about the specific case. He supported the directive as good governance. - Councilmember Chowdhury supported the directive, noting that legislative directive deadlines are often missed with no recourse. She confirmed that OCS did not submit an RCA at agenda setting or speak about the item. - Councilmember Rainville asked the attorney if the charter was violated; the attorney was unable to answer immediately. - Motion to forward without recommendation (Palmasano) failed: 2 ayes (Rainville, Palmasano), 4 nays (Payne, Chowdhury, Wandsley, Chavez). - Motion to forward with approval (Chavez) passed: 4 ayes (Payne, Chowdhury, Wandsley, Chavez), 2 nays (Rainville, Palmasano). Canopy Roots Behavioral Crisis Response (BCR) Presentation - Sheree Hanson (Program Manager) presented the BCR program overview: unarmed mental health first responders embedded in 911 dispatch, 24/7 service, five vans maximum. In 2024, they responded to 11,500+ calls. 75% were BCRW (welfare checks), 25% were priority one mental health calls. All neighborhoods served. - Tyana Ingram (Lead Responder) shared a story of a suicidal woman with a gun; BCR de-escalated, called police to remove the weapon, and transported the woman to the hospital. - Successes: Second year of 24/7 operations, expanded to five vans, developed a community advisory board, updated training. - Challenges: Transition from Neighborhood Safety Department to Fire (Jan 2025), leadership changes, scope creep (responding to non-mental health calls like wheelchair assistance). They are working to refine scope. - Question from Councilmember Palmasano: Requested more metrics (response times, outcomes). Noted a legislative directive due June 2026 will request detailed data. BCR staff said they can provide additional data and are working with the Minnesota Research Justice Center on a report. - Question from Councilmember Rainbow: Clarified difference between BCR (priority one, emergencies) and BCRW (welfare checks, less urgent). - Question from Vice Chair Wandsley: About community advisory board process; still developing. Also asked about coordination with a 2023 CUNY gaps analysis. Chief Rugger noted that conversations about scope are ongoing, and data collection is being refined. Hanson acknowledged leadership changes and catch-up needed. Homegrown Minneapolis Initiative Presentation - Alison Babb (Manager) and Jenny (Food Council member) presented. Homegrown Minneapolis is a city-community partnership launched in 2008 to support local food systems: community gardens, farmers markets, food waste prevention. The Minneapolis Food Vision (adopted 2023) guides work with six priority areas. The Food Action Plan (2024-2026) includes five work plans: urban agriculture, food skills, local food procurement, equitable food access, wasted food prevention. - Key highlights: USDA grant for wasted food prevention in restaurants (Food Forward program), boulevard gardening ordinance amendment, new urban farm project with community land trust ($50,000 from budget), 16 climate legacy projects funded in 2024. Farmers markets saw 1.45 million visitors in 2024; Minneapolis Farmers Market infrastructure improvements planned. - Concerns: Federal funding for SNAP and Produce Market Bucks at risk; 61,000 Minneapolis residents (14%) receive SNAP. Food insecurity remains high across all wards. - Councilmember Vice Chair Wandsley expressed interest in collaborating on addressing food deserts, especially near the University of Minnesota (1 in 4 students food insecure). She supported exploring a city-owned grocery store model. - Chair Chavez noted the map showing food insecurity in every ward and thanked staff. - Alison Babb emphasized that food shelves are not a permanent solution and welcomed collaboration. Key Outcomes - Legislative Directive (Charter Compliance and Enforcement): Approved with a 4-2 vote, to go to the full council. - BCR Report: Received and filed. - Homegrown Minneapolis Report: Received and filed. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned after the presentations.

PUBLIC SAFETY 47% · INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS 17% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 16% · PROCEDURAL 9%
112
OCT 28, 2025 · MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA · CITY COUNCIL
Minneapolis Committee Meeting – Oct 28, 2025: Consent, Licenses, Heritage, and Historic Demolition Appeal

On October 28, 2025, the Minneapolis City Council committee chaired by Councilmember Jamal Osman met with a quorum of four members (Councilmembers Vita, Chowdry, Osman; Cashman and Jenkins absent). The meeting included approval of a consent calendar, public hearings on a cannabis events ordinance, major heritage preservation regulation updates, a parkland dedication amendment for tribal entities, a new liquor license for Chiba Hut Uptown, revocation proceedings for two liquor licenses due to tax non‑compliance, and a quasi‑judicial appeal regarding demolition of the historic John Cook House. Public hearings were continued for the heritage regulations and the Cook House appeal to the next meeting on November 13, 2025. Consent Calendar - Item 8 – Approved one liquor license. - Item 9 – Approved 19 liquor license renewals. - Item 10 – Approved six gambling licenses. - Item 11 – Authorized a cooperative agreement for demolition services at 1410 West Broadway. - Item 12 – Approved a rezoning plan for Mortenson Development at 1020 Essex Street SE. - Item 13 – Authorized a grant agreement with the Minnesota National Independent Venue Association. - Item 14 – Authorized a carry‑forward of NUS 2025 revenue bonds for the multifamily housing program. - Item 15 – Authorized a joint power agreement with Hennepin County to support the office to end homelessness. - Item 16 – Authorized a change to the amended 2026‑27 housing tax credit qualified allocations plan. - Item 17 – Authorized a contract with Hennepin County and Avivo for funding support. - Item 18 – Accepted and authorized spring 2025 Brownfield grants. - Item 19 – Authorized a program revision for the Naturally Accurate Affordable Housing Preservation Fund. - Item 20 – Referred an ordinance on public safety regulations for on‑sale establishments to staff for further work. All items approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Cannabis Events Ordinance – No public speakers. - Heritage Preservation Regulations – No public speakers. - Parkland Dedication (Tribal Exemption) – No public speakers. - Chiba Hut Uptown Liquor License – Nick, the owner, spoke in support, describing the business (sandwich shop with full bar, limited live entertainment), anticipated opening date of December 8, 2025, and community optimism. No opposition was expressed. - Liquor License Revocations (Mento Jamaica Kitchen) – No public speakers. - John Cook House Demolition Appeal – Multiple speakers: - Jacob Steen (attorney for owner 1717 Developers) argued that the building is unsafe and condemned, repair costs ($1.5 million) far exceed the assessed value ($280,000), making rehabilitation economically infeasible. He contended that neglect was due to “red tape” and the burden of landmark status, not owner inaction. - Melanie Ng (Northeast resident) opposed demolition, stating the house is a “striking example of Queen Anne architecture” and has been deliberately neglected by speculators. She noted the Aaron Carlson fire as a cautionary tale. - Seth Miller urged preservation, arguing that allowing demolition would undermine Minneapolis landmark protections and reward owner neglect. - Elizabeth Richardson (co‑owner of Recovery Bike Shop) emphasized the house’s cultural and historical significance to Northeast’s working‑class community and argued the owner had a legal duty to maintain it. - Karen Gribna (neighbor) expressed safety concerns from squatters and decay, asking the city to take stronger action regardless of the demolition decision. - Kevin Reich (former Council Member, Ward 1) supported staff and HPC findings, noting the rigorous designation process and urging the committee to protect the community’s history. Discussion Items - Cannabis Events Ordinance (Continued from Oct. 14) – Manager Amy Lingo presented the ordinance, which sets time, place, and manner regulations for public cannabis events. No questions or public testimony. Approved. - Heritage Preservation Regulations (Chapter 599 Update) – Senior City Planner Rob Skolecki presented a comprehensive update (first major revision since 2001) to simplify processes, align with state/federal law, and improve transparency. Key changes include new administrative review types, updated fees for inflation, streamlined demolition review, and clarified designation and appeal procedures. The Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) recommended four amendments; staff supported one (aligning demolition approval validity with two‑year standard) and opposed three (regarding appeal redundancy, application deadlines, and HPC nomination bypass). The public hearing was continued to November 13, 2025 for further council review. - Parkland Dedication Ordinance – Councilmember Shavas introduced an amendment to add tribal governments to the list of entities exempt from parkland dedication fees (currently exempt for affordable housing funded by local, state, or federal governments). The ordinance was approved unanimously. - Chiba Hut Uptown Liquor License (1118 West Lake St.) – Alexis Sornson (Licensing) presented the application for on‑sale liquor, limited entertainment, Sunday sales, and 2 a.m. license. Hours: indoor Sun‑Thu 10:30 a.m.–midnight, Fri‑Sat 10:30 a.m.–2 a.m.; outdoor patio Sun‑Thu 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri‑Sat 10:30 a.m.–11 p.m. 124 public hearing notices sent; no responses received. No police or 311 issues. Approved unanimously. - Liquor License Revocations (Mento Jamaica Kitchen – two licenses; Minto on Lake St. – one strong beer license) – City attorney noted non‑compliance with state tax requirements. No response from applicants. Committee voted to continue both items without recommendation to the full council. - John Cook House Demolition Appeal (948 18th Ave. NE) – Rob Skolecki explained that HPC denied the certificate of appropriateness on September 30, 2025, finding the property (designated in 2021) retains significance and integrity, repairs are possible, and demolition is not necessary. The appellant (Jacob Steen) argued the building is unsafe and economically unfeasible to rehabilitate. Public testimony followed. Council discussed the owner’s duty to maintain, the history of neglect (vacant since 2014, condemned in 2020), and available enforcement tools (e.g., prolonged vacancy fines). The public hearing was continued to November 13, 2025. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar – Approved unanimously; Item 20 referred to staff. - Cannabis Events Ordinance – Approved. - Heritage Preservation Regulations – Public hearing continued to November 13, 2025. - Parkland Dedication Ordinance (Tribal Exemption) – Approved unanimously. - Chiba Hut Uptown Liquor License – Approved unanimously. - Liquor License Revocations – Continued without recommendation to full council. - John Cook House Demolition Appeal – Public hearing continued to November 13, 2025; no decision rendered. Council directed staff to provide information on vacancy fines and enforcement at the next meeting.

LAND USE AND ZONING 74% · PROCEDURAL 10% · ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 5%
113
OCT 27, 2025 · MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA · CITY COUNCIL
Minneapolis Administration and Enterprise Oversight Committee Meeting - October 27, 2025

The Administration and Enterprise Oversight Committee of the Minneapolis City Council met on October 27, 2025, at 11:31 AM (CT) under the chairmanship of Robin Wansley. The committee addressed a consent agenda of nine items, two gift acceptance requests from the Police Department, a paid parental leave policy amendment, and a closed session on labor negotiation strategy. All six members were present, establishing a quorum. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (voice vote) nine items: bids for Newton Avenue Sanitary Sewer Reconstruction and Convention Center dish machine/prep table replacement; contracts with Amery National Community Services (loan portfolio management), ABM Equipment LLC (refuse packer bodies), various vendors for executive recruitment services and public works consulting pool (2026–2029); contract amendments with Kimley Horn and Associates (Hennepin F South Street Reconstruction) and Fairview Health Services (Reach Food Resource Navigator Services); and an enterprise risk management ordinance. Discussion Items Gift Acceptance for Police Department Staff (Items 10 & 11) - Director of Police Financial Operations Vicky Trotskick presented two late-submitted gift acceptances: $2,750 for two staff to attend a recruitment workshop (travel occurring prior to Council approval) and $842 for Chief O’Hara to speak at the Tri-City Leadership Academy (travel after Council meeting but before mayor’s review). Trotskick attributed delays to selection processes and new employee awareness gaps; she committed to distributing policy reminders. - Councilmember Chughtai expressed frustration with repeated late submissions from MPD, noting a pattern of disregard for city policy, and stated he would not vote for such items. Vice Chair Palmasano defended staff professional development travel, citing benefits of promoting Minneapolis nationally. Chair Wansley flagged the need for written corrective measures attached to the items for the full Council. - Vote: Motion to forward items 10 and 11 to the full Council without recommendation passed 5-1 (Chughtai dissenting). Paid Parental Leave Policy Amendment (Item 12) - Amy Freeman from Human Resources requested an amendment to the city’s paid parental leave policy to add foster care placement as a qualifying event, effective January 1, 2026, aligning with the state’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave law (12 weeks partial wage replacement, capped at 20 weeks total). The city’s current policy offers 12 weeks full pay for birth or adoption. - Freeman confirmed the city will file an equivalent plan with the state, continue collecting the 0.88% payroll tax (likely split 50-50 with employees), and remove the payback provision as it conflicts with state law. Councilmember Cashman raised the payback provision question; Freeman confirmed it will be removed. - Chair Wansley and Vice Chair Palmasano praised the city’s leadership on worker protections, noting Minneapolis set a precedent that influenced the state law. - Vote: Motion to approve the amendment passed 5-0 (Chughtai absent). Closed Session on Labor Negotiation Strategy (Item 13) - The committee held a closed session under Minnesota Statutes §13D.03 to receive a briefing on strategy for labor negotiations with the Minneapolis Police Officers Federation. A motion to admit Mayor Frey’s policy advisor John Frude passed by voice vote. The committee voted to close the meeting, then reconvened in open session at 2:54 PM, confirming a quorum (five members present) and adjourned. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda adopted without objection. - Gift acceptances for police staff forwarded to full Council without recommendation (5-1). The committee requested written policy compliance measures be attached before the November 6 Council meeting. - Paid parental leave policy amended to include foster care placement (effective Jan 1, 2026); payback provision eliminated. Approved 5-0. - Closed session held for labor negotiation strategy; no further public action taken.

MISCELLANEOUS 67% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 24% · PROCEDURAL 4% · PUBLIC SAFETY 4%
114
OCT 27, 2025 · MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA · CITY COUNCIL
Minneapolis Budget Committee Meeting - October 27, 2025

The Budget Committee convened on October 27, 2025, to review and discuss the Mayor's recommended 2026 budget, focusing heavily on the Climate Legacy Initiative and the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The meeting featured presentations from six departments covering climate action, capital projects, arts, municipal building maintenance, and transportation infrastructure. Council members raised questions regarding equity metrics, funding sources like value capture, specific neighborhood park access, and the potential for leveraging bonds for climate investments. Consent Calendar - [No specific consent calendar routine approvals were listed in the transcript; items proceeded directly to public comment/Q&A or were filed after discussion.] Public Comments & Testimony - Councilmember Cashman expressed concern that the Downtown West neighborhood, a residential area of 9,000 people, has received no park capital investments since 2017 and has no plan through 2030. He noted that while regional investments exist, neighborhood parks are lacking, and suggested utilizing unused surface parking lots in the theater district for green space. - Councilmember Cashman requested clarification on the specific capital projects funded by the 2% value capture source levied on downtown housing, inquiring about usage through 2031. - Councilmember Cashman asked Director Arvidson to elaborate on how the Park Board incorporates demographic changes and density increases into strategic planning for neighborhoods like Downtown West and the North Loop. - Councilmember Palmasano questioned the scope of the alley renovation program, clarifying whether it includes pothole patching, stormwater drain repairs, or full reconstruction, noting frequent resident complaints. He also inquired about the funding mechanism for street improvements at George Floyd Square. - Councilmember Payne asked Director Arvidson about planning to increase park access in the Como neighborhood, which faces limited space due to industrial and freeway boundaries, and noted the potential opportunity regarding the upcoming sale of Tuttle School. - Councilmember Cashman and Councilmember Payne raised the topic of whether the city should utilize the $9.5 million Climate Legacy Initiative appropriation for debt service on bonds to scale up investments, rather than using it for direct interventions. Discussion Items - Climate Legacy Initiative (Patrick Hanlin, Deputy Health Commissioner): - Hanlin presented the 2026 recommended budget, noting the initiative is funded by the franchise fee and PCAR registration fees, totaling approximately $10 million. - 52% of funding is allocated to distressed communities (North Side Green Zone, South Side Green Zone, income-qualified properties). - 54% of funding goes specifically to weatherization and deep greenhouse gas reduction. - Hanlin emphasized the program's focus on equity, workforce development, urban forestry, and zero waste. - Councilmember Cashman praised the work and requested a follow-up memo on specific energy savings achieved through weatherization this year. - Capital Budget Overview (Liam O'Brien, Senior Budget Analyst): - O'Brien detailed the 2026 CIP, highlighting a 32% budget increase from 2025 to 2026. - Key drivers include $63 million for the Nicollet Avenue Bridge (BR 127) and $37 million in additional enterprise bonds for sewer infrastructure. - O'Brien noted that despite the budget growth, the estimated 2026 bond redemption levy was reduced by $1 million due to financial planning. - Councilmember Cashman asked for clarification on the 2% value capture source usage; O'Brien confirmed the funds are designated for transportation infrastructure and economic development in the streetcar corridor, specifically the Nicollet bridge and Metro Transit projects. - Municipal Building Commission Projects (Aaron Delaney, Director): - Delaney presented four joint City/County projects totaling over $7 million, with the City's share just over $3.8 million. - Projects include interior exterior improvements (Phase 5), heat exchanger/pump replacement, electrical bus duct replacement design, and fire alarm system replacement. - Delaney expressed that the current fire alarm system is functional but requires replacement for safety and compliance. - Public Art (Mary Altman, Public Arts Supervisor): - Altman detailed the Art in Public Places program (1.5% of net debt bond funding) and a special one-time request for $1.55 million for Upper Harbor Public Art. - Highlighted the upcoming dedication of the High Lake Mural, a 6,200-square-foot painted and mosaic mural, noting community engagement efforts. - Property Services & Facilities (Barbara O'Brien, Director): - Presented 11 capital projects aiming to support public safety, public works, and voter services. - Key requests included the replacement of Fire Station 11, the major renovation of the 4th Police Precinct (MPD 05), and the creation of the Minneapolis Democracy Center to consolidate elections services. - Discussed the $700,000 request for energy conservation (PSD 11) to aid net-zero goals by 2040. - Park and Recreation (Adam Arvidson, Director): - Arvidson explained the equity-driven selection process (NPP 20) and noted that 2026 is primarily dedicated to the North Commons recreation center. - Discussed the status of playground rehabilitation, noting the program is on track to be fully caught up by 2031. - Councilmember Payne and Councilmember Cashman discussed park gaps in the Como and Downtown West neighborhoods, respectively; Arvidson noted proposals for Gateway Park and a skate park along 2nd Avenue for future consideration. - Public Works (Kathleen Mayel & Jennifer Hager, Interim Directors): - Mayel outlined a $266 million construction budget, focusing on paving, traffic, and bridge repairs. - Discussed $36.8 million in federal grants for paving (2026-2029) and the 20-year streets funding plan requirements. - Jennifer Hager clarified that alley renovation programs (PBO06, PB063) address surface repairs and water flow but do not include full reconstruction unless underlying infrastructure fails. - Discussed the Safe Routes to School partnership with MPS and the funding status of improvements at George Floyd Square. - Debt and Finance (Alan Hoppe & Dave Wheeler): - Hoppe noted the city's peak debt was in 2004 ($1.2 billion) and current outstanding debt is approx. $1.251 billion, well below the $2.4 billion statutory limit (utilizing 14% of capacity). - Discussed the volatility of variable rate debt versus the stability of fixed-rate debt, noting the city maintains a conservative approach. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken in this transcript; the committee concluded by voting to file the presentations for the record. - Director Hanlin committed to providing a memo to Councilmember Cashman regarding energy savings data from weatherization projects. - Manager Wheeler and Director Hoppe acknowledged the inquiry from Councilmembers regarding the use of franchise fee funds for bond debt service, stating they are open to further conversations. - Liam O'Brien confirmed that details regarding the 2% value capture usage (Nicollet Bridge and Transit projects) will be provided in an administrative memo. - Council President Payne formally requested the committee pursue a discussion on leveraging $9.5 million for bond debt service to scale climate investments, noting this is a longer-term vision outside the current budget process. - Councilmember Cashman requested continued discussion on the inclusion of Downtown West and Como neighborhoods in future park capital plans and expressed intent to advocate for utilizing parking lots for green space.

PUBLIC WORKS 38% · CLIMATE POLICY 20% · PARKS AND RECREATION 15% · BUDGET MANAGEMENT 11%
115
OCT 23, 2025 · MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA · CITY COUNCIL
Minneapolis City Council Meeting Summary - October 23, 2025

The Minneapolis City Council convened on October 23, 2025, for a regular meeting that began with a series of honorary resolution presentations and public testimony regarding domestic violence victims. Following these ceremonies, the Council adopted the agenda, accepted minutes, and proceeded through reports from five standing committees covering administration, business, climate, legislative structure, and public health. The meeting concluded with the consideration of new ordinances focusing on enterprise risk management and a closed session regarding active litigation. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the regular meeting of October 9th were accepted unanimously (13 ayes). - Petitions, communications, and reports were referred to the proper committees unanimously (13 ayes). - Resolutions adopted include: Recognition of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Professional Fellows Program; designation of November 4th as Election Judge Appreciation Day; recognition of the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month and Invisible Disabilities Awareness Week; and designation of October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month with October 23rd as a day of remembrance. - Gift acceptances from the Metropolitan Police Department and the Urban Institute for travel expenses were approved. - The 16 items from the Administration and Enterprise Oversight Committee were approved, with Item 1 (Professional Services Ordinance) pulled for separate discussion and vote. - The nine items from the Business, Housing, and Zoning Committee were approved, excluding the Item 3 (noon restaurant revocation) which was deleted from the agenda upon receiving a clearance letter. - The Climate and Infrastructure Committee items were approved, with Item 1 (University Avenue Northeast Improvement Project) receiving a separate vote (10 ayes, 3 noes). - The Committee of the Whole items regarding the 2026 transition calendar and the placement of the Board of Estimate and Taxation Executive Secretary position were approved (13 ayes). - The Public Health and Safety Committee items, including a grant for maternal and child health and a contract for bomb detection services, were approved (13 ayes). Public Comments & Testimony - YSEALI Fellows: Multiple fellows expressed deep gratitude for the hospitality in Minneapolis. Rita (Indonesia) stated that every encounter had been filled with "warmth, kindness, a lot of foods, love, events, concert, hockey games" that they did not experience at home. Joey (Malaysia) expressed gratitude for the city's commitment to inclusivity, stating they would bring back "the heart of Minneapolis itself." Aliana (Philippines) thanked Councilmember Palmasano for showing them around and called Minneapolis the "North Star." James (Philippines) expressed "separation anxiety" and stated Minneapolis has become a "second home." - Domestic Violence Survivors and Advocates: - Jana Williams (representing the family of Alison Lucher) expressed that Minneapolis PD should have investigated Alison's case as a homicide immediately and argued that state statutes are "barbaric" and need change. - Simone Samuels (sister of Mariah Samuels) stated that the Minneapolis Police Department "got priorities mixed up" and criticized the allocation of resources, noting that residents in specific areas like Little Earth felt the city "leave the north side by itself" and did not protect citizens who sought help. She argued the tragedy could have been prevented with a simple arrest. - A family member of Sarah Patrick expressed disbelief that investigators undermined Sarah's humanity by speculating suicide and framing her addiction as reasoning for her murder, stating officers need more understanding of how abuse cycles perpetrate. - Alicia Robles (Amor Propio) advocated for survivors, noting that in Mexico, Dia de los Muertos is celebrated to remember loved ones. She stated, "One out of every three men goes through abuse and one out of every three women goes through abuse." - Jess Pallian (Violence Free Minnesota) listed numerous community-based organizations available to assist victims, emphasizing that a network of services exists for all communities. Discussion Items - Professional Services Ordinance (Admin/Enterprise Oversight Item 1): Councilmember Wandsley moved to lower the council approval threshold for contracts from $175,000 to ensure greater transparency. Councilmember Koskey noted that a lack of oversight previously allowed questionable contracts, including those involving personal relationships and vendors with controversial pasts (e.g., a rescue nonprofit under federal investigation). Councilmember Koskey stated he was previously left in the dark regarding health department contract work related to carbon fees. Councilmember Wandsley expressed support, noting the ordinance balances transparency with reducing barriers for small businesses. - Resolution: Councilmember Wandsley and Councilmember Koskey co-authored the ordinance. It passed unanimously (13 ayes). - University Avenue Northeast Improvement Project (Climate/Infrastructure Item 1): Councilmember Rainville stated she would not vote for this item because the state and county failed to provide a plan to stage the roadwork in conjunction with other major projects, which she argued would cause severe damage to businesses and residents. She described the service from state and county entities as "very poor." The item passed with 10 ayes and 3 noes (Councilmembers Rainville, Palmasono, and Vita voted no). - Salary and Compensation Study (Committee of the Whole Item 2): - Councilmember Koskey argued that the Council has a legal right under the city charter to the full study, not a summary, and stated that refusing to release it is a "violation of the city charter." He noted the workforce compensation is "almost half our general fund." - Councilmember Palmasano countered that the data is "private" and "sensitive," noting that the COO apologized for a previous error regarding closed sessions. She argued the administration's decision to not print 13 copies was reasonable. - Vice President Shuktai clarified the motion to confirm that non-public data is only requested for Council members, not for public release. - Resolution: The legislative directive requesting the study passed unanimously (13 ayes). - Office of Enterprise Risk Management (Introduction Calendar Item 4): Councilmember Wandsley introduced an ordinance to authorize an Office of Enterprise Risk Management. She stated the position is a response to "systemic issues" and "lack of oversight" revealed in the City Auditor's report on the Helix Health and Housing Services contract, which identified overpayments and duplicate payments. Councilmember Travis co-authored the item, citing the audit findings of "fraud" and the need to hold the mayor accountable. - Resolution: The introduction passed unanimously (13 ayes). Key Outcomes - Adopted 16 resolutions recognizing honorary programs (YSEALI, Election Judges, Disability Awareness, Domestic Violence Awareness) and designating specific dates (Nov 4, Oct 19-25, Oct 23) for public observance. - Approved the agenda as amended (12 ayes) and accepted minutes from Oct 9 (13 ayes). - Passed the Professional Services Ordinance to lower the contract approval threshold, co-authored by Councilmembers Wandsley and Koskey. - Passed the University Avenue Project resolution despite opposition from Councilmembers Rainville, Palmasono, and Vita (10 ayes, 3 noes). - Approved the Legislative Directive for the full salary/compensation study (13 ayes). - Introduced and referred four ordinances to committees: 1. Amending the Administration Code to move committee referral (Chavez, Shuktai, Chowdhury). 2. Amending the Liquor and Beer Code regarding public safety (Rainville). 3. Amending the Administration Code regarding government structure (Wandsley, Payne). 4. Amending the Administration Code to create the Office of Enterprise Risk Management (Wandsley, Payne, Travis, Chavez). - Approved a motion to hold a closed session regarding the litigation matter City of Chicago et al. vs. Nome et al. (12 ayes, 1 absent). - Approved a gift acceptance for Councilmember Jenkins to attend the Vision Zero Cities conference.

PENDING LITIGATION 31% · PROCEDURAL 13% · PUBLIC HEALTH 11% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 8%
116
OCT 21, 2025 · MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA · CITY COUNCIL
Minneapolis Committee of the Whole Meeting Summary - October 21, 2025

On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the Minneapolis Committee of the Whole convened to review committee reports, address a legislative directive regarding withheld compensation data, and consider administrative resolutions. The meeting featured significant debate regarding transparency, access to taxpayer-funded studies, and the role of the administration versus the City Council, alongside standard agenda items including housing policy overviews and governance clarifications. Consent Calendar - Adoption of the 2026 transition calendar for regular City Council meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment section is recorded in the provided transcript; only direct member dialogue and staff presentations are included. Discussion Items Legislative Directive: Access to Guide House Compensation Study - Councilmember Koskey introduced a directive requesting the administration provide the full Enterprise Wide Salary and Compensation Study conducted by Guide House Inc. for $650,000 in American Rescue Plan funds. She expressed strong support for making the report available to the Council, emphasizing that access is legally required under the City Charter for fiscal oversight and budget decisions. She highlighted that the administration's refusal to share the data following informal requests violated the City Charter and the Council-Administration Interactions Policy, noting that non-public data can be reviewed by Council members under secure, confidential processes. - Council President Payne expressed support for the directive but voiced significant concern regarding the breakdown in collaborative governance. She stated she is not happy that a formal directive was necessary to access information, viewing it as a symptom of a culture where the administration withholds information that should be shared organically. - Council Vice President Chugtai expressed support for the directive, characterizing the administration's inaction as a failure that must be corrected to restore a collaborative culture. She noted the frustration that a month and a half of follow-ups was required before this action was necessary, framing the vote as an opportunity for growth rather than blame. - Councilmember Cashman expressed support for obtaining the data but offered a nuanced position, suggesting the situation felt unnecessarily political. She argued that briefings on the non-public data would suffice for the Council's governance role and expressed concern that a 600-page document required full transparency of gritty details that may not be necessary for high-level decision-making. - Councilmember Palmasano expressed opposition to the necessity of the directive, characterizing the request as unnecessary politicking. She stated she supports access to information in principle but argued that public briefings would be adequate, asserting that the Council does not negotiate individual salaries and that the gamesmanship of the situation undermines the maturity of the Council. - Councilmember Chavez questioned why the study could not be made public, expressing confusion over the lack of transparency regarding $650,000 of taxpayer dollars. Her position was supportive of transparency, noting that the Council must advocate for access to information in every instance. - City Attorney Abelson provided legal context, stating that the study contains non-public data under Minnesota Statute 13.37 (labor relations data) because it informs management negotiation positions. He clarified that while the Council has a right to access the data for business purposes, the City Council does not have the authority under state law to waive the Data Practices Act to make such data public. Resolution: Administrative Support for the Board of Estimate and Taxation (BET) - Council President Payne discussed a resolution to clarify the administrative relationship between the Office of the City Clerk and the independent Board of Estimate and Taxation. She expressed support for the clarification, noting it establishes necessary "guide rails" for staff time usage following the hiring of a full-time BET staff member. - Councilman Carl (Clerk's representative) explained that the BET lacks an organizational center for payroll, procurement, and administrative support. He stated the resolution provides administrative functionality to the BET, clarifying that the staff member primarily supports the BET but may assist legislative research when available. - Councilmember Rainville asked for clarity on how staff time would be allocated. The City Clerk's representative confirmed there is no fixed percentage for non-BET work; assistance is provided only to the extent the BET staff position has available time. Presentation: Social Housing Overview and Study Framework - Director Andrew Hawkins and Sarah Renner from the Legislative Research and Oversight (LRO) division presented a policy briefing on social housing models to inform a future Request for Proposals (RFP). They outlined three typologies from the NYU Furman Center: - Group A: Public developer models using revolving loan funds (e.g., Montgomery County) for mixed-income housing. - Group B: Models leveraging federal programs to redevelop existing public housing (e.g., Atlanta). - Group C: Models using dedicated funding streams and portfolios of smaller properties to ensure permanent affordability (e.g., Dakota County). - Councilmember Cashman inquired about the comparative advantages of public development over private/non-profit partners. Hawkins noted that public entities can leverage public land and financing tools that private actors cannot, specifically addressing needs not met by other sectors. - Councilmember Payne expressed interest in the typology, noting it helps contextualize current low-interest market realities. She expressed a leaning toward the Dakota County model (Group C) for its local precedent but remained open to further research to determine the best alignment for Minneapolis. - Councilmember Chugtai expressed interest in a deeper dive, specifically regarding capital funding, management costs, and Group A models involving market-rate housing to cross-subsidize affordable units. - Council President Payne requested to receive and file the presentation without immediate action, prioritizing the foundational research provided. Follow-Up Inquiries - Councilmember Chavez requested a memo from the City Attorney regarding a previous Guide House salary survey from November 2023 to understand why a different study was considered public while the current one is classified as non-public. Key Outcomes - Legislative Directive Passed: 10-0 Vote in favor of directing the Mayor to provide the Guide House compensation study to the Council. The directive includes an understanding that the data is non-public and requires a confidential review process. - Clarification of Vote Language: Council Members Palmasano and Chugtai requested a confirmation that the Director will amend the directive's language before the final vote on Thursday to explicitly state the data will not be made public via LIMS, as a violation of state law, which was a concern raised during the meeting. The Director confirmed the language would be updated. - Resolution Adopted: 10-0 Vote in favor of the resolution recognizing administrative support for the Board of Estimate and Taxation within the Office of the City Clerk. - Presentation Received: The Social Housing Overview was received and filed for informational purposes. - New Item Added: A resolution recognizing administrative support for the Board of Estimate and Taxation was added to the agenda by Council President Payne after the initial roll call.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING 36% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 13% · BUDGET MANAGEMENT 7% · INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS 6%
117
OCT 20, 2025 · MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA · CITY COUNCIL
Budget Committee Meeting Summary - October 20, 2025

The Minneapolis Budget Committee convened on Monday, October 20, 2025, to review departmental presentations related to the Mayor's recommended 2026 budget. The meeting featured presentations from the Health Department, the Youth Coordinating Board, the Information Technology Department regarding the Technology Improvement Plan (TIP), and a strategic analysis of municipal revenue options by Legislative Research and Oversight. Key discussions focused on funding risks from potential federal grant reductions, the preservation of school-based mental health services, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and the city's heavy reliance on property taxes compared to peer municipalities. Consent Calendar - No routine approvals were explicitly listed on the consent calendar during this session; all items were addressed via direct departmental presentation and discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Anne DeGriud (Executive Director, Youth Coordinating Board): Expressed deep concern regarding the financial insecurity facing youth services due to federal funding cuts, specifically the potential loss of 21st Century Community Learning Center grants. She stated that the loss of federal funding threatens the stability of after-school programming and creates safety risks for unsupervised youth. She also highlighted the significant negative impact of cutting the Community Connections Conference, noting that replicating such a collaborative venue would require substantial additional funding. Discussion Items Health Department 2026 Budget - Commissioner Damone Chaplin presented the 2026 budget, noting a cumulative total of approximately $46 million and a slight FTE reduction from 172 to 171.5. He emphasized that the department faces significant risk due to heavy reliance on federal and state funding, which could become vulnerable. - Councilmember Palmisano: Expressed disheartenment and concern over the proposed loss of 1 FTE for school-based mental health counseling. He requested clarification on how the loss of approximately $300,000 in contractual funds would be handled and urged the department to seek partnerships to mitigate these losses. He stated that schools need more, not less, mental health resources. - Commissioner Chaplin: Responded that the department is currently working with the administration to salvage the FTE through alternative means. He outlined contingency plans for potential federal grant reductions involving HR and legal teams. Regarding the loss of contractual funds, he noted that these affect maternal and child health and immunization programs but stated that "all options are on the table" to mitigate impacts, including exploring partnerships with the Office of Community Services (OCS) for trauma dollars. He offered to provide a staff memo detailing the specific contractual services at risk. - Councilmember Vita: Requested a specific staff memo detailing the $291,000 (approximate context from speech, though transcript says $291k/contractual) loss to identify specific programs at risk. She further inquired about the feasibility of partnering with OCS for trauma funding to replace the lost school-based FTE. - Councilmember Koske: Asked for elaboration on the increase in special revenue expenses from $15.5 million in 2025 to $20.5 million in 2026. Commissioner Chaplin confirmed this increase is largely due to new grants received and will provide further details via staff memo. - Vice Chair Koske: Inquired about the specifics of special revenue expenses. Commissioner Chaplin reiterated that these funds largely come from new grants and promised to forward the information to the clerk. Youth Coordinating Board Presentation - Executive Director Anne DeGriud: Described the board's role in coordinating safety and well-being across four jurisdictions (City, County, Schools, Parks). She highlighted that the board's work is system change rather than purely programmatic. - Councilmember Payne: Asked about the loss of the Community Connections Conference budget. Ms. DeGriud lamented that this loss is significant because replicating the collaborative inter-departmental event would cost a comparable amount of money, and the youth summit alternative would require different energy and resources. - Councilmember Rainville: Inquired about the City of Minneapolis' specific contribution. Ms. DeGriud clarified that the City contributes approximately $450,000 total ($360,000 from the general fund and $90,000 joint powers fee), similar to the Hennepin County contribution. Information Technology Department & TIP - CIO Paul Cameron: Presented the IT budget ($48.2 million) and the Technology Improvement Plan (TIP). He highlighted that while the IT department is meeting most performance metrics, cybersecurity remains the top risk, particularly ransomware and social engineering. - Councilmember Palmisano: Expressed concern about cybersecurity, asking how the city is preventing the types of ransomware attacks seen in St. Paul. CIO Cameron explained the move toward "zero trust" architecture to compartmentalize the network and the partnership with the state of Minnesota for threat monitoring, though he cautioned that no entity can be 100% guaranteed safe. - Councilmember Rainville: Asked about the department's 11 vacancies and whether they mirror last year's vacancies. CIO Cameron explained that while some positions are recurring, the department has struggled to fill offers, with some roles reposted or undergoing internal reorganization. He agreed to a follow-up comparing the specific vacancies to the previous year. - Council President Payne: Inquired about the status of the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) project following a previous budget reduction. CIO Cameron confirmed that the department successfully leveraged a state Master Service Agreement to absorb some costs, resulting in a lower budget request than initially projected, and that they have tightly managed the timeline to avoid further delays. Municipal Revenue Analysis - Director Edward Hawkins: Presented a comparative analysis of municipal revenue sources. He noted that Minneapolis is ranked 9th out of 10 peer cities in per capita revenue generation and is heavily dependent on property taxes (projected to exceed 50% of general fund revenue). He highlighted limitations imposed by state law on creating new taxes. - Councilmember Cashman: Expressed support for expanding the downtown taxing boundary to include the North Loop but noted prior support for lowering the F&B rate to make downtown more affordable. She asked for clarification on current property tax exemptions for religious and nonprofit institutions and inquired if peer cities utilize land value taxes. Director Hawkins offered to provide a follow-up on specific exemption categories and confirmed that some peer cities use land value taxes, though state authorization is required. - Councilmember Palmisano: Clarified that special service districts currently do not generate surplus revenue for the city and questioned if bag fees in other cities go to the city. Director Hawkins confirmed that in other jurisdictions (e.g., DC), bag fees are directed to specific city funds, whereas Minneapolis currently does not capture this revenue. He reiterated that Minneapolis has very limited authority to pursue new taxation without state intervention, suggesting "Payment in Lieu of Taxes" (PILOT) programs as a potential voluntary alternative, similar to Boston's model for exempt institutions. - Council President Payne: Emphasized the critical need to diversify revenue beyond property taxes and expressed intent to collaborate with the Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) committee to navigate state legislative barriers. Key Outcomes - Action Required: The Health Department and IT Department have committed to providing staff memos regarding specific at-risk contractual services, special revenue expense breakdowns, and a vacancy comparison analysis. - Budgetary Constraints: The Health Department faces a 2% budget reduction target, primarily impacting contractual services, with one school-based mental health FTE currently proposed for reduction pending administrative intervention. - Strategic Direction: The committee acknowledged the urgent need to diversify municipal revenue streams due to the city's 9th place ranking in per capita revenue and heavy reliance on property taxes, with further discussions scheduled for November to review specific tax and fee strategies. - Adjournment: The committee adjourned with a plan to receive final departmental presentations from the Climate Legacy Initiative and Capital Budget office on October 27, 2025.

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION 26% · BUDGET MANAGEMENT 25% · PUBLIC HEALTH 16% · INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS 10%
118
OCT 20, 2025 · MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA · CITY COUNCIL
October 20, 2025 Audit Committee Meeting Summary

The Audit Committee convened to address the lack of cooperation from the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) regarding historical audit findings, review the status of in-progress audits, and discuss structural changes to accountability mechanisms. The committee unanimously approved a formal motion to draft and send a letter to MPD and city leadership demanding charter compliance, while also adopting a new benchmarking study and initiating a review for an independent high-impact public safety review function. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the August 18, 2025 meeting. - Adopted the agenda by voice vote. - Noted membership changes: Commissioner Kathy Abene returned to the committee following Commissioner Becca Thompson's resignation. - Adjusted the agenda to replace the MPD fleet management audit update (Item 4) with the City Auditor's general update (Item 8) due to MPD's absence. Public Comments & Testimony - The committee heard presentations from Auditor Timmerman regarding the lack of MPD attendance and the challenges faced during after-action reviews. - Member Bene highlighted the broader context of public safety, noting the withdrawal of the federal consent decree and the need for independent oversight resources, specifically criticizing the mayor's budget proposal for reducing auditor staffing. - Member Williams suggested that the committee should create an environment where auditors feel empowered to publicly explain roadblocks and delays in other audit topics beyond the current MPD incident. Discussion Items - MPD Non-Cooperation and After-Action Reviews: Auditor Timmerman reported that MPD failed to attend the meeting despite twelve prior attempts to reach them. The auditor detailed coaching received from the Police Federation that impeded interviews for the Lucher and Maturi reviews. Timmerman proposed that the Office of City Auditor requires resources to operationalize audit recommendations, noting that the Mayor's budget proposal threatens independence by removing FTEs. - Open Audit Issues: Director Pudial provided statistics on open issues, noting 24 overdue and 35 total open issues. Specific updates were given on the 2019 MPD off-duty work audit (3 open issues), 2024 MPD fleet management audit (9 open issues, 2 open and 7 overdue), and 2022 hiring/promotion audit. - Workforce Optimization Benchmark Study: The committee discussed the need to compare Minneapolis department staffing against peer cities to identify cost savings. The auditor confirmed support from the City Operations Officer and noted the study would use remaining budget to fund FTE transfers. - Independent Review Function for High-Impact Public Safety Cases: Council President Payne and Auditor Timmerman discussed the need for a systematic approach to investigating high-profile cases (e.g., Lucher, Maturi, Samuels) that exceeds the capacity of current Internal Affairs or OPCR. The proposed function would be independent, resource-heavy, and potentially housed within the City Auditor's office or as a charter-established Office of Inspector General. - Audit Charter Amendments: The committee reviewed proposed updates to the audit charter, including a new mission statement focused on "strengthening public trust" and expanded standards (USGAO Yellow Book). Key amendments discussed included a new requirement for the Auditor to report if an auditee fails to cooperate, allowing the auditee to appear before the committee to explain delays, and clarifying authority for scope changes and position appointments. Key Outcomes - Motion Passed (Vice Chair Chucktai): The committee authorized the Chair and Vice Chair to work with the Auditor to draft a formal communication letter to the MPD, Mayor, and City Council demanding strict adherence to the City Charter and clarifying expectations for cooperation and truthful testimony. (Vote: Ayes 5, Abstentions 1). - Audit Plan Amendment: Approved the addition of the "Workforce Optimization Comparative Benchmarking Study" to the 2025 risk-based integrated audit plan. - Independent Review Study Approved: Directed the City Auditor to establish a review function to recommend an independent mechanism for high-impact public safety cases, to be potentially included in the 2026 audit plan. - Charter Review: Accepted the draft charter updates for further refinement by the City Attorney's Office, with a final version to be presented in December. The committee agreed to add language requiring notification of non-cooperation and established an intent to define an "escalating scale" of remedies for such non-compliance in future discussions. - MPD Fleet Management Audit: Removed from the current agenda for future review pending MPD attendance and resource allocation.

AUDIT AND OVERSIGHT 71% · PUBLIC SAFETY 17% · PROCEDURAL 4% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 4%
119
OCT 17, 2025 · MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA · CITY COUNCIL
2025-10-17 Budget Committee Meeting: CPED & Regulatory Services 2026 Recommendations

The Budget Committee convened on October 17, 2025, to review the Mayor's recommended 2026 budget for the Community Planning and Economic Development (CPED) and Regulatory Services departments. The meeting featured a 115.3 million dollar budget request from CPED, which included significant structural shifts from ongoing to one-time funding, and a detailed presentation from Regulatory Services highlighting operational realignments and staffing challenges. Council members engaged deeply on housing stability programs, specifically the trade-offs between Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV) and Stable Home Stable Schools, as well as delays in small business pilot programs and the People's Way development. Consent Calendar - No items were explicitly processed under the Consent Calendar portion of the transcript; the meeting proceeded directly to the presentations and public comments. Public Comments & Testimony - Councilmember Wansley: Expressed full support for the staff's accessibility but raised concerns about the lack of program design updates for the 2025 construction loan pilot. Requested clarification on funding allocations for Cultural Corridors and the timeline for the Senior Housing Code Abatement program consolidation. Argued that the proposed shift from Emergency Housing Vouchers to Stable Home Stable Schools serves distinct populations and requested budget book language be updated to reflect the 150 unsheltered individuals potentially lost from EHV. Expressed deep disappointment regarding the administration's decision to pivot funding away from EHV after it was previously authorized by this body, stating the city's current approach to unsheltered homelessness is failing and advocating for an amendment to restore the funding. - Councilmember Chowdhury: Expressed appreciation for the department's emergency response capabilities. Requested clarity on the derivation of the $1 million shelter funding and asked that the city collaborate with Hennepin County to understand the utilization of these funds given the fiscal cliffs faced by service providers. Advocated for more proactive communication regarding the status of the Lake Street business hardship loan pilot. - Councilmember Palmasano: Expressed strong support for the department's recent emergency response to a water main flood. Commended the department for making tough budget reduction choices to reduce the property tax burden. Expressed concern regarding the decision to move the Ownership and Opportunity Fund to one-time funding only. - Councilmember Chavez: Read shelter capacity statistics showing zero available beds on recent nights. Expressed strong opposition to the cuts in the Emergency Housing Voucher program and stated that the current budget will not end homelessness. Expressed concern that the loss of the Homeless Response Coordinator position contradicts prior staff concerns about staff being pulled into "paper pushing" rather than field work. Discussion Items Community Planning and Economic Development (CPED) - Proposal Overview: Director Eric Hansen presented a 115.3 million dollar general budget recommendation, including $3.5 million in ongoing reductions and $11.5 million in additions (mostly one-time). - Funding Shifts (EHV vs. Stable Home Stable Schools): Staff proposed reducing the Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) program by $1.4 million (shifting to Stable Home Stable Schools) and redirecting a previously approved 2025 appropriation of $1.8 million to support the core Stable Home Stable Schools program to fill a projected $3.2 million fiscal cliff in Q2 2026. Council member Wansley argued these populations are distinct, with EHV serving unsheltered individuals and Stable Home Stable Schools serving families with children. - Programs and Pilot Updates: Director Hansen acknowledged that the $900,000 "Hardship Forgivable Loan Fund" for businesses impacted by construction (specifically Lake Street) has not yet been programmed due to the complexity of underwriting and the need to distinguish liability between city, Metro Transit, and county projects. Staff noted it would likely take six to nine months to finalize, with funds expected to roll over. - Fiscal Constraints: Staff explained that the reduction in the Emergency Shelter Response is due to a lack of viable service providers interested in providing storage in community locations (downtown only proposals were rejected) and the decline in encampments. - People's Way: Director Hansen clarified that transferring ownership will take years, requiring a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process, community partnership evaluation, and public hearings, with the current delay attributed to community feedback received in February. - Stable Home Stable Schools: Housing Director Alfred Port confirmed the program serves families with children in Minneapolis Public Schools (elementary level) and noted that the pause on new referrals was made to prevent over-committing resources before 2026. - Affordable Housing Trust Fund: Staff confirmed the total recommended budget for the Trust Fund is $17 million, with $7.35 million in one-time Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA) and Tax Increment Financing (TIF) resources. Regulatory Services - Reorganization: Director Enrique Velasquez presented a shift to create "one Regulatory Services," moving the Alternative Enforcement and Housing Liaison teams from Operations and Engagement to Inspection Services. - Staffing and Capacity: Director Velasquez highlighted that the department is operating stretched beyond capacity. Proposed budget reductions include eliminating a vacant Homeless Response Coordinator position (due to difficulty recruiting) and canceling contracts for hand washing stations and portable toilets due to lack of service providers. - Performance Metrics: The department reported a 90% live release rate for Minneapolis Animal Care and Control (MAC), despite record pet surrenders. Traffic Control is reporting near 100% compliance with service level agreements for response times. - Security Risks: MAC received an audit finding regarding security risks due to cash transactions; a one-time $101,000 reduction was proposed to fund an interim on-site security specialist. - Prolonged Vacancy Enforcement: Staff reported that 59 properties have entered this program, with 20 actively moving toward sale or rehabilitation. Key Outcomes - Budget Presentation Only: No formal votes were taken on the budget items during this meeting; the presentations were delivered for committee review and staff briefing. - Administrative Follow-ups Directed: - Staff to provide data on seniors served via Minneapolis Homes vs. the Senior Housing Code Abatement program (Councilmember Wansley). - Staff to provide a memo on funding allocations for Cultural Corridors across all departments (Councilmember Wandsley/Chowdhury). - Staff to provide the current balance of the Ownership and Opportunity Fund (Councilmember Palmasano/Chugtai). - Staff to provide a detailed breakdown of the 2025 Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA) distribution timeline and amounts (Council President Payne). - Staff to report on the utilization of the $100,000 People's Way maintenance fund in 2025 (Councilmember Chavez). - Staff to provide a status update on all 2025 change items and their utilization/savings (Councilmember Chavez). - Staff to provide clarity on the process for the $1 million shelter funding allocation to Hennepin County (Councilmember Chowdhury). - Councilmember Wansley's Stance: Announced intent to bring an amendment to restore the $1.8 million Emergency Housing Voucher funding, arguing the current administration's approach to unsheltered homelessness is failing and that the two housing programs serve different, non-overlapping populations. - Quorum Management: The meeting was adjourned with approximately 8 members present, noting that quorum would be lost shortly after the Regulatory Services presentation concluded.

BUDGET MANAGEMENT 36% · AFFORDABLE HOUSING 19% · PUBLIC SAFETY 11% · HOMELESSNESS 10%
120
OCT 16, 2025 · MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA · CITY COUNCIL
Climate and Infrastructure Committee Meeting - October 16, 2025

The Climate and Infrastructure Committee convened on October 16, 2025, to approve routine consent items, continue a public hearing regarding transportation coordination impacts on Northeast Minneapolis, approve special service district charges for 2026, levy special assessments for water and sewer repairs, and receive a comprehensive update on the Climate Legacy Initiative's Q3 performance and future scaling challenges. Consent Calendar - Approved a public hearing notice for November 13th regarding amendments to the gas franchise fee (Appendix C2). - Approved a public hearing notice for November 13th regarding amendments to the electric franchise fee (Appendix D2). - Authorized a construction easement at 2225 West River Road. - Authorized a grant application for the local road improvement program. - Adopted a resolution for the Ret West River Parkway Phase 2 project (Upper Harbor Terminal) and set a public hearing for December 4th. Public Comments & Testimony - Councilmember Rainville: Expressed strong opposition to the timing and lack of coordination among University Avenue Northeast, Central Avenue, and Marshall projects, stating that closing streets simultaneously is "unacceptable" and "crippling." The Councilmember criticized staff for not addressing the issue sooner, felt unable to vote without tangible plans, and characterized the current progress as being a "daylight and a dollar short." Councilmember Rainville expressed concern regarding business closures on Lowry Avenue due to construction. - Councilmember Chavez: Expressed appreciation for the safety benefits of the University Avenue project, including the conversion to a three-lane roadway, addition of medians, and green boulevards. The Councilmember voiced support for the motion to approve, acknowledging the complexity of managing three jurisdictions simultaneously. - Vice Chair Koskey: Expressed concern regarding accountability and communication, requesting structured updates such as monthly briefings to ensure the community is informed about construction staging. Vice Chair Koskey emphasized the need to avoid deeply disturbing neighborhoods like Northeast Minneapolis or the South Side. - Councilmember Vita: Asked for clarification on the timeline for the new work group coordinating the projects and requested assurance that elected officials from impacted wards would be included in the coordination process. The Councilmember expressed concern about the lack of immediate answers regarding specific construction phases. Discussion Items - University Avenue Northeast Improvement Project: Staff from Public Works (Peter Bennett) and MnDOT (Christina Perfetti) explained that a final construction phasing plan is currently being developed through a value engineering study and inter-agency coordination. The City formed a work group to integrate projects from the City, Hennepin County, and MnDOT to prevent simultaneous street closures. Deputy Director Jenny Hager committed to weekly construction briefings similar to the Hennepin Avenue project to keep residents and businesses informed. Councilmembers requested confirmation that no two out of three streets would be closed at once, which staff affirmed they would not do. - 2026 Special Service Districts: David Bauer (Public Works) presented the 2026 operating plans for eight legacy special service districts (48th & Chicago, Central Avenue, Dinky Town, Eat Street, Linden Hills, Lowry Hill, Stadium Village, Uptown). Director Hager clarified that the Lowry Hill and Uptown districts will contribute to holiday lighting and maintenance efforts for the new Hennepin Avenue, supporting the neighborhood's "holidays on Hennepin" initiative. - Water and Sewer Line Repairs: Jeff Handeland (Public Works) reviewed the special assessments for private line repairs. The Council noted there were no objections received during the administrative hearing. - Climate Legacy Initiative (CLI) Update: Deputy Commissioner Patrick Hanlon presented Q3 data, noting that while the program has achieved sustained success with over 1,700 projects and significant energy bill savings for residents, funding exhausted in August 2025 due to high demand. The presentation highlighted that 52-66% of funding targets distressed communities (North/South Green Zones). The committee discussed the potential for network geothermal infrastructure during the upcoming First Avenue reconstruction and the challenges of scaling up workforce capacity. Key Outcomes - Motion Carried (4 Ayes, 1 Nay): Approved the resolution for the University Avenue Northeast Improvement Project. Councilmember Rainville voted against the measure due to unresolved concerns regarding construction timing and coordination with other corridor projects. - Motion Carried (Unanimous): Approved the 2026 proposed services, service charges, and operating plans for the eight legacy special service districts. - Motion Carried (Unanimous): Approved the resolution adopting special assessments for 2026 water and sewer line repairs. - Directive: Staff committed to forming a work group to coordinate the University Avenue, Central Avenue, and Marshall projects, with a promise to include Councilmember Rainville or a representative in future coordination meetings. - Action Items: Staff will follow up on specific data regarding energy savings projected for the current year, the specific funding allocation for the Cooperative Energy Futures program, and the potential for integrating network geothermal into the First Avenue corridor. Staff will also investigate metrics on the reduction of energy burden by household.

CLIMATE POLICY 45% · TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 16% · PUBLIC WORKS 10% · PROCEDURAL 6%
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