Public Meetings - Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Minneapolis City Budget Committee, chaired by Aisha Chugtai, convened on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 8:04 AM local time. The meeting included presentations on the mayor's recommended 2026 budgets for the Parks and Recreation Board (MPRB) and the Legislative Department (City Council and City Clerk). Seven members were present, with a quorum confirmed. The meeting adjourned after the legislative department presentation, with the climate legacy initiative presentation postponed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Parks and Recreation Board 2026 Budget Presentation Presentation: Park Board President Kathy Abene, Superintendent Al Bangora, and Finance Director Julie Weissman presented the MPRB 2026 budget. Key points: - The budget addresses a projected $6 million deficit through new revenue generation, holding vacant positions, eliminating some positions, and increasing fees for childcare, golf, and parking. - Major projects: River Hub at Greco Park (net-zero carbon), Upper Harbor Park (20-acre regional park), and North Commons Park (largest neighborhood park investment). - Budget restores 2025 ice rink closures at Powderhorn and Weber Parks, and adds a mobile beer garden concept and sponsorship program. - The property tax levy increase is 6.1%, with MPRB receiving 17.4% of the city's total tax levy. Local government aid has not increased since 2024. - Youth program specialist positions remain vacant until 2027 when full property tax allocation is reached. Councilmember Questions and Positions: - Councilmember Chavez asked about the Uptown Mall plan ($300,000 savings), staff treatment after the 2024 strike, youth positions, parking fee increases, and support for microentrepreneurs. MPRB staff responded that the Uptown Mall plan is part of the capital budget, youth positions are held vacant due to funding gaps, and parking fee increases are in the enterprise fund. - Councilmember Cashman inquired about the Lake of the Isles ice rink (fully funded), tree planting budget (to be provided), carbon offset program revenue ($96,000 transferred over two years), and Fourth of July fireworks funding ($20,000–$25,000). Staff noted that fireworks costs are about $2,000 per minute. - Councilmember Rainville praised MPRB's public safety efforts at The Commons and asked about visitor data analytics (Placer AI). - Councilmember Vita thanked MPRB for the North Commons Park commitment. Legislative Department 2026 Budget Presentation Presentation: Destiny Zhang, Director of Administration, Office of City Clerk, presented the 2026 budget for the City Council and Office of City Clerk. Key points: - The City Council budget decreases by $5,804 (0.01%) with no FTE changes (41 FTEs). The council completed 2,529 official acts in 2025. - The Office of City Clerk budget increases by $4.6 million (35%) due to one-time election funding and the transfer of 10 FTEs from the Office of City Auditor to establish a legislative research and oversight division. - The City Auditor's office will present separately later. Key Outcomes - The Parks Board budget presentation was received and filed; no vote was taken by the committee. - The Legislative Department budget presentation was ongoing at the time of the transcript's end; no decisions were made. - Follow-up questions from councilmembers were noted for future responses. Note: The meeting's third agenda item (Climate Legacy Initiative) was not covered in the available transcript.

The Public Health and Safety Committee, chaired by Jason Chavez, met on October 15, 2025, beginning with a resolution recognizing October as Health Literacy Awareness Month. The committee then considered consent items and received presentations on the Metro Transit Safety and Security Action Plan, the Environmental Health food, lodging, and pools program, and a comprehensive report on youth diversion, deflection, intervention, and prevention programs. Discussions centered on public safety on transit, food safety innovations, and strategies to reduce youth involvement in the justice system. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved two consent items: a resolution recognizing October as Health Literacy Awareness Month and a revenue contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves for bomb detection security services. Presentation: Metro Transit Safety and Security Action Plan - General Manager Leslie Kinderis and Interim Police Chief Joe Dotseth presented an update on the plan, which includes 43 action items. Key elements include layering official presence: sworn officers, supplemental security (expanding from 9 to 16 locations in Minneapolis, including new sites at Warehouse Station and Nicollet Mall), TRIP agents (currently 80, aiming for 100 by year-end, with funding for 57 more in 2026), community service officers (28 currently, on track to 40 by year-end), and a real-time information center. Chief Dotseth reported that serious crime on the system is low and decreased 13% last quarter. He highlighted the return of police beats, a 74% increase in directed patrols, a retention rate of 87%, and a goal of hiring 50 officers by year-end (40 hired so far). The Safe and Strong University Avenue initiative in St. Paul involved 1,312 homeless action team contacts and 5,633 directed patrols. - Councilmember Questions: Council President Payne asked about formalizing partnerships via joint powers agreements. Councilmember Wansley inquired about the blend of in-house vs. contracted services, the safety ambassador program, and the demographic makeup of the force (Chief noted 36-37% diversity, 22% female officers, aiming for 30% by 2030). Councilmember Pompsano raised concerns about perception of safety, particularly nuisance crimes, and asked about undercover officers (Chief confirmed plainclothes details). Councilmember Rainbow noted a decline in complaints in his district and praised the beat cops. Councilmember Chowdhury shared positive feedback from constituents near 46th and Hiawatha Station and asked about lessons from the Transit Service Intervention Project (GM Kinderis emphasized separating code enforcement from social service outreach). She also asked about the demographics of new recruits. Presentation: Environmental Health Food, Lodging, and Pools Program - Director Cindy Wackworth provided an overview of the city's delegated inspection programs. She highlighted that Minneapolis is a national leader, with staff publishing a cooling study that may influence the FDA Food Code. The division offers free training: 479 people took basic food safety training in 2024, and 237 took allergy awareness training. A serving safety program for businesses led to a 42% reduction in violations. The division rewrote the top 130 food code violations to a 6th-8th grade reading level. Councilmember Pompsano asked about cooling best practices (passive method with no more than 2 inches of food in a pan) and the inspection of temporary tattoo events (15 events in 2024, all inspected). Report: Youth Diversion, Deflection, Intervention, and Delinquency Prevention Programs - Management Analyst Dwight Miller presented the report, outlining a funnel model from prevention (broad community supports) to diversion (formal alternatives to court). National best practices were shared from Harris County (FIRST program), King County (community accountability boards), Clark County (the Harbor juvenile assessment center), Ramsey County (collaborative review team with 884 youth cases, 10% recidivism), and Baltimore City (ROCA with relentless outreach, average 20 contacts before engagement). Locally, the city partners with Tubman's Inspiring Youth Program (74% improved school attendance, 79% stronger adult relationships) and the Minneapolis Police Department works with Restorative Justice Community Action for diversion. Hennepin County diverts about 30% of juvenile cases pre-charge. The report recommends strengthening cross-system collaboration, improving data sharing, integrating with public health, and elevating youth voices. Councilmember Payne asked about the completeness of the landscape (Miller noted gaps in education sector). Councilmember Wansley inquired about specific programs and the Youth Connecting Center (YCC), which is transitioning to Hennepin County sole funding in 2026. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously approved the consent items (Health Literacy Resolution and Timberwolves contract). - The Metro Transit Safety and Security Action Plan presentation was received and filed. - The Environmental Health Food, Lodging, and Pools program presentation was received and filed. - The youth diversion report was received and filed; no formal action was taken, but councilmembers expressed interest in further coordination and potential recommendations.

The Business, Housing and Zoning Committee of the Minneapolis City Council met on October 14, 2025, at 11:34 AM. Chair Jamal Osman presided with a quorum of five members present (Councilmembers Vita, Cashman, Chavez, Vice Chair Chowdhury, and Chair Osman; Councilmember Jenkins was absent and arrived later). The meeting included consent agenda approval, two public hearings (cannabis events ordinance and Cedar Inn liquor license), and three quasi-judicial license hearings. Consent Calendar - Items 6–11 were approved unanimously, including: one liquor license (item 6); 26 liquor license renewals (item 7); acceptance of a grant for regulatory services to attend the Best Friends conference (item 8); approval of 2025 fall brownfield grant applications (item 9); authorization of an Ownership Opportunity Loan for FIDO 24 LLC (item 10); and setting public hearings for October 28 on heritage preservation (item 11) and affordable housing units (item 12). Councilmember Chowdhury spoke in support of item 10, noting it supports an Uptown business owner. Public Comments & Testimony Public Hearing 1 – Cannabis Events Ordinance - Josh Wilkinson (founder/owner of Legacy Glassworks, Legacy Cannabis, and Legacy Cup Cannabis Festival) spoke in support of the ordinance but requested that Section 325.4(c) be amended to allow cannabis events in city parks, citing the success of the Legacy Cup (nearly 12,000 attendees) and the need for flexibility. He expressed willingness to work with the Parks Board for an exemption. - Anthony Newby (Ward 5 resident) expressed overall support but asked the council to consider variances for licensed events to allow safe consumption in public spaces, particularly for renters who cannot consume at home. He noted that state law and Parks Board rules limit public consumption. - Chair Osman kept the public hearing open and continued the item to the next meeting (October 28) for further discussion. Public Hearing 2 – Cedar Inn Liquor License (Sunday sales and 2 a.m. license) - Manager Amy Lingo presented the proposed 18 conditions negotiated with the licensee, including earlier closing times (midnight Sunday–Monday, 1 a.m. Tuesday–Saturday), outdoor patio closure at 10 p.m., dedicated security, and a phased approach to liquor (wine/strong beer for eight months before full liquor). She noted 59 public comments in opposition, 17 in support, and a petition with 439 signatures in support. - Multiple neighbors (Lauren Piper, Suzanne Force, Ruth W., Martha W., Liz, Brad Higgie) spoke in opposition or urged earlier closing times (11 p.m. school nights, midnight weekends) citing noise, parking, safety, and disruption to families. Brad Higgie reported prior incidents including terroristic threats and prolonged activity until 4 a.m. - Supporters (Heidi Johnson – employee, Helen Def Lorin, Adam Jackson, Stefan Swanson – deputy chief MFD) testified that the bar has been a good neighbor, that conditions are fair, and that earlier closing would hurt competitiveness. Johnson noted surrounding bars (e.g., Chatterbox) stay open until 1 a.m. - Councilmember Chowdhury moved to amend the item to include the 18 conditions, explaining they represent a significant compromise that balances neighborhood concerns and business viability. The motion passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Cannabis Events Ordinance – Continued to October 28, 2025, with the public hearing left open. Councilmember Cashman questioned staff about other cities’ regulations; Chair Osman raised concerns about the 300-foot buffer from residences limiting venues in dense areas. - Cedar Inn Liquor License – After public testimony and staff explanation, the committee voted to approve the license with the 18 conditions. Councilmember Jenkins voiced support for the thorough conditions. The final council vote is scheduled for October 23, 2025. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Cannabis Events Ordinance: Continued to October 28, 2025. - Cedar Inn Liquor License: Approved with 18 conditions (unanimous voice vote). - Campus Market Tobacco Dealer License (Quasi-Judicial): The committee adopted the hearing officer’s report recommending a $2,000 fine and 120-day license suspension for a third violation of selling flavored tobacco products. The vote was 5-1 (Chair Osman dissented, favoring 30-day suspension). The license holder’s argument that he previously held an exclusive license was refuted by staff, who stated that was a data entry error for a previous owner. - Noon Trust Strength Food Manufacturer License (Tax Delinquency): Moved without recommendation to the full council (unanimous). Staff noted the licensee is in a payment plan with the state Department of Revenue. - PMR Mechanical Inc. HVAC Contractor License Revocation: The committee adopted the hearing officer’s findings and upheld the revocation due to continuous use of unlicensed workers, building code violations, and lack of good-faith compliance (unanimous vote).

The Administration and Enterprise Oversight Committee of the Minneapolis City Council met on October 14, 2025, at 8:25 AM under the chair of Robin Wansley. The committee approved a new professional services contract ordinance, a consent agenda of routine items, and a set of master contracts for workforce development services. A discussion item on paid parental leave was postponed. Consent Calendar The committee approved a consent agenda including items 2 through 15: gift acceptances from the Metropolitan Police Department, Urban Institute, and Open Mobility Foundation; contract amendments with PCI Roads LLC, Shehee Construction Company, ABR Inc., Meyer Contracting Inc., Q3 contracting inc, More Construction Inc., and Meyer Contracting Inc.; a bid for Covitch Center Mill City Kitchen Concessions remodel; a collective bargaining agreement with Labor Enforcement Labor Services Inc. for 911 dispatch supervisors (2026–2027); and the Americans with Disabilities Title II policy. All items were approved unanimously by voice vote. Professional Services Contract Ordinance Chair Wandsley presented a new ordinance requiring the administration to provide the council with quarterly reports on all contracts under the $175,000 threshold that currently does not require council approval. She stated this would improve transparency and strengthen council oversight. She also noted a typo in the draft language, corrected by the clerks. After a public hearing with no speakers, the ordinance was approved by a roll call vote of 6–0, with all committee members voting aye. Paid Parental Leave Policy Discussion Item 16, the paid parental leave policy, was postponed to the next committee meeting on October 27, 2025, at the request of staff. No objections were raised. Workforce Development Master Contracts (2026–2028) Mark Brenda, CPED Workforce Development Manager, presented a list of 41 eligible providers for workforce development services for the 2026–2028 period, with an estimated total of about $48 million in services. He explained that the eligible provider list does not guarantee funding; project-specific contracts go through a second competitive process. The maximum amounts set for each provider are based on historic averages for established partners and a standard amount for new organizations. Councilmember Chugtai questioned why maximum amounts are set well above likely spending, noting that in the previous five‑year cycle the $84 million maximum resulted in only $41 million actually awarded (about 49%). He suggested more realistic projections would improve oversight. He also requested a follow‑up indicating how many of the 41 providers were new versus based on historic averages. Vice Chair Palmasano asked about monitoring and auditing processes. Brenda described oversight at federal, state, and city levels, including annual program and financial monitoring. He noted that federal sources account for roughly 29–34% of funding, state sources 20–30%, with the remainder from city general fund. Councilmember Vita requested data on program impact, particularly in North Minneapolis, and was informed that annual and quarterly reports are provided to the BIS committee. She also asked about specific projects such as the Step‑Up summer youth program, career pathway programs, and programs for justice‑involved youth. Chair Wandsley asked that the fiscal note be updated with exact federal and state funding figures. The committee approved the motion to accept the master contracts list by voice vote with all members in favor. Key Outcomes - Professional services contract ordinance approved (6–0). - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Paid parental leave policy postponed to October 27, 2025. - Workforce development master contracts for 2026–2028 approved.

The Minneapolis City Council convened on October 9, 2025, for a regular meeting that began with three honorary resolutions recognizing Code Enforcement Officers Appreciation Month, National Community Planning Month, and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The council then proceeded to adopt the agenda, approve minutes, and receive reports from standing committees. Key actions included the adoption of an ordinance to strengthen rental housing enforcement (the \"Stop Slumlords\" ordinance), the introduction of franchise fee increases for gas and electric utilities, the failure to override the mayor's veto of commercial property sale notification ordinances, and the approval of a legislative directive to establish an independent function for reviewing high-impact public safety cases. The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss litigation strategy and the approval of a $90,000 settlement in a civil rights case. Public Comments & Testimony - Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Several members of the public spoke in support of the resolution. Riona Berry, president of the African American Breast Cancer Alliance, highlighted the organization's 35-year history and virtual support groups. Margaret, a representative from Hope Chest for Breast Cancer, described the foundation's financial assistance for patients. Betty Sanders, a two-time breast cancer survivor, was honored with a proclamation declaring October 9, 2025, as \"Betty Sanders Day\" in Minneapolis, and she thanked attendees and urged regular screenings. - Rental Housing Ordinance (Item 4): Councilmembers referenced powerful testimony from tenants during the prior week's committee hearing, but no additional public comment was taken during the full council meeting. Discussion Items - Honorary Resolutions: Three resolutions were presented and adopted unanimously. Councilmember Vita recognized Code Enforcement Officers Appreciation Month, highlighting the work of code enforcement, traffic control, and animal control officers. Councilmember Chowdhury recognized National Community Planning Month, celebrating the Minneapolis 2040 Comprehensive Plan and planning staff efforts. Councilmembers Koske, Vita, and Payne recognized Breast Cancer Awareness Month, including statistics on incidence (e.g., 1 in 8 women, 316,950 new cases in 2025), disparities (Black women 40% more likely to die), and the impact of federal research cuts. - Business, Housing & Zoning Committee Report – Rental License Ordinance (Item 4): The council debated and ultimately passed an amended ordinance that requires high-risk rental properties (tier three) to have their license renewals subject to council approval, rather than automatic renewal. The amendment changed the appeals process to give a hearing officer final decision authority. Councilmember Wandsley, Chowdhury, Cashman, and Osman spoke in support, emphasizing accountability for slumlords and the need to protect tenants. Councilmember Palmasano raised concerns about the tiering system potentially changing, but the authors committed to a future legislative directive to align with regulatory services updates. The ordinance passed 12-0. - Franchise Fee Increases (Introduction and Referral): Councilmember Cashman introduced ordinances to increase gas and electric franchise fee percentages and restructure customer categories from three to seven, aiming to generate an additional $5 million annually for climate programs (weatherization and retrofitting, especially in green zones). The residential increase would be under $10 per year. The motion to refer to the Climate & Infrastructure Committee was passed 11-1 (Palmasano dissenting). Councilmember Palmasano opposed, arguing the fee is regressive and burdens residents, and that weatherization programs have low uptake. Councilmember Vita echoed concerns about affordability and lack of trust in free programs. Councilmembers Cashman, Chavez, Osman, and Vice President Chugtai defended the increase as necessary for climate action and noted it is less than a dollar per month. - New Business – Audit Committee Request on High-Impact Public Safety Cases: Councilmember Wandsley and Vice President Chugtai presented a motion requesting the audit committee to develop recommendations for an independent function within the city to review patterns and processes in high-impact public safety cases (e.g., domestic violence, hate crimes). This was prompted by failures in cases involving Mariah Samuels, Alison Lucier, and Davis Motori. The motion passed 12-0. - Unfinished Business – Mayor’s Veto of Commercial Property Sale Ordinances: The council considered overriding the mayor’s veto of two ordinances requiring advance notice of commercial property sales. The motion to override failed with 5 ayes and 7 nays, sustaining the veto. Key Outcomes - Honorary Resolutions Adopted (12-0) for Code Enforcement Officers Appreciation Month, National Community Planning Month, and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, including a proclamation for Betty Sanders. - Rental License Ordinance (Stop Slumlords) passed 12-0 as amended, requiring council approval for tier three rental license renewals and establishing a neutral appeals process. - Franchise Fee Increases referred to the Climate & Infrastructure Committee on a 11-1 vote (Palmasano opposed); a legislative directive was also introduced to study the impact. - Mayor’s Veto Sustained: The commercial property sale notification ordinances failed due to insufficient votes to override (5-7). - Audit Directive on Public Safety Cases passed 12-0, requesting a consultative engagement to develop an independent review function. - Closed Session Settlement Approved: Following a closed session, the council approved a $90,000 settlement in the case of Ruddick v. Severance et al. with a vote of 9 members present (no roll call provided but motion carried).

The meeting was called to order by Chair Jason Chavez at approximately 11:32 AM. Roll call was taken, with Councilmembers Wandsley, Ellison, Osman, Cashman, and Jenkins absent. The agenda was amended to add a legislative directive from Councilmember Wandsley regarding the Mayor's executive order on the consent decree. The meeting proceeded with committee reports, a consent calendar item, a public hearing, and discussion items. Consent Calendar - A resolution approving the ranks of the 2026 Capital Budget Request and submitting them to the Commissioner of Management and Budget was passed unanimously as a time-sensitive item. Public Comments & Testimony - Arts Commission Chair (name not given) opposed the reclassification of the Arts Commission from a tier two body (created by ordinance) to a tier three body (created by resolution). They argued that the commission has specific delegated decision-making authority (approving project site selection, conservation plans, and artwork acquisitions) and should remain a tier two body. They also submitted written testimony. - Howard Dotson spoke in support of the Arts Commission, emphasizing the healing power of art and requesting that the commission work with other city departments to integrate art into trauma recovery efforts. He did not express a position on the tier classification. Discussion Items - Re-establishment of the Arts Commission: Clerk Casey Carl presented the resolution to re-establish the Arts Commission as a tier three advisory body under the 2023 reform ordinance. The Arts Commission chair opposed the change, but Councilmember Palasano questioned Clerk Carl about the goals of the reform (standardization, uniformity, tying advisory work to city strategic goals). Julie Hovland, ABC program manager, noted that the commission's duties remain largely unchanged, except for a requirement that meetings be held in public facilities. The resolution was approved and forwarded to the full council. - 2025 PCAR CO2e Fee Update: Jenny Lansing, Senior Environmental Project Manager, presented a fee study in response to a legislative directive. The study recommended a $5 per ton fee on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions (CO2e) from liquid fuel, with a cap of $175,000 per facility, alongside a 13% increase in certain PCAR equipment fees. The combined revenue of $1.29 million achieves a 94% cost recovery (target 95%). The fee will fund green cost share projects and an industrial outreach specialist. Councilmember Wandsley praised the work but criticized delays in implementation, noting that the fee was originally expected in 2022. Councilmember Cashman asked about annual emissions reductions, revenue stability, and the use of hydrogen. The report was received and filed. - Legislative Directive on Consent Decree Executive Order: Councilmember Wandsley introduced a directive asking for a report on the status of Mayor Fry's executive order regarding the consent decree, which was dismissed by the DOJ. City Attorney Anderson stated that all requirements were timely met and offered to present on November 3rd instead of October 21st due to a conflict. After discussion, Councilmember Wandsley proposed that a receive-and-file report be made available on October 21st, with the presentation on November 3rd. The item was moved to the full council without recommendation. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously. - Arts Commission Resolution: Approved and forwarded to full council. - PCAR CO2e Fee Update: Received and filed. - Legislative Directive on Consent Decree: Moved to full council without recommendation, with an agreement to have a receive-and-file report on October 21, 2025, and a presentation on November 3, 2025. - Closed Session: The council voted to close the meeting for a briefing on the litigation matter United States of America v. State of Minnesota et al. (25 CV 0378), citing attorney-client privilege under Minnesota Statutes § 13D.05, subd. 3b. The council reconvened in open session at approximately 3:00 PM.

This is a summary of the Minneapolis Budget Committee's adjourned meeting held on October 7, 2025, chaired by Councilmember Aisha Chugtai. The committee reviewed the mayor's recommended 2026 budgets for the Emergency Management, Human Resources, and Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging departments. Key themes included significant federal funding cuts to emergency management, strategic staffing and efficiency in HR, and a further reduction in resources for racial equity work despite expanded mandates. No votes were taken; the reports were filed. Emergency Management Department Budget Presentation - Director Rachel Sayre presented the 2026 budget overview. The department has 10 personnel (1 part-time) and a $2.3 million budget, 64% of which is personnel costs. About 40% of the budget comes from federal grants. - A major reduction was announced: a federal grant that had provided $900,000 is now allocated only $10,000 for the upcoming fiscal year. The department will cut one specialized training ($25,600) to adjust. - Director Sayre highlighted programs: ReadyCamp (revamped for household preparedness), Ready Together (for community organizations), and MPLS Alerts (over 20,000 new subscribers in the past year). In 2025, the department stood up three Emergency Operations Centers, including one after the August 27th Annunciation mass shooting, serving over 1,500 visits. - Vice Chair Koskey asked about the impact of the $25,000 training cut on NIMS compliance. Director Sayre stated the NIMS program will remain intact; only one specialized training (e.g., operations chief) will be deferred for a year. Vice Chair Koskey expressed willingness to champion funding solutions for the lost $900,000 grant. - Councilmember Cashman questioned the org chart (four assistant directors). Director Sayre explained the structure mirrors an emergency operations center setup. Councilmember Cashman expressed concern about the FEMA contribution dropping from $900,000 to $10,000. - Councilmember Vita and Rainville praised Director Sayre's proactive communication and leadership, especially during the Annunciation shooting. Councilmember Chowdhury suggested seeking state support for emergency services. Human Resources Department Budget Presentation - Chief HR Officer Nikki Odom presented the 2026 recommended budget. HR has about 65 professionals supporting over 4,000 employees across 27 departments, organized into seven divisions. - Key achievements: 110 new police officers hired, sworn strength above 600 for the first time since 2022. 89% increase in urban scholars applications; 10% of scholars received job offers or extensions (above 7% national average). 2% increase in women applicants from 2024 to 2025. Employee engagement doubled to nearly 1,000 participants. - Medical plan rates increased under 3%, well below peer averages (7-20% for public sector). The department is preparing for Minnesota's paid family and medical leave law (effective Jan 1, 2026) and the enterprise Workday ERP transition. - The recommended budget includes reductions totaling about $616,000, including the elimination of one HR manager and one talent acquisition position. Two positions will be moved from the general fund to the medical self-insurance fund. Director Odom noted four current vacancies. - Vice Chair Koskey asked about grievance resolution metrics. Director of Labor Relations Rashida Deloney reported approximately 20 grievances annually, with a target of 90% resolved at the lowest level (up from 65% in 2023), and that they are on track to meet that target. - Chair Chugtai inquired about an enterprise-wide compensation study. Director Odom said a full study is virtually impossible, but market data is reviewed during collective bargaining every three years. A written response on recent compensation inquiries is forthcoming. - Councilmember Rainville asked about contracts to be negotiated in 2026—not available offhand, but about 10 remain for 2025. He praised police recruitment and budget discipline. Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (REIB) Department Budget Presentation - Director Prince Corbett presented the 2026 recommended budget. REIB is located in the Office of Public Service and has a mission to build city capacity for racial equity. - The budget has declined from $2 million in 2023 to $1.1 million in 2026—a 45% reduction over three cycles. FTEs have dropped from 9 to 5. The 2026 cuts include eliminating the deputy director position and transferring a senior project manager to the neighborhood safety department. - Despite cuts, Director Corbett highlighted 2025 accomplishments: George Floyd Remembrance event (130+ attendees), StoryCore partnership (stories archived at Library of Congress), expansion of repair harm and thoughtful confrontation training, and REIB serving as equity officer in the Emergency Operations Center (providing a racial equity impact analysis after the Annunciation shooting). - Performance measures: 877 individuals participated in racial equity learning sessions in 2025; 11 sessions facilitated; 300 hours of cross-department collaboration. The department is developing a 2026-2030 strategic plan. - Risks were outlined: operational (technology, burnout, staffing), financial (vulnerability to cuts), compliance (navigating evolving federal restrictions), and reputational (backlash against DEI). Director Corbett emphasized that the ordinance defines responsibilities but the budget defines capacity. - Councilmember Jenkins asked about the truth and reconciliation process. Director Corbett explained that the repair harm model is the operational version of truth and reconciliation, now being rolled out through workshops. - Director Corbett noted that out of 29 action steps from the 2024 organizational assessment, 9 are complete, 14 in progress, 4 not started, and 4 dropped due to federal policy changes. Key Outcomes - The committee received and filed all three department presentations without objection. - Chair Chugtai noted administrative follow-up on the number of union contracts to be negotiated in 2026. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 10:00 AM, with the next meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 10:00 AM, featuring presentations from the Parks and Recreation Board, the Legislative Department, and the Climate Legacy Initiative.

On Monday, October 6, 2025, at 11:36 a.m., the Budget Committee of the Minneapolis City Council convened in chambers to consider a correction to the salary range of a staff position and to hold the second of four public hearings on the Mayor's recommended 2026 budget. The meeting was chaired by Councilmember Aisha Chugtai. A quorum of 10 members was present; Councilmembers Ellison, Osman, and Jenkins were absent. Discussion Items - Correction of Deputy Director 311 Service Center Salary Range: Brenda Miller of the Human Resources Department presented a correction to the points and salary range for the Deputy Director of the 311 Service Center, previously reviewed on September 8, 2025. An error by an outside consultant reduced the total points from 578 to 573, resulting in a decrease in the low end of the salary range from $129,000 to $128,000 (a difference of approximately $1,142) and the high end from $153,000 to $152,000 (a difference of $1,354). The item met the criteria of Section 2010 10 of the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances. The committee voted unanimously to approve the correction and submit it to the City Council for review. - Mayor's Recommended 2026 Budget Overview: Budget Director Jane DeSenza provided a brief summary of the proposed budget, which totals just over $2 billion with an increase to the city property tax levy of about 7.8% (as originally presented by the Mayor on August 13, 2025). The Board of Estimate and Taxation in September authorized a tax levy of up to 8% to fund upcoming parks projects. Director DeSenza highlighted the structure of the budget book, the maximum property tax levy adopted by the Board, and an online levy impact estimator. She noted key milestones: the third public hearing on November 19, 2025, and the fourth (truth in taxation) hearing on December 9, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Homelessness & Native American Disparities: Sally Feinde (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe) urged the council to address homelessness among Indigenous people, stating that 2% of the state’s Native population represents 30% of the homeless population in the metro area. She called for culturally appropriate solutions and more funding. - Speak Minneapolis / Public Access TV Funding: Multiple speakers (Rebecca Smith, CEO of Speak Minneapolis; Luke Olean Junk, Community Media Manager; James Harris, Director of Community Media; Douglas Williams, Ward 7; Nancy Smith, founding member; Derek Koschel, comedian; Sati Jaimez Botello, youth intern; Fancy Ray McCloney, comedian; and others) opposed the Mayor’s proposed $12,500 ongoing reduction to public access TV funding. They argued that public access is essential for free speech, digital equity, youth development, and media literacy. Speakers noted that Speak Minneapolis serves 185 active members, produced over 2,000 programs in the past year, and provided training to nearly 200 community members in 2024. They urged full restoration of funding. - Co-Enforcement Program Funding (CETUL / ROC): Several workers and organizers (Erica Castro, Kayleigh Murphy, Ashton Samuelson, Sue Goodstar, Luisa Yela, Marcel Holmes, Mariana, Daisy Paniora, Maxwell Sean, Kyle Tappy, Catalina Montiel, and others) spoke against the Mayor’s proposed over-50% cut to the co-enforcement program, which funds worker centers like CETUL and ROC. They described how the programs help workers recover stolen wages, fight harassment, and organize. Sue Goodstar stated that in 2024, the program reached 3,536 workers at 505 different workplaces. Speakers asked the council to restore full funding. - Police Accountability & Public Safety: Simone Samuels (sister of Mariah Samuels, a homicide victim) and Jana Williams criticized the Minneapolis Police Department for failing to act on domestic violence complaints and for not carrying Narcan. They called for firing Police Chief Brian O’Hara and for greater oversight of the police by the city council. Mike Forshaw (Bad River Band of Ojibwe) also criticized the police response to homelessness and encampments. - Zen City Contract: Bob Gunan (Ward 4) and Kira Kelly (human rights attorney) opposed the city’s $500,000 contract with Zen City for a community perception survey, arguing it is costly and ineffective. Bob Gunan noted that three qualified vendors proposed prices of $148,000 to $175,000 and that a public records request could not find documentation justifying the selection of Zen City. Kira Kelly stated that Zen City’s leadership has ties to Israeli military unit 8200 and that the contract undermines community trust. - Housing Programs: Several speakers (Marcia Howard, MFT Local 59; Natasha Doctor, MPS teacher; Naomi Wilson, parent; Kristen Crabtree, Ward 9) urged the council to fully fund both the Stable Homes, Stable Schools program and emergency housing vouchers for unsheltered families. They opposed any cuts that pit these programs against each other. - Lake Street / Commercial Corridors: Yussura Mahamud (Lake Street Council) noted a 40% drop in monthly revenue for immigrant businesses due to fear of deportation and asked for increased funding for the Great Streets program and business support. Russ Adams also requested investment in cultural districts. - Other Items: Peter Rickmeyer suggested extending Skyway hours for revenue generation and reforming legal cost efficiency. Marilyn and others spoke in support of worker rights. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously approved the salary range correction for the Deputy Director 311 Service Center, sending it to the full City Council for final approval. - The public hearing on the 2026 budget was closed after hearing 41 registered speakers. No votes were taken on the budget itself. The committee will hold its third public hearing on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 6:05 p.m., and the final truth-in-taxation hearing on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 6:05 p.m. - Further department budget presentations are scheduled for the committee’s next meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., covering Emergency Management, Human Resources, and Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging.

This meeting of the Budget Committee, chaired by Aisha Chugtai, convened to review the mayor's recommended 2026 budgets for the City Attorney's Office, Performance Management and Innovation (PMI), and Finance and Property Services (FPS). The meeting included presentations from each department head, discussion of performance metrics, risks, budget reductions, and questions from council members. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was taken during this session. Discussion Items - City Attorney's Office Budget: City Attorney Kristen Anderson presented the 2026 budget, highlighting achievements including low turnover, paperless technology adoption, and success with the MDHR settlement agreement, 16 extreme risk protection orders (ERPOs) issued, and major litigation wins protecting federal grants. She noted budget reductions totaling nearly 7% over two years, including elimination of 3.3 FTEs, reduction of food/ beverage and contractual services, and elimination of paid law clerk positions. Risks include increased workload without new resources and potential for burnout. Council President Payne asked about improvements to Brady compliance; Deputy City Attorney David Bernstein explained new technology (Prosecutor by Carpel) and a process for disclosing officer discipline records. Councilmember Palmasano praised the success of diversion programs that saved workhouse expenses. Councilmember Chowdhury inquired about ERPOs; Anderson confirmed the office petitioned for 17, with 16 granted. On law clerk pay elimination, Anderson stated the office deemed law clerks non-essential and believes the office remains attractive enough to recruit unpaid law clerks. - Performance Management & Innovation (PMI) Budget: Director Kira Hasbarg presented PMI's 2026 budget, noting a $500,000 decrease in contractual services (one-time funding for Safe and Thriving Communities pilot work) and a $25,000 reduction in technical assistance funds. PMI has 9 FTEs and zero vacancies. Key achievements include completing six projects year-to-date, 83% on-time delivery, and a 98.2% partner satisfaction rate. The department is developing a CitySTAT program (pilot planned for 2026) and has launched Innovation U training courses. Councilmember Koski asked about CitySTAT vs. Outcomes Minneapolis; Hasbarg explained CitySTAT is more real-time and cross-departmental. Councilmember Palmasano noted progress in embedding performance metrics across departments. Councilmember Cashman asked about the mayoral priorities dashboard cost and web traffic; Hasbarg agreed to follow up via memo. Cashman also inquired about intended outcomes of the juvenile deflection and traffic control pilots; Hasbarg stated the juvenile deflection pilot aims to keep youth out of the justice system entirely, and the traffic control pilot restores non-injury crash response services and frees police for priority calls. - Finance and Property Services (FPS) Budget: CFO Dushani Dai presented FPS's 2026 budget of $65.1 million (1.2% increase), with 293 FTEs and 12 vacancies. The department received the GFOA Award for Budget Presentation and the 50th consecutive award for financial reporting. Bond rating remains AAA. FPS is implementing an ERP (Workday) project and has absorbed increased banking and credit card fees. Budget reductions include a $1,800 food and beverage cut and passing $900,000 in credit card fees to utility customers. Three positions were added for property services. Councilmember Palmasano recognized Budget Director Jane DeSenza for a recent industry award and asked about communication of the credit card fee change to customers; the question was noted for follow-up. Key Outcomes - Presentations from City Attorney, PMI, and FPS were received and filed. - Council members requested follow-up memos on: PMI mayoral priorities dashboard cost and maintenance (2025, 2026); web traffic data for PMI online tools; and communications plan for utility credit card fee changes to customers. - No formal votes were taken; the committee will reconvene for a second public hearing on the 2026 recommended budget later that day.